Acadiana Catholic by Acadiana Catholic

The Official Monthly Publication of the Diocese of Lafayette

2009

Acadiana Catholic

August 2011

Volume 27

Number 8

Regional workshops planned to educate laity on the implementation of New Roman Missal LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Worship has scheduled a series of regional workshops entitled “Understanding the Changes in the Mass” during the month of September. The purpose of the workshops will be to explain the changes in the new English translation of the Roman Missal, which will be officially implemented beginning with the First Sunday of Advent (November 27, 2011). Previous workshops on the latest translation of the Roman Missal have targeted the priests and deacons of the diocese, and focused on preparing them to incorporate the changes into the celebration of Mass. The Office of

Worship has also sponsored workshops to help prepare musicians, Catholic school teachers, and parish catechists, but the September workshops will be open to everyone who is a member of a Catholic congregation. They will provide an opportunity for individuals to educate themselves as to why certain changes have been made and how these changes will affect their participation in the Mass. “It’s a big deal in that the language to be used will more closely reflect the original Latin text,” said Msgr. Keith DeRouen, director of the Office of Worship and pastor of Our Lady Queen of Angels Church in Opelousas; he will also (Continued on page 37)

Regional workshops on implementation of the New Roman Missal will be held throughout the diocese during the month of September. Pictured above, Faye Drobnic, assistant to the director of the Office of Worship conducts a workshop for deacons and priests. Photo by Deacon Tom Sommers

Respect Life workshop scheduled for Aug. 20

LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Pro-Life Issues will host its annual Respect Life workshop on Saturday, August 20, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon at the Immaculata Center in Lafayette. All parish pro-life coordinators are invited and encouraged to attend. The Respect Life workshop offers an opportunity for the Office of Pro-Life Issues to network with all those who help spread the Catholic Church’s pro-life message within their local church parishes. In addition to receiving updates from office director Karol Meynard and her assistant Trista Littell, participants will be able to share their personal reflections and accomplishments with one another as they all renew their commitment to the ministry. Parish coordinators who attend the workshop will also receive a promotional packet for the 2011 Respect Life Campaign, to be conducted during the month of October. The packet, which is (Continued on page 4)

Inside this issue Woman to Woman Catholic Conference is Oct. 3, 2011......................6 Life Awareness Vocation Discernment Retreat offers helpful information..........18 Father Lafleur Memorial Mass to be held Sept. 7...............19 Special section on Charlene Richard, “The Little Cajun Saint”......23-26 Permanent diaconate program to begin............28 Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel observed with joy and special blessings as nuns profess solemn vows...................33 Priestly Association of Our Lord Jesus Christ celebrates one year........39 Use of musical settings for new Roman Missal can begin in September........45

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Respect Life workshop scheduled for Aug. 20 Continued from page 3

prepared each year by the Secretariat of ProLife Activities for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), contains a multitude of resources that coordinators can utilize in their church parishes. This year’s packet includes a poster designed to promote the selected theme, “I came that all might have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10), along with a Liturgy Guide to help coordinators and pastors prepare for the celebration of Respect Life Sunday on October 2. Additional resources from the packet in-

Acadiana Catholic

ACADIANA CATHOLIC (ISSN0888-0247) (USPS507-760) is published monthly for $12 per year by the Southwest Press, 1408 Carmel Ave., Lafayette, LA 70501-5306. Periodical postage paid at Lafayette, LA and additional mailing offices.

clude a Holy Hour for Life based on reflections of Blessed John Paul II concerning the dignity of the elderly, and a Nuptial Rosary based on the Nuptial Blessing from the Rite of Marriage. Each packet also contains eight full color pamphlets which address the topics of abortion, contraception, the death penalty, persons with disabilities, embryo destructive research, end-of-life issues, reproductive technologies, and the meaning of human sexuality, family, and marriage. Parish pro-life coordinators who plan to attend the workshop must register with the Office of Pro-Life Issues no later than August 20 in order to ensure that enough packets are available for all. For further registration details, please contact the Office of Pro-Life Issues at (337) 261-5607. Additional information regarding the office may also be obtained by visiting the diocesan website at www.diolaf.org and selecting “Pro-Life Issues” from under the OFFICES tab located at the top of the home page.

Pope’s anniversary celebrated with Latin Rite Mass JENNINGS The 60th ordination anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI was celebrated here with a liturgy in the extraordinary rite in Our Lady Help of Christians Church. Bishop Glen John Provost was the celebrant assisted by clergy of the Lake Charles and Lafayette dioceses. Our Lady Help of Christians is the second oldest church in the Lake Charles diocese, with Father Charles McMillan, pastor. The liturgy was offered on the pope’s anniversary date, June 29, feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, also Bishop Provost’s ordination anniversary. Master of ceremonies was Father Roland Vaughn, chaplain of the extraordinary rite for the Lake Charles diocese. Among those in attendance were Fathers William Blanda and Jason Vidrine of the Lafayette diocese.

Publisher Most Rev. Michael Jarrell, D.D. Bishop of Lafayette

Editor/Director Deacon Thomas R. Sommers (337) 261-5513 tsommers@diolaf.org Marketing Director Business Mgr / Advertising Director Patrick Breaux (337) 261-5518 or (337) 235-7704 pbreaux@diolaf.org / pat@breaux.com Staff Writer Stephanie R. Martin (337) 261-5512 smartin@diolaf.org Contributing Writer Kathleen Toups Theological Consultants Msgr. H.A. Larroque, J.C.D. Father Curtis Mallet, J.C.L. Vicars General The Diocese of Lafayette serves eight civil parishes with population of 331,000 Catholics. Published monthly. Deadline for news and advertising copy is noon of the 15th day of the month preceding publication. For renewal subscriptions, the name of your church parish and your address label (if available) are requested. The publisher and editor reserve the right to reject, omit or edit any article or letter submitted for publication. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Lafayette and/or the Acadiana Catholic cannot be held liable, or in any way responsible for the content of any advertisement printed in this paper.

Diocese of Lafayette Web page: www.diolaf.org

From the diocesan newspaper, January 16, 1985 — Bishop Gerard L. Frey of Lafayette hosted a meeting of Catholic bishops and priests of Louisiana. Taking part in the concelebrated Mass were (from left) Bishop Warren Boudreaux of Houma-Thibodaux, retired Bishop Charles Greco of Alexandria-Shreveport, Bishop Jude Speyrer of Lake Charles, Archbishop Philip Hannan of New Orleans and Bishop Stanley Ott of Baton Rouge. Photo by P.C. Piazza

Pray for your deceased clergy: Deacon John James Marin, Aug. 2, 1995 Father Marcel Dion, Aug. 5, 1981 Father Lucien Maheu, Aug. 6, 1977 Deacon Elroy DeJean, Aug. 11, 2003 Msgr. Alexander O. Sigur, Aug. 13, 1997

Sunday

Father Martin Maraist, Aug. 14, 2008 Deacon Adam Sonnier, Aug. 14, 2006 Bishop Gerard L. Frey, Aug. 16, 2007 Deacon John S. Guillet, Aug. 19, 1986 Father Paul F. Jansen, Aug. 19, 1935 Msgr. Hubert Cramers, Aug. 19, 1935

Monday

St. Alphonsus Liguori, Bishop and Doctor Holy Hour for Vocations, St. Patrick Church, Lafayette, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m

Weekday “Food for the Journey” Speaker Series, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Lafayette, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m./ “Good Leaders, Good Shepherds” St. Charles Retreat Center, Moss Bluff/ Holy Hour for Deacons and Deacon Candidates, Reflections on the New Missal, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Immaculata Center

Thursday

St. John Mary Vianney, Priest “Good Leaders, Good Shepherds” St. Charles Retreat Center, Moss Bluff

Friday

Weekday “Good Leaders, Good Shepherds” St. Charles Retreat Center, Moss Bluff

St. Dominic, Priest

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary Annual Mid-Summer Picnic for Priests, Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Erath, 6:00 p.m.

Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist

Weekday

Weekday Workshop for New Priests and New Pastors St. Charles Retreat Center, Moss Bluff

Weekday Annual Mid-Summer Picnic for Deacons, Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Erath, 6:00 p.m.

Weekday

St. Laurence, Deacon

Weekday Workshop for New Priests and New Pastors St. Charles Retreat Center, Moss Bluff

St. Bartholomew, Apostle

Weekday

Saturday

Transfiguration of the Lord Regional Pastoral Council Meeting, St. Nicholas Church, Lydia, 6:30 p.m.

Quarterly Meeting of Newly Ordained Priests and Mentors, Our Lady of Fatima Church, Lafayette, 6:00 p.m.

Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

RPC Meeting, 6:30-9:00 p.m. St. Nicholas Church, Lydia

Mission intention:

For the religious who work in mission territories, that they may be witnesses of the joy of the Gospel and living signs of the love of Christ.

Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time

Weekday “Good Leaders, Good Shepherds” St. Charles Retreat Center, Moss Bluff

July general intention:

That Christians may contribute to alleviating the material and spiritual suffering of AIDS patients, especially in the poorest countries.

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Wednesday

League of the Sacred Heart Apostleship of Prayer

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Tuesday

Father William Benson, Aug. 22, 1987 Father Augustine Blanc, Aug. 23, 1945 Deacon Harold Paul Richard, Aug. 25, 2009 Father H. Joseph Woerdemann, Aug. 27, 1990 Deacon Benedict Morello Aug. 28, 2006 Father Adrian W. Van Hal, Aug. 31, 1996 Deacon Stan Gall, Aug. 31, 1996

St. Clare, Virgin 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Companions Along the Journey (Bereavement Support Group) at Immaculata Center (John XXIII) For further information call (337) 261-5607, or (337) 261-5654 .

Weekday Workshop for New Priests and New Pastors St. Charles Retreat Center, Moss Bluff

Weekday Diocesan Cemetery Board Meeting, Immaculata Center (Jeanmard Conference Room) 2:00 p.m.

Weekday

St. Bernard, Abbott Respect Life workshop for Parish Representatives and Pro Life Coordinators at Immaculata Center in Fusilier Hall, Lafayette, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

St. Monica R.C.I.A. Presentation: ‘Sponsors and Dismissal’ Level III, IV or V: Specialized Methods, Adult Catechesis (only), 3 credits, no hours Presenter: John Schexnaildre Location: TBA 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. R.S.V. P. Lynne Broussard at 261-5674 9:00-10:30 a.m.

Aug. 2011

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Woman-to-Woman Catholic Conference is Oct. 15, 2011

LAFAYETTE Authentic femininity is the theme of the first annual Womanto-Woman Catholic Conference scheduled on October 15, 2011, at the Cajundome Convention Center in Lafayette. Johnette Benkovic, host of EWTNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Women of Grace Series, will be the featured speaker. Women ages 18 and above are invited to attend the conference. Doors will open at 8:00 a.m. and the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event will culminate with Holy Mass, celebrated by Father Edmund Sylvia, Theological Adviser to Women of Grace. Tickets are $40 and include a catered lunch. Society has, for too long, allowed overt anti-Christian ethics to take center stage and Christians are now fighting back. Christians can no longer allow their children to be subjected to the hypersexualization and moral relativism that society is preaching. All must work together in order to turn the tide. Mrs. Benkovic will discuss the beauty of authentic feminin-

ity and the unique role God has ordained for women. According to Mrs. Benkovic, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The salvation of the world depends on women. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As women, God desires that we live out the fullness of our authentic femininity so that we can be those wom- Johnette Benkovic en of grace in our day and time, imaging our Blessed Lady that leads this nation, this culture, our children, our families back to truth,â&#x20AC;? she says. Conference organizer Letitia Peyton states that sponsors are needed to help defray the cost of the conference and keep ticket prices affordable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As with any conference of this size, donations are necessary. The cost of the conference will be about $35,000 and ticket sales will cover half the cost,â&#x20AC;? states Peyton. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our goal is to raise

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$25,000, which would allow us to host the event and have seed money for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conference. We expect between 8001,000 women to attend, so the initial impact on our area will be immense.â&#x20AC;? For further information about

the conference, to purchase a ticket or make a donation to The Woman-to-Woman Catholic Conference please visit their website at www.catholicwomensconference.org or contact Michelle Roberts at mroberts97@ gmail.com or 337-356-6971.

Registration underway for Aquinas Institute fall 2011 courses LAFAYETTE Registration is currently underway for the two fall 2011 courses being offered through the Aquinas Institute. Applications may be requested from the Lafayette Dioceseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office of Christian Formation at (337) 261-5674; new and current credit students have until August 5 to do so, while audit students may request their applications from August 8-19. All applications will be distributed according to space availability for the requested class, and the final day to register is Friday, August 19 by 12:00 noon. The two courses being offered are THE 340 Liturgy (3 semester hrs) with Father William Blanda and THE 380 Church History (3 semester hrs.) with Dr. Kevin Roberts. Beginning on September 8, classes for THE 340 will be held on Thursday evenings from 6:00-8:45 p.m. inside Knight Hall Auditorium at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Lafayette. Beginning on September 6, classes for THE 380 will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:00-8:45 p.m. on the campus of Pope John Paul II Academy in Lafayette. The cost of each course is $250 for credit students, and $75 for audit students. For additional information regarding the Aquinas Institute, please visit www.diolaf.org/aquinasinstitute.

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Courage Sports Camp offers opportunities often missed By Father Donavan Labbé LAFAYETTE Ever yearned to play some sport with “the guys” but were paralyzed because of painful memories? The Courage Sports Camp might be for you. The Courage Apostolate is the only Vatican-approved ministry to persons who experience samesex attractions (SSA) and who seek support in living a chaste life. Since Bishop Jarrell appointed me last year as Chaplain of the Lafayette chapter of Courage, I wanted to see first-hand what its Sports Camp was all about. So, at the beginning of the summer, I attended the12th Annual Sports Camp in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Many men with SSA report having a “sports wound.” Many have never played any team sports, or were always picked last for a game, or were ridiculed by peers during their formative years. The Sports Camp is an opportunity for these men to be coached on the basics of softball, flag football, basketball, and volleyball in an encouraging atmosphere, and then to play actual games. The four days also contained a strong spiritual component: daily Confessions, Mass, morning and evening prayer, a Courage meeting, and a guest speaker. I was the main celebrant of two Masses, while the national chaplain, Father Paul Check, was the celebrant of the other two Masses. I also helped with Confessions and led some of the prayer times. It wasn’t all work for me, though: I had a lot of fun participating in the team sports as well.

My team – the “Dolphins” – won the “Harvey Cup”, named after the founder of Courage, Father John Harvey, of happy memory. Louisiana was well-represented as I wore my Champion New Orleans Saints cap. The 40 men, ages 27 – 57, from around the country who participated in this Sports Camp were very grateful to have priests as father figures for them during the weekend. It was a time of healing of old wounds and a lot of fun for them all. If anyone would like more information about Sports Camp or Courage, please check out: www. couragerc.net, or email: lafayettecourage@yahoo.com, or call 337-232-0074.

Annual BSA workshop & ministry fair is Aug. 27 LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Development will host its annual Bishop’s Services Appeal (BSA) Workshop and Ministry Fair on Saturday, August 27, inside Fusilier Auditorium at the Immaculata Center in Lafayette. The event will begin with registration at 8:30 a.m. and conclude with Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael Jarrell inside Immaculata Chapel at 11:30 a.m. The Mass will also feature the St. Leo-Seton Church Choir, directed by Raphael Henry. The BSA Workshop and Ministry Fair is held each year in preparation for the annual BSA Campaign Kick-off, which is scheduled for the weekend of October 1-2. The workshop is open only to clergy and parish BSA leaders, in order to provide them with an opportunity to review the many programs and ministries

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which are funded through the Bishop’s Services Appeal. By visiting each booth set up at the ministry fair, these leaders can achieve a better grasp of all the resources that are available to their parish and their parishioners. The workshop’s agenda will include a few words offered by Bishop Jarrell and Connie Babin (Director of the Bishop’s Services Appeal), as well as brief presentations from the directors of selected ministries. They are, Karol Meynard (Director of ProLife Issues), Ed Boustany (Director of Justice and Peace), Renee’ Ory (Website Coordinator), and Stephanie Bernard (Director of Black Catholic Ministry). Members of the 2011-2012 BSA Leadership Team will also be introduced before everyone adjourns to Immaculata Chapel for the closing Mass. Before they depart, parish BSA leaders will receive specially prepared packets from the Bishop’s Services Appeal Office. These packets will include a copy of Bishop Jarrell’s 2011-2012 BSA Message, which all church parishes play for their parishioners during the kick-off weekend on October 1 & 2. Other materials will include in-pew pledge envelopes, brochures, bookmarks and posters for display. For additional information regarding this event, please contact the Bishop’s Services Appeal Office at (337) 261-5641.

August Ordination Anniversaries Father Anthony Anala Aug. 4, 2007 Msgr. Charles J. Mallet Aug. 6, 1955 Father Keith LaBove Aug. 7, 1981 Father Louis Richard Aug. 7, 1981 Deacon David Guillory Aug. 8, 1988 Father Tarsisius Puling, S.V.D. Aug. 8, 2004 Deacon Mike Clark Aug. 9, 1980 Father Peter Emusa, C.S.Sp. Aug. 9, 1997 Deacon Leon Lejuene Aug. 9, 1980 Deacon Robert McDonner Aug. 9, 1980 Deacon John Thibodeaux Aug. 10, 1980 Deacon Ken Waguespack Aug. 10, 1980 Msgr. Keith DeRouen Aug. 12, 1983 Father Lambertus Lein, S.V.D. Aug. 12, 2000 Father Vincent Alexiius, S.V.D. Aug. 19, 2003 Deacon Paul Eleazar Aug. 19, 1983 Deacon Thomas Richard Aug. 20, 1983 Father Millard Boyer Aug. 22, 1975 Bishop Sam Jacobs (ordained bishop) Aug. 24, 1989 Father Riroin Emmanuel Tanu, S.V.D. Aug. 24, 2004 Deacon Rodless Leleux Aug. 26, 1988 Deacon Paul Matte Aug. 26, 1988 Father Emmanuel Okwaraocha Aug. 26, 1995 Deacon Louis Lloyd Aug. 27, 1988 Deacon Cody Miller Aug. 27, 1988 Deacon Anthony Ozene Aug. 27, 1988 Father Paul Onuegbe Aug. 27, 1995 Father Stanley Jawa, S.V.D. Aug. 28, 2007 Father Dismas Mauk, S.V.D. Aug. 29, 2003

To subscribe to ACADIANA CATHOLIC Call (337) 261-5650

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Cycle 6 of VLCFF scheduled for Sept. 25-Oct. 9 LAFAYETTE Cycle 6 of the University of Dayton Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF) will be conducted from September 25 through October 9, with registration to open on August 9. Residents of the Lafayette Diocese may register at the cost of $40 per course, and earn credits which may be applied toward a Certificate in Catechesis from the University of Dayton, in partnership with the Lafayette Diocese. Catechists may also use these online courses to fulfill the continuing education hours required by the diocese’s Office of Catholic Schools. Registration for Cycle 6 will close on September 21. Courses being offered will include: Administration in Ministry; Faith and Human Development; Mary in Scripture and Tradition; and more. A complete listing of all offered courses, along with detailed descriptions of each, may be accessed online at www.vlc.

udayton.edu. For further information on the partnership between the University of Dayton Institute for Pastoral Initiative and the Lafayette Diocese, please contact the Office of Christian Formation at (337) 261-5550.

The Amazing Grace Family Race at St. Mary Church LAFAYETTE Summer time at St. Mary Catholic Church means that the whole family is involved in having fun and learning more about their faith. This is the second year that St. Mary Church has offered its intergenerational learning experience. The Amazing Grace Family Race is a seven-week program that started on June 5 and ended July 30. This year participants in the program ranged in ages from parents with two-year-olds to grandparents helping their grandkids participate. The theme for this summer activity is “The Sev-

en Sacraments.” Various types of activities take place in and around the Acadiana area, such as, building a kite and having it in the air for five minutes or longer, searching for a painting in an art gallery and dressing in the proper clothing of a bishop, priest or deacon, just to name a few. The aim of this program is to provide families with opportunities to learn together about their faith and have fun while doing it. Families have the freedom to participate as much or as little as they wish. For the study of each sacrament, the first clue was picked up after the 4:30 p.m. Mass on Saturday. Each week, a winner was chosen from the families who completed all tasks for the week and they received a family fun prize package. Participating sponsors and businesses are: Acadian Religious; Aveda; Borden’s; Evangeline Galleries; O’Sneaux; Pie Works; Red Lerille’s; Smoothie King; Sophie Ps and LYSA. D.R.E. Cindy Guidry and Tiffany Foreman, family ministry coordinator collaborated to make this intergenerational learning experience an opportunity where new ways of living one’s faith can be practiced and provide a setting for each generation to share and learn together as they complete various fun tasks related to each sacrament.

Vermilion Catholic to host scholarship fund dinner ABBEVILLE Vermilion Catholic High School will host its 2nd Annual Scholarship Fund Dinner on the evening of Thursday, August 18. The dinner will be held at Magdalen Place, beginning with cocktails at 6:00 p.m. and followed by the program/dinner at 7:00 p.m. The evening’s speaker will be Dale Brown, retired Hall of Fame LSU Basketball Coach. The cost of attendance is a $50 donation per person, and a steak dinner will be served. Proceeds from this event help to provide scholarship assistance to those in need. Tickets may be requested by e-mailing cheryllandry@vermilioncatholic.com, or by calling (337) 893-6636.

Marriage Anniversary Mass scheduled for Sept. 11 LAFAYETTE The Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry will sponsor a diocesan Marriage Anniversary Mass on Sunday, September 11, at St. Mary Church in Lafayette. Bishop Michael Jarrell will preside over the Mass, which will be celebrated in honor of those who have been married for 25 or 40 years. A reception will follow. Couples who wish to be recognized at the Mass must register with the Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry by 12:00 noon on Friday, August 26. As a part of the Mass, these registered couples will receive a special certificate, presented to them by Bishop Jarrell, to recognize their milestone anniversary. For more information, please contact the Office of Marriage & Family Life at (337) 261-5653, or visit the Marriage & Family Life section of the diocesan website at www. diolaf.org.

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Annual anti-poverty workshop slated for October To register or request further details regarding the workshop, please contact the Office of Justice & Peace by calling (337) 261-5545 or e-mailing ssegura@ diolaf.org.

Pope emphasizes importance of rightly formed conscience

The 2010 Diocesan Campaign Against Poverty workshop attracted more than 125 participants. Pictured above is Mrs. Anne Guidry, who led the opening prayer for the event.

LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Justice & Peace has scheduled its 11th Annual Campaign Against Poverty Workshop for Saturday, October 29. The workshop will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. inside the Immaculata Center in Lafayette. This year’s theme is “God’s People Can Wait No Longer!” The $15 registration includes lunch, refreshments, and display place if it is needed. The workshop constitutes three hours of Catechist Certification (Level IV—Catholic Social Teaching), and is ideal for teachers from both public and private schools. Others who will find it beneficial to attend the workshop include priests, deacons, deacon candidates, service center direc-

tors and board members, parish-leader and pastoral-council members, community organizers, JustFaith graduates, prison ministers, and St. Vincent DePaul groups. Last year’s workshop attracted more than 125 attendants. This year’s workshop will feature a keynote address delivered by Mr. Tom Costanza, Director of the Office of Justice & Peace for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. Mr. Costanza’s presentation will focus on “Understanding the Economics of Poverty.” Additionally, there will be a panel discussion which will cover the topics of housing the poor, educating the homeless, eliminating hunger, developing effective advocacy programs, and providing healthcare for the working poor.

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By Catholic News Service CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy (CNS) Pope Benedict XVI said the proper formation of conscience requires the ability to listen to “the voice of truth,” which is particularly important for people in positions of governing. The pope, meeting with pilgrims at his summer residence outside Rome July 24, spoke about the biblical figure of King Solomon, who prayed to God at the beginning of his reign for “an understanding heart.” The king’s prayer was motivated by

the responsibility of guiding a nation, but is valid for everyone, the pope said. Essentially, Solomon was praying for “a conscience that knows how to listen, that is sensitive to the voice of truth and for this reason is capable of discerning good from evil,” he said. Formation of a moral conscience requires this openness to the truth and the willingness to conform one’s action to the truth, he said. “The people called to the task of governing naturally have an additional responsibility and therefore -- as Solomon teaches -- have even more need of God’s help. But each person has a part to play, in various concrete situations,” he said. The pope said that praying to God for preferential treatment or conditions reflected a “mistaken mentality.” Instead, he said, people should ask above all for the capacity to recognize good and evil and to act on that awareness in their lives.

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St. Thomas More will sponsor fourth annual Revival LAFAYETTE The fourth annual “Revival” will be held at Saint Thomas More Catholic High School, 450 E. Farrell Road, Lafayette, on Saturday, August 13, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. St. Thomas More campus minister, Lance Strother, stated that, “Teens and their families are invited to join us for an evening of food, live music, games, fun jumps, fellowship, and prayer.” Live Christian music will be provided by The Shawn and Lance Band. Admission is free and open to the public. Raffle tickets will be sold for $5 each for a chance to win the grand prize, a big screenHD television; first prize, a barbecue grill; or second prize, dinner for two at a local restaurant. Food and other items will be available for purchase that night. Proceeds from the raffle will help to finance various Campus Ministry programs for teens such

as ‘Light Nights’ for praise and worship and retreat expenses. “All are invited to come and see what apostolic works are being done in the area,” Strother remarked, “while spending an evening of fun, fellowship and prayer with teens and their families from the surrounding communities.” Hosted by STM campus ministry’s Cougars for Christ, the Revival has become an annual event to ask for God’s Blessings upon all students and teachers in the local community, as they begin a new school year.

All donors will receive a Blood Bank T-shirt, a mini-physical, cholesterol test and blood typing. Those wishing to donate are encouraged to eat a healthy meal prior to donating.

A picture ID now required. Donations will give a soldier a 20-minute, prepaid phone call home. Individuals taking medication for high blood pressure or cholesterol can donate.

Joyce Richard honored at retirement reception

Blood drive for Deacon T.J. Richard EUNICE St. Anthony Catholic Churc will sponsor a blood drive with Ochsner Blood Bank for Deacon T.J. Richard who is awaiting liver and kidney transplant surgery. The drive is scheduled for Saturday, August 13, 2011, from 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, August 14, 2011, from 8:00 – 2:00 p.m. at the Jeanmard Center, 240 North 3rd St. in Eunice.

In attendance at the retirement reception for Mrs. Joyce Richard were, sitting, Father Donald Theriot; standing (left to right): Father Louis Richard, Mrs. Joyce Richard, honoree, Father Steve LeBlanc, pastor, Father Floyd Calais and Father Corey Campeaux, associate pastor.

LAFAYETTE A retirement reception was recently given for Mrs. Joyce Richard who retired on July 8 after serving St. Pius Parish faithfully for 26 years as the bookkeeper/ administrative assistant. Attending were Father Donald Theriot, her son Father Louis Richard, Fathers Floyd Calais, Steve LeBlanc and Corey Campeaux, Sister Carmelita Latiolais, Sister Ameline Theriot, her other son and his family, Russell, Kay and Matthew Richard, and many close friends. Mrs. Richard worked under Father Donald Theriot for two

years, Msgr. Richard von Phul Mouton for 20 years and Father Steve LeBlanc for the past 4 years. Father LeBlanc presented Mrs. Richard with a silver cross and chain and a decorative box containing an inscribed plaque and gold clock. As computer technology was introduced over the years, Mrs. Richard adapted by “lovingly” talking to her computer on a regular basis. The parish staff enjoyed her homemade birthday cakes which she would bake for each staff member on their birthdays.

Acadiana Catholic

Monthly Manna postponed until Sept. 21 FRANLKIN The Regional Pastoral Council of the South Region would like to remind everyone that there will be no meeting of Monthly Manna during the month of August. The lunchtime speaker series will resume, however, on Wednesday, September 21 at the Forest Restaurant in Franklin. As usual, the gathering will begin at 11:00 a.m., with lunch to be served at 11:30 a.m. at the cost of $10 per person. The presentation is schedMable Alleman, left, a parishioner of the Church of the uled for 12:00 noon. in Franklin, talks with Father Billy Crumley In July, the crowd Assumption after his recent presentation. heard from Father Billy Crumley, Pastor of Im12. Determined to overcome her maculate Conception Church in illness, she pledged to make 1,000 Charenton. Father Crumley, who paper cranes for her survival, but is also the author of the book Why she was only able to make 750. We Are Always Broke, is set to reAs her story spread throughout tire in September in order to purthe world, other children vowed sue concerns that are close to his to help her make the remaining heart. paper cranes. From this project, During his presentation, Faan international Children’s Peace ther Crumley shared the story of Museum was born. a young Japanese girl named SaIn his retirement, Father Crumdako Susaki, who was only two ley plans to go to schools, libraryears old when the atomic bomb ies, and other groups to help eduwas dropped on Hiroshima on cate people about the dangers we the morning of August 6, 1945. face. His hope is to call attention Three days later, another bomb to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial was dropped on the city of NaMuseum, as well as the Mayors gasaki, instantly killing approxifor Peace program (www.mayormately 40% of the population sforpeace.org). there. Many more would continFor further details on the ue to be affected by the radiation Monthly Manna program, please in the following years, including contact Deacon Jerry Bourg at young Sadako, who was diag(337) 923-4591. nosed with leukemia at the age of

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Facilitator registration forms now being accepted for AAYC

LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese is now accepting registration forms from high school teenagers who wish to serve as facilitators for the 2011 African American Youth Congress (AAYC). The AAYC is a youth leadership training program which includes a day of cultural enrichment, seminars, planning sessions, spiritual celebration, and keynote speakers. Each activity is designed to educate youth leaders and peers to their fullest potential, with an emphasis on excellence without excuse. This year’s Congress will be held from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic High School in Lafayette. The Orientation session for facilitators has been scheduled for Saturday, September 11, beginning at 3:00 p.m. at the Immaculata Center in Lafayette. The fee for those who participate is $70 per person, which includes the cost of planning resources, leadership training, a t-shirt, and other AAYC expenses related to the development of the facilitator. Registration forms and a check or money order made payable to the Diocese of Lafayette must be submitted to the Office of Black Catholic Ministries no later than September 11. AAYC facilitators must be of high school age and show signs of maturity. They must demonstrate leadership abilities and have the ability to work with a

group, including the ability to be open, flexible, have a servant’s attitude, and a willingness to represent God in words and actions. Facilitators must also be selected by a youth director and/ or pastor, and be able to attend all training sessions. Facilitators will exemplify what it means to be a young Catholic Christian, and their responsibilities will involve planning and participating in the overall program, including administrative details of the Congress, such as the development and presentation of workshops on selected topics. In addition to serving as a role model in assisting peers to develop leadership and ministerial skills, on the day of the Congress they will participate in the choir and serve as ushers and hospitality coordinators. Facilitator registration forms for the AAYC may be obtained through the diocesan website at www.diolaf.org; select “Black Catholic Ministries” from the pull-down menu located under the OFFICES tab, and open the link to “2011 Registration Form for Facilitators” which is located along the right-hand side of the page. The forms may be returned to: Diocese of Lafayette, Office of Black Catholic Ministries, 1408 Carmel Drive, Lafayette, LA 70501. Further details may also be requested by calling the office at (337) 2615635, or e-mailing obcm@diolaf.org

Page 14 August 2011

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Bishop Jarrell approves loan of Bishop Boudreaux’s chalice to late bishop’s nephew LAFAYETTE In collaboration with the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Archives/Research & Information, Bishop Michael Jarrell recently approved the loan of a special artifact from the office’s archival collection. A chalice and paten which once belonged to Bishop Warren Boudreaux is now in the hands of his nephew, Deacon Al Davidson, who will soon be ordained to the priesthood in the Baton Rouge Diocese. Deacon Davidson intends to use the chalice during the celebration of his first Mass. The chalice and paten were originally donated to the Lafayette Diocese by Bishop Boudreaux himself, a native of Berwick. The chalice was presented to him by his parents, Loretta and Alphonse Boudreaux, when he was ordained to the priesthood on May 30, 1942. The base of the chalice is engraved with his name and ordination date. He was first assigned to St. Michael Church in Crowley before he went on to study at the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, where he earned a doctorate in Canon Law. In 1946, he was appointed to serve as Vice-Chancellor of the Lafayette Diocese, and would later be appointed as its Auxiliary Bishop in 1962. For a time, he served as Bishop of Beaumont in Texas, and then returned to Louisiana

Deacon Al Davidson, who will soon be ordained to the priesthood in the Baton Rouge Diocese, has made arrangements with the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Archives/Research & Information to borrow a chalice which was donated to the office by the late Bishop Warren Boudreaux. Deacon Davidson is Bishop Boudreaux’s nephew.

to serve as the first bishop of the Houma-Thibodaux Diocese in 1977, a position which he held until 1992. He died several years later at the age of 79. According to the loan contract which has been agreed upon by Bishop Jarrell and Deacon Davidson, Bishop Boudreaux’s chalice and paten will remain in his nephew’s possession for as long as he desires to use them. At the end of such time, they will be returned to the Lafayette Diocese’s archival collection to ensure their safekeeping.

Father Chester Arceneaux guest speaker for September “Food for the Journey” LAFAYETTE “Food for the Journey,” sponsored by the Central Region of the Diocese of Lafayette, will mark its seven-year anniversary in September. As part of this celebration, the guest speaker will be Father Chester Arceneaux, pastor of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Lafayette. “Food for the Journey” is a monthly lunchtime speaker Father Arceneaux series designed to help Catholics live out their faith in their daily lives. Each month features a priest as guest speaker. Over the last seven years, they have spoken on a wide variety of topics, touching

many hearts and helping people grow in their understanding of faith and grow closer to God. “This program,” says Father Thomas James, SVD, VE, vicar for the Central Region, “is significant in the Central Region. People are hungry to learn more about our faith, and they come to be fed. ‘Food for the Journey’ feeds them spiritually, and it also helps build relationships rooted in faith. For us, this program is special.” The September session of “Food for the Journey” will be held on Tuesday, September 6, at Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1801 W. Pinhook Road. The program begins at 12:00 noon, with Father Arceneaux’s presentation from about 12:10-12:45 p.m. An optional buffet lunch is available beginning at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $12.00 and includes meal, drink, dessert and tip. All are welcome for this special anniversary celebration – come “eat and be fed”. Pre-registration is not required. For more information, please call Mary Bergeron (654-8682) or visit www.centralregiononline. org.

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A Vacation with the Lord

Our Lady of the Oaks Retreat House, Grand Coteau, La. (337) 662-5410 www.ourladyoftheoaks.com

Those who have ears to hear, let them hear.

Many people who come to the Oaks for a retreat stand in awe of the four gigantic oak trees in the corners of the courtyard. Amazing they are; and a dozen squirrels chase each other up and down and around these trees. Each oak is ornamented with an ear of corn on the side facing the inner part of the courtyard; our squirrels have been observed stripping them bare before supper. Oaks are satisfaction for the eyes. Age, might, endurance and strength - little of which we have, but all of which describe God. Our ears draw us to the courtyard’s fountain. It’s hardly fancy, and the drip from its basin casually flows over its sides into the tiled catchment. The music of the slow flow hypnotizes retreatants to slow down, listen, become calm. Many come and sit where they can see, but especially hear the soft voices of the fountain. Many sit on the surrounding benches for their meditation and can hear and see it; others prefer the rocking chairs safe from sun and rain; they can still hear the music. Almost all rooms face the quadrangle, so all can hear the fountain. Listeners hear in the fountain something dynamic, even if the flow is slow, something life-giving, like baptism or washing one’s sins away; something like a new creation, as it soothes and suggests life as water does. Oaks awe, they endure; fountains ease, they flow. Our Lady of the Oaks invites you to experience both, but especially the fountain’s music. Those who have ears to hear, let them hear. Jimmy Dauzat, Director

Local church participates in second annual national blessing for arthritis sufferers MAURICE St. Alphonsus Church, located at 8700 Maurice Ave., will be among the many Catholic churches nationwide this year offering arthritis sufferers a blessing on the feast day of St. Alphonsus Liguori. St. Alphonsus (1696-1787), founder of the Redemptorists and a doctor of the church is also the patron saint of those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. St. Alphonsus himself suffered from severe arthritis for the last forty years of his life. The disease left him permanently bent forward and confined to a wheelchair. His feast day is August 1, which fell on a Monday this year. The blessing events were held on Sunday, July 31. Last year the Denver Province Redemptorists conducted the blessing only at their parishes. This year, to bless more people who suffer from the affliction, they have invited every parish around the country named after St. Alphonsus to participate. As many as 70 parishes nationwide have offered the blessing on Sunday, July 31. After each Mass, the celebrant invited people up to the altar to receive an individual blessing and also a special prayer card to St. Alphonsus. The two-sided card offers the prayer in both English and Spanish. “Last year we were amazed at

the turnout at each of our parishes,” said the Very Reverend Harry Grile, C.Ss.R., provincial superior of the Denver Province. “We thought this year we would open it up to include as many people as possible in the blessing. God knows there are millions of souls who suffer daily from the agonizing effects of this affliction.” The blessings are open to the public. The Denver Province has also posted a video blessing on its website, www.redemptoristsdenver.org, delivered by Father Robert Halter, C.Ss.R., vicar provincial of the Denver Province. The arthritis prayer cards are available by calling our offices toll free in Denver at 866.788.0343.

Couples’ enrichment series to begin Sept. 2 LAFAYETTE Attention all couples—want to learn exciting new ways to connect during your time together? Demands of children, work, and family can make it seem nearly impossible to carve out time for yourselves as a couple. “Our Time Together: A Revitalizing Couples Night” is the theme for the upcoming three-evening series which is scheduled to begin on Friday, September 2. The remaining two evenings will be held on October 7 and November 4. To register or request further information, please contact the office of Marriage & Family Life at (337) 261-5653, or visit the Marriage & Family Life section of the diocesan website at www. diolaf.org.

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Listen By Father Frank Pavone

The wound comes from well-meaning people. “Well, it wasn’t that far along.” “You can always have another child.” “Lots of people go through this.” Miscarriage is a tragedy that so many people misunderstand. They are not quite sure how to console a friend or relative who has suffered this loss. While there are no magic formulas, there is one fundamental truth that needs to stay front and center: a miscarriage is the loss of a child who is just as real and has just as much value as any other child of any age. A woman who has a miscarriage is a parent who has lost a child, as is the father of the child as well. In a society which continues to have a

Pro-Life group helps mothers and mothersto-be LAFAYETTE The Desormeaux Foundation gives diapers and wipes to its clients and residents to aid them in their journey through motherhood. The ability to give these much needed baby items is due to the

legal and cultural blind spot for the unborn, many suffer from the illusion that miscarriage doesn’t grieve a parent as much as the loss of, well, a “real child.” And that is precisely what hurts so much. We can never console someone in grief if we imply, even remotely, that the person they lost wasn’t real. Dr. Byron Calhoun, President of the American Association of Pro-life Ob-Gyns, has observed that prior to 1970, the loss of a child before or during birth was often treated in medical literature as a “non-event,” but that now there is a growing awareness of the grief associated with such loss. In fact, Dr. Calhoun has developed a hospice program for unborn children. As the medical community advances in sensitivity and understanding of these points, so must we all. Our love, our compassion, our sharing in the grief of such losses, can bring healing to the parents who have suffered miscarriage. The naming of these children who have died is one significant way of acknowledging their reality. The counting of these chil-

generosity of the public. Knowledge is the best tool for good parenting and by giving diapers and wipes to pregnant women coming to the Foundation for help there is a great increase in the number of women attending counseling sessions and educational classes. At this time the Foundation is in need of diapers, sizes 3 and 4, and wipes. There is also a need for used wipe dispensers. One pack of diapers from 25

dren matters too, so that if a parent is asked how many children he/she has, the child who died before birth is counted as one of them. I recall the first pro-life billboard that we set up in 1990 here in our community of Staten Island, New York. It depicted a developing unborn child. One of the first phone calls I received about it was from a woman who had lost a child by miscarriage. “I can’t tell you how consoling your billboard is to me. Thank you.” That was all she said. Perhaps the reason it was consoling was that someone was saying publicly what she knew privately: that was a real child. The life of that child matters, no matter how short it was. The death of that child matters, no matter how many may not cry. And the love I have for that child matters, even if nobody else knows. Lord, comfort all parents who grieve the loss of their children of any age. Take them into Your loving arms, and give us strength until the day You give them back to us in heaven. Amen.

individuals would restock the empty shelves for two months. Those able to help, may drop off donations at the Baby & Me Boutique at 1335 Jefferson Street Monday thru Friday 10:00 a.m.

to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Donations may also be dropped off at the office at 1331 Jefferson Street, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

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Incomplete Seminary Burses Your Contributions Help Educate Future Priests ANDRE METREJEAN is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Todd Metrejean. He is in Third Theology at Notre Dame Seminary, New Orleans. He is sponsored by Our Lady of Wisdom Church, Lafayette.

MARK MILEY, the son of Mrs. M.H. Miley and the late Mr. Miley, is in his Third Theology Year at Sacred Heart School of Theology, Wisconsin. He is sponsored by Sacred Heart Church, New Iberia. RENE PELLESSIER is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Pellessier. He is in his fourth college year at St. Joseph Seminary College, St. Benedict, La. and is sponsored by St. Mary Church, Lafayette. NEIL PETTIT is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Michel Edward Pettit. He is in his Third Theology year at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md., and is sponsored by St. Mary Church, Lafayette. MICHAEL RICHARD, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Richard, is in Pre-Theology at St. Joseph Seminary College, St. Benedict, La. He is sponsored by St. Bernard Church, Breaux Bridge.

Photos by P.C. Piazza

219 Msgr. Wm. J. Teurlings Burse #1 13,417.00 236 John E. Lee Jr. Burse 9,324.60 239 St. Joseph Burse 9,076.48 242 Lee C. Lavergne Burse 7,079.73 244 Rev. Julian Van Exem Burse #2 12,524.06 248 Msgr. Alphonsus Martel Burse 11,000.00 253 Serra Club Burse 15,034.49 254 Rusty Randol Burse 1,742.76 260 St. Theresa Burse #2 5,697.46 266 Paul and Mary Karre Burse 2,105.00 268 M/M Willie Fournet Burse #2 570.65 271 Msgr. Joseph Van Brero Burse 710.00 272 Msgr. P. Alexandre Borel Burse 1,625.00 274 Msgr. Emery Labbe Burse 6,310.00 278 Msgr. Daniel Bernard Burse 3,674.64 281 Rev. Harry Van Tiel Family Burse 3,969.00 283 Noemie L. Petitijean Burse 1,000.00 284 Msgr. Daniel Habetz Burse 6,590.00 286 P.J. Reiners Burse #2 9,500.00 288 Rev. Oscar Drapeau Burse 2,000.00 290 Rev. P.G.J. Kemps Burse 1,000.00 291 Lucille M. Griffin Memorial Burse 5,000.00 292 Anonymous Burse 10,470.00 293 Msgr. Fernand Gouaux Burse 4,770.00 294 Robert A. Frey Memorial Burse 7,360.00 297 “A Priest” Burse #2 7,400.00 308 Harold/Ruby Moreau Family Memorial Burse 5,000.00 309 Libby Holcombre Memorial Burse 2,000.00 318 Msgr. Marcel Murie 5,260.00 319 Rev. Marcel & Alfred Gaudet #5 1,942.80 322 Rev. Jean Fidele Paradis #2 5,000.00 323 Charlene Richard 3,030.00 326 Fr. Raphael Gauthier #2 3,757.17 327 Msgr. Albert Bacque #2 325.00 330 Rev. Verbis Lafleur #3 7,500.00 332 Ben & Louisa Larriviere #2 3,750.00 337 Colonel, Chaplain Kenneth A. Bienvenu, USAF, Burse #2 14,214.99 340 Rev. James Doiron 2,272.17 346 Msgr. Alexander O. Sigur Memorial 2,250.00 348 Rev. J. Wilson Matt & Mire Families 450.00 351 Rev. Alcide Sonnier Burse #2 11,300.00 352 St. Edmond Church Parish (In memory of Frs. Dowling & Murray, SM) 9,000.00 354 Catholic Daughters #3 10,200.63 355 Gabriel Lucas Seminary Memorial Fund (Morse) 15,000.00 356 Mrs. Louise L. White Memorial Fund 10,110.00 358 Therese Esteves #5 7,516.49 359 St. Peter’s Parish – New Iberia 10,422.35 363 Ramona Crosby Bennerfield Burse 2,155.52 364 St. Jude Burse #2 8,030.00 366 A. Otis and Etta B. Hebert Memorial Burse 5,000.00 367 Bishop Edward J. O’Donnell Burse 3,545.00 368 Rev. J.C. Speyrer Burse 10,000.00 370 Msgr. C. Burton Mouton Burse 10,700.00 375 Msgr. Charles Marin 100.00 376 Bishop Jeanmard Burse 4,464.00 377 Marie Louise Franques Kenneth N. LaCaze Burse 3,000.00 378 Bishop Gerard L. Frey Memorial Burse 12,522.00 379 Rev. Moise Hebert #2 3,403.61 380 Lay Honorees #7 3,200.10 381 In memory of Mrs. Dorphi Duhon 2,181.50 382 Rev. Raymond Robitaille #2 11,000 383 James Kerney Bourque Memorial Burse 3,930.00 384 Bishop Schexnayder Mem. Vurse #3 940.19 385 Rev. Mike Bakowski Memorial Burse 2,800.00 386 Coignard/Gremillion Burse #2 1,500.00 387 Gabriel Lukas Memorial Fund (Morse) 194.21 JULY DONORS 330 Carroll/Richard Lafleur

100.00

Life Awareness Vocation Discernment Retreat offers helpful information LAFAYETTE The second annual Life Awareness Vocation Discernment Retreat (LAR) sponsored by the Dioceses of Lafayette, Baton Rouge and Lake Charles is scheduled for September 16 - 18, 2011 at the St. Charles Retreat Center in Moss Bluff, La. The cost is only $25 for the entire weekend. The theme selected for the retreat is the scripture passage from John 15:16: “It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you.” Life Awareness is a vocation program aimed towards single males and females, who are high school seniors and up to age 45 who may be discerning a possible vocation to the priesthood or religious life. The weekend’s program will feature a keynote address, presentations and panel discussions that focus on the various stages of discernment and formation. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in group discussions, Mass, prayer led by priests, sisters, brothers, and seminarians, and share in conversations with a religious. At no point will the participants be pressured to make a decision – it is a time for them to ask questions and learn about the options available for the possibility of a vocation. The program is directed toward anyone who is: l looking for an opportunity to provide service to others, l wondering if the religious life as a priest, brother or sister might be what they’re looking for, l or, even those who haven’t reached that point, but have that quiet, subtle, nagging feeling that it’s something they should know more about. Life Awareness does several things: l provides a means of discerning if a vocation exists and how to respond to it. l explores the rewards and obligations that go along with religious life. l equips the participants to ultimately make an intelligent decision whether a religious vocation should be considered as they plan their future. l gives the opportunity to ask questions about diocesan or religious priesthood. Some comments from last year’s participants:

The second annual Life Awareness Vocation Discernment Retreat will be held at the St. Charles Retreat Center in Moss Bluff. One of the features of this peaceful setting is the boardwalk, pictured above.

l “This was an amazing weekend! I have never seen so many Religious in one place. Their willingness to talk and share their stories truly reflected God’s love in every moment shared with them. It was great to learn about all the different orders.” l “I wish I had invited more friends to experience this. You should do it maybe twice per year.” l “This was the most beneficial retreat I have participated in. It amazed me how people from all stages in their discernment could come together and learn about themselves and about how God is calling each of them to serve.” For further information please contact your pastor, vocation director or visit our website at www.diolaf.org/lifeawareness

Mass for deceased permanent deacons and deceased wives of deacons LAFAYETTE Father Gary Schexnayder, pastor of St. Michael Church in Crowley, will celebrate a Mass of remembrance for deceased permmanent deacons and deceased wives of permanent deacons on October 16th 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at Immaculata Chapel at the Diocese of Lafayette Chancery. A very light reception will follow the Mass in the John XXIII conference room.

Acadiana Catholic

“BE FIRE!” By Graham N. Smith

I’m a child of the “Space Race.” I was spellbound watching the 50’s shows “ T o m Corbett, Space Cadet” and “Space Patrol” with Commander Buzz Corry, both done “live” in black and white back then. And I remember my father getting me out of bed in the predawn darkness to stand outside and watch the rise of Sputnik’s jettisoned rocket orbiting up over the horizon. I was in high school when NASA still used ordinary shortwave frequencies, and I listened on my ham radio receiver as a Project Mercury astronaut talked to Houston. I was in college, working in a TV control room when the Apollo 8 crew gave us video and a reading from the book of Genesis as they orbited the Moon on Christmas Eve, 1968. I’ve still got some fuzzy photos that I took from a TV monitor of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walking on the Moon 8 months later. When NASA did its first “drop test” of the space shuttle Enterprise to see how well it would glide, I was a TV reporter covering that flight from the same Mission Control that was used for the Apollo program. Now, after more than 30 years the shuttle program has ended with the final flight of Atlantis. There was a sense of national vision about all of this that focused Americans as a “people”, particularly with the idea of going to the Moon, an aspiration that probably began when a caveman first gazed at the night sky. The possibilities seemed

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limitless. That vision is gone now, and we’ve become a contentious lot, pushing our own separate agendas with no overarching sense of who God intended us to be. That’s no surprise, since where there is no vision, “the people become demoralized.” (Prov. 29:18 NAB) They will perish. (Prov. 29:18 KJV) I can’t blame all of this on the fate of the space program, but I am convinced that we’ve lost our sense of purpose. We need to find a vision now, God’s vision, and pursue it for all we’re worth. He’s promised to give us a future “not of woe” but “full of hope.” We’ll find it if we seek Him with all our hearts, and He will change our lot. (Jer. 29:11-14) Everybody’s got concerns about the necessities of daily life – food, clothing, shelter – but Jesus tells us not to worry about that, and to seek God’s Kingdom first. (Matt. 6:30-33) He warns that where our treasure is, our hearts will be. (Matt. 6:21) I read the Book of Acts and see a vision of the power of God that’s far brighter than the lure of any space adventure. Those folks were “sold out” for Jesus in ways that make my jaw drop, sharing everything they had (Acts 2:44), healing the sick (Acts 8:7), raising the dead (Acts 9:36 - 41) and fearlessly proclaiming the Good News, even to those who could kill them for doing it. (Acts 4:5 12) Is all that still possible? Yes. In fact, it’s the last instruction Jesus gave before He ascended. (Mk. 16:15-18) But it will be far from easy. G.K. Chesterton wrote, “The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting; it has been found difficult and left untried.” Consider what a world this would be if we all believed what Jesus told us and lived accordingly. That is a vision worth pursuing!

Father Clinton Sensat at August “Food for the Journey” LAFAYETTE The Central Region of the Diocese of Lafayette presents “Food for the Journey,” a monthly lunchtime speaker series designed to help Catholics live out their faith in their daily lives. Speaker for August was Father Clinton Sensat, who is currently in residence at St. Edmond, Lafay- Father Sensat ette, as he prepares for further studies leading to an advanced degree in Systematic Theology. Father Sensat was ordained for the Diocese of Lafayette on June 6, 2009. “Food for the Journey” was held on Tuesday, August 2, at Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1801 W. Pinhook Road, beginning at 12:00 noon. An optional buffet lunch is available beginning at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $12.00 and includes meal, drink, dessert and tip. All are welcome to come “eat and be fed”. Pre-registration is not required. For more information, please call Mary Bergeron (654-8682) or visit www.centralregiononline.org.

Father Lafleur Memorial Mass to be held Sept. 7 OPELOUSAS The annual Memorial Mass for Lt. Father Joseph Verbis Lafleur has been scheduled for Wednesday, September 7 at St. Landry Church in Opelousas. The Mass, which will be celebrated by Abbot Justin Brown, will begin at 6:30 p.m. Abbot Brown is the Abbot of St. Joseph Abbey in St. Benedict, Louisiana, which Father Lafleur once attended. Having served as an altar boy at St. Landry Church during his youth, Joseph Verbis Lafleur was ordained to the priesthood in 1938 and chose to serve as a military chaplain during World War II. He and more than 600 prisoners of war were killed when the Japanese ship upon which they were being transported was torpedoed. Father Lafleur’s body was not recovered, but survivors later reported that he was last seen helping others attempt to escape from the sinking vessel. To learn more about the legacy of Father Lafleur, please visit www.fatherlafleur.org.

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OBITUARIES

Donald “Don” Elton Shetler LAKE CHARLES Donald “Don” Elton Shetler died on June 12, 2011, at the residence of his son Carl Shetler, surrounded by family. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. Msgr. Charles Mallet was celebrant. Don Shetler was born in Syracuse, New York on July 18, 1925. At the age of nine, his family moved to Lake Charles. He attended McNeese State University before entering the United States Marine Corps. After serving three years in the Pacific, he returned to Lake Charles to work for Schlumberger. He married Patricia Ruth Daughenbaugh on August 12, 1946. They had five children. Don was involved in the automobile industry at every level for over 42 years. Shetler was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Crowley. He established the annual St. Michael’s Church picnic, where he provided over 4,000 dinners at no cost.

He chaired numerous committees, received the Distinguished Bishop’s Medal, was chosen for the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, served on the board of directors of the Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Lafayette, and was a fourth degree Knights of Columbus member. Don Shetler is survived by his five children, Carl Shetler (Rosie) of Lake Charles, Donna Shetler Corley (George) of Crowley, Gwen Shetler Butaud, Rick Shetler, and Mike Shetler (Kathleen), all of Lake Charles. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Martha Shetler, his brother Carl James Shetler, and his wife Patricia Daughenbaugh Shetler. Burial was at Highland Memory Gardens.

Sister Elsie Mier, O.Carm. LAFAYETTE Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Joseph Church in Rayne for Sister Elsie Mier, O. Carm., formerly Sister M. Richard Mier, a Sister of Mount Car-

mel and teacher, who died July 15, 2011 in Lafayette. She was 76 years old and in the 56th year of her religious profession. Sister Elsie was born on Jan. 30, 1935 in Rayne, to Camile Mier and Edes Landry of Rayne. She entered the Congregation of Our Lady of Mount Carmel on Sept. 1, 1951 and received the habit of the Sisters of Mount Carmel Aug. 4, 1952. On Aug. 3, 1954, she made her first profession, and pronounced perpetual vows Aug. 1, 1957. She celebrated her fiftieth jubilee in 2004. Sister Elsie attended St. Joseph School in Rayne, and graduated from Mount Carmel Academy in New Orelans. She received her bachelor’s degree from Loyola University in New Orleans in Education with a minor in mathematics. Devoting over 34 years to education, beginning in 1954, she taught at Catholic schools Acadiana, New Orleans, and Paincourtville. After certifying in carpentry from Delgado College Sister Elsie worked at Tulane Medical School and was self employed as a carpenter for a period of time. Since 2001 and until her death

she served as Evangelization Visitor in Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Lafayette. Sister Elsie was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Camile Mier, Jr. and Robert Joseph Mier. She is the fourth of seven children and survived by her brother Richard Daniel Mier of New Richmond, Wis. and three sisters, Sister Robert Joseph Mier, a Sister of Mount Carmel, Audrey Ann Darcé of Jennings, and Roberta Marie Guidry of Crowley. Interment was in St. Joseph Cemetery.

Walter Joseph Harrington, 67 Died: July 19, 2011, in Lafayette, LA A Mass of Resurrection was celebrated for Walter Joseph Harrington at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Crowley. He died July 19 at the age of 67. Burial was in Estherwood Memorial Cemetery. Walter, an avid sportsman, recently retired from the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Department in the position of Chief Deputy, af(Continued on page 41)

Acadiana Catholic

Page 22 August 2011

Theresians install leadership team

Monstrance to be used at World Youth Day pictured in Spanish Cathedral

This monstrance from the cathedral in Toledo, Spain, set into a towering 16thcentury gothic structure of silver and gold, will be part of World Youth Day activities Aug. 16-21 in Madrid. Prayer and eucharistic adoration are a major part of World Youth D ay activities in line with the vision of Pope Benedict XVI. (CNS photo/courtesy World Youth Day)

Bishop Leonard Olivier, S.V.D. celebrates 60 years of priesthood

The Roses on the Teche Theresian Community recently installed its 2011-2012 leadership team. Jeannese Guidry hosted the installation banquet at her home. Leadership team members include, left to right, Anita Roberts-Long, district representative; Shirley Stelly, spiritual coordinator; Sally Gary, secretary-treasurer; Kat Lavasseur, membership coordinator; Brenda Benoit, program coordinator and Cheryl Angelette, team leader. The Roses on the Teche Community is comprised of women from the Breaux Bridge and Lafayette areas. Submitted by Sally Gary

Knights present check for Excellence in Education

Retired Bishop Leonard Olivier, S.V.D., pictured above, celebrated his 60th anniversary of ordination recently in Lake Charles with a Mass of Thanksgiving. Bishop Olivier was Vicar for Black Catholics and pastor of St. Anthony Church in Lafayette when he was appointed auxiliary bishop of Washington, D.C. in November 1988. He retired in 2004.

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A check for $5239 was recently presented to the Diocese of Lafayette for Excellence in Religious Education. Receiving the check on behalf of the diocese was Bishop Michael Jarrell, third from the left, seated. Representatives from the KCs present were, from the left, seated: Bob Ferguson, Faithful Navigator, Bishop Schexnayder Assembly # 1882; Lee Allen Simon, Diocesan Coordinator for the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus; Bishop Jarrell; and James Pellerin, Faithful Navigator, Msgr. Langlois, Assembly #321. Back row, from the left:Joseph David, Rev. A.J. Bacque Assembly #330; David Landry, Captain, Msgr. Gouaux Assmebly # 2199; Jim Dorton, Comptroller, Msgr. Guouax Assembly # 2199 and Jerry LaSalle, Captain, Msgr. Langlois Assembly #321.

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Acadiana Catholic

August 2011 Page 23

Remembering our “little Cajun Saint” Charlene Richard by Stephanie R. Martin RICHARD Ask about “the little Cajun saint” on the streets of Acadiana, and chances are that someone within earshot can tell you that her name is Charlene Richard, and then they can probably explain how she earned such a reputation in the first place. If you’re truly interested, they might even be able to give you directions to Richard, the tiny out-of-the-way town where Charlene is buried, so you can visit her grave. Indeed, hundreds of people make that trip every single year, sometimes coming from out of state or even from out of the country to do so. They consider it that much of a blessing to be able to kneel and pray at this little girl’s grave, and to ask for her intercession on their behalf. For those who are unfamiliar with her story, Charlene Richard was a 12-year-old girl who was admitted to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Lafayette in the summer of 1959. She had been diagnosed with leukemia, and there was very little the hospital staff could do at the time other than try to ease her pain, which was quite considerable. However, it was the hospital chaplain—Father Joseph Brennan—who seemed to give Charlene the most effective medicine when he suggested to the little girl that she might offer up her own sufferings to God on behalf of others. Though it was a concept that even many adults might struggle to comprehend, Charlene embraced it willingly. Father Brennan visited her every day for two weeks, and each time he found Charlene eagerly awaiting his suggestions for whom she could offer her sufferings. Sadly, Charlene succumbed very quickly to the ravages of the leukemia. She passed away on the morning of August 11, 1959, but to this day her legacy continues to transcend her earthly life. “I personally never met Charlene Richard—at least, I didn’t do so when she was in Lafayette, in the hospital—but she has been in my life for many, many years,” affirmed Father Floyd Calais

This image of Charlene Richard can be found on the headstone of her grave, which is located in the cemetery of St. Edward Church in Richard. Photo by P.C. Piazza

when he was asked to celebrate the annual memorial Mass in Charlene’s honor a few years ago. He went on to relate that while he did not know Charlene personally, he did know of the little girl’s selfless reputation through his friend Father Brennan, the chaplain who ministered to her in the hospital. Later, inspired by the strength and courage she demonstrated before she died, Father Calais asked Charlene for her intercession as he prayed to be assigned to a church parish rather than remaining in his position as chaplain of another local hospital. Father Calais’ prayers were soon answered, and upon his first visit to his new parish of St. Edward Church in Richard, he was

astonished to discover that it was the final resting place of young Charlene. Throughout his time at St. Edward’s, Father Calais continued to pray for Charlene’s intercession in helping him serve the church parish. He also spread the word to others and encouraged them to pray for the little girl’s intercession during their times of need. Soon, people began to visit St. Edward Church in order to sit and pray beside Charlene’s grave, and many of these people began to attribute their healing— albeit spiritual or physical—to the intercession of this “little Cajun saint.” By the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, the life story of Charlene Richard had become so

The small town of Richard, and its Catholic parish of St. Edward Church, welcomes hundreds of visitors each year as they come to visit the gravesite of “the little Cajun saint” Charlene Richard. Photo by P.C. Piazza

well-known and inspiring that St. Edward Church began to host an annual memorial Mass in her honor on the anniversary of her death. The Mass continues to be held each year, although it is now usually scheduled the Friday closest to the actual anniversary date (August 11) to make it easier for people to participate. Though she lived an abbreviated life, Charlene has undoubtedly left her mark in the world. In her small hometown community, for instance, many volunteers now take part in the making of Charlene prayer cloths which are distributed far and wide, to anyone who asks. Mary Ann Guidry, a parishioner of St. Edward’s, explains the origins and significance of this ministry on Page 24. The story of those prayer cloths is continued on Page 25, as Houston resident Sandra Strassner elaborates on how and why she incorporated the cloths into her own special ministry. Furthmore, in April 2005, the Charlene Richard Mission was opened in Thailand. Representing the same selfless spirit that Charlene reflected in her desire to help others, the house offers accommodations to missionaries who travel from all over the world to aid those in need. Further details are provided on Page 26. Charlene’s story has inspired so many over the years that these are only a few examples of the legacy she left behind. People continue to pray for her intercession even today, just as they pray that she will someday be recognized as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. Perhaps that is the greatest part of Charlene’s legacy--through the bravery and selflessness she exhibited even as she faced such a painful death so early in her life, she reminds us that there is never any situation so dire that it can rob us of our ability to pray, and with prayer comes comfort and courage. After all, in the words of the Gosepl of Mark 11:24 “. . .all that you ask for in prayer, believe that you will receive it and it shall be yours.”

Acadiana Catholic

Page 24 August 2011

Long after her death, Charlene Richard continues to inspire community to reach out to those who are suffering & in need by Mary Ann Guidry Mary Ann Guidry is a parishioner of St. Edward Church in Richard, where Charlene Richard is buried. The following story regarding the origin of the Charlene prayer cloths is conveyed in her own words, and the Acadiana Catholic thanks her for sharing them with our readers. The process of making and distributing these prayer cloths evolved from several seemingly insignificant events which began in the summer of 2004, when a lady from a distant town visited the gravesite of Charlene. She had with her a picture of Charlene, bonded to a few small squares of fabric. During a chance encounter at the church, she gave me a couple of these and called them WHAT ARE PRAYER CLOTHS? Prayer cloths date back to the Acts of the Apostles, 19: 11-12. The Holy Shroud of Turin is a prayer cloth, as is the picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe; so is the Scapular of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, and many relics of the Saints’ clothing. Prayer cloths may be placed on a sick person, accompanied by the prayer for healing to Jesus, the Divine Physician. In some places, it is the custom to place pictures of loved ones who are sick, or strayed from the practice of their religion, on the prayer cloth, entrusting them to God’s protection for their spiritual and even material needs. This prayer cloth has been placed on the grave of Charlene Richard and prayed over; then it was placed on the altar of St. Edward Catholic Church and blessed at a Healing Mass by Father Wayne Duet. Acts 19: 11-12: “So extraordinary were the mighty deeds God accomplished at the hands of Paul that when cloths that touched his skin were applied to the sick, their diseases left them and the evil spirits came out of them.”

Each prayer cloth, which is stamped with a picture of Charlene Richard, is packaged with a card that explains its significance. Photo by Stephanie Martin

prayer cloths, which she said she put together and gave to individuals. I had never heard of prayer cloths, or how they might be used. I relayed this story to a lady who had just moved to this parish and had developed a genuine love and devotion to Charlene. I gave her one of the cloths as something she might appreciate, but still had no knowledge of how they might be used. Some time later, she received a call from a friend who asked for prayers for a young mother just diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. The friend stated that the young mother had a special devotion to Charlene and would love to visit her grave but was just too weak to make the trip. The new parishioner offered to send her the prayer cloth which she had. Later, the young mother told of the comfort she received when she was too weak and sick to do anything else but hold on to her rosary and the prayer cloth. This was the inspiration to begin making more prayer cloths. The actual process began very slowly in 2005, with two ladies making a few in their homes. They were placed on Charlene’s grave and prayed over that she might intercede in the prayers of individuals using these prayer cloths. They were then blessed by the priest and offered to anyone who might desire one. The demand quickly grew, and we required more help to make them. The first large batch of 500

were blessed in 2006. Since then, many people have become involved in making and packaging these, and the actual process has changed several times. The present process involves one individual who purchases the fabric in bulk, so that workers in a garment factory can cut it into nineinch squares and send them to Richard. One of the ladies who does the actual cutting is named Charlene; her mother—now deceased—named her after Charlene Richard, who was a childhood friend of hers. After cutting, the squares are then sent to a very elderly parishioner who serges all around the edges of each piece. They are then sent back to the original “new” parishioner, who stamps them with the Charlene image. Individuals from Richard and surrounding parishes who have an interest in this project gather once a month to pray, fold, and package the prayer cloths and cards. Afterwards, they are placed on Charlene’s grave and prayed over. The day is ended with a covered dish meal and fellowship. On the first Sunday of each month, at 10:00 a.m., a Mass of Healing is celebrated at St. Edward Church and the prayer cloths are placed on the altar for a blessing from the priest. The prayer cloths are then made available to whoever wants

them; they are not for sale. The cost of the fabric and packing supplies has been met by donations from individuals. At this time, an individual has made the rubber stamp image, and another one prints the WHAT ARE PRAYER CLOTHS? cards at no cost. To date, approximately 60,000 of these prayer cloths have been distributed. Individuals pick them up at the church and send them throughout the country and to foreign countries, on to battlefields and hospitals. A large number are regularly sent to the Sarnelli Orphanage in Thailand. The Charlene Richard Mission House there was dedicated to Charlene, and supported in part by individuals from the Lafayette Diocese. Besides the accounts of answered prayers from individuals using the prayer cloths, we believe this project has brought many unexpected blessings to those working on them. The camaraderie of the group coming together and praying each month has been a special blessing. We expect to continue this as long as we can, and have the support and blessing of our pastor. For more information about the Charlene prayer cloths and how to obtain them, please contact the Friends of Charlene Association by writing to P.O. Box 91623, Lafayette, LA 70509-1623.

From left to right: Volunteers Lucille, Lena, and Charlene donate their time to cut bulk amounts of cloth into nine-inch squares to make the prayer cloths. Charlene, whose mother was a childhood friend of Charlene Richard, is actually named after the “little Cajun saint.” Photo submitted by Mary Ann Guidry

Acadiana Catholic

August 2011 Page 25

One good turn deserves another: Charlene’s former classmate distributes prayer cloths as part of her own caring ministry By Sandra Strassner Sandra Strassner currently resides in the area of Houston, Texas, but is a native of Church Point, Louisiana. As a child, she attended school with Charlene Richard, and as an adult she has been heavily involved in many charitable works which have been influenced by the memories of her former schoolmate. The following is her personal account of one such work that she fondly calls “Charlene Christmas Boxes.” I began Charlene Christmas boxes when I read about the needs of the people at the Angela House and the Isaiah House, both under the auspices of the Diocese of Houston-Galveston, Texas. The Angela House meets the unique needs of women after incarceration; it provides them with a safe place where they can live, grow, and become the kind of women they want to be. The Isaiah House is a place where recently released men can find sanctuary, a kind word, spiritual guidance, health services, a place to lay their heads, and employment opportunities. I decided to make the boxes to give out as Christmas gifts, and to maintain the religious spirit in which they were given to celebrate the birth of Jesus. I strongly believe that Jesus lives within each one of us and we are His creation on this earth. In each box, I included a Charlene prayer cloth and prayer card, along with a religious or inspirational book. Thus, they became known as the Charlene Christmas boxes. I was born in southwest Louisiana, in the town of Church Point. I attended elementary school there and was in the first grade with Charlene Richard. My family later moved away, but I continued to visit my relatives. When I heard about the Charlene Richard project, I volunteered to become a committee member so that I could do my part in the cause for Charlene. That is when I became aware of the annual Mass of Petition for Charlene and decided to attend the event at St. Edward Church in Richard. It was at this

Mass that I became aware of the Charlene Christmas boxes Charlene prayer cloths. They are were also made and given to the packages in small plastic bags, animal shelter in Lafayette. When which made it easy for me to Santa oversaw the adoption of the put one in each of the boxes that cats or dogs for the lucky child at I made. I was able to obtain as Christmas, the story of Charlene many as I needed. was told with her prayer cloth for Due to the success of the both the child and his/her beloved Christmas boxes in the Houston pet. area, I decided to bring the boxes The Charlene prayer cloths are to Louisiana. I contacted several included in all of the Charlene of the church parishes in southChristmas boxes given to non-dewest Louisiana where I grew nominational entities. One such up to determine if the Charlene organization that I supply with Christmas boxes were needed. I the boxes is the Turning Point in also contacted Catholic Charities Houston. This is an apartment of Houston and New Orleans, the complex purchased by an indiSt. Vincent de Paul Society, the vidual who is in a program that New Life Center in Opelousas, utilizes a variety of supportive the St. Michael Home for Veterservices to allow the homeless ans in Lafayette, and other nonand elderly to once again become profit organizations. All were productive citizens in society. excited to receive them for their In each box, along with the clients of all ages. Charlene prayer cloth and prayer PRAYER TO CHARLENE RICHARD Charlene, when you were only twelve years old, you showed heroic faith, hope, and love; dying of leukemia, you joined yourself to Jesus on His Cross and offered your intense pain for others. You thereby echoed St. Paul’s words to his people in Colossians 1, 24: “Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ on behalf of His Body, the Church. Charlene, I believe you are with God. Please ask our Heavenly Father, His only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit to grant me the following favor: (mention favor sought) Charlene, thank you for helping me. May Jesus Christ always be praised. May Mary, Jesus’ Ever-Virign Mother, always be called blessed. Prayer cards may be requested by writing to: Friends of Charlene P.O. Box 91623 Lafayette, LA 70509-1623

Throughout the years, so many have sought out the cemetery of St. Edward Church in Richard, in order to visit Charlene Richard’s grave and ask her intercession for their intentions, that prie-dieux (prayer kneelers) have been placed beside the grave to accommodate them. Photo by P.C. Piazza

A statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary which sits atop the headstone of Charlene Richard is adorned with rosaries left behind by those who have visited the little girl’s grave to pray for her intercession on their behalf. Photo by P.C. Piazza

card, I include toothpaste, a toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, hair brushes, combs, hair accessories, and articles of clothing such as socks and bibs for infants. The shoe boxes I use are given to me by a local shoe store in Houston. The boxes are labeled according to the following: male, female, teen, children, and infants. I also make family boxes. As I mentioned earlier, each box contains a religious or inspirational book. I have also brought book bags for children staying at the New Life Center in Opelousas and filled them with school supplies. I purchase all of the supplies that are needed to fill the boxes. I spend all of my spare time putting the items in each box and labeling them so that they can be brought to the centers to be given out. When I arrive at a center, I usually meet the director, who then takes the boxes and gives them out to the clients. I do not meet the clients who will be receiving the boxes. I have been all over southwest Louisiana, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans. I feel so blessed in order to provide these boxes to people who truly need them. I will continue to do this as long as I am able. I have met so many wonderful people since I started doing this. For more information about the Charlene Christmas boxes, you can contact the Friends of Charlene Association at P.O. Box 91623, Lafayette, LA 705091623.

Acadiana Catholic

Page 26 August 2011

Welcome to the Charlene Richard Mission House in Thailand by Stephanie R. Martin THAILAND It was a vision that first began to form in February 2004, approximately 45 years after Charlene Richard died. Many, many miles from her hometown--in a place so far away that Charlene could have only imagined it during her lifetime--a group from Louisiana arrived in Thailand to lend a hand. Their intentions were to assist Father Michael Shea, an American Redemptorist missionary who had been serving the people of the area for more than 30 years. Among the Louisiana volunteers were Dottie and Reggie Bollich, parishioners of Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Scott. As they helped Father Shea with his work among the people of Thailand, an idea came to them that the area could use a mission house, a place where visiting missionaries could stay while they volunteered their

the missionaries who stay there throughout the year do so in order to help out with the Sarnelli Orphanage, which cares for children who are often not much older or younger than Charlene was at the time of her death. Some of them also struggle with their own illnesses, including AIDS. “Sarnelli Orphanage is a place of healing,” explained Deacon Bollich. “There are miracles there everyday, and you can see them in the smiles and faces of the orphans. The Charlene House is an integral part of Sarnelli orphanage, a place where Father Shea can welcome, meet, house, and share a meal with volunteers and benefactors from all over the world who want to hand-carry their donation directly to him and the children.” Deacon Bollich and his wife Dottie recently returned from a three-week visit to the Sarnelli Orphanage. They were accom-

Father Michael Shea and Lyn, a resident of the Sarnelli Orphanage, pose in front of the large Charlene sculpture outside the Charlene Richard Mission House in Thailand. Lyn is one of several people, documented by Father Shea, who is believed to have experienced a miraculous physical healing. Photo submitted by Deacon Reggie Bollich

Deacon Bollich noted that during their stay at the Charlene Richard Mission House, they were in the company of fellow missionaries from England, India, Holland, Germany, Canada, and Hong Kong. He noted on the house register that other visitors during 2011 have represented countries such as Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Scotland, Germany, the Netherlands, Argentina, and of course the United States. The Charlene Richard House stays fully booked throughout most of the year. Deacon Bollich will discuss his family’s recent Thailand trip in a special presentation he will deliver immediately following the annual Charlene Richard Memorial Mass on August 5, at St. Edward Church in Richard.

Thailand natives Nuke and Somchai take a momemt to say goodbye to Dottie Bollich during the Bollichs’ recent missionary trip. Nuke and Somchai work at the Sarnelli Orphanage. The Bollichs are hoping to raise enough money so that an artificial leg can be purchased for Somchai. Photo submitted by Deacon Reggie Bollich

After Sunday Mass, approximately 150 orphans from Thailand’s Sarnelli Orphanage gathered on the steps of the Charlene Richard Mission House for this photo, which expresses their thanks and appreciation for the support they have received from the people of Acadiana. Photo submitted by Deacon Reggie Bollich

services. Upon returning home, Reggie, who was a student of the Lafayette Diocese’s permanent diaconate program at the time, found support from several of his classmates and other generous donors who helped raised the necessary funds for the project. Thanks to these contributions, the mission house was completed and operational by April 2005. The decision to name this overseas mission house in honor of Charlene Richard is more fitting than one might realize. Many of

panied by three of their grandchildren--Everette Greenwood (13), Allison Carpenter (12), and Nicholas Carpentert (10)--who partipicated in Father Shea’s Outreach Program during their stay. In addition to volunteering their time and effort, the Bollichs also hand-delivered $11,000 worth of donations from the people of Acadiana, including $4,000 of donations given by the parishioners of St. Jules Church in Lafayette just before the Bollichs departed on their trip.

The Charlene Richard Mission House in Thailand provides a place to stay for missionaries from all over the world, including these young ladies from Holland, whom the Bollichs met during their own recent trip to lend a hand. Photo submitted by Deacon Reggie Bollich

Acadiana Catholic

August 2011 Page 27

Acadiana Catholic

Page 28 August 2011

Permanent diaconate formation program to begin

MORE. MORE. MORE. At t o r n E y s

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LAFAYETTE The Office of the Permanent Diaconate for the Diocese of Lafayette will begin its new inquiry phase program for the permanent diaconate in February 2012. There are four phases in the program. They are the inquiry phase, the application and interview phase, the aspirancy phase and the candidacy phase. The office of the Permanent Diaconate is looking for men that are already serving and busy in their respective church parishes. Other qualifications are: • Be a fully initiated Catholic, baptized and confirmed • Have a vibrant and living Catholic faith as evidenced in daily life • If a convert, must have been baptized or received into the Catholic Church for at least five years • If married, be in a valid sacramental marriage not less that five years • Have a stable marriage and family life • Have the support of his wife and children • Have a high school education, GED or higher degree • Be in good physical and psychological health • Be sponsored by a parish with pastor’s endorsement • Be involved in non-liturgical parish ministry • At the time of admission to

the period of aspirancy, the applicant must be at least 31 years old • Must not be over 60 years old The diocesan website has all the information men will need to answer their questions. To access the website, go to www.diolaf. org After meeting with their pastors, interested men should contact Deacon Jim Kincel, director of the Office of the Permanent Diaconate for a pre-interview by calling (337) 735-9433 or by email at jkincel@diolaf.org Once Deacon Kincel has interviewed the prospective aspirant, he will ask the pastor for written permission to move on to the inquiry phase, possibly apply and then be considered by the Formation Committee and Selection Committee. As with the young men applying for the seminary, a dual discernment process takes place for those who may be called to the diaconate. Not only are the individuals seeking discernment for themselves; the Church is also discerning whether they are diaconate material or not. The Formation Team will stress that the process of discernment is just that, and there is no commitment by the applicant to continue should he discern otherwise; as well as there are no guarantees that they will be accepted in any phase of the process.

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Twelve of the Lafayette Diocese’s Catholic schools recently participated in an all-day Renaissance Learning professional development session, where they learned to use Neos, a small computer that works on three AAA batteries for 700 hours. In a classroom setting, the Neos may be used for quizzes, reading assessments, or writing exercises. Photo submitted by Dr. Nancy Ehret

Acadiana Catholic

August 2011 Page 29

Outstanding Altar Server Awards given

Alexandra Robin of St. Joseph Church in Cecilia, recently received the 2010-2011 Outstanding Altar Server Award from the St. Martin Parish Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, Assembly 2213. Pictured with Alexandra is Father Michael Delcambre, pastor. Both photos submitted by Jackie Cormier

Also receiveing the Outstanding Altar Server Award from he St. Martin Parish Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, Assembly 2213 was Alex Grant Cormier of St. Joseph Church in Cecilia.

Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre will sponsor Holy Land pilgrimage The Equestrian Order of The Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, Southeastern Lieutenancy, is offering a pilgrimage to the Holy Land for the period of February14-24, 2012 at a cost of $3299 per person, double occupancy. The trip departs JFK, New York, non-stop to Tel Aviv and includes first class hotels, private motor coach transportation, breakfast and dinner and all fees and taxes. Upon arrival in Tel Aviv, the group will be met by Father Peter Vasko, O.F.M., president of the Franciscan Foundation for the Holy Land who will be spiritual leader throughout the trip. Father Peter has lived in Jerusalem for the past 26 years and is internationally known for his work in the Holy Land. Also attending as â&#x20AC;&#x153;host bishop,â&#x20AC;? will be Bishop Ronald P. Herzog, of Alexandria, Louisiana. One need not be a member of the Order to participate. For a brochure covering the pilgrimage in more detail, please

contact John or Maureen Lengyel, Lieutenancy Pilgrimage Coordinators, at (941) 493-9607 or by email at lengyelm@comcast.net with your name, address, and telephone number. You can also view details on our webpage at sleohs. com, and at the news/events dropdown, click pilgrimages.

August Birthdays

Deacon Marcel Hebert Aug. 1 Father Herbert Bennerfield Aug. 8 Father Brad Guillory Aug. 8 Father Anthony Ostini, S.J. Aug. 8 Bishop Glen John Provost Aug. 9 Father Keenan Brown Aug. 10 Deacon David Guillory Aug. 10 Deacon Harris Bergeron Aug. 11 Deacon Patrick Burke Aug. 13 Father Ambrose Akalawu, C.S.Sp. Aug. 15 Deacon Daniel Besse Aug. 15 Father Lawrence Abara Aug. 17 Deacon Theodule Landry Aug. 17 Father Edward Degeyter Aug. 18 Father Joshua P. Guillory Aug. 19 Father Joseph Alexander Aug. 20 Msgr. Jeff DeBlanc Aug. 20 Father Emmanuel Fernandez Aug. 21 Deacon Steve Paul Simon Aug. 21 Father Corey Campeaux Aug. 22 Msgr. H.A. Larroque, V.G. Aug. 22 Msgr. Robert Angelle Aug. 23 Father Albert G. Nunez Aug. 25 Father Augtinus Seran, S.V.D. Aug. 26 Deacon Mike Clark Aug. 28 Deacon James Cormier Aug. 28 Father Paul Bergeron Aug. 29

St. Basil KC Council recently installed their 2011-2012 officers. From left to right are: Mike Terro (District Deputy), John Fontane (Grand Knight), Mark Campos (Chancellor), Lloyd Broussard (Deputy Grand Knight), David Leblanc (Financial Secretary), Robert Leblanc (Trustee 1st Year, Diddy Parent, Recorder), Carl Landry (Outside Guard), Father Rex Broussard (Chaplain), Larry Gisclair (Trustee 3rd Year), and Louis Borges (Inside Guard). Not pictured are: Fred Arsement (Secretary), Steve Monte (Advocate), Neil Gaspard (Warden), and John Touchet (Trustee 2nd Year).

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Father Kalinowski: ‘All are called to be missionaries’ By Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE All are called to be missionaries by virtue of Baptism and Confirmation, said Father Ryszard Kalinowski, S.V.D., at the July 2 Food for the Journey program. The priest is a member of the Divine Word Missionaries, the world’s largest missionary order, and is a native of Poland. He is associate pastor at Immaculate Heart of Mary, chaplain at University Medical Center, and active in home ministry. Father Kalinowski noted Jesus had a brief plan; he told Peter, James and John and trusted them to spread the good news. “He had no other plan, He was moved by the multitudes, hungry for the Word, He knew that people would spread it,” Father Kalinowski said. “This is the work of the Divine Word Missionaries,” Father Kalinowski pointed out. The order was founded in Germany in 1875 by St. Arnold Janssen and now has priests and brothers in 70 countries all over the world. “The world is our parish,” he continued. “The first S.V.D.

Several priests and deacons attended the July session of “Food for the Journey.” Pictured from left to right are Deacon William Schambough, St. Peter/New Iberia; Deacon Joe Trahan, Sacred Heart of Jesus/Broussard; Father Ryszard Kalinowski, SVD, guest speaker and Chaplain of University Medical Center, Lafayette; Father Thomas James, SVD, VE, episcopal vicar for the Central Region; Father Anderson De Souza, SVD, associate pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary/Lafayette; and Father Lambert Lein, SVD, pastor of St. Anthony/Lafayette.

brother came to the U.S. in 1895. Techny, Illinois was the first institution to train missionaries. Realizing the need for a seminary in the south, St. Augustine’s was established at Bay St. Louis, Miss. The first four African American priests in the U.S. were ordained

there in 1934. (Incidentally, two of the four were from Louisiana, one from Lafayette). He also noted there are nine African American bishops. (Five are from Louisiana). As proof of the international flavor of the community, Father Kalinowski pointed out that here in Lafayette at Immaculate Heart of Mary parish, there are priests from Louisiana, Brazil and Poland.

“The scriptures remind us, Christ told His apostles, ‘go and make disciples of all nations,’ and the documents of the Second Vatican Council repeated this commission, with Pope John Paul II emphasizing, ‘The Church is either a missionary Church or it is not faithful to its calling. Missionary work is the most important work of the Church,’ Father Kalinowski quoted the pope . “Every Catholic must be a missionary and join the missionary activity of the Church,” Father Kalinowski repeated in concluding his talk. Father Kalinowski was introduced by Mary Bergeron, executive assistant to Father Thomas James, S.V.D., vicar of the Central Region which sponsors the monthly programs. Mrs. Bergeron announced that Father Clinton Sensat would be the August 2 speaker before he leaves for graduate studies. Food for the Journey is a monthly luncheon program featuring priests of the Central Deanery. It is held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at 11:30 am with optional luncheon ($12.50) before the speaking program from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. All are invited, no reservations needed “Come eat and be fed,” Mrs. Bergeron emphasizes.

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Four reasons we avoid prayer By Roy Petitfils

There are times when it is easy to pray and there are times in all of our lives when we cannot make ourselves pray, no matter how badly we may want to or try. When I find it hardest to show up to spend time with God, I’m usually battling one of the four enemies of prayer. 1. Noise. Mother Teresa said “God speaks in the silence of the heart.” From iPods to iPhones we are inundated with noise. It is difficult to hear God’s “still small voice” in our noisy lives. While this doesn’t mean that we must adopt the lifestyle of a monk,

Knights of Peter Claver to hold annual convention in Los Angeles NEW ORLEANS The Knights of Peter Claver and its Ladies Auxiliary assembled in Los Angeles July 29 – August 3, 2011 for the Catholic fraternal order’s 96th Annual National Convention. In addition to conducting business, the group worked in the metropolitan area at two Habitat for Humanity build sites and at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. The highlight of the annual meeting was the opening Mass with Archbishop José Gomez, leader of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, as principal celebrant. The Mass was celebrated at

we might consider seeking out times during our day where we can be with God in silence. 2. Busy-ness. When we are in “busy” mode, we are usually in productive and efficient mode. Prayer is neither. It is a relationship. And when our schedules get tight, prayer is usually the first thing to go When we make prayer our highest priority, we may not get as many things done, but we are more likely to get the right things done. 3. Being in a Hurry. The first cousin of busyness is being in hurry. When we are busy we often try to move faster. It’s difficult to have a meaningful conversation when we’re preoccupied with the next thing on our “to do” list. God wants to converse with us on the deepest levels. When we slow down long enough we are more likely to hear God’s “standing invitation” to intimacy. 4. Past Hurts. We often underestimate the

Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral on Sunday, July 31, 2011 at 3:30 p.m. The Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. is the nation’s only African-American Catholic fraternal organization, founded in 1909 in Mobile, Alabama for men of color who were barred from other organizations in the Catholic Church. The organization’s membership has since expanded to include all Catholic family members including clerics and prelates from around the world. The Order is named after St. Peter Claver, a Jesuit priest from Spain who ministered to African slaves in Cartagena, Colombia in the 1600s. The Knights of Peter Claver is a faith-based fraternal order with units in over 400 Catholic parishes in the United States and South America.

power of broken relationships, abuse, loss, grief, illness and disappointment. Slowing down enables us to quiet our hearts and gives the pain a chance to capture our attention. No one likes to hurt, and so we avoid, often unconsciously, memories of past hurts which bring that pain into our present moment. Prayer is the safest of places to bring our hurts, wounds and disappointments. It is a place where God seeks to reaffirm his love for us and lead us through the process of healing and forgiveness. Roy Petitfils is a therapeutic associate at Pax Renewal Center where he specializes in counseling teens, young adults and young couples. He leads workshops, retreats and parish missions throughout the US. Visit him on the web at www.bigbaldspeaker.com or contact him at roypetitfils@ yahoo.com.

The Order engages in several national service projects and is a major supporter of the United Negro College Fund. The group developed a National Environmental Health and Justice Literacy Project to educate citizens of underserved communities

about environmental health hazards and has recently partnered with the White House Office of faith-based and neighborhood partnerships. The Knights of Peter Claver is a member of the worldwide International Alliance of Catholic Knights.

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Aug. prayer intentions for our priests Listed below are the priests for whom Catholics are asked to pray daily. The calendar is sponsored by the Serra Club of Lafayette.

Aug. l Pope Benedict XVI Aug. 2 Bishop Michael Jarrell Aug. 3 Father Nathan Comeaux Aug. 4 Father David Hebert Aug. 5 Father Johnathan Janise Aug. 6 Father Garrett McIntyre Aug. 7 Father Godwin Nzeh, CMF Aug. 8 Father June Mary Obiechina, CMF Aug. 9 Father Paul Onuegbe Aug. 10 Father Anthony Ostini, SJ Aug. 11 Father Jose Padinjarepeedika, CMI Aug. 12 Father Paul Patin, SJ Aug. 13 Father Donald Pelous Aug. 14 Father Daniel Picard Aug. 15 Father Mikel Polson Aug. 16 Father Donald Pousson Aug. 17 Father Salvino “Ruben” Primor Aug. 18 Bishop Glen John Provost Aug. 19 Father Hernando Ramirez, SJ Aug. 20 Father Louis Richard Aug. 21 Father Rusty Richard Aug. 22 Msgr. Robie Robichaux, JCL, VJ Aug. 23 Father Raymond Robitaille Aug. 24 Father William Rogalla Aug. 25 Father Marion Romero Aug. 26 Msgr. Robert Romero, VE

Aug. 27 Aug. 28 Aug. 29 Aug. 30 Aug. 31

Father William Ruskoski Father Michael Russo Father JGary Schexnayder Father Robert Seay, OFM Father Clinton Sensat

Eternal Father, we lift up to You these and all the priests of the world. Sanctify them. Heal and guide them. Mold them into the likeness of your Son, Jesus, the Eternal High Priest. May their lives be pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

only candidate sponsored by the priest, deacon, religious or parent (or other family member over the age of 18) must also atend the vocation supper. Space is limited to 15 candidates, so early registration is recommended.

Please support the Bishop’s Services Appeal Thank you!

CDA Court #1401 celebrates 65 years

Vocation supper for young men LAFAYETTE A vocation supper will be served for young men at Bishop Michael Jarrell’s residence on Wednesday, September 28, 2011. The supper is for young men who may be discerning a possible call to priesthood or the religious life. It is customary that the young man’s pastor, a deacon or religious accompany the candidate(s) to the supper. A sponsoring pastor/deacon/religious may bring one or two candidates. If the young person is under the age of 18 years and is the

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Gladys Boutte (holding the roses), was named the 2011 CDA of the Year by the Catholic Daughters of America Court #1401, Our Lady of Good Counsel in Loreauville. Photo submitted by Claudette Thibodeaux

LOREAUVILLE This year the Catholic Daughters of America Court #1401, Our Lady of Good Counsel in Loreauville is celebrating its 65th anniversary. At a recent potluck supper, the court announced that Gladys Boutte is their 2011 CDA of the Year. Ms. Boutte was also recognized for her involvement with the Quality of Life & Food Committees, which she co-chairs with her sister-in-law, Gloria Boutte. The celebration was also attended by Anna Mae Dugas, the court’s only surviving charter member. Other honorees included 103-year-old Anite Gondron, who has served the court for 65 years, and Lois Crochet, who has

served for 54 years. Pins and certificates of appreciation were also awarded to members who have served the court for 30 years or more. The Catholic Daughters of Court #1401 also used this opportunity to express their appreciation to Father Buddy Breaux (Pastor, St. Joseph Church), Father Paul Onuegbe (Pastor, Our Lady of Victory Church), and Deacon Chris Doumit for their service to the community of Loreauville. Court #1401 was also honored with a 2nd Place Certificate in the Quality of Life program and 3rd Place in Leadership in the Circle of Love program at the recent CDA State Convention.

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Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel observed with joy and special blessings as nuns profess solemn vows By Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE The feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, July 16, is always a day of joy and special blessings for the Discalced Carmelite Nuns of the Monastery of Mary, Mother of Grace on Carmel Avenue in Lafayette. This year was a time of extraordinary jubilation, Sister Mary Camille of Jesus, the former Hoang Thi Thuong, and Sister Mary Joseph of the Eucharist, the former Pham Thi Lan, made profession of solemn vows. Bishop Michael Jarrell of Lafayette was principal concelebrant with fifteen priests joining as concelebrants. Msgr. Keith DeRouen was master of ceremonies. A highlight for the sisters was the presence of their former prioress in Vietnam, Mother Marie Ange, who received the vows of Sister Joseph, while Mother Regina, local prioress, received the vows of Sister Camille. Also present were two sisters from their Carmel in Vietnam who are now helping the Carmel in Salt Lake City. The homily was given by Father Marion Joseph Bui, a Discalced Carmelite friar who is a special “son” of this monastery, who was instrumental in bringing the two sisters to Lafayette. He came from Vietnam as one of the “boat people” in 1981 in order to become a priest. He was ordained here by Bishop Xavier Labayan OCD in 1995. At the end of the celebration, Father Marion, who celebrated his 25th anniversary of vows on July 16, presented a bouquet of roses to the two sisters. In his homily, Father Marion noted the sisters are here to pray for the needs of the people and the Church. He pointed out the location of the monastery, a cemetery is across the street, the diocesan office is next door, a village for the handicapped is in the rear, and all around are the working people. “Water is the source of life,” he said, “Through their prayers, the

Sisters Mary Camille of Jesus and Mary Joseph of the Eucharist prostrate before the altar during the Litany of the Saints. Photos by P.C. Piazza

(Continued on page 40)

Father Marion Joseph Bui, OCD, was homilist for the Profession Mass. Father Bui was instrumental in bringing the two sisters to Lafayette.

Solemn vows of profession were read by each sister. Receiving their vows was Mother Regina, standing, prioress of the Monastery of Mary, Mother of Grace.

Bishop Michael Jarrell was principal celebrant of the Mass, with 15 priests joining as concelebrants.

Bishop Michael Jarrell offers the sign of peace to the newly professed sisters.

After receiving their solemn vows, Mother Regina, prioress, plced the brown veil on each sister.

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Mire Catholic Daughters honor members

Membership pins were presented to members of the Mire court of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas on June 27. Pictured, seated from left, are Mitzi Arceneaux, Myrtle Lyons (who received her 60-year membership), Sybil Blanchard, Syliva Chanin, Dot Stelly, Gloria Pellerin, Norma Higginbotham, and Enola Melancon, while, standing from left, are Lorena Besse, Judy A. Melancon, Gadric Fontenot, Mary Lou Bellard, Vanola Castille, Delores DeRouen, Alma Bouy, Tammy Dohmann, Jeanette Thibodeaux and Diane Besse. Acadian-Tribune photo by Josie Henry

MIRE The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin hosted a meeting Monday, June 27, sponsored by CDA Court # 2214 of Mire to honor several members for their years of service to the court marking its 30th anniversary. Mrytle Lyons was singled out for special recognition as a 60year Catholic Daughter member. In addition to her 60-year membership pin, she received a bouquet of roses. She began her years as a CDA member with Court No. 844 of Rayne. Thirty-year pins were presented to the following charter members: Lois Bearb, Dianne Besse, Lorena Besse, Sybil Blanchard, Cora Faul, Gadric Fontenot, Berniel Guilbeau, Norma Higginbotham, Gloria Pellerin, Ruth Prejean, Vivian Prejean and Dot Stelly. Twenty-five year pins were awarded to Lucy Boudreaux,

Eunice Prudhomme, and Margie Thibdeaux. Pins for 20-24 years were given to Sylvia Cahanin, Tichie Faul and Sheila Prejean. Pins for 15-19 years were presented to Gloria Clement and Rose LeBlanc. Camilla Abshire was presented a 10-14 year pin. Pins for five-nine yars of service were given to Lynn Credeur, Sandra Dailge, Ivry Lejeune, and Jeanette Thibodeaux. Four-year pins were awarded to Joyce Arceneaux, Mitzi Arceneaux, Mary Lou Bellard, Alma Bouy, Vanola Castille, Delores DeRouen, Tammy Dohmann, Martha Fruge, Enola Melancon, Judy A. Melancon, Judy B. Melancon, Cynthia Prejean, and Audrey Oathoudt. Vivian Faul of the Rayne Court was a special guest. The meeting was followed by a social of food and refreshments.

First Communions celebrated at St. Jules

Ten Hispanic children and teens made their First Communion recently at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in Church Point. The celebrant was Father Jairo Castaño Valencia, SDS, priest-in-residence at St. Jules and pastoral coordinator of the Office of Hispanic Ministry. Father Castaño is pictured here with four of the first communicants.”

St. Paul Ladies of Grace host annual tea

St. Paul Chapter #3 4th Degree Ladies of Grace recently hosted their annual tea, the purpose of which is to award three scholarships to high school graduates. Pictured from left to right are Mary Darby (Faithful Navigator), Jaden Ouzenne, Jadea Ouzenne (honoree), Erica Olivier (honoree), Akerrie Lee (honoree), Sir Knight Lest Jones (Faithful Navigator), and Betty Ouzenne (Scholarship Chairperson). Photo submitted by Grace Hebert

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Regional workshops planned to educate laity on the implementation of New Roman Missal Continued from page 3

conduct the upcoming workshops. “It is not a big deal, however, for those who can follow along in a missalette.” Indeed, church parishes throughout the diocese have already begun to take measures to ensure that their congregations will have access to updated missalettes to help guide them. Some parishes may also provide special pew cards that highlight and summarize the changes, to further aid individuals with Mass participation. For most people, however, the greatest adjustment will simply be to overcome their old familiarity with the former responses, and to embrace the somewhat more sophisticated English phrasing that is utilized in

August 2011 Page 37 the newest translation of the Roman Missal. Each of the regional workshops for the laity will consist of three parts. The first will provide a basic historical overview of the Roman Missal, which has been developed through various translations even before now. The second part of the workshop will highlight certain changes that will occur with the implementation of this newest translation, and the final part will focus on explaining why these changes are being made. “The real thrust of the new translation is to provide a more literal translation of the Latin text,” emphasized Msgr. DeRouen, and the reason for this is to return to a more poetic, more artistic celebration of the Mass. “Liturgy requires not just a left-brain (logical/rational) but also a right-brain (creative/ imaginative) approach.” A total of five workshops are currently scheduled. The first will be held on Saturday, September

Nine Confirmed from Hispanic community

Nine Hispanic teens received the Sacrament of Confirmation at St. Jules Church in Lafayette recently. The celebrant was Father Jairo Castaño Valencia, SDS, priest-inresidence at St. Jules and pastoral coordinator of the Office of Hispanic Ministry (not pictured). The confirmandi are pictured with their catechist, Angélica Mendoza.”

10, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Angels Church in Opelousas. The second workshop will be held on Saturday, September 17, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in New Iberia. The third is scheduled for Saturday, September 24, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Mire. The fourth and fifth workshops will both be held on the grounds of Our Lady of Fatima

Church in Lafayette; one will be from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on the evening of Thursday, September 29, and the other will be from 9:3011:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 1. All of the workshops are open to the general public, at no cost and with no registration required. Also, individuals should note that they are under no obligation to attend within their own region; they may attend any workshop which is convenient to them.

KCs recite rosary on “Pentecost Walk”

Twelve men and five boys representing the Knights of Columbus in the Breaux Bridge area recently took turns carrying a wooden cross while reciting the rosary and the Divine Mercy Chaplet during a Pentecost Walk. The group received a special blessing from Bishop Michael Jarrell in the Lafayette area before continuing along their way through Opelousas and concluding their walk at the Sacred Heart of Jesus mission chapel in Prairie Rhonde. Photo submitted by Emmaline Thibodeaux

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Priestly Association of Our Lord Jesus Christ celebrates one year

LAFAYETTE On June 30, 2011, Solemnity of the Sacred of Jesus, the Priestly Association of Our Lord Jesus Christ, celebrated one year of foundation and activities. The celebration began with a Holy Hour and Vespers in Our Lady of Fatima church in Lafayette, followed by a reception in Knight Hall. The celebration was attended by Bishop Michael Jarrel and by more than 40 priests and 70 lay supporters and benefactors. Father Thomas Voorhies, pastor of St. Peter and Paul in Scott, presided over the Holy Hour and Vespers I of the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart. As the attendants mingled at the reception given in thanksgiving to supporters and benefactors of the Association, Father Joseph Alexander and Father Mark Ledoux, both inducted members of the Association, gave personal testimonies as to how the Association has helped and encouraged them in the faithful living of their priesthood. Specifically, Father Alexander commented on how the monthly convocations and the different speakers helped to challenge him in the different areas of ongoing priestly formation. Father Mark Ledoux highlighted that the Association and its activities helped to remind him as a priest that he is not alone in his priestly life and work. The following are excerpts from the homily given during vespers: “Christ loved the Church. He gave himself up for her…” Eph 5:25 “Stephan Cardinal Wysenszki, once primate of Poland and mentor of Blessed John Paul II, suffered three years incarceration at the hands of communists. During that time he wrote the following in his personal diary, on a First Friday dedicated to the Sacred Heart in June of 1954: “The greatest enigma of man is his heart. It is so magnificent that God competes for it. So powerful that it can resist the love of the Almighty. So frail that many a weakness may snare it in its net. So wild it may destroy all happiness and all order. So faithful that it cannot be subverted even

Father Neil McNeill, left, offers a prayer at the reception in Knight Hall, Our Lady of Fatima Church, Lafayette.

40 priests and 70 lay supporters and benefactors were present for Holy Hour and Solemn Vespers at Our Lady of Fatima Church, Lafayette. The occasion was the first anniversary of the Priestly Association of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Priest and Victim.

by infidelity. So naïve that it sucworld in the Person of Christ. cumbs to every sweet temptation. This mystery must be constantly reviewed and reflected upon by Of such great capacity that it can the priest who is called to give contain every contradiction. And of himself in the same way.” all this - almost - in every man, and all this –almost - in the wink How might this be transof an eye. But lated into reality for us, as priests, who strive for man is a hundred such an imitation? The times more grand, formula is easy and because he is cayet demanding and we pable of ruling it. And God? He alone find it in the reading knows the routes into of this evening’s vesthe most mysterious pers: “Christ loved heart. That is why the Church…and man opened the Heart gave himself up for of God on the cross, to her” (Eph 5:25). n o ic l ia learn about His plans Christ loves His The offic ciation o s s A y tl es “cogitationes”.” Church and conof the Pri On this eve of the tinues to love her through His Solemnity of the Sacred Heart priests. Such love is not theoof our Lord and first anniversary retical, but made flesh, if you of the foundation of the Priestly will, in and through our minisAssociation of Our Lord Jesus try, a ministry that has no meanChrist, Priest and Victim, we reing separated from the mind and flect with the late polish Cardinal heart of the Church, guided by the See of Peter and those bishupon the mysteries of the love God has for each and every one of ops in communion with that See. The question we ask ourus-portrayed through His Sacred selves this evening is: to what Heart- and the special and unique role the priest plays in making degree are we willing to love that love manifest to others. Inthe Church, her teachings and deed, as Jose Luis Illanes writes her people, found in every par“God gave Himself totally to the ish and every parishioner? Do

clerical politics and ambition or laziness disguised as self care muddy the waters of grace, the grace of which we are unworthy ministers? That we are unworthy is a fact, still worse would it be if we were also irresponsible. When it comes to charity amongst ourselves or the laity, are we primary examples of His love or not? Or do we confine our charity to our own filters of convenience and subjective perceptions? A fellow priest shared with me recently his belief that in the Church “perception is everything”. I replied that if that were the case, I must be in the wrong Church and definitely in the wrong profession. Such shallowness has nothing to do with a love for the Church or our neighbor, the kind of love that builds the Body of Christ. He gave himself up for her and continues to give himself up for her through His priests. There is no doubt that the charity we have spoken of is a hard love to live, a love that goes against the grain of our fallen nature. Yet the whole point of the Incarnation is this: because He could, I can, “in Him who strengthens me”. And so, when we suffer as priests, let us remember that we are not alone, we participate in His suffering. When we are misunderstood, in a certain sense, He continues to be misunderstood. When we are unjustly criticized, He is criticized. When we suffer, He suffers, and together, the priest and Jesus, the High Priest and Victim, by the grace and gift of the Later, minister as suffering servants of God’s people. As faithful sons, we continue to cry out more than ever, “Mary, Mother of Priests, pray for us!” All that we have said, as true as it may be, is a tall order, and so we pray, through Mary, that we might never shrink before the daily challenge to love the Church as Christ loves her and to imitate His self-donation. Mary possesses all the virtues we need as priests to achieve such love and self-giving, and that is why she is the Mother of priests and Queen of Apostles. May our Association continue to be a time and place where such love may grow and flourish. Amen.”

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Mt. Carmel nuns profess solemn vows Continued from page 33

sisters obtain the waters of grace for all.... with Mary, who stood beneath the Cross of her Son, the Carmelites stand ready to sacrifice all for the needs of the Church and the world. They are ready to follow Mary’s command, ‘do what He tells you.” This is the reason the sisters left homeland and families to come to Lafayette, Father Marion pointed out. In expressing gratitude for the prayers and support they have received the sisters thanked members of their community in Vietnam for the training received, and their families for supporting the decision to come to the United States. “It was truly a sacrifice made with much love and surrender to God,” they said. “We also thank Mother Regina and all the sisters here for receiving us so lovingly and for helping us as we endeavored to incorporate ourselves into a new community and culture. We left behind a community which we cherished, but have found here in Lafayette a Community family which has become as

dear to us as the Carmel in Hue,” the nuns said. The two Vietnamese nuns have interesting backgrounds. Sister Camille is the youngest of nine children. Two of her sisters are religious, one belongs to a diocesan congregation of the Visitation, while the other is a Sister of St. Paul de Chartres. The remainder of her siblings, three brothers and three sisters, are married. Sister’s father died when she was fourteen. It was a surprise to many when Sister entered the Carmel in Hue in 1998, since she is likewise the youngest in the family. She has one brother and three sisters, all of whom are married. Sister is a quiet person and very close to our Lord in the Eucharist from early childhood. Sister’s father died just a few months before she came to the United States, thus making her departure an even greater sacrifice. They feel they have a true missionary vocation and have willingly chosen to come here. “For us, it is not a matter of being Vietnamese, Filipino or American. We are all Carmelites,” they say. And in Lafayette, we are happy to welcome them!

A crown of roses is placed on the head of each sister as part of the ceremony. Assisting Mother Regina, center, is Mother Marie Ange, right, the sisters’ former prioress in Vietnam. Photos by P.C. Piazza

The newly professed sisters receive Holy Communion from Bishop Jarrell and Father Bui.

The sisters are presented with a bouquet of roses. The sisters expressed gratitude for the prayers and support they have received from their community in Vietnam, from their families and for the training they received.

Acadiana Catholic

OBITUARIES

Continued from page 20

ter having worked with the Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office for 36 years. He is survived by his wife Merlie Menard Harrington of Estherwood, their daughters: Lauri Harrington of Lafayette, Deidre H. Credeur and her husband Paul of Crowley; Christie, Amy and Brandy Harrington all of Estherwood, and granddaughter Ashleigh Credeur. He also leaves behind his siblings, Janeth Harrington, Gerald Harrington, Albert Harrington, Allen Harrington and Msgr. Russell Harrington, his mother-inlaw Grace Guillory, his sistersin-law and brother-in-law: Jackie Thibodeaux, Susan Henry and husband Karl, Connie Menard, Debbie Robinson and husband Freddie, and Wayne Menard, his niece and godchild, Nicole Harrington, his nephew Jonas Harrington and his wife Tonia and their sons Hunter and Holden. Walter was preceeded in death by his parents Hilton and Zula Miers Harrington, his brother Melvin, his niece and nephew Angela and Joshua Harrington, his in-laws Janice Thibodeaux and Nolton and Rita Menard.

August 2011 Page 41

Sister Mary Margaret Hughes, CDP SAN ANTONIO A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Our Lady of the Lake Convent Chapel in San Antonio for Sister Mary Margaret Hughes, CDP. Sister Mary Margaret. former vicar for Religious of the Diocese of Lafayette died at her Motherhouse in San Antonio, Texas on July 18, 2011. During the time of her ministry in the Diocese of Lafayette, (1978-1980), she also served the religious from Lake Charles, which was still a part of the Diocese of Lafayette. Sister Mary Margaret served in this capacity until she was elected superior general of the Sisters of Divine Providence.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Those sentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; must be faithful to sender, new Joliet bishop says

JOLIET, Ill. (CNS) The role of bishops as â&#x20AC;&#x153;those who are sentâ&#x20AC;? requires humility, steadfastness and courage, Bishop R. Daniel Conlon said as

he was installed to head the Diocese of Joliet. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The one sent must remain faithful to the sender, no matter what,â&#x20AC;? the former bishop of Steubenville, Ohio, said at his July 14 installation Mass at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus in Joliet.

Kevin Callahan awarded Woodmen of the World American History Award

Olivetan Benedictine Sisters elect new prioress, sub-prioress

A new prioress was elected June 20, 2011, for the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters at Holy Angels Convent, Jonesboro, Arkansas. Prioress is Sister Lillian Marie Reiter, left, she is from Munster Tex. And has been a first grade teacher for 53 years She taught at Marie Goretti in Lake Arthur, La. in the 1970s. Pictured with Sister Lillian is Sister dePorres Polk, sub-prioress who is from Erath.

During the Redemptorist Catholic School eighth grade graduation ceremony at Immaculate Heart of Mary church in Crowley, Kevin Callahan was awarded the Woodmen of the World American History Award. Pictured above are, from the left, Father Matthew Higgenbotham, pastor; Kevin; Lee Perry Roy, World lodge representative; and principal Louis Cramer. Photo submitted by Redemptorist Catholic School

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St. Genevieve’s Cardinals of the Year

At the end of this past school year, St. Genevieve School, Lafayette, named Madison Proctor, Nicholas Picard, and Elizabeth Heintz Cardinals of the Year for the 2010-2011 school year. This middle campus award, in honor of the school’s mascot, is made to recognize those students who show compassion, kindness, generosity and tolerance. This highly respected and coveted honor is only awarded to one student per grade level in sixth, seventh, and eighth. Pictured above, left to right: Nicholas Picard, seventh grade; Mrs. Julie Champagne, principal; and Elizabeth Heintz, sixth grade. Pictured at right: Madison Proctor, eighth grade. Photos submitted by St. Genevieve Catholic School

Sts. Leo-Seton – serving others through commitment LAFAYETTE Sts. Leo-Seton Catholic School in commitment to living out its mission… is dedicated to serving others… by providing supplies and funds to Heart of Grace School built by Change Agent Network (CAN) in Johnsonville, Liberia West Africa. Students met CAN founder and Liberian civil war refugee survivor, Eric Wowoh, during his numerous visits to SLS delivering updates on the status of construction progress and program activities at Heart of Grace, built and operated under the direction of Change Agent Network.

Following Eric’s visits, members of the EarlyAct Club chose Heart of Grace for their international project. Club members raised funds for school supplies and donated them to the students at Heart of Grace. Joining EarlyAct, SLS student participants of the school’s annual Lenten hunger awareness program, “Feel the Growl,” donated funds raised for their event to Heart of Grace to help defray the school’s operating costs. Prior to Eric’s summer departure for Africa, students joined together presenting Eric with the school supplies and check donation.

St. Katharine Drexel named to Women’s Hall of Fame SENECA FALLS, NY St. Katharine Drexel is one of a group of nationally-known women to be inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame here on September 1 and October 1. This is the oldest membership group honoring great American women. Katharine Drexel is remembered in Louisiana for her work with African Americans and Native Americans. She founded over 60 missionary schools in the south, especially in Louisiana, as well as Xavier University in New Orleans. She founded the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament to carry on her work and used her family fortune for this purpose. The late Bishop Edward J. O’Donnell of Lafayette said she was “practically the patron saint of the diocese.” She visited this area several times and with the late Bishop Jules B. Jeanmard, personally selected sites for the schools. In the Lake Charles diocese, which she also visited, she is remembered with Sacred heart St. Katharine Drexel School,

Pictured, left to right, are “Feel the Growl” participants: Cole Weber, Eric Wowoh, Change Agent Network and Brooke Badeaux. Photos submitted by Sts. Leo-Seton School

St. Katharine Drexel

conducted for many years by her sisters. The National Women’s Hall of Fame is located in Seneca Falls because this is the birthplace of the women’s right movement. Inductees are selected every two years based on their contributions to business, education, government, humanities , philanthropy, and science. A national panel of judges conducts the rigorous selection process. Among this year’s inductees are Coretta Scott King, Billy Holiday, Barbara Mikulski, and Donna Shalala.

EarlyAct members from left to right are, Adam Gothreaux, secretary; Catherine Meche, treasurer; Eric Wowoh, Change Agent Network; Caleb Lee, vice-president; and Noah Gothreaux, president.

“The end of all my labors has come. All that I have written appears to me as much straw after the things that have been revealed to me.” —St. Thomas Aquinas

Acadiana Catholic

August 2011 Page 43

Facilitator registration forms now being accepted for AAYC LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese is now accepting registration forms from high school teenagers who wish to serve as facilitators for the 2011 African American Youth Congress (AAYC). The AAYC is a youth leadership training program which includes a day of cultural enrichment, seminars, planning sessions, spiritual celebration, and keynote speakers. Each activity is designed to educate youth leaders and peers to their fullest potential, with an emphasis on excellence without excuse. This year’s Congress will be held from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic High School in Lafayette. The Orientation session for facilitators has been scheduled for Saturday, September 11, beginning at 3:00 p.m. at the Immaculata Center in Lafayette. The fee for those who participate is $70 per person, which includes the cost of planning resources, leadership training, a t-shirt, and other AAYC expenses related to the development of the facilitator. Registration forms and a check or money order made payable to the Diocese of Lafayette must be submitted to the Office of Black Catholic Ministries no later than September 11. AAYC facilitators must be of high school age and show signs of maturity. They must demonstrate leadership abilities and have the ability to work with a

group, including the ability to be open, flexible, have a servant’s attitude, and a willingness to represent God in words and actions. Facilitators must also be selected by a youth director and/or pastor, and be able to attend all training sessions. Facilitators will exemplify what it means to be a young Catholic Christian, and their responsibilities will involve planning and participating in the overall program, including administrative details of the Congress, such as the development and presentation of workshops on selected topics. In addition to serving as a role model in assisting peers to develop leadership and ministerial skills, on the day of the Congress they will participate in the choir and serve as ushers and hospitality coordinators. Facilitator registration forms for the AAYC may be obtained through the diocesan website at www.diolaf.org; select “Black Catholic Ministries” from the pull-down menu located under the OFFICES tab, and open the link to “2011 Registration Form for Facilitators” which is located along the right-hand side of the page. The forms may be returned to: Diocese of Lafayette, Office of Black Catholic Ministries, 1408 Carmel Drive, Lafayette, LA 70501. Further details may also be requested by calling the office at (337) 261-5635, or emailing obcm@diolaf.org

Diva Art Camp at St. Michael School

Kelly Thompson, art teacher at St. Michael School in Crowley, hosted a special tea party to celebrate the last day of her Diva Art Camp. Campers used their diva creativity to design teapots and birthday plates as part of the fun they all shared. Photo submitted by Holly Broussard

End of school year awards at Redemptorist

Before the close of the school year one student from each grade level at Redemptorist Catholic School in Crowley was presented with the Catholic Award after the last school Mass of the year. The Catholic Award is the highest honor a student at Redemptorist Catholic School can receive. Pictured with Father Matthew Higginbotham are the 2011 RCS Catholic Award recipients: first row, from the left, Summar LeLeux (3rd grade), Alaina Kibodeaux (2nd grade), Issac Credeur (1st grade), Etta Chisholm (Kindergarten), and Victoria Sisco (Pre-Kindergarten). Back row, from the left, Tabitha Leonards (7th grade), Hayden Henry (6th grade), Anna Duplechain (5th grade) and Hanna Cormier (4th grade).

Acadiana Catholic

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Cajun Roots Grew Into A Lifetime Passion Growing up in Indian Bayou, Brenda Comeaux Trahan didn’t think to ask why folks spoke French or why she and other residents were considered “Cajuns.” When a teacher brought up Acadian history in the third grade, discussing how the French-speaking people were exiled from the Maritime Provinces of Canada beginning in 1755, eventually making their way to Louisiana, she asked her parents to explain. “But they didn’t really know,” Trahan said. “It wasn’t anything that they had learned.” It was then Trahan decided to research everything about her culture. “I fell in love with my heritage when I was about 10,” she said. In 1993 Brenda and her husband, Ray Trahan, visited Maine but took a side trip across the Bay of Fundy into Nova Scotia. When other visitors heard them speaking French on the boat ride and learned they were from Louisiana, they approached them and introduced themselves as Acadians, Trahan said. “They didn’t leave our sides for the whole boat ride,” she said. Once in Nova Scotia, the Trahans were treated to Acadian hospitality, enjoyed regional cuisine, visited homes and met Comeauxs in the area. “I cried,” Trahan explained of the experience. “It was a 10-year-old’s dream come true.” Until this month, Trahan has served as the Curator Director of the Acadian Memorial in St. Martinville. She left her post in July to retire and pursue other opportunities, she said, one of which is the Grand Réveil or Great Acadian Awakening in October, an event that will bring together Acadians from around the world to South Louisiana. The event came out of Lafayette’s proposal to be the 2014 site of Congrés Mondial Acadien or Acadien World Congress. Although there was tremendous support to have the event in Lafayette, the Société Nationale de l’Acadie chose the “region of Acadia of the Lands and Forests,” which includes counties of Victoria, Restigouche and Madawaska in New Brunswick, Maine’s Aroostook County and the Témiscouata county in Québec. Brenda and Ray Trahan returned home and decided to host an event before the next Congrés, to keep the momentum going and to highlight the problems facing Louisiana. “We’re in crisis here,” she said, adding that the recent oil spill, the loss of language and the disappearing coastline are all working to erode Cajun culture. “We need to engage the world to �ix our problems, to �ight for culture and heritage.” Louisiane-Acadie was created to organize the event, which will be Oct. 7-16 with three focal points – to promote the Cajun heritage and culture, to educate the need to restore Louisiana’s land, coastlines and marshes and the importance of passing down Acadian culture to the next generation. The event begins Oct. 7 in New Orleans, the port of entry for the Acadians when they arrived in the late 1700s, then travels to Houma, Lake Charles and �inally Lafayette. Festivities include family reunions, genealogy, festivals, culinary events and more. In Lafayette, the event will conclude at Festivals Acadien et Creole and include an outdoor Mass on Sunday, Oct. 16, in Girard Park, along with a procession of traditions belonging to the Cajun people. “The Grand Réveil, it’s to awaken in young people, to awaken the pride we see in Canada,” Trahan said. “And to end with prayer, to renew our Catholic faith.” For a list of Grand Réveil activities, visit http://gra2011.org/.

Brenda Trahan stands before the Robert Dafford mural that portrays the arrival of Acadians to St. Martinville in the late 1700s. The mural lines the wall of the Acadian Memorial in St. Martinville.

This month, the Acadian Memorial will again sponsor the National Day of the Acadians on Aug. 15 in St. Martinville, a day of festivities, food and a late afternoon Mass with procession of families to St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church. The National Day of the Acadians was designated in 1881 at the National Convention of the Acadians held in Memramcook, New Brunswick. Aug. 15 was chosen since it coincided with Assumption Day. Our Lady of Assumption is the patron saint of the Acadians. In New Brunswick, Acadians celebrate tintamarre, where they march through their communities wearing the colors of the Acadian �lag and making noise with improvised instruments. The idea is to let the world know that the Acadian culture and people are still alive and kicking. For information on the St. Martinville activities, visit www.acadianmemorial.org.

Acadiana Catholic

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Use of musical settings for new Roman Missal can begin in September By Catholic News Service BELLEVUE, Wash. (CNS) Instead of requiring that implementation of all parts of the new Roman Missal wait until the first Sunday of Advent, bishops who head dioceses can authorize the gradual introduction of the musical settings of the people’s parts of the Mass beginning in September. Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of New Orleans, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Divine Worship, announced that decision June 16 at the USCCB spring general assembly near Seattle. The change was authorized by Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York, USCCB president, and adopted by the committee to allow parish communities to learn the various parts of the new translations “in a timely fashion and an even pace,” Archbishop Aymond said. It primarily affects the Gloria, the Holy, Holy, Holy and the memorial acclamations. “I ask you to encourage this as a means of preparing our people and helping them embrace the new translation,” Archbishop Aymond said. Archbishop Michael J. Sheehan of Santa Fe, N.M., asked whether

some implementation would be allowed before September, but Archbishop Aymond replied, “We would suggest not, in order that there be some uniformity.” In addition, Archbishop Aymond cited difficulty in introducing any liturgical changes during the summer months. Full implementation of the new missal translation is to take place Nov. 27, the first Sunday in Advent. But in a report to the bishops June 15 about the work of the National Advisory Council, a 48member body that includes lay people, religious, deacons, priests and bishops, Bishop William C. Skurla of the Byzantine Eparchy of Passaic, N.J., said the council was split about whether implementation of the missal should be gradual or all at once. “Some believed strongly that the new missal should be fully implemented, as planned, beginning with the first Sunday of Advent 2011, citing the fact that gradual implementation could cause significant problems and confusion,” he said. “Others encouraged the bishops to allow pastoral discretion in introducing the changed parts of the Mass with full implementation not

Faye Drobnic, assistant to the director of the Office of Worship, at the podium, has been presenting workshops throughout the diocese on the implementation of the new Roman Missal which will be put into use on the First Sunday of Advent, the weekend of November 27, 2011. In the photo above, Ms. Drobnic discusses the Scriptural basis of the Mass from the time of Jesus to the present. The workshop was presented to the deacons and deacon candidates for the diocese. Photo by Deacon Tom Sommers

being required until the first Sunday of Lent 2012,” Bishop Skurla added. “This encouragement for more gradual implementation was based on the belief that most people assimilate changes in stages and there could be some complications in implementing the new missal all at once.” The National Advisory Council

also suggested that consideration be given to allowing some priests who were unable to adopt the Mass changes “because of age or infirmity” to use the 1974 Roman Missal “when celebrating Mass in a private setting.” Archbishop Aymond did not address that recommendation in his remarks to the bishops.

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Acadiana Catholic

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St. Genevieve School helps raise funds

St. Genevieve School recently presented Father Curtis Mallet, pastor, St. Genevieve Church, with a check for $5590 for the St. Genevieve Church Restoration Project. The students raised the money by purchasing t-shirts that could be worn on Fridays with jeans during Lent. SGS would like to thank Mr. Juan Guzman with Wonka Embroidery for donating the t-shirts to the school for this special project. Photo submitted by Blair Bernard.

Congregation of Divine Providence elects new leadership team SAN ANTONIO The Congregation of Divine Providence has elected its 20112017 leadership team. Elected were Sister Ann Petrus, new superior general; Sisters Lourdes Leal, Helen Marie Miksch, and Theresa Billeaud to the General Council. Sister Ann is a native of Alexandria, La., and is professor of Mathematics at Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio. Sister Lourdes is from San Antonio and currently serves as Deanery resource coordinator at the Northwest Urban Deanery in the Archdiocese of San Antonio. Sister Helen Marie is from

Pope urges international aid for droughtstricken eastern Africa By Catholic News Service CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy (CNS) Pope Benedict XVI urged the international community to deliver urgent humanitarian aid to the drought-stricken Horn of Africa, especially Somalia, where tens of thousands have fled drought and famine. The pope, addressing pilgrims at his summer residence outside Rome July 17, said he had been following news of the region’s humanitarian catastrophe with “deep concern.” U.N. experts say the prolonged drought, combined with a rise in food prices, have forced many families to make long and often deadly overland treks to reach refugee camps. “Innumerable people are fleeing from that tremendous famine in search of food and assistance. I hope the international community will increase its efforts to quickly send aid to our sorely tested brothers and sisters, among them many children,” the pope said. “Our solidarity and the concrete assistance of all people of good will should not be lacking,” he said. On July 16, the Vatican announced it was making an initial aid contribution of 50,000 euros ($70,000) for the victims of the crisis in Somalia. The funds were sent in the pope’s name from the Pontifical Council Cor Unum to Bishop Giorgio Bertin of Djibouti, who also serves as apostolic

administrator of Mogadishu, Somalia. Most of those fleeing Somalia have headed toward refugee camps in Ethiopia and Kenya, walking across a barren landscape in journeys that have taken more than a month. Many mothers arriving in the camps have described losing children along the way to disease and malnutrition. The drought in eastern Africa has been reported as the worst in 60 years, and U.N. officials say it has placed the lives of 11 million people at risk. U.S. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said July 17 that U.N. agencies have requested $1.6 billion to pay for life-saving programs in the region, but so far have reached only half that amount.

MALNOURISHED CHILD RESTS AT HOSPITAL IN SOMALIA A malnourished child rests inside the pediatric ward at the Banadir Hospital in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, July 19. Parts of southern Somalia are suffering from famine, a U.N. official said July 19, and tens of thousands of Somalis have already died in the worst hunger emergency in a generation. (CNS photo/Feisal Omar, Reuters)

Schulenburg, Texas. She presently serves as director of faith formation at St. Ignatius the Martyr Church in Austin, Tex. Sister Theresa Anne is from Broussard,

La., and is currently living in New Orleans where she is involved in Mathematics tutoring. The new council assumed their responsibilities in June.

The Congregation of Divine Providence recently assumed their responsibilities for the period 2011 – 2017. Pictured above, left to right: Sisters Helen Marie Miksch, general councilor; Theresa Anne Billeaud, general councilor; Ann Petrus, superior general and Lourdes Leal, first assistant. Photo provided by Lisa Roberts Martinez

Students at St. Michael School showcase art

St. Michael School in Crowley recently hosted its annual Student Art Show, providing a way for students to express themselves and show their creative sides. Pictured above from left to right are: Ashton Broussard, Brant Theunissen, Mrs. Kelly Rothermel Thompson (art teacher), Gabe Link, and Madalyn Huesers.

Evan Smith is Council #2398 Squire of the Year

Evan Smith, left, received the Squire of the Year award from Grand Knight Brian Ellender, KC Council #2398, Breaux Bridge. Evan and his family are parishioners of St. Bernard Church. He is home schooled by his mother Donna Smith.

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