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The Official Monthly Publication of the Diocese of Lafayette
2009
Acadiana Catholic
May 2011
Volume 27
Number 5
Bishop Jarrell focuses on mission, “being sent” for Triduum LAFAYETTE The Holy Thursday Mass of Chrism was a celebration of mission, of being sent. Bishop Michael Jarrell was the principal celebrant of the Mass in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist here during which priests of the diocese renew their promises of service. The bishop blesses the oils used in church ceremonies around the diocese during the year. It is a beautiful solemn ceremony in which the laity also have a role, bringing up the oils. Those selected to carry the oils are involved in the church. The oil of the sick is carried by those involved with the sick and elderly, the oil of catechumens by those in the RCIA program and the oil of chrism by those who are becoming Catholics through
Inside this issue Lafayette Discalced Carmelites to celebrate 75thanniversary................6 Diocesan website helps to expand access to its television ministry...........14
Confirmation. The Gospel for the Mass relates the visit of Christ to the temple where he read the scroll quoting Isaiah from the old Testament (Is. 61) “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,” a declaration of his public ministry. Bishop Jarrell outlined the three-fold mission which Christ has been given, “to bring glad tidings to the poor, to heal the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty, to give oil of gladness to those who mourn...” “We are aware the Spirit has come upon us,” the bishop continued, “at Baptism, at Confirmation, at the conferral of Holy Orders. We too are given not only the Spirit, but a mission, we are sent. Each of us can truthfully say, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me. He has sent me... “For most of us, that day of sacramental sending was long ago” the bishop pointed out. However he noted that on Holy Thursday, the day of establishment of the priesthood, the priests gather to renew their commitment to priestly service. “It is a day of renewal and rededication,” the bishop emphasized.
Woman-to-Woman Catholic Conference is Oct. 15, 2011................................18 ‘Pius Outreach’ works to bring people into the Church............................21 Special Marian Mothers Day section ..........................23-26 This year’s religious jubilarians to be honored May 12.......................30-31 Bishop Jarrell presents altar server awards during special service................33 Diocesan Quiz Bowl winners announced........39
Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem the week before Easter. Children from CathedralCarmel are pictured above with their blessed palms. Photo by P.C. Piazza.
At the Easter Vigil, the holy fire is blessed by Bishop Jarrell before the lighting of the Paschal candle which is carried in procession inside the church. The congregation then lights their small candles from the Paschal candle. photo by P.C. Piazza.
Renewal and rededication “It is a very human thing to have need for renewal, “ Bishop Jarrell conceded. “It is easy to lose focus, to grow complacent, to get distracted by things other than our mission.
Reviewing the promises the priests will be asked to make, he questioned the phrase, “joyfully sacrifice.” “Who can come up with a phrase like that, only someone who is familiar with the (Continued on page 43)
Catholic Charismatic Pentecost Mass is June 11 LAFAYETTE The Catholic Charismatic Renewal for the Diocese of Lafayette will celebrate its annual Eucharistic celebration of Pentecost on Saturday, June 11th, at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Lafayette. Pre-praise will begin at 6:30 p.m. with State of Grace music ministry. Mass is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. with Father Bill Melancon as the main celebrant and Father Greg Cormier as homilist. Other priests and deacons are invited to con-celebrate and assist. After the homily there will be a special time for “baptism in the Holy Spirit” for those recently involved in a Life in the Spirit Seminar. There will also be individual prayer for all those desiring a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit by the priests and deacons
present. The Charismatic Renewal has the blessings and encouragement of the many popes, especially John Paul II and Benedict XVI, who often have celebrated Mass with Renewal groups in St. Peter’s Square in Rome, especially the Pentecost Mass. It has often been declared by bishops and the Vatican that the Charismatic Renewal is for the whole church, not just a few. The US Bishops have issued strong statements of support for the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, as well as Bishop Michael Jarrell who has in the past asked all priests and laity in the Lafayette Diocese to be welcoming to the Renewal movement and prayer groups and to always be discerning, but not stifling the Holy Spirit.
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Prayers before the start of hurricane season The people of the Lafayette Diocese are invited and encouraged to attend any one of four upcoming prayer services before the start of the hurricane season. These services will provide an opportunity for the entire community to join together in prayer and awareness before the start of the 2011 Hurricane Season on June 1. On Thursday, May 19, the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Lafayette will host a Prayer Service Before the Start of Hurricane Season beginning at 6:30 p.m. The non-Eucharistic prayer service, which is supported by the diocese’s Central Region, will be led by Father Chester Arceneaux, rector of the Cathedral. Father Arceneaux will be joined by Very
Acadiana Catholic
Reverend Thomas James, SVD, VE, Episcopal Vicar for the Central Region of the Diocese of Lafayette. In the North, South, and West Regions of the diocese, special services will be held in various locations on Thursday, May 26. They will all begin at 6:30 p.m. St. Frances Cabrini Mission Chapel in Kaplan will host a Mass. St. Mathilda Church in Eunice will host an Ecumenical Prayer Service. St. Peter the Apostle Church in Four Corners will also host an Ecumenical Prayer Service.
“Tell the People” schedule announced for May LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Radio/TV Ministry encourages everyone to watch “Tell the People” during the month of May. The weekly television program airs every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. on KATC TV-3. Each edition of Tell the People features “What it Means to be
Catholic” with Father Michael Champagne, CJ, and “Interview with the Bishop” with Bishop Michael Jarrell. Additionally, the May 8 program will feature a segment with Sister Judith Coreil, MSC (Director, Office of Religious Brothers & Sisters) as she discusses the upcoming Mass in honor of the 2011 Religious Jubilarians. On May 15, seminarian William Schambough will be featured as he prepares for his ordination to the Transitional Diaconate. On May 22, guest Charles James Day will appear to discuss the Day of Reflection for African American Men at Holy Ghost Church in Opelousas. On May 29, Renee Ory will discuss the diocesan website. Past episodes of “Tell the People,” as well as other productions from the Office of Radio/ TV Ministry, may be viewed online at www. diolaf.org. To access these videos, select the “SPIRITUAL GROWTH” tab located in the green bar along the top of the page, and the select “Television Programs” from the pulldown menu.
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. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Acadiana Catholic, 1408 Carmel Ave., Lafayette, LA 70501-5306 Official Monthly Newspaper for the Diocese of Lafayette, Louisiana Copyright 2011
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) 235-7704 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
On May 16, 1936, the feast day of St. Simon Stock, the first monastery of the Discalced Carmelites was opened in Lafayette. Bishop Jules B. Jeanmard celebrated the first Mass at the new facilities located on “The Old Spanish Trail,” where the present-day Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Government complex is located. Pictured above is the entrance to the monastery.
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Lafayette Discalced Carmelites to celebrate 75th anniversary By Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE We said it before and we’ll say it again, ‘Seventy-five years, three quarters of a century, is a good measure of age, of offering prayers and good works for the Church and the community.’ We are talking, writing, about the Discalced Carmelite nuns of the Monastery of Mary Mother of Grace. It is located on Carmel (named for them) Avenue just outside of Lafayette. This highway is also known as the Lafayette-Breaux Bridge highway but the name was changed in honor of the nuns after the monastery was built in 1956. The 75 years mark the anniversary of the nuns coming to Lafayette in 1936. The celebration will be on Monday, May 16 with a Mass of Thanksgiving offered by Bishop Michael Jarrell of Lafayette at 5:30 p.m. in the monastery chapel. Msgr. Robie Robichaux will be the homilist. The celebration date is quite close to the actual date of the founding of the Lafayette monastery. The formal opening was on May 16, feast of St. Simon Stock who received the Brown Scapular from the Blessed Mother in a vision. It is recalled that in 1936, in anticipation of the formal opening, the nuns, some workmen, and some priest-friends spent much of the night before, painting and adding final touches. It was discovered, just before the Mass, there was no altar wine and the bishop’s secretary had to make a run to the Cathedral for some. Bishop Jules B. Jeanmard was to offer the Mass and it started on time, but the smell of fresh paint was mixed with the fragrance of Easter lilies which bedecked the altar in the new chapel.
Beginnings
It all began many years before when Bishop Jeanmard as a young priest in the Archdiocese of New Orleans was chaplain to the Discalced Carmelites of the New Orleans monastery. When he was appointed first Bishop of Lafayette in 1918, he invited the nuns to establish a monastery in Lafayette. They said they would but it was 1936 before they were able to do so. The two co-founders were Mother Marie Dolores Caillouet and Sister Theresa Margaret
Monastery of Mary, Mother of Grace, home of the Discalced Carmelites in Lafayette.
The present Discalced Carmelite community.
Hermes. Mother Dolores had two brothers who were priests, Msgr. Lucien Caillouet and Msgr. (soon to be bishop) L. Abel Caillouet. Sister Theresa Margaret was from Texas and had just made simple vows. The initial group of four nuns established the monastery in the former Martin residence on College (now university) Avenue. The site is now occupied by the facilities of the Lafayette Parish Administration. Until the monastery was ready, the Sisters of the Most Holy Sacrament offered hospitality to the nuns. In her biography, Mother Theresa Margaret recalls “aspirants came and went,” and it was 1944 before the first permanent aspirant did arrive. In the meantime, the monastery acquired many lay friends in the area. In 1949, Mother Theresa Margaret was appointed prioress by “rescript,” a document from Rome, sent at the recommendation of Bishop Jeanmard. Mother Dolores’ failing health was the reason for the appointment. But she still had a role to play. Someone sent Mother Theresa Margaret information
about holistic living, promoting organic gardening. She became enthusiastic and so did Mother Dolores who established a small garden. At the new monastery this was later enlarged. Surplus produce was canned or frozen for later eating. Novenas for feast days and familiar saints, St. Joseph and St. Theresa of Lisieux, as well as Holy Week ceremonies, helped attract friends to the monastery. One of the popular summer events, in anticipation of the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in July, was the “moonlight novena.” Several hundred folding chairs were on the lawn, an altar set up on the front porch. The program included rosary, prayers, sermon, and hymns. Bishop Jeanmard often gave the Benediction on the closing night.
The ‘lightning rod’
The Carmelite monastery, through the years, has been a “lightning rod,” in the words of Bishop Jeanmard, as a source of prayers to God for His intercession and protection. There are those who ask why these good
women spend this time behind walls, away from the world. Bishop Jeanmard’s answer, at Mother Theresa Margaret’s veiling ceremony, explains how many continue to feel about the presence of the nuns, even after these 75 years: “We should thank God for this little group of intercessors in our midst, this lightning rod which wards off the thunder bolts of His punishment of innumerable crimes...” Cardinals and bishops, prelates of other rites form a list of distinguished visitors through the years who have passed through the doors of the monastery. Among them, Cardinal John Carberry of St. Louis who presided at a regional commission for contemplative nuns; Cardinal Pio Laghi, former apostolic nuncio, who visited the diocese in anticipation of the bicentennial year; Cardinal Maurice Roy of Quebec who visited during Louisiana’s bicentennial year; Patriarch Maximos V Hakim of the Melkite Rite who visited several times and celebrated the Divine Liturgy of the Melkite Rite. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, in Lafayette to establish a community of her nuns, was among these distinguished visitors.
“We should thank God for this little group of intercessors in our midst, this lightning rod which wards off the thunder bolts of His punishment of innumerable crimes...” It is hard to select other outstanding events through the years, days of solemn profession, anniversaries of profession, first Masses of young priests “adopted” by the nuns including Americans and Vietnamese. The first Vietnamese Carmelite priest, Father Marion Joseph Than, O.C.D., was ordained in the chapel here. We cannot overlook the visit of the relics of St. Theresa of Lisieux. In 1999, as part of a world-wide tour, the relics came to Lafayette. There was a Mass at the Monastery and one in the Cathedral which the nuns were able to attend. Needless to say, both were well attended by their (Contined on page 7)
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May 2011 Page 7
Lafayette Discalced Carmelites to celebrate 75th anniversary Continued from page 6
many friends in this area. For the Year of the Priests, 2006, the nuns attended the Chrism Mass in the Cathedral, then returned to the monastery to host the priests at dinner. Praying for priests has always been a primary intention of this Carmel. Crediting the many who help with the monastery, the nuns also cite their next door neighbors, the Brothers of the Christian Schools (The DeLaSalle Christian Brothers) who have been frequent helpful visitors. Building and sustaining the monastery has always depended on the generosity of the many faithful laity who with their five dollars and ten dollars, yes, “and nickels and dimes,” as the nuns describe it, in gratitude for this “lightning rod” of prayer, or as
others say, “keep that smoke signal going – the Carmelites have the best smoke signal in town!” With all these important events, we almost forgot two special honors for Mother Theresa Margaret. In 1987, her golden jubilee year, Pope John Paul II visited New Orleans. Thanks to Archbishop Philip Hannan of New Orleans, tickets were sent for a delegation of nuns to attend the papal Mass and Mother Theresa Margaret was able to receive Communion from the Holy Father. In 1990, she received the papal medal Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice. In presenting it, Bishop Harry J. Flynn said “Mother Theresa Margaret is a Texas sunflower come to bloom in Louisiana. In honoring you, we honor your sisters to whom we are very grateful.”
May 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.
May l Pope Benedict XVI May 2 Bishop Michael Jarrell May 3 Father John DeLeeuw May 4 Father Mark Derise May 5 Msgr. Keith DeRouen May 6 Father Ferdinand Derrera, SJ May 7 Father Scott Desormeaux May 8 Father Anderson De Souza, SVD May 9 Father Kenneth Domingue May 10 Father Gregory Downs May 11 Father Wayne Duet May 12 Father Willard Dugas May 13 Father Edward Duhon May 14 Father Gilbert Dutel May 15 Father Luiz Dutra May 16 Father Dan Edwards May 17 Father Darren Eldridge May 18 Father Peter Emusa May 19 Father Grady Estelette May 20 Father Cyprian Eze May 21 Father Richard Fabre May 22 Father Kendal Faulk May 23 Father Emmanuel Fernandez May 24 Father Thomas Findley May 25 Father Jerome Frey, cjc May 26 Father Juan Luis Gandara May 27 Father Brian Garry, SJ May 28 Father William Gearheard May 29 Father Joseph Gillespie, LC May 30 Msgr. Richard Greene, VE May 31 Michael Guidry
Eternal Father, we lift up to You these and all the priests of the world. Sanctify them. Heal and
The Carmelite Guild, established by Lafayette businessman Sid Ory, began with “twelve apostles,” as leaders. The purpose of the Guild was to make Carmel known and solicit funds throughout the diocese for the construction of the new monastery. The Guild soon expanded from the original 12 to include about one hundred.
Women’s Day retreat scheduled May 26 in Grand Coteau
GRAND COTEAU The Jesuits of the New Orleans Province are hosting a Women’s Day Retreat, guided by Ignatian spiritual director Jan Tate on
Thursday, May 26, at St. Charles College in Grand Coteau, Louisiana. (A light breakfast and lunch are included.) Interested women should reserve their seats for the retreat no later than May 18 by contacting Brooke Iglesias at 1-800-7881719 ext. 39.
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.
“Come to the Well” retreat to be held Jun. 4 LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Pro-Life Issues will host a one-day “Come to the Well” retreat on Saturday, June 4, at the Immaculata Center in Lafayette. This special day, which is centered on hope and restoration, will begin at 9:00 a.m. and conclude at 3:00 p.m. Please note the corrected date and timeframe, as an error was made when the announcement was published in the April edition. The registration fee is $40 per person, or $75 per couple. All participants must pre-register through the Office of Pro-Life Issues at (337) 261-5607. “Come to the Well” is a retreat for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one—by suicide, accidental death, infertility, miscarriage, illness, stillbirth, SIDS, adoption placement, abortion, or any other loss of life. Those who work in ministries involving reproductive grief and bereavement are also invited. The retreat will be directed by Lyn Holley Doucet, Director for Spiritual Formation at Our Lady of the Oaks Retreat House.
Certified Recognition Masters www.awardmaster.com
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Page 8 May 2011 May Ordination Anniversaries
Fr. Robert Seay, OFM May 4, 1976 Fr. Willard Dugas May 6, 1977 Fr. Justin Arockiasamy, SVD May 7, 2007 Fr. Joseph F. Brennan May 7, 1959 Fr. Paul C. Bergeron May 9, 1981 Fr. A. Arockiam SVD May 14, 2002 Fr. Jody Simoneaux May 14, 1982 Fr. Martin C. Borcherding May 19, 1973 Fr. J. Richard Fabre May 19, 1973 Fr. Steven C. LeBlanc May 20, 1977 Fr. Howard J. Blessing May 21, 1976 Msgr. Ronald Broussard May 21, 1988 Msgr. Robert Angelle May 22, 1956 Fr. Paul A. Thibodeaux May 22, 1948 Fr. Bernard Lebiedz OSB May 23, 1959 Fr. Randall P. Moreau May 23, 1987 Fr. Glenn M. Meaux May 24, 1980 Fr. Francis Butler SSJ May 25, 1985 Msgr. Russell J. Harrington May 25, 1979 Fr. Louis J. Melancon May 25, 1963 Msgr. Paul Metrejean May 25, 1963 Fr. Joseph H. Stemmann May 25, 1963 Fr. William J. Gearheard May 28, 1994 Fr. C. Conley Bertrand May 28, 1959 Fr. Michael Champagne May 28, 1994 Fr. Gregory P. Cormier May 28, 1983 Fr. J. Daniel Edwards May 28, 1994 Fr. Matthew P. Higginbotham May 28, 1994 Fr. Kenneth M. Mayne May 28, 1994 Msgr. Robie Robichaux May 28, 1976 Fr. Michael Russo May 28, 1989 Fr. Eugene Tremie May 29, 1971
5-day cruise for married couples set for Oct. 22-27 LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry would like to extend an invitation to all married couples to participate in a special cruise scheduled for October 22-27. The theme of this married couples cruise retreat will be “Marriage 101: How to Navigate the Waters of Married Life and Make the Most of the Vocation God Has Given You.” The retreat will be conducted by Fathers Jude Halphen (Director, Office of Marriage & Family Life) and Neil McNeill (St. Bernard Church, Breaux Bridge) while the ship is at sea. While in port, couples will be free to participate in shore excursions. These opportunities will include visiting Mayan ruins, swimming with dolphins, shopping tours, and more. The Carnival Cruise Lines ship The Ecstasy will depart from New Orleans on Saturday, October 22. Space on this cruise is limited, and interested couples may register online at www.globetrektravel.com, or call (337) 477-0835 for further details.
Anse La Butte rosary group celebrates 49 years
Anse La Butte Rosary Group
BREAUX BRIDGE It began in 1962, when a small group of women in the town of Breaux Bridge decided to form a rosary group. They decided that they would meet every Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m., and they would call themselves the Anse La Butte rosary group. They also decided that each member would take her turn to serve as hostess in a steady rotation, and that was all the planning they really needed. Forty-nine years later, the system is still working. Of course, the group’s membership had fluctuated with the passing of time. Some members have passed away, while others have simply moved on, but at the present time there are a total of 13 active members. They still take it in turns to host the Wednesday meetings, which they open with prayers for those who are ill, homebound, or deceased. They will also pray for the soldiers who
are serving their country, and for any other special petitions one of the members may have, and then they will pray the rosary together. Once their prayers have been completed, the ladies stay together a little longer in order to socialize and enjoy lunch. These women form an extended family to one another, and through the years they have shared each other’s loves and sorrows, including births, graduations, marriages, and death. In addition to their weekly meetings to pray the rosary, the ladies also plan two socials each year—one for Christmas and one for Easter. During these events, they pool their donations in order to give to needy families and charitable organizations. “We are all inspired by our Catholic faith and our love for the Blessed Mother,” said Marella Breaux, a longtime member. “We look forward to each new day as a wondrous adventure!”
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May 2011 Page 9
Father August Baudizzone, May 5, 1933 Father Sylvio Auclair, May 6, 19912 Msgr. Henry Van Boxel, May 6, 2002 Father A. Benedict Colliard, May 7, 1950 Father Frank I. Bischoff, May 15, 1961 Father Marcel Gaudet, May 15, 1976 Msgr. Joseph A.M. Van Brero, May 18, 1973
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Sunday
Second Sunday of Easter Divine Mercy Sunday
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Third Sunday of Easter (Mother’s Day)
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Deacon Coley Bellamy, May 21, 2002 Deacon Leonard Freyou, May 21, 2006 Deacon Arthur B. Lognion, May 21, 1986 Father Harry N. Quick, May 23, 1994 Deacon Ronald H. Broussard, May 25, 2007 Deacon Paul Mayeaux, May 26, 2000 Msgr. Edward D. Fruge, May 27, 1994
Monday
St. Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor Holy Hour for Vocations, St. Patrick Church, Lafayette, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Lafayette Serra Club
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Easter Weekday
3
Tuesday
Sts. Philip & James Apostles “Food for the Journey” Speakers’ Series, Crowne Plaza, Lafayette, 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Father Francis A. Buquet, May 28, 1935 Father Roger J. Moag, May 28, 1990 Msgr. Gustave Berube, May 28, 1992 Father Frederick J. Webert, May 30, 1997 Father Julien R. Bollard, May 31, 1930
Wednesday
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Easter Weekday Mother’s Day of Reflection with Father Michael Champagne, cjc, Immaculata Center, 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon
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League of the Sacred Heart Apostleship of Prayer May general intention:
That those who work in the media may always respect truth, solidarity and the dignity of each person.
Mission intention:
That the Lord may grant the Church in China the capacity to persevere in fidelity to the Gospel and to grow in unity.
Thursday
Easter Weekday Quaterly Meeting of the Newly Ordained Priests and Mentors, Our Lady of Fatima Church, Lafayette, 6:00 p.m.
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Friday Easter Weekday
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Saturday Easter Weekday
LifeSkills Training Parent Program, St. Joseph Parish Hall, Milton, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
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Easter Weekday LifeSkills Training Parent Program, St. Joseph Parish Hall, Milton, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
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Easter Weekday Jubilarians Mass and Supper, 5:00 p.m., Immaculata Chapel and Marian Hall, Lafayette
Easter Weekday
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27
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Easter Weekday
St. Matthias, Apostle
Companions Along the Journey, Immaculata Center (John XXIII), Lafayette, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
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Fourth Sunday of Easter
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Easter Weekday
Carmelite Monastery 75th Anniversary
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Easter Weekday LifeSkills Training Parent Program, St. Joseph Parish Hall, Milton, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
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Easter Weekday Monthly Manna, Forest Restaurant, Franklin, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Clergy Golf Tournament, Acadian Hills Golf Club
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Fifth Sunday of Easter
Sixth Sunday of Easter
Easter Weekday
Memorial Day Diocesan Offices Closed
Weekday LifeSkills Training Parent Program, St. Joseph Parish Hall, Milton, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary LifeSkills Training Parent Program, St. Joseph Parish Hall, Milton, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m
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Easter Weekday
Easter Weekday DRE/CRE Support Group Meeting, South Region, Level VI:2 credits. St. Joseph Church, Patterson. RSVP Belva Hamilton, (985) 395-3881
Easter Weekday (May 20-22) Women’s Eucharistic Retreat, Our Lady of Sorrows Retreat Center, 420 N. Main St., St. Martinville
Easter Weekday
Prayer Service Before Start of Hurricane Seacon - St. John Cathedral, Lafayette, 6:30 p.m.
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St. Philip Neri, Priest Prayer Service Before Start of Hurricane Seacon - St. Frances Cabrini Mission Chapel, Eunice, 6:30 p.m.
Easter Weekday Prayer Service Before Start of Hurricane Seacon - St. Mathilda Church, Eunice, 6:30 p.m.
Easter Weekday
May 2011
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May 2011 Page 11
Good Shepherd Sunday By Bishop Michael Jarrell
In the Universal Church, the Fourth Sunday of Easter is known as Good Shepherd Sunday. This year it falls on May 15. The Gospel Reading on that day is taken from the tenth chapter of St. John’s Gospel in which Jesus refers to himself as the Good Shepherd who knows his sheep and is known by his sheep. The Latin word for shepherd is “pastor.” Hence, Good Shepherd Sunday is designated as World Day of Prayer for Vocations, meaning vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life (sisters and brothers). The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, has written a special message for Good Shepherd Sunday. The theme of his message is “Proposing Vocations in the Local Church.” In his message, the Holy Father encourages prayer for religious vocations, especially on the local level. He encourages prayer in church parishes, in families and in special groups which are dedicated to the promotion of religious vocations.
The Holy Father also asks all Catholics to “feel responsibility for promoting vocations.” This is more than prayer. The Holy Father is asking for a climate of vocations in our church, a climate that is reflected in the things that we say and in the encouragement that we give to young people, especially in our own families. Catholics should give encouragement to young people pursuing religious vocations, as well as to those who are in the seminary or who are in the process of preparing for consecrated life. Each year, the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate conducts a survey of men preparing to be ordained to the priesthood in any given year. This year, 329 men responded. Some of the results are indicated below: • More than half of this year’s ordination class is between the ages of 25 and 34. The survey results of the past five years show priesthood candidates trending younger. • 71 percent were altar servers. • 66 percent were encouraged to consider the priesthood by a priest. • 71 percent received encouragement from a friend, a parent, grandparent, or other relative, or a parishioner. • Almost half report that someone discouraged them from considering the priesthood. (Yes, discouraged!) • Catholic education had an impact on the candidates. In comparison to the average adult
Catholic population, they are more likely to have attended Catholic elementary or high school. Of those who attended college before entrance into a seminary, 67 percent attended a Catholic college. • 19 percent report that either one or both parents were career military. • 70 percent report regularly praying the rosary before entering the seminary. • 65 percent reported the practice of Eucharistic Adoration before entering. The full report is available online at www. foryourvocation.org. This website offers a wealth of information concerning religious vocations. Parents, who often know very little about seminaries and convents, will find it helpful. Here in the Diocese, one seminarian, William Schambough, is scheduled to be ordained a deacon on May 21 at the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist. Three weeks later, on June 11, four candidates are scheduled for Ordination to the Priesthood. They are Deacons Nathan Comeaux, David Hebert, Jonathan Janise, and Garrett McIntyre. Everyone in the Diocese should heed the Holy Father’s message by praying for all of our seminarians and by doing their part to encourage young men and women who are experiencing a possible call to serve in a religious vocation.
Day of Reflection for African American Men OPELOUSAS Holy Ghost Church in Opelousas will host a Day of Reflection for African American Men on Saturday, June 4, from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. A donation of $10 for each participant will provide breakfast and lunch for the day. The reflection theme for the day will be “The African American Male: Created in God’s Image.” Focal points will include love of self, love for others, and moving toward a holistic connection of a desire for God. This event is sponsored by the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Black Catholic Ministries, in conjunction with the North Regional Episcopal Vicar. Registration is required no later than May 31. Individuals may register by contacting the Office of Black Catholic Ministries by telephone at (337) 261-5694, or by e-mail at obcm@diolaf.org.
Happy Birthday! Turning 65 soon?
Medicare Advantage Supplement Plans Part D Prescription Drug Plans Need a quote or ready to sign up? Call Rebekah Canary at 337.281.2805
Acadiana Catholic
Page 12 May 2011
A Vacation with the Lord
Our Lady of the Oaks Retreat House, Grand Coteau, La. (337) 662-5410 www.ourladyoftheoaks.com
Guess who’s coming to dinner? I have heard that if Jesus couldn’t eat with sinners, he would not eat! What a relief! The definition of sin has changed over my life time. As a child growing up in the 50s, sin was eating meat on Fridays, missing Mass on Sundays or holy days of obligation, or as an adolescent, having impure thoughts. Now, as an adult, my understanding of sin is maturing. Sin is my ego edging God out as I attempt to be in control; to play God not only in my own life, but in the lives of others. I am a loved sinner. Mea culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima culpa. Admitting the sin is the first step. This allows God’s mercy to outshine our weaknesses. I don’t have to try to be sinless in order for my Father to love me. I don’t have to carry the cross of guilt endlessly. Once I accept this truth, I am free. This freedom empowers me to desire avoiding anything that will separate me from this all-merciful and loving God. The ego can be very cunning, appearing as a spirit of light rather than darkness. Often we do not realize that we are edging God out. We believe that we are doing God’s will, despite the mounting troubles and warning signs of unrest, chaos, and failure. To receive God’s mercy, we must be still long enough to invite him to the table of our lives. In the quiet of that reunion his words can transform the shared meal into a jubilant celebration. “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us.” (Psalm 103:12) Out Lady of the Oaks Retreat House invites you to come and stay awhile. You just might hear a knock at your door. Jesus wants to know what’s for supper? Renée Taylor, MPS Spiritual Director Our Lady of the Oaks
“BE FIRE!” By Graham N. Smith
My father in law, Jack Smith, was a “ h a r d c a s e ” w h e n it came to talking about death and what happens next. He grew up in the grinding poverty of rural Kentucky in the 1920’s and 30’s, where the Gospel was often laid out in terms of “turn or burn” – accept Jesus or burn forever in Hell. That Jesus came because “God so loved the world that He gave his only Son” (John 3:16) was not likely to be part of the message. He left as soon as he could and never went back except for family visits. Early in World War II, he married my mother in law, Helen. She was a Catholic, which never sat well with the folks back home. He enlisted in the Navy and went off to the first of three wars that he’d sail in before he retired in the late 1960’s. Dad (I called him that after I married into the family) never joined any church, but he always made sure that Mom, my wife Donna and her little sister Debbie got to Mass. If he cared about his own spiritual welfare, however, it didn’t show. Donna and I got married, and Debbie married Frank. In time, all of us had powerful prayer encounters with the reality of Jesus, and we wanted to give that away. Debbie and Frank, who lived closer to Dad, would try to share that with him, but
he would react with indifference or anger. All of us prayed for Dad. Eventually, Donna sensed that the Lord was telling her, “You take care of what I ask you to do and I’ll take care of your Dad.” And He did. Slowly, Dad’s life began to change. Alcohol, which had been a problem, disappeared. He and Mom moved to Richmond, VA, near Debbie and Frank. Mom had a chronic progressive disease that required a lot of assistance, and he took care of her faithfully until she died in 1995. Dad stayed active after that but had to move into assisted living in the late 90’s. Still, Jesus was not welcome in any conversations. His health failed. Alzheimer’s began to cloud his mind. Prayers mounted that he would not leave this life without surrendering his heart to his Savior. On Saturday, April 2nd, Debbie felt that she needed a sitter to stay with Dad that night. So, in the wee hours on Sunday morning, a gentle friend of God named Doris was there with him. Sensing that Dad’s end was near, she asked “Mr. Jack, do you know Jesus?” “A little,” he answered. “It’s not hard, Mr. Jack,” she told him. “All you need to do is ask Jesus to forgive you.” “I can do that,” he said. He was gone soon after that conversation. And so it was that Jack Smith laid aside his bitterness from the “turn or burn” Gospel he’d heard so long ago and embraced The Love that had pursued him for all of his 92 years. “The hand of the Lord is not too short to save.” (Is. 59:1, NAB). Never give up hope. God doesn’t!
Acadiana Catholic
May 2011 Page 13
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Diocesan website helps to expand access to its television ministry LAFAYETTE In February, the Lafayette Diocese launched its newly designed website to better support the Catholic community of Acadiana, and also to share the Catholic faith with others throughout the world. One particular website feature that aids in these endeavors is the posting of local Catholic programs which have been filmed and produced right here in the diocese, by the Office of Radio/TV Ministry. These programs may be accessed by selecting the “SPIRITUAL GROWTH” tab located along the top of the diocesan homepage at www.diolaf.org, and choosing “Television Programs” from the pull-down menu. The Office of Radio/TV Ministry has long since existed to provide quality Catholic programming targeted toward the people of Acadiana. For instance, it was the Office of Radio/TV Ministry that filmed and produced the rosary segments which aired every morning on KLFY TV-10 for many years. Recently, due to scheduling conflicts, the office
coordinated a new deal to move the rosary segments to the Acadiana CW Network instead, but the segments are now available online as well, allowing individuals 24-hour access to recite the rosary at any time they choose. Once on the “Television Programs” page, one can select “Rosaries” in the Section Navigation box located in the upper right corner. This will bring the viewers to the webpage where the rosary video segments are posted in both English and French. In addition to the videos, this section also includes a television schedule for those who still wish to watch when the segments air on the local CW Network. The Office of Radio/TV Ministry is also responsible for the production of the diocese’s weekly television program, Tell the People, which airs every Sunday morning at 11:00 a.m. on KATC TV-3. Each episode of Tell the People features “Local Catholic News” with Stephanie Bernard, “Inside the Diocese” with Trista Littell, “What it Means to be Catholic” with Father Michael Champagne, CJ, and “Interview
The “Television Programs” section of the diocesan website allows viewers to access videos of many Catholic-oriented programs which have been filmed and produced by the diocese’s Office of Radio/TV Ministry.
with the Bishop” with Bishop Michael Jarrell. For those who cannot tune in to the regular broadcast on Sunday mornings—or for those who simply want to watch an episode again—the website offers an archive which allows them to do so at any time. The website also offers an archive of “Catholics Today,” a 30-minute program produced by the Office of Radio/ TV Ministry to highlight various ministries and issues of the Catholic Church. Viewers can easily navigate these archives by using the Section Navigation box. Often, the Office of Radio/TV Ministry will also film other special events when they occur in the diocese, and these segments are also available for online viewing. Some videos that are currently posted online include “The Stations of the Cross,” and “The 2011 Rite of Election.” There is also a video posted of the talks presented by Archbishop Harry Flynn at the 2011 Lenten Mission hosted by St. Peter Church in New Iberia. “Being able to post these videos online allows the office to reach out to many more people, from within the diocese and even beyond,” said David Mergist, director/producer. “It’s an opportunity for which I’m personally grateful, and I hope that others will make the most of the access.” Those without internet access are encouraged to watch KDCG TV-22 (Cox Ch. 9) for the rosary in French and English, every weekday morning at 6:00 a.m. Tell the People also airs on this
channel every Monday at 6:30 a.m. Additional viewing opportunities may also be available on Acadiana Open Channel (AOC Ch. 16); please refer to local listings for exact dates and times.
May schedule for Catholic Fellowship Network LAFAYETTE The Catholic Fellowship Network had scheduled events for each Tuesday during the month of May. With the exception of May 17, each meeting will be held at Holy Cross Church in Lafayette, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Circle of Friends and Truth Be Known will sponsor several speakers, a panel discussion on “The Do’s and Don’ts of Dating,” and a viewing of the recent movie The Grace Card. Also, the Supper Club is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, May 17, at The Blue Dog Café, beginning at 6:30 p.m. While the Catholic Fellowship Network is predominantly for mature Catholic singles, people of all faiths—married or single— are welcome to participate. A full schedule of events is available at www.catholicfellowshipnetwork. webs.com. Those who are interested may also contact Kelley Chapman (Office of Marriage and Family Life) at (337) 261-5653 in order to be added to the e-mail contact list for weekly reminders of upcoming events.
Acadiana Catholic
May 2011 Page 15
Looking forward to priesthood – a deacon’s reflection (Part II) Part I of Deacon McIntyre’s article was published in last month’s Acadiana Catholic. The conclusion is printed below. By Rev. Mr. Garrett I. McIntyre We are not experts right out of the seminary. The seminary is challenging, but at the same time, the seminary is fun. We have lots of laughs and enjoy one another’s company at the seminary. It sounds simple, but seminarians who are friends with seminarians become priests who are friends with priests. I know how much I treasure my friendships with the men who are called to the same vocation as I am. I also know how encouraged I am to see a group of priests sitting around a table, for instance, and having a good time. The Church deserves well-formed and happy priests. In one way or another, we learn both in the seminary. I am in my final year of seminary and have been blessed to spend this last year as a deacon. I was ordained a transitional deacon in May of 2010. It has truly been amazing to experience God working through the sacrament of Holy Orders. The grace of orders
William Schambough, left, of St. Anthony Church in Eunice, was recently admitted to Candidacy for Holy Orders at Notre Dame Seminary Chapel in New Orleans by Bishop Robert W. Muench, right, of Baton Rouge. Schambough is the son of Mr. Robert Schambough and the late Mrs. Mary Ann Schambough. He will be ordained to the Transitional Diaconate on May 21, at 10:00 a.m. in the Cathedral of St. John the Evanglist, Lafayette.
is a humbling and profound experience. Through it, God provides where I am lacking. I love being a deacon, but I know this is not where God is calling me. I am very much looking forward to beginning my life as a priest in the Diocese of Lafayette. I have been waiting for these coming days for some time and June is fast approaching. It is an exciting time preparing for ordination, but it too comes with its own set of difficulties and distractions. For this reason, I ask for your prayers. I ask you to pray for me and for all those preparing for Holy Orders, especially in the Diocese of Lafayette. In fact, the purpose for recounting my vocational call was to give you perhaps some added insight into what I, and many other men, have experienced in pursuing a call to the priesthood. With this insight, I trust that you will continue to pray for vocations, for seminarians, and for priests, especially your pastor and the Bishop. Your prayers are effective and we need them. Thank you for your faithful dedication to God and His Church.
Incomplete Seminary Burses Your Contributions Help Educate Future Priests MATTHEW BARZARE is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Barzare He is in first Theology at Notre Dame Seminary, New Orleans. He is sponsored by St. Anthony Church, Eunice.
JOSEPH BOUSTANY, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Boustany, is in his first college year at St. Joseph Seminary College, St. Benedict, La. He is sponsored by Our Lady of Fatima Church, Lafayette. PATRICK BROUSSARD is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Steven J. Broussard. He is in his first Theology year at Pontifical North American College, Rome, and is sponsored by the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Lafayette.
CHRIS CAMBRE is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ricky A. Cambre. He is in his third college year at Theological College, Washington, D.C., and is sponsored by St. Pius X Church, Lafayette.
REV. MR. NATHAN COMEAUX, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Comeaux, is in his fourth Theology year at Notre Dame Seminary, New Orleans. He is sponsored by St. Marcellus Church, Rynella.
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 7,200.00 332 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 2,125.52 364 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 2,600.00 386 Coignard/Gremillion Burse #2 1,000.00 387 Gabriel Lukas Memorial Fund (Morse) 194.21 MONTHLY DONORS 330 Carroll/Richard Lafleur 337 Rev. Kenneth Bienvenu 376 Halina Kozeill
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Acadiana Catholic
Page 16 May 2011
A-V spotlight for May
LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s A-V library would like to share two exciting selections with its members during the month of May. Parables of Jesus (DVD #3850) is a three-volume collection for grade levels 5-8. Father Mike Manning, SVD, uses drama, nar-
ration, and discussion to bring to life the selected parables of Jesus. Volume One includes an Introduction to Parables, as well the parables of the Day of Judgment, the ten bridesmaids, the forgiven sinner woman, and Lazarus and the rich man. Volume two includes parables of talents, strategic planning, hidden treasure, the dishon-
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est servant, and the unforgiving servant. Lastly, Volume three includes the parables of the laborers, the sower, the tax collector, and the widow. Titans of the Bible (DVD #3851) is also geared toward grade levels 5-8. These four volumes examine the lives of some famous—and some not so famous—people of the bible who had willing hearts to obey God. Volume One includes the stories of Absalom, Amos, Caleb, and Deborah. Volume Two
includes the stories of Elisha, Gideon, Jeroboam, and Judith. Volume Three includes the stories of Jacob, Jeremiah, Naomi, Samson, and Samuel. Volume Four includes the stories of Malachi, Hagar, Susanna, Tobit, Hosea, and Joseph. For information on reserving these and other selections, or on how to become a member of the diocesan A-V library, please contact Lynne Broussard at (337) 261-5674.
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The first annual St. Joseph’s Altar was celbrated at St. Peter Catholic Church in Carencro on the Feast of St. Joseph, March 19, 2011. Over 200 people visited the altar during the two days it was up. Pictured above are, from the left, Eva Delle Comeaux, Judy Caillier, Susie Breaux, Rose Richard, Carol Olivier, Rosa Trahan, Father Bill Melancon, pastor, and Wanda Mouton. Not pictured: Dot Miller.
Acadiana Catholic
May 2011 Page 17
Register now for Cycle 4 of VLCFF LAFAYETTE Registration is now open for Cycle 4 of the University of Dayton Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF). Registration will close on June 15, and the classes will be conducted from June 19-July 23. Courses being offered during Cycle 4 will include Catholic Beliefs; Digital Catechesis: Web Literacy; Evangelization and Discipleship; History of Catholic Social Action; and Media, Faith, and Values. A complete listing and description of courses may be accessed through www.vlc.udayton.edu. Residents of the Lafayette Diocese may participate in the VLCFF at the cost of $40 per course, and course credits 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. The VLCFF conducts a total of seven separate cycles throughout
the calendar year, with courses varying from cycle to cycle. Information on other cycles and future courses may also be accessed through www.vlc.udayton.edu. For further details regarding the benefits of 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.
Sister from Lafayette Diocese celebrates 25th Anniversary HANCEVILLE, ALA. Sister Mary Agnes of Jesus will celebrate her 25th anniversary as a Poor Clare Nun on Saturday, April 30, 2011 at the 7:00 a.m. Conventual Mass at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament (Our Lady of the Angels Monastery) in Hanceville, Ala., with Father Joseph Mary, MFVA presiding. The Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration are a cloistered Community of nuns dedicated to adoring Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament in a spirit of thanksgiving. Sister Mary Agnes (Andrea Marie Gil) is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
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Upcoming events at the Jesuit Spirituality Center GRAND COTEAU The Jesuit Spirituality Center in Grand Coteau would like to remind everyone that individually directed retreats have been scheduled to begin on the following dates: May 16 and 30, and June 13 and 27. Participants may choose a retreat lasting three, five, or eight days. Application forms may be obtained at www.jesuitspiritualitycenter.org, and further details may be requested by calling
(337) 662-5251 during standard business hours. A non-refundable $50 deposit is required in order to confirm a reservation for any retreat.
Acadiana Catholic
Page 18 May 2011
Woman-to-Woman Catholic Conference is Oct. 15, 2011
Diocese of Baton Rouge Catholic Schools Office
Program Director 2011-12 School Year Special Education Program at Redemptorist Evangelize Hearts, Educate Minds and Embrace the Future The Special Education Department’s Guardian Angel and Career Education Programs, which are located at Redemptorist Elementary and Redemptorist High School in North Baton Rouge, have a current enrollment of 61 students between the ages of 6 and 21. The program has served students since its establishment in 1962, and students are main-streamed into regular education classes whenever possible. The program presently UGTXGU EJKNFTGP YKVJ CWVKUO URGEKſE NGCTPKPI FKUCDKNKVKGU VTCWOCVKE DTCKP injury, developmental delay, emotional disturbance, mild and moderate mental disability, orthopedic impairment, other health impairment, and speech/language impairments. Applicants must meet the following criteria: 1. Practicing Catholic preferred 2. Minimum of 5 years of teaching or school administrative experience 5RGEKCN 'FWECVKQP %GTVKſECVKQP 4. Demonstrated Leadership and Organizational Ability 5. Availability prior to or on July 1, 2011 After submitting the online application Form (www.csobr.org), mail resume, transcript(s) and three letters of recommendation to: Deacon Joseph Scimeca %CVJQNKE 5EJQQNU 1HſEG P.O. Box 2028 Baton Rouge, LA 70821-2028 Deadline for Application: May 13, 2011 The schools of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.
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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 Johnette Benkovic E W T N ’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 day’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 hyper-sexualization 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 femininity and the unique role God has ordained for women. According to Mrs. Benkovic, “The salvation of the world depends on women. “As women, God desires that we live out the fullness of our authentic femininity so that we can be those women of grace in our day and time, imaging our Blessed Lady that leads
this nation, this culture, our children, our families back to truth,� she says. Conference organizer Letitia Peyton states that sponsors are needed to help defray the cost of the conference and keep ticket prices affordable. “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,� states Peyton. “Our goal is to raise $25,000, which would allow us to host the event and have seed money for next year’s conference. We expect between 800-1,000 women to attend, so the initial impact on our area will be immense.� 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. May Birthdays Archbishop Harry J. Flynn
May 2 Father Donald N. Leger May 9 Father Ralph J. Landry May 11 Deacon Richard A. Picard May 14 Bishop Michael Jarrell May 15 Father Charles Langlois May 15 Deacon Eugene J. LeBouef May 17 Father Robert Seay OFM May 17 Father Martin C. Borcherding May 20 Deacon James B. Davis May 20 Father Wilson J. Matt May 20 Father Thomas Thanh Nguyen May 20 Deacon Christophert J. Doumit May 22 Deacon Paul D. Matte May 22 Father Millard Boyer May 23 Msgr. Lawrence M. Herpin May 23 Father Richard Wagner SSJ May 23 Father Mark Melancon May 27 Father Jason Vidrine May 29 Father Paul Deutch, SJ May 30
Acadiana Catholic
May 2011 Page 19
Flipping the fear about abortion By Father Frank Pavone
Early in my work at Priests for Life a woman wrote, “I can’t help but think that if twenty years ago I heard a sermon in my Church against abortion, I would have found the strength to keep my baby instead of killing my baby.” Since then, countless women, as well as men, have said the same. One day after Mass someone said, “Father, I had an abortion, and when I hear it spoken in Church, it does hurt – but please, keep preaching about it, because I gain great comfort in knowing that as a result of that preaching, someone else in the congregation will be spared having to go through all the pain that abortion itself brings.” Many priests are afraid to preach about abortion, and many of the laity ask me why. Fear, ultimately, is irrational; it is the abandonment of the help that comes
from reason. Yet one of the most frequent answers priests will give to the question of why they don’t address the issue is, “I don’t want to hurt those in the congregation who have had abortions.” Priests spend years of prayer and effort to develop the compassionate heart of a Good Shepherd, who tends to the wounds of the flock, applies the healing balm of God’s love and mercy, and never does anything to hurt the flock. But that should lead to preaching about abortion, not silence about it. The reason? Silence hurts the flock. One reason silence hurts is that it does not interpret itself. The priest may indeed have the best of intentions for keeping silent about abortion. But the woman or man sitting in the congregation and suffering from his/her involvement in abortion does not know those intentions. The fact that nothing is said about abortion may lead such a man or woman to conclude one of three things: a) Father doesn’t know about the pain I have from my abortion; b) Father knows my pain, but doesn’t
care; c) Father knows and cares about my pain, but there’s no hope. Nothing can be done to heal it. The fact, however, is that we do know, we do care, and there is hope and healing. Therefore we speak! We speak about abortion, which is devastating individuals and families more than anything else. We speak about its pain, and we extend the urgent invitation to healing, mercy, forgiveness and peace. Apostolates of Priests for Life like Rachel’s Vineyard (the world’s largest ministry of healing after abortion) and the Silent No More Awareness Campaign (whereby those who have had abortions and have found healing speak out about it) can assist the priest to convey effectively the message of healing. And then all the rest that we say about abortion will be better accepted, and more will avoid the pain to begin with. It’s time to flip the fear of preaching about abortion into a fear of what will happen if we don’t.
Essay contest winners
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from the Missions Contestants from St. Pius Elementary School in Lafayette were the winners in the essay contest sponsored for seventh graders in Catholic schools in the Central Region by the Lafayette Serra Club. Awards were presented after the upper grades school Mass on April 8. The group here includes, from left, front row, Joey Riedl, third place; Allyson Walker, second place, and Erin Guillory, first place; back row, Serra president George Arceneaux; Seventh grade teacher Daphne Musso; Serra vice president for vocations Will Charbonnet, contest chairman; seventh grade teacher Tanya Chiasson, contest coordinator. Cash prizes were presented of $100 for first place, $50 for second, and $25 for third place. All contestants received Certificates of Excellence. Essay topic was “how would you respond to an e-mail from God, asking ‘how do you feel about a religious vocation?’”
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Acadiana Catholic
Page 20 May 2011
Jr. Daughter Court # 54 places at state convention
Catholic Daughters of America Court #1401, Our Lady of Good Counsel of Loreauville, recently celebrated the 103rd birthday of Anite Gondron, pictured at left. Mrs. Gondron has been a member of Court #1401 for 64 years.
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Junior Daughter Court # 54, Knights of Peter Claver, of St. Martinville recently attended the Knights of Peter Claver Junior Knights and Junior Daughters state convention held in Lafayette. Junior Daughters Court # 54 placed first in the Quiz Bowl and Spelling Bee. Members competing were, some of whom are pictured: Raya Jacob, Janay Batiste,Janae Lee, Emily Raymond, Alysia Lee, Devin Bernard, Christalyn George and Saralyn George. The members will compete in these contests at the the Junior National Convention to be held in Los Angeles, California in July.
Cajun Camp 2011 to be offered for persons with disabilities LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Persons with Disabilities is pleased to announce that registration for Cajun Camp 2011 is now open. Two week-long sessions will be held, the first of which will be July 11-15, and the second will be July 18-22. Parents/ guardians may sign their children up for either session ($75 per child) or both ($150 per child). The deadline for registration and payment is June 27. Cajun Camp is open to children from the ages 4-13 who are deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing, or who are interested in learning sign language. Camp activities will include sign language, arts & crafts, health & nutrition/aerobics, swimming, indoor & outdoor sports and games, drama, dance, and field trips. There will also be a special Parents’ Day presentation on Friday, July 22,
following the camp’s 9:00 a.m. Mass. The camp is held each day from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Deaf Action Center in Lafayette. Parents and guardians must be prompt in picking up their children at the end of the day; an additional $10 fee will be required on the spot for any child who is picked up after 4:30 p.m. Cajun Camp is made possible through financial funding provided by the Lafayette Diocese, as well as donations from various other organizations. For additional information, please contact the Deaf Action Center at (337) 232-3463.
Acadiana Catholic
May 2011 Page 21
‘Pius Outreach’ works to bring people into the Church By Bill Bellefontaine St. Pius X Church LAFAYETTE Evangelization has been active for several years at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Lafayette. Teams are put together with the idea that the same people working together will develop into strong and effective teams. E a c h team goes Bill Bellefontaine out into the parish on the first Saturday of each month. A meeting takes place before we begin in order to organize and do some training. Formation meetings are held on the third Saturday of each month. In every generation, the Church must regenerate itself. In order to do this it is necessary to pass on the true Faith to all humanity. Every baptized person has this responsibility to participate in this great need to maintain the Church and help it grow. God has given parents the responsibility to give the faith to their children, and to make them active members of the Church. People lose their faith for many reasons, and it is the will of God that these lost souls return to their Church. Without the Church it would not be possible to learn the true teachings of Christ, receive the Sacraments, and the graces we need to have in our struggle
for salvation. With Jesus’ death on the cross, he has made eternal life available to every person, but he expects us to cooperate and to come to his Church and do what is required to keep our souls healthy and in the state of Grace. When we evangelize we simply knock on the door. One of this team’s members is taking notes and is praying, while the other member is talking. The Holy Spirit is always with us and we will always be inspired about what to say in difficult moments. When the door is opened, we say that we are from St. Pius X Catholic Church, and today is our mission Saturday, and we are looking for baptized Catholics. Do any live here? If the answer is yes, we then ask if they are active members. At this point we begin to learn what we need to know. Some of the discoveries we make are as follows: 1. A young couple needs to have their baby baptized and needs help. 2. An elderly couple is unable to leave their home and needs the Sacraments. 3. A Catholic who has abandoned his faith. 4. A Non-Catholic wanting to come into the Church. 5. A Catholic dying without the Sacraments of the Church. 6. A person who is angry at the Church. 7. A mixed marriage which is starving for Christ. 8. A couple in their second marriage where there was a di-
vorce involved and they are not practicing their faith. We never try to debate differences, we are there to discover needs, and determine if followup is needed. Our goal is to plant the seed. The follow-up is to assure that the seed is firmly planted. It may be a letter, a second visit, a call from our evangelization minister or the attention of our pastor. In all cases where letters are sent we ask our pastor to approve them. In all of these different cases
nothing really happens until God wills it. The teams follow up on their own discoveries. This works well because no introduction is needed on the second visit, because they know why we are there. We give them encouragement, in a loving way, and offer whatever help that may be required. There is nothing more satisfying than to see the green blade appear and have the seed bear its fruit. This work is charitable, noble and Holy, and is a duty required of all Christians in their own capacity.
St. Michael’s celebrates life
At St. Michael School in Crowley, the pre-K class recently enjoyed a “Celebration of Life” by releasing butterflies they had raised from caterpillars. The class began their lesson on new life at the start of the Lenten season, watching the caterpillars turn into cocoons and then butterflies. On the morning of the celebration, the class looked on as one of their teachers assisted Father Gary Schexnayder in releasing the butterflies. Photo furnished by St. Michael School.
Page 22 May 2011
Acadiana Catholic
Acadiana Catholic
May 2011 Page 23
Honoring the Mother of us all: artistic Happy images of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mothers’ embraced The Pietà and welside the Pietà Chapel of St. PeIn 1498, Italian artist MichelDay lives. comed into our ter’s Basilica in Rome. Next to angelo was commissioned to craft Encouraged St. Peter’s tomb, it is the second
By Stephanie R. Martin On Sunday, May 8, mothers everywhere will be honored with a day that has been set aside especially for them. They will receive gifts—flowers, jewelry, handmade cards, and other tokens— and they may even be taken out to eat at one of their favorite restaurants. Most importantly, however, they will be reminded that they are loved and cherished by their children. With such a day approaching, it also seems appropriate to take a little time to reflect on the Blessed Virgin Mary, who—in Christ’s own words—is the Mother of us all. “When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son.’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother.’ And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.” (John 19:26-27) Throughout the history of Catholicism, Mary has indeed been
This icon, The Eleusa Mother of God, was written by Faye Drobnic, Assistant to the Director of the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Worship; it is presently on display at the Immaculata Center in Lafayette. The stars on the shoulders and forehead of Mary’s robe symbolize her perpetual virginity. Likewise, the golden color of the Christ child’s robe symbolizes his divinity.
by her motherly love, we ask for her intercession through devotional prayers such as the rosary. We also honor her with a multitude of titles, which are often depicted in the images that are displayed inside our churches, museums, and even our homes. In fact, the many different visages of Mary have long since been the focus and inspiration of artists throughout the world. Some of the earliest examples of Marian art exist in the form of icons from the Byzantine era. They are popular in the eastern Christian churches (Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic), although in recent years the style has also gained popularity in western churches, especially the Roman Catholic and Episcopalian. Leg-
a piece for the funeral of a French cardinal named Jean de Billheres. Completed in 1499, the resulting work of art was the Pietà, which depicted the Blessed Virgin Mary cradling Christ’s body after the Crucifixion. Michelangelo was not the first artist who attempted to capture this endearing image, but today his version may very well be the most highly recognized piece of religious art in the entire world. Michelangelo was only 24 years old when he sculpted the Pietà, and it may surprise some to learn that the piece actually received negative criticism at first. Many felt that Michelangelo had missed the mark with his portrayal of Mary, because she appeared far too youthful to be the Mother of Christ. Michelangelo defended
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. (John 19:26-27) end has it that St. Luke created the very first icon of Mary with the child Jesus, and that he did so while she was still living. This particular depiction of Mary was further spurred in the art world after the First Council of Ephesus (which served as the third ecumenical council of the early Christian Church) officially declared Mary to be the Mother of God in 431. The Eleusa Mother of God In the eastern tradition of iconography, the Eleusa represents one of the main types of icons related to the Blessed Mother. It is a Greek word meaning “tenderness” or “loving kindness,” which refers to the deep love and affection that is depicted between Mary and her child, Jesus Christ. The influence of these early iconic images is prominent in later western works of art, such as the Madonna and Child by Duccio (circa 1300).
his interpretation by pointing out that Mary’s youthful appearance was a symbol of her purity, and that even time could never ravage the most blessed of women. Although replicas of the Pietà can be found in countless locations throughout the world, the original sculpture is housed in-
most visited place in the entire basilica.
Replicas of Michelangelo’s Pietà can be found in many religious settings. The statue above is located in the cemetery of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Mire. Photo by Cathy Bourque
The Lamentation While the Pietà is a popular image in the art of the Western Church, similar images can also be found in Byzantine icons. Mary’s grief and mourning remains apparent, but rather than cradling Christ’s body in her arms, she is often shown leaning over him as he lies shrouded on a bier. Just as in the case of the Eleusa, these earlier images most likely influenced the later Western imagery. continued on Page 24
This icon, entitled Lamentation, was also written by local iconographer Faye Drobnic.
Acadiana Catholic
Page 24 May 2011 Continued from Page 23 The Annunciation The Annunciation is another moment in Mary’s life which has often been illustrated. In the bible, it is recorded in the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke, when the archangel Gabriel visited Mary to announce that she would conceive and bear the Christ child. Variations of the scene were particularly popular in the artwork of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period, and remains equally popular even today. One such example can be found in the stained glass windows of the Church of the Assumption in Franklin. These windows were installed in 1928, and each one represents a gift to the church from an individual parishioner or a family. Their origins are German, and the parish pastor at that time—Msgr. Rousseau—travelled to the country personally in order to select them.
This stained glass window from the Church of the Assumption in Franklin illustrates the Annunciation, the event in which the archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary and delivered the message that she would conceive and bear the child Jesus Christ. Photo courtesy of www. churchofassumption.com
The Annunciation is not the church’s only tribute to Mary; in fact, each stained glass window along the side walls actually depicts a specific scene from her life, including her betrothal to Joseph, the Christmas story, the wedding at Cana, the Immaculate Conception, and several others. Additional photos and descriptions of these windows may be accessed online at www.churchofassumption.com.
This statue from the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau is modeled after a fresco known as Mater Admirabilis. The original fresco was painted in 1844, on the wall of a convent in Rome which belonged to the Religious of the Sacred Heart. The artist was a young postulant by the name of Pauline Perdrau. Photo by Stephanie Martin
Mater Admirabilis Of course, while the bible does reference many key events in Mary’s life as they correlated to Jesus Christ, the art world has also been known to offer us glimpses of a little more. Consider, for example, a piece of art which is now known as the Mater Admirabilis. It is a fresco painted by a postulant named Pauline Perdrau while she was residing in a convent of the Religious of the Sacred Heart in Rome. Perhaps inspired by her own youthfulness at the time, Pauline strove to portray the Virgin Mary as a young girl, dressed in soft pink with a book and a sewing basket at her feet to represent both the domesticity and the wisdom which would shape her future. The Mater, which received its name directly from Pope Pius IX when he visited the convent, has long since been embraced by the Religious of the Sacred Heart, and offered up to the girls they have taught in their academies as an example of all they should strive to be in their own lives. Thus far, the images featured in this article should certainly have helped to illustrate the Virgin Mary as a pure, chaste role model for all humankind. They have also shown her to be a very devoted, very loving Mother of Christ, but what images prevail to convince us that she is also to be embraced as our own loving and devoted mother? Why, as Catholics, do we believe in praying to Mary, asking for her intercession
and believing so firmly that she listens and sympathizes with us? To a certain degree, it’s a matter of faith, of course, but there are also many instances in which the Blessed Mother has proven her love for us in very tangible ways, and those way have also been recorded in art. Our Lady of Guadalupe In the year 1531, the Blessed Mother revealed herself to a poor Mexican peasant named Juan Diego while he was on his way to church. She spoke to him, identifying herself as the Mother of God and asking him to deliver the following message to his bishop: “I very much want and ardently desire that my hermitage be erected in this place. In it I will show and give to all people all my love, my compassion, my help, and my protection, because I am your merciful mother and the mother of all nations that live on this earth who would love me.” Juan Diego dutifully carried the Blessed Mother’s message twice to Mexico City, conveying it each time to the bishop, who did not believe him. When the Virgin Mary sent him for a third time, she also sent along a multitude of flowers she instructed him to gather from the hilltop where she appeared, to present as proof to the bishop. Juan Diego carried the flowers folded in his cloak all the way to Mexico City, and when he brought them to the bishop, everyone present was stunned to see the miraculous image of the Virgin—just as Juan Diego had described her—
Our Lady of Guadalupe is recognized as the Patroness of the Americas, as well as the Patroness of the Unborn. File photo
emblazoned on the fabric. This is the image that is so recognized today as Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas. The cloak—or “tilma”—on which the original image appeared was actually of very poor quality, and should have deteriorated over time. To further illustrate the Blessed Mother’s love for humankind, however, the tilma has withstood the ages in order to remain a physical symbol of her words to Juan Diego. Today, it is kept inside the Basicila of Guadalupe, built on the very spot chosen by the Blessed Mother. Our Lady of Lourdes Recently, in 2008, faithful Catholics throughout the world rejoiced in the 150th anniversary of another apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In February of 1858, a young French girl
To celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe each December, the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Hispanic Ministry sponsors a special Mass in honor of the occasion. Prior to the Mass, everyone is welcome to participate in the procession, as shown above during last year’s celebration at St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Church in Abbeville. Photo courtesy of the Office of Hispanic Ministry
Acadiana Catholic
May 2011 Page 25 Lafayette was established as a part of the Lafayette Diocese. Each year, to commemorate the message of its namesake, the church parish hosts a special monthly Mass and procession during the months of May to October—the same months during which the apparitions occurred. Further information regarding these special events may be accessed through the parish website, under the “About Us” section of www.fatimalafayette.org.
Although there are several replicas of the Lourdes grotto to be found throughout the Lafayette Diocese, this one outside of L’Eveche (the bishop’s house) next to the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is one of the oldest. It dates back to the 1920’s, not long after the diocese’s first bishop, Bishop Jules Jeanmard, moved into the home. File photo
named Bernadette Soubirous experienced her first encounter with a lady she later described as “exceedingly beautiful” and who encouraged her to pray the rosary. Over the next six months, Bernadette would experience a total of 18 such encounters with the lady, who is now believed by many to have been the Mother of God. The visage that Bernadette described became known as Our Lady of Lourdes, after the town near which she appeared. Although Bernadette was the only person to whom the Blessed Mother revealed herself, many have since travelled to the shrine that was established on the site where the apparitions occurred. Bishop Jules Jeanmard, the first bishop of the Lafayette Diocese, was among these pilgrims dur-
This artistic rendition of Our Lady of Fatima is located on the grounds of Our Lady of Fatima Church in Lafayette. The church parish commemorates the messages of Fatima with special monthly Masses and processions from May through October, when the original messages in Fatima, Portugal occurred. File photo
ing his lifetime. Approximately two years after he moved into L’Eveche (French for “the bishop’s house”) next to the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, a replica of the Lourdes grotto was erected in the front yard. Our Lady of Fatima During the months from May to October in 1917, the Blessed Mother once again expressed her love for humanity by appearing to three small children—Lúcia, Jacinta, and Fransisco—near Fatima, Portugal. In the messages she related through them, the Mother of God urged everyone to do penance and make sacrifices in order to save sinners. She also encouraged them to pray the rosary daily, as this devotional form of prayer was the key to both personal and world peace. By July 13, 1917, word had spread of the Virgin’s appearances to the children, and a large crowd gathered with them in the spot where their previous encounters had occurred. On that day, despite the fact that it had been wet and dreary for several days prior, the weather suddenly cleared. When the sun appeared, the crowd witnessed what many have called the “Miracle of the Sun.” Eye witness accounts vary as to exactly what was seen, but many reported that the sun visibly rotated and changed colors before their eyes. As this was happening, the three children said that their visual senses were bombarded with holy images, including that of St. Joseph and Jesus Christ blessing the people. A little more than 30 years later, Our Lady of Fatima Church in
Our Lady of the Assumption Of course, this article would be remiss without mention of Our Lady of the Assumption. This title honors the Roman Catholic belief that, at the end of her earthly life, Mary was bodily assumed into heaven. There is also great local significance associated with this particular title of Mary’s. In the year 1638, as many citizens of France were departing to colonize the new world, King Louis XII declared Mary as Patroness of the Kingdom. Thus, these newly forming French colonies were consecrated to her under the title of Our Lady of the Assumption. Three hundred years later, Pope Pius would also declare Our Lady of the Assumption as the Patroness of all Acadians, including those who settled in southwest Louisiana following their exile from Canada. Today, a total of 32 church parishes and three mission chapels within the Lafayette Diocese are dedicated to our Blessed Mother under her numerous titles. Also, one cannot overlook the devotion
which was expressed by the Lafayette Diocese’s very first bishop, Bishop Jules B . Jeanmard. His dedication to the Blessed Mother ran so deep that even though his actual birthday was in September, he chose to celebrate it on August 15, in conjunction with the Feast of the Assumption. He was very pleased with the fact that he was consecrated first bishop of the Lafayette Diocese on December 8, 1918, which is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, and installed to the position on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
This statue in front of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Port Barre depicts Our Lady of the Assumption, Patroness of the Acadians. Photo by Stephanie Martin
on December 12. In fact, before he left New Orleans for Lafayette, he celebrated his farewell Mass at the Ursiline Convent, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Prompt Succor. He made a special point of dedicating his new diocese to the Blessed Mother, and in doing so, asked her to take it under her special protection.
In Arnaudville, the Our Lady of Fatima Rosary Novena group recently celebrated its 38th anniversary. Founded by Mrs. Bernice Eusay (shown seated between Father Keenan Brown and Deacon Jim Davis), the group has been gathering to pray the rosary together, just as the Holy Mother pleaded for people to do in her Fatima messages. Photo submitted by Betty Sanders
Acadiana Catholic
Page 26 May 2011
The Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary Lord, have mercy.
Sinless Mother,
Pray for us.
Pray for us.
Lord, have mercy.
Pray for us.
Mystical Rose,
Queen assumed into
Christ, have mercy.
Dearest of Mothers,
Pray for us.
heaven,
Christ, have mercy.
Pray for us.
Tower of David,
Pray for us.
Lord, have mercy.
Model of motherhood,
Pray for us.
Queen of the rosary,
Lord, have mercy.
Pray for us.
Tower of Ivory,
Pray for us.
Mother of good counsel,
Pray for us.
Queen of families,
God, our Father in
Pray for us.
House of Gold,
Pray for us.
heaven,
Mother of our creator,
Pray for us.
Queen of peace,
Have mercy on us.
Pray for us.
Ark of the Covenant,
Pray for us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the
Mother of our Savior,
Pray for us.
world,
Pray for us.
Gate of Heaven,
Lamb of God, you take away the
Pray for us.
sins of the world,
Have mercy on us. God the Holy Spirit,
Virgin most wise,
Morning Star,
Have mercy on us.
Have mercy on us.
Pray for us.
Pray for us.
Lamb of God, you take away the
Holy Trinity, one God,
Virgin rightly praised,
Health of the sick,
sins of the world,
Have mercy on us.
Pray for us.
Pray for us.
Have mercy on us.
Virgin rightly renowned,
Refuge of sinners,
Lamb of God, you take away the
Holy Mary,
Pray for us.
Pray for us.
sins of the world,
Pray for us.
Virgin most powerful,
Comfort of the troubled,
Have mercy on us.
Holy Mother of God,
Pray for us.
Pray for us.
Pray for us,
Pray for us.
Virgin gentle in mercy,
Help of Christians,
holy Mother of God,
Most honored of Virgins,
Pray for us.
Pray for us.
That we may be madee worthy of
Pray for us.
Faithful virgin, Pray for us.
Mother of Christ,
the promises of Christ. Queen of angels,
Loving God, you are our creator
Pray for us.
and the benevolent giver of life.
Pray for us.
Mirror of Justice,
Queen of patriarchs and
Give to your people health in
Mother of the Church,
Pray for us.
prophets,
mind and body. Through the
Pray for us.
Throne of wisdom,
Pray for us.
intercession of the Virgin Mary,
Mother of divine Grace,
Pray for us.
Queen of apostles and martyrs,
free us from the sorrows of this
Pray for us.
Cause of our Joy,
Pray for us.
life and lead us to happiness
Mother most pure,
Pray for us.
Queen of confessors and virgins,
in the life to come. Grant this
Pray for us.
Shrine of the Spirit,
Pray for us.
through our Lord, Jesus Christ,
Mother of chaste love,
Pray for us.
Queen of all saints,
who lives and reigns with you, one
Pray for us.
Glory of Israel,
Pray for us.
God, for ever and ever.
Mother and virgin,
Pray for us.
Queen conceived without
Pray for us.
Vessel of selfless devotion,
original sin,
Amen.
Acadiana Catholic
May 2011 Page 27
Acadiana Catholic
Page 28 May 2011
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Acadiana Catholic
May 2011 Page 29
Guest editorial: Monthly Manna—“Obedience� By Deacon Jerry Bourg Good and faithful people struggle with it – priests struggle with it – married couples struggle with it – ‘obedience’. By definition ‘obedience’ is a state of being ‘obedient’ and obedient means to be submissive to the command of authority. Submissive, is definitely a word we don’t like. Submissive is a word that directly contradicts our human nature to be in control. Our struggle with obedience can be related to our discomfort with being submissive. If we look deeper into our struggle with ‘obedience’ we discover that first of all there is a lack of understanding or a lack of knowledge on our part. ‘Why?’ do I have to do or I am not allowed doing certain things. Going back to Genesis, the lack of understanding of Adam and Eve led them to the question, “Why not eat the fruit of the tree?� God’s command was not enough to overcome their failure to be obedient. In our lives what may express itself, as a lack of understanding is actually a lack of trust. We don’t trust the authority enough to be obedient to their instruction! We have more confidence and trust in ourselves than in others – even if the authority is God. Secondly, pride and arrogance can lead us to disobey. We place ourselves above those in authority. Have you ever heard – “I’m doing it my way, no matter what they say�? Pride and arrogance can affect our relationship with civil authority but it can destroy our relationship with God. We can reach a point when we believe that we know better than God. Being ‘obedient’ is not much fun – instead it is very difficult and requires work. We shy away from the outcome; we fear what will happen or what people will think.
Ed Boustany, left, director of the Office of Justice and Peace for the diocese is pictured with Deacon Jerry Bourg, right, during a recent “Monthly Manna� speakers program.
We need to obey “others� – our superiors (both civil and spiritual); we need to obey “ourselves� – obeying the laws of nature that we know are best for our well being. The most obvious, we need to obey “God�, but often the most difficult because it relies on faith! Since we have indeed been taken possession of by Jesus, we can look at his example of obedience to his parents, and to the will of his heavenly Father. We are called to ‘obedience’ – we are called to ‘holiness’. That explains the visual aid ‘Oh’- obedience/holiness. Being obedient is a humbling experience, but it is also the first step in being exulted. The Regional Pastoral Council of the South Region of the Diocese of Lafayette will host its next meeting of Monthly Manna on Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at the Forest Restaurant in Franklin. The gathering begins at 11:00 a.m., with lunch served at 11:30 a.m. at the cost of $10.00 per person. The speaker will be Rev. Canon Larry Wilkes, pastor of Episcopal Church of the Epiphany in New Iberia. Deacon Jerry Bourg is the Regional Assistant in the South Region; please contact him for more information on Monthly Manna at 337-578-2423.
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Acadiana Catholic
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This year’s religious jubilarians to be honored on May 12
LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Religious Brothers & Sisters will host its annual Jubilee celebration on Thursday, May 12 at the Immaculata Chapel in Lafayette. Bishop Michael Jarrell will celebrate a 5:00 p.m. Mass in honor of those celebrating 75, 70, 60, 50, and 25 years of religious life. The Mass will also be followed by dinner in Marian Hall. Please join the Acadiana Catholic in congratulating this year’s religious jubilarians. 75 Years Sr. Eulalia Boudreaux, MSC, was born in Eunice in 1917. She first entered religious life in September of 1936, made her first profession in 1938, and professed her final vows in 1941. She has served at all levels of education in the areas of New Orleans, Arnaudville, Ville Platte, Eunice, Opelousas, Houma, and Lake Charles; she has also served in education in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Additionally, she has served as librarian of Our Lady of Holy Cross College, secretary of the National Catholic Music Education Association and of the National Catholic Library Association of New Orleans; and as chairman of the high school section of GNOA Unit of Catholic Library Association. Sister Mary Germaine Buckingham, MSC, is a native of Lake Charles, born in 1921. She professed her final vows in August of 1943, and has served at all levels of education in New Orleans, Franklin, Plaquemine, Ville Platte, and Morgan City. She has also served as a faculty member, personnel director, and in Student Support Service at Our Lady of Holy Cross College in
New Orleans.
Sister Letitia Senegal, SSF, was born in Grand Coteau. She professed her final vows in August of 1945, at the Sisters of the Holy Family in New Orleans. Her assignments in Louisiana have included New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Donaldsonville, and Opelousas. She has also served in Texas, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, California, and Washington, DC. Presently, she is assigned to Holy Ghost Church in Opelousas. 70 Years Sister Cor Marie Foley, MSC, is a native of New Orleans. She has taught in elementary and secondary schools in New Orleans, Lake Charles, Houma, Franklin, and Morgan City; she has also taught in Ocean Springs and Laurel, Mississippi. She was involved in pastoral ministry in Morgan City, Cottonport, and Crowley, and spent nearly a decade living and working in St. Maurice Parish in New Iberia. She now resides at Prompt Succor Nursing Home in Opelousas. Sister Mary David Hecker, MSC, is also a native of New Orleans. After teaching in various schools staffed by the Marianites, she became principal of Holy Name of Mary School in Algiers, Louisiana. Additionally, she has volunteered with the Department of Rehabilitation at Orleans Parish Prison, served as Director of Novices for the Marianites, and worked as a missionary in Chile for eight years. She
has been an officer and member of the Holy Cross History Conference, and now resides at Prompt Succor Convent in Opelousas.
Sister Bernadine Hill, MSC, was educated by the Marianites in Plaquemine. She has taught at Marianite schools in Algiers, New Orleans, Ville Platte, Franklin, and Morgan City. She also ministered for 29 years in the Division of Education at Our Lady of Holy Cross College in New Orleans, from which she retired as Professor Emeritus in 2002. She currently resides in Prompt Succor Nursing Home in Opelousas. 60 Years Sister Verda F re d e r i c k , MSC, a native of Port Arthur, Texas, taught in elementary and secondary schools in Louisiana staffed by the Marianites. She also served as Administrator of Opelousas General Hospital; Director of the Social Apostolate and of Catholic Social Services for the diocese of Lafayette; Associate Director of Catholic Charities for the diocese of GalvestonHouston, Texas; Congregational Leader of the Marianites of Holy Cross; and Vice-President of Mission Integration for a Catholic healthcare system in Houston, Texas. She presently resides in Lafayette, Louisiana. Sister Marie Michelle Geerken, MHS, was born in Pascagoula, Mississippi. She entered religious life in 1951, and professed her vows at the chapel in Motherhouse Sisters of Most Holy Sacrament (Lafayette) in 1955. In Louisiana, she has served in schools in Breaux Bridge, Pineville, Destrehan, Jennings, New Orleans, Sulphur, and
Crowley. She has also served in schools in Alabama and New Mexico. Presently, she resides at Bethany Health Care Center in Lafayette. Sister Elizabeth Marie Gremillion, MSC, was born in Moreauville. She originally entered the Daughters of the Cross and served the congregation as a teacher, principal, superior, and councilor. She taught in schools in Monroe, Shreveport, Alexandria, Marksville, and Moreauville. In 1997, she transferred to the Marianites of Holy Cross and ministered in community service at Our Lady of Holy Cross Convent in New Orleans. She currently resides at Prompt Succor Convent in Opelousas, where she continues in community service to the sisters in the convent and nursing home. Sister Edna Mae Jones, SSF, is a native of Houston, Texas. She professed her final vows in August of 1959, at the Sisters of the Holy Family Motherhouse in New Orleans. She has served on many missions in Texas, Louisiana, and California, and is currently assigned to Holy Ghost Church in Opelousas. Sister Mildred Leonards, CDP, attributes her entry into the religious life to her uncle, a priest of the Diocese of Alexandria, who introduced her to the Sisters of Divine Providence of San Antonio, Texas. She has served as a teacher and principal, as Director of Religious Education in several
Acadiana Catholic church parishes, and as Vicar for Religious and diocesan Director for the Propagation of Faith in the Lafayette Diocese. Sister Anthony Richards, MHS, is a native of Pascagoula, Mississippi. She entered religious life in 1951 and professed her final vows in 1955. Since then, she has served in the areas of Gretna, New Orleans, Lafayette, and Crowley. She is presently retired. Sister Genevieve Sensat, MSC, is a native of Lake Arthur. She has taught in elementary schools in New Orleans and Franklin, and in both elementary and secondary schools in Lake Charles. In the past, she also served as Director of Formation, spent several years as a staff member of the Marianite leadership, and spent nine years as a missionary in Haiti. Presently, she resides at Prompt Succor Nursing Home in Opelousas. Sister Agnes Leonard Thevis, CDP, is a native of Crowley. She entered religious life in September of 1948 and professed her final vows at Our Lady of the Lake Conventual Chapel in San Antonio, Texas, in 1957. In Louisiana, she has served in the areas of Alexandria, Plaucheville, Crowley, Iota, Egan, Eunice, and Lafayette. She has also served in Oklahoma, and in the Texas towns of San Antonio, Ennis, and Rowena. Presently, she focuses her efforts on family ministry and personal health care.
May 2011 Page 31 Sister Lorr a i n e Landry, SSND, is a native of Port Allen. She professed her final vows in August of 1957 in St. Louis, Missouri and has served as both a teacher and principal in elementary and secondary education in Mississippi and Louisiana. She has also served in Provincial Leadership in Texas, and in the local towns of Lafayette, and New Iberia. Presently, she is retired and volunteers her time with PEPI. Sister Odile Theriot, O.Carm, was born in New Orleans. She professed her final vows in 1954, and has served in New Orleans, New Iberia, and Abbeville. Presently, she is Coordinator of retired sisters at St. Leo Convent in Lafayette. Sister Mary F a t i m a Mouton, O.Carm, is a native of Lafayette. Since entering religious life, she has taught in New Orleans, Abbeville, Rayne, Paincourtville, Westwego, and California. Presently, she serves as Spiritual Assistant to Lay Carmelites in Abbeville and New Iberia. Sisters Joan Herpin, MHS, and Leah Myers, MHS, are also celebrating 60 years of religious life. No further details were available at the time of publication. 50 Years Sister Mariette David, OCD, was born in Alexandria. She entered religious life
in 1959, and professed her final vows in May of 1964 at the Monastery of Mary, Mother of Grace in Lafayette. She continues to serve and reside in that location. Brother Clarence Fioke, FSC, is a native of New Orleans. He professed his final vows in Lafayette in 1961, and has since served in areas of New Mexico and South Dakota, as well as Louisiana. He currently resides at De La Salle Christian Brothers in Lafayette. Brother Samuel Martinez, FSC, is a native of Sante Fe, New Mexico. He made his final profession of vows in August of 1961 and has since served in the areas of San Antonio and El Paso, Texas, as well as New Orleans. He also worked as a missionary in the Philippines for five years. After dedicating himself as a teacher, principal,
and caregiver, he is now retired and resides at De La Salle in Lafayette. 25 Years Brother Timothy Coldwell, FSC, is a native of Denver, Colorado. He entered into religious life in 1974 and made his final profession of vows in August of 1986 in Sante Fe, New Mexico. He has served in areas throughout Louisiana, including Covington, New Orleans, Shreveport, and Lafayette. He has also served in Tucson, Arizona, and as International Secretary for Formation in Rome, Italy. Presently, he serves as Provincial at De La Salle in Lafayette. To read quotes from the jubilarians, regarding their experiences in religious life, please visit www.diolaf.org. The quotes may be found under the Religious Brothers & Sisters section, which may be accessed by selecting the “ABOUT US” tab in the green bar at the top of the page and then selecting “Religious Brothers & Sisters” from the pull-down menu.
‘Last Days of Jesus’ presented by St. Mary Church
The second annual “Last Days of Jesus” was presented by the religious education program of St. Mary Church in Lafayette. This interactive event was a multi-generational learning experience. As participants started their journey through the doors of Founders Hall, they were invited to imagine that they were ascending and entering Jerusalem, the city called “peace.” Seventy-five people were involved, some as young as 4 years old to some older adults. This learning experience included various learning stations or booths depicting the life and times of Jesus during his last days. These learning stations were tax collectors, synagogue, games, pottery, courtyard and house, bread sampling, food sampling, Middle Eastern dining, Last Supper, the Temple (Holy of Holies). In the church, participants found the empty tomb learning station with banners with statements of Jesus’ Passion and Crucifixion. At the conclusion a DVD, “The Real Face of Jesus,” was available for those who wished to view it. Families were encouraged to hear the rest of the story (The Resurrection) by attending Easter Mass. Pictured above are, from the left, Mary Gretchen Guillot, Margaret Hargroder, Cindy Guidry, Mary McGinn, Anne Orsak, Tiffany Foreman, Jennifer Sibille, Stacy Hutchinson, unidentified, and Paula Gibbens.
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‘Proclaiming the Kingdom’ is theme of conference for priests, deacons and seminarians LATROBE, PA Priests, deacons and seminarians are invited to spend four days reflecting on “Proclaiming the Kingdom: The Gospel of Matthew,” with Dr. Scott Hahn, June 13-16, 2011 on the grounds of St. Vincent Archabbey and Seminary in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Dr. Hahn will be joined by scholars including Dr. Brant Pitre of Notre Dame Seminary, New Orleans, and Dr. John Bergsma of Franciscan University of Steubenville. The days will be filled with discovery, in a leisurely, but stimulating environment. This is an excellent opportunity for clergy to contemplate the Scriptures more deeply – for prayer, for preaching, and for understanding. Residence hall accomodations will be either suite– or apartment–style. Suites have two bedrooms (single or double) that share a bath. Apartments have
four single bedrooms that share two baths and a common living space with kitchenette. Registration deadline is May 27, 2011. A $75 non-refundable deposit is required which will be applied to the registration fee of $550. Fee for seminarians is $250. For additional information concerning registration, please visit www.saintvincentseminary. edu or contact Dr. Michel Therrien at (724) 805-2324 or michel. therrien@email.stvincent.edu
Friends Day is Saturday, May 21 LAFAYETTE Friends Day is scheduled for Saturday, May 21, 2011 at the Community of Jesus Crucified, 421 1/2 Carmel Dr. in Lafayette. The day’s event begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 12:00 noon. The theme is “Dating and Waiting.” Father Randall Moreau will be the guest speaker. The topic he will speak on is from Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the Body. It is not necessary to register to attend. For more information please contact Gloria Matte at (337) 896-0524.
Unity Explosion 2011 is June 15-19, 2011 in Houston HOUSTON The Unity Explosion Conference 2011, being hosted by the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, will be presented at the Marriott Westchase, 2900 Briar Park Drive in Houston June 15 through 19. Theme for this year’s conference is, “Evangelization...Am I A Witness?” The Roderick J. Bell Institute for African American Sacred Music will present a 15-hour institute on June 15, from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., and rehearsal will be from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. The Bell Institute schedule for June 16 is from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Pre-registration for the Bell Institute is $75 per person and does not include meals. On-site registration is $100 per person. A variety of sacred music will be presented. Composers will present new music for the liturgical year; compositions will be available for purchase on site. Those wishing to submit music for presentation, please adhere to the fol-
lowing guidelines by May 30: All music works must be copyrighted or submitted with written permission from publishing companies and/or composers. Please supply a minimum of 150 copies for distribution. Invited clinicians include: Dr. Kevin Johnson, Dr. Andre LaCour, Dr. Jason Oby, Theola Booker, and many more. The Unity Explosion Conference will provide an experience that addresses the expressed ministerial, pastoral, evangelization, and liturgical needs of the participants. Suggested Conference attire is, Friday, Parish/Ministry T-shirt; Friday evening, Dinner Dress; Saturday, Unity T-shirt and Sunday, Cultural Attire. For further information please contact: www.unityexplosion-regionx.com or phone (713) 6524406. Email address is: diadet@ archgh.org Facebook address: Unity Region X, Myspace: Unity Explosion, Twitter: Unityexplosion.
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Bishop Jarrell presents altar server awards during special service LAFAYETTE Awards to outstanding altar servers in church parishes in the Central Region were presented by Bishop Michael Jarrell during a scripture service on April 13 in Immaculata Chapel. The annual presentation is sponsored by the Serra Club of Lafayette. In welcoming remarks, Serra President George Arceneaux noted that the young men and women were being recognized for ‘continuing service to the parish community by assisting in the celebration of the Eucharist.” Their pastors invited to describe this service cited them as “faithful, trustworthy, dedicated and committed to responsibilities; leaders who are dependable, devout and reverent; role models who are sincere in your love of God and family.” Assisting the bishop in the presentations were Serra chaplain Msgr. Charles J. Mallet and Vice President for Vocations, Bill Charbonnet. Bishop Jarrell, in his homily, commended the young men and
women and recalled the pleasures of his service as an altar server. The awards were presented to: from Lafayette, Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Andrew Joseph Mahtook; David James Furka, Holy Cross; Austin Babineaux, Immaculate Heart of Mary; Salinger Istre, Our Lady of Fatima; Essence Francis, Our Lady Queen of Peace; Jordan Broussard, St. Anthony; Jordan Kyle Berthelot, St. Edmond; Peyton McCarley, St. Elizabeth Seton; Justice Bruno, St. Genevieve; Myles Creek, St. Mary, Mother of the Church; Branson Michael Cambre, St. Pius X. Breaux Bridge, Kaitlin Champagne, St. Bernard; Jalen P. Vavasseuer, St. Francis of Assisi; Andre Serio, Sacred Heart, Broussard; Elizabeth Caro, Our Lady of Mercy, Henderson; Tate Michael Simon, St. Basil, Henderson; Kacey Grow, St. Joseph/ St. Louis, Parks; Alex Domangue, Sts. Peter and Paul, Scott; Logan Mouton, St. Rose of Lima, Cecilia; Marcus J. Harris, Jr., Our Lady of the Assumption, Caren-
Bishop Michael Jarrell, right, presented awards to outstanding altar servers in church parishes in the Central Region of the diocese. Pictured above, Tate Simon from St. Basil in Judice, receives his award from Bishop Jarrell. Msgr. Charles Mallet, center, assisted the bishop.
cro. The medal for Harris, who died four months ago, was accepted by his grandfather and the pastor who nominated him Father Peter Emusa. The award recipients, parents and family, pastors and Serrans enjoyed a light supper in Marian
Hall of Immaculata Center, after the chapel ceremonies.
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Father Keith LaBove talks about coming liturgy changes By Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE Forthcoming changes in the liturgy were discussed by Father Keith LaBove at the April 5 meeting of Food for the Journey. Father LaBove is pastor of St. Patrick Church, Lafayette and a hospital chaplain. He noted the changes will take effect on the First Sunday of Advent, November 27, and we should start preparing for them. The changes are mostly in the responses and some of the translations of the basic parts of the Mass, in the Sanctus, the Gloria, the memorial acclamations. The “dialogue” of the Mass will change. For example, instead of responding “The Lord be with you; and also with you,” we will answer, “and with your spirit.” Since the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s, some changes have been taking place, Father LaBove noted, and they are all intended that we should have “a deeper appreciation of the Eucharist.” “If you are familiar with anoth-
er language, you know there are different ways of saying different things. Looking back where we are coming from” Father LaBove continued, “The common language of Jesus’ time was Aramaic, but the whole area was Greek and this was the language of the first liturgy. We still say Kyrie which is Greek. But Greek lost prominence to Latin which continued until the 1965 translation (decreed by the Council) to the vernacular. (Each country can have Mass in its own language). Father LaBove noted that since the words are being changed, new music must be written to accommodate this. Some composers are writing new music and others are updating music . Workshops are being held all over the country to prepare musicians for the changes. There will be changes in what the priest says, Father LaBove advised. The opening prayer, the prayer over the gifts, in the Eucharistic prayer, these have been translated to a more formal style, he explained.
Father Keith LaBove, center, was the guest speaker at the April “Food for the Journey” speakers’ series at the Crowne Plaza Hotel (formerly Hotel Acadiana) in Lafayette. Pictured with Father LaBove are Father Thomas James, SVD, VE, regional vicar for the Central Region, left, and Mrs. Mary Bergeron, regional assistant to Father James.
“The changes will be a challenge, “ Father LaBove said. Now we have memorized the way we have been responding, and for a while we will have to read the new translations, “But we will get used to them” Father LaBove pointed out. “Every now and then we have to
buy a new missal” he concluded. Father LaBove was introduced by Mary Bergeron, executive assistant to Father Thomas James, S.V.D., vicar for the Central Region which sponsors Food for the Journey on the first Tuesday of each month at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.
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St. Pius singles group to resume meetings LAFAYETTE The St. Pius X Singles Group will begin again during the summer. The first meeting will be Thursday, June 9th. St. Pius X Singles Group is a family of friends who strive to balance the spiritual and social aspects of their lives. The group of single men and women over the age of 30 regularly plan socials and meetings with an array of interesting speakers. The group meets on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at St. Pius X Church (meeting room) at the corner of E. Bayou Parkway and Kaliste Saloom Road at 7:00 p.m. To be added to an email list, send your request to stpiusxsingles@aol. com or call the St. Pius office at 232-4656.
Acadiana Catholic
Loose change…changing lives for Breaux Bridge parish cancer families
Commissioned char coal drawings by Louisiana ar tist More than 500 St. Bernard (Breaux Bridge) students, faculty and staff collected bottles of loose change for “Change for Miles” benefiting Miles Perret Cancer Services (MPCS). The collected change totaled $7,621.47. Over the past three years, they have raised more than $25,000 in change through the Change for Miles campaign. All the funds raised will stay in Acadiana helping the more than 7,000 families MPCS has served with free cancer services since its inception in 2002. Change for Miles is a service project that teaches children about giving back to their community and helping local families with cancer. For more information on how to help, visit www.mileperret. org.
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The St. John Elementary fifth grade class portrayed the Way of the Cross on Thursday, April 21, 2011 on their school campus in Franklin. Pictured above are, from the left, Laine St. Blanc, a soldier, Noah Borne, Jesus, and Austin Champagne, a soldier. Photo submitted by St. John Elementary School.
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Diocesan Quiz Bowl winners announced Grand Coteau. Members participating were, Mrs. Mallory Manuel, teacher/coach; Raven Bouvier, Angel Scalisi, Isabel Milton, Hannah Broussard, Kate Edwards and Malarie Zaunbrecher. High scorers for the tournament were William Ganucheau from St. Thomas More and Elizabeth Morgan from Teurlings.
NCEA convention opens with New Orleans flavor, call to conversations
The winning team from St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette is pictured above. They are, from the left, Christine Wise, teacher/coach; Grant Krampe, Joseph Zeik, Floyd Carey and William Ganucheau.
In the tournament a High Scorer plaque is awarded at the end of the tournament. This year there were two high scorers. Receiving one of two High Scorer plaques was Teurlings student Elizabeth Morgan, left, and coach Carrieanne Ledet.
Second place winners for the JV Quiz Bowl were the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau. They are, from left to right, Mrs. Mallory Manuel, teacher/coach;Raven Bouvier, Angel Scalisi, Isabel Milton, Hannah Broussard, Kate Edwards and Malarie Zaunbrecher.
LAFAYETTE The Diocese of Lafayette recently sponsored its annual JV Quiz Bowl Tournament at Immaculata Center in Lafayette. All ten of the diocesan Catholic high schools participated. The winning team was from
St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette. Christine Wise was the teacher-coach; members of the team were, Grant Krampe, Joseph Zeik, Floyd Carey and William Ganucheau. Taking second place was the Academy of the Sacred Heart in
Receiving the other plaque for high scorer was STM student William Ganucheau. His coach, Chris Wise is pictured at the left.
NEW ORLEANS (CNS) More than 7,000 Catholic educators kicked off the National Catholic Educational Association’s annual convention with a New Orleans flavor April 26. Conventioneers were ushered out of the main hall of the New Orleans Convention Center by the rousing sounds of the St. Augustine High School Marching 100, St. Mary’s Academy and St. Mary’s Dominican High School bands and mini-floats topped with riders throwing beads and trinkets.
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Schools named for pope mark beatification with special Masses, events WASHINGTON (CNS) Pope John Paul II High School in Lacey, Wash., celebrated the May 1 beatification of the late pope with a prayer service and the showing of a video that celebrates his life and what he means to the school. Across the country, in Lecanto, Fla., a Catholic grade school bearing his name also plans to show videos about his “life history and his personal story” and to celebrate a memorial Mass, said principal Lou Whitaker. “He was such an inspirational leader. He will most likely go down in history as one of the most influential people in modern history,” she said in a telephone interview with Catholic News Service. There are currently 32 grade schools and high schools in the United States named for Pope John Paul. A 33rd school – a regional elementary school – will
open in the Detroit Archdiocese in the fall. Among other U.S. institutions named for the late pontiff are John Paul the Great Catholic University in San Diego; the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family at The Catholic University of America in Washington, and the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center, also in Washington.
ment officials confirmed the fire was “definitely a deliberate act.” As of April 20, a team of 50 investigators continued to examine evidence on the scene. While the church, which seated more than 1,000 people, was
declared a total loss, the sacristy suffered only smoke damage, saving vestments, lectionaries and sacred sacramental objects. Priests recovered the Blessed Sacrament from the partially melted tabernacle.
Day of Recollection in Mire
Parish, archdiocese vow to rebuild Catholic church destroyed by arson
HACIENDA HEIGHTS, Calif. (CNS) As Holy Week began, the pastor and parishioners of St. John Vianney Church, joined by Los Angeles Archbishop Jose H. Gomez, mourned the loss of their church, which was destroyed in a three-hour blaze set by one or more arsonists, but they vowed to rebuild it. “But we’re bigger than the building,” Msgr. Tim Nichols told the congregation at a vigil Mass April 16, celebrated some 40 yards away from the burned-out shell of the 42-year-old church. The church was set ablaze just 17 hours earlier. Law enforce-
The annual Day of Lenten Recollection was sponsored by the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Mire and hosted by the Catholic Daughters Court No. 2214. Msgr. Russell Harrington was host and guest speaker. Pictured from left, seated are Mitzi Arceneaux and Norma Higginbotham; second row, district deputy Anthelie Sonnier, regent Dot Stelly, Syliva Cahanin, and Delores DeRouen; third row, Mary Lou Bellard, Lou Meche, Lorena Besse, Ruby Gauthreaux, Janie Gardiner, secretary Gloria Pellerin and Alam Bouy; fourth row, Herona Castille, Sybil Blanchard, Msgr. Harrington, Vivian Prejean, Millie Broussard and Thelma Martin. Approximately 75 guests attended. (Acadian-Tribune photo by Josie Henry)
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CHS senior is scholarship winner NEW IBERIA Catholic High senior and CHS Beta Club president Ryan Durand was recently named a $1000 scholarship recipient in The National Beta Club Scholarship Program. R y a n Ryan Durand was chosen from a field of over 700 candidates; he was named as one of 266 semifinalists then selected as one of 219 scholarship winners.
Archbishop says Catholic homes play major role in fostering vocations WASHINGTON (CNS) The theme of Pope Benedict XVI’s message for the upcoming World Day of Prayer for Vocations points to the important role Catholic home life plays in the promotion of vocations to the priesthood and religious life, said Archbishop Robert J. Carlson of St. Louis. “The theme which the Holy Father chose places the burden on the local church to reflect on how it develops a culture of vo-
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‘Hopefest’ at St. Thomas More
The junior class of St. Thomas More Catholic High School recently sponsored the fourth annual Hopefest, a family event with food, music of local bands, and games. Proceeds from this year’s event benefited the Options program and Lafayette Catholic Social Services; each group received more than $16,000.
cations,” said the archbishop, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations. “We know that the vocation comes out of the home.” The papal message for the day of prayer, which will be observed May 15, was released Feb. 10 at the Vatican. The 2011 theme is “Proposing Vocations in the Local Church.” The pope said: “Every Christian community, every member of the church needs consciously to feel responsibility for promoting vocations,” especially in an era when God’s voice “seems to be drowned out by ‘other voices’
and his invitation to follow him by the gift of one’s own life may seem too difficult.” Pope Paul VI instituted the day of prayer in 1964 as a way for Catholics to focus on and pray for vocations. In an interview with Catholic News Service while he was in Washington in March, Archbishop Carlson said the majority of newly ordained priests said they were influenced by the parish in their discernment for the priesthood.
Social Studies Fair winners
Two Sacred Heart Jr. High (Ville Platte) students recently captured gold medals (1st place) at the Regional Social Studies Fair held recently at the Cajun Dome Convention Center in Lafayette. These students are now eligible to participate in the State Social Studies Fair to be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center on May 10th. Pictured above are, from the left, Sean Fontenot, 8th grade, son of Christine and John Fontenot. His project was entitled, “America’s Road to World War II”. He was entered in the Political Science division. Caroline Duplechin is shown at right. She is in the 7th grade and is the daughter of Betsy and Brent Duplechin. The title of her winning project is “Crisis in the Crescent City”. She was entered in the Economics division. Photo submitted by Sacred Heart School.
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LETTERS Letters to the editor policy: Letters to the Editor should be pertinent to articles that have appeared in the Acadiana Catholic or to events and issues that are taking place in the Diocese of Lafayette. We seek to provide a balanced representation of opinions. Opinions expressed by our readers do not necessarily reflect the position of this newspaper, its staff or publisher. Readers may agree or disagree with its content. We reserve the right to edit for length or clarity and exclude material deemed offensive or inappropriate for this publication. We also reserve the right to exclude material that includes personal attacks on others. Anonymous letters can not be published. Dear Editor: On behalf of religious women and men throughout the country, I want to express thanks for the outstanding generosity of the people of the Diocese of Lafayette in Louisana. The checks from the 2010 Retirement Fund for Religious appeal now are reaching our national office, and we are very grateful for the $97,814.24 contributed by Catholics from the diocese. This amount represents a 31% increase over the amount contributed in 2009, and we are deeply grateful. Given the status of our country’s economy and the particular challenges faced by the Gulf region, we realize that this represents sacrifices on the part of many.
You can be assured that all of those who contributed so generously will be remembered in prayer by the sisters, brothers and religious order priests who benefit from this kindness. May God’s shower His abundant blessings on all of the people of the Diocese of Lafayette. Sr. Janice Bader, CPPS Executive Director National Religious Retirement Office Washington, DC 20017
STM Golf Classic scheduled for May 9 LAFAYETTE The STM Golf Classic—the Johnny Foreman Memorial Tourney will be held on Monday, May 9, 2011, at Oakbourne Country Club in Lafayette. The 4-man scramble begins with lunch and registration at 12:00 noon, followed by a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. The event will also feature door prizes, refreshments on the course, and prizes for Closestto-the-Hole on all par 3s, as well as for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams. The player fee is $175, which includes green and cart fees, and a tournament shirt and hat. Proceeds will benefit STM atheletics. The tournament is sponsored by Moncla Companies. For further information—including sponsorship—please contact Danny Jones at (337) 593-8000 or djones@laopen.com. The registration form is available on the STM website, www.stmcougars.com.
St. Cecilia students present living Way of the Cross Opelousas Catholic School recently held its weeklong Educational Extravaganza ,focused on the human body. Pictured are elementary students at the “Respiratory System” station where parent volunteer Annette Papillion demonstrates how the lungs inflate and deflate. Some of the other activities during the week included nutrition and exercise lessons, CPR instruction for the older students, the “Body Walk” (a nine stop tour through the brain, mouth, stomach, small intestine, heart, lungs, bones, muscles and skin) and a health fair. Photo submitted by Opelousas Catholic School.
The eighth grade class of St. Cecilia School in Broussard performed the living Way of the Cross during Lent of this year. Each year, the eighth graders are asked to present the journey of Jesus Christ, from his condemnation by Pontius Pilate to his death on Calvary. After weeks of preparation, the students presented this drama for the entire student body and other guests in Bishop Jarrell Hall. Photo submitted by St. Cecilia School.
St. Francis School receives funds from Community Coffee
As part of the “Community Cash for Schools Program,” St. Francis School of Iota was presented with a check from Community Coffee in the amount of $1156.00. Parents, students, and friends collect UPCs (bar code) from all Community products and turn them into the school. They are then submitted to the Community Coffee Company. Each Community UPC is worth up to 15 cents, depending on the total number of UPCs collected. This money is then used for school improvements. Pictured above are Mrs. Cynthia Habetz, SFS principal and Thomas Greenlee, Community Coffee representative.
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Bishop Jarrell focuses on mission, “being sent” for Triduum Continued from page 3
example of Jesus...” The bishop suggested some licit pleasures which can be enjoyed but not overdone – golfing, fishing, traveling, gaming, TV surfing – all legitimate, but to be enjoyed in moderation. He also warned against “workaholics,’ not to do too much. “Each year we must ask ourselves about our resolve to joyfully sacrifice,” the bishop continued. “We must ask ourselves about our commitment to bring Christ’s love and peace to our brothers and sisters. Is it still enough for us?” he asked, “Does the original commitment made on the day of ordination still bring us life or do we seek lesser pursuits in a vain attempt to find satisfaction? We have experienced this failure. We need renewal and dedication,” the bishop emphasized. “Today we embrace again the discipline of joyful sacrifice, i.e. sacrifice without anger, without remorse, without self pity, ‘the Lord is upon me, He has sent me,’” Bishop Jarrell reminded. In earlier remarks, the bishop had cited the priest jubilarians who were introduced at this Mass. He offered congratulations, his prayers and “heartfelt thanks for their years of service to God’s people.” He also extended thanks to all of the priests in attendance and said he joined the people in praying for them “that you will enjoy satisfaction in your work, joy in your ministry and that the work of bringing Christ’s peace and love to our brothers and sisters will bring us closer to Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd our pastor.” He also asked that “ Mary our Mother, immaculately conceived, who has extended her maternal protection over the diocese for 93 years, will be your special protector as well,” he concluded. Participants in the Mass of Chrism were: lectors, Michael Raymond Morrison (first reading) and Juan Carlos Pagan (second reading). Deacons of the Mass: Rev. Mr. Garrett McIntyre, seminarian (Gospel reading); Rev. Mr. Nathan Comeaux and Rev. Mr. Johnathan Janise. Gift bearers: Mrs. Becky Diesi, Opelousas; Mrs. Gloria Sommers, Lyons Point; Mrs. Gina Borbas, Houston; Mrs. Connie Cormier, Lafayette; Mrs. Diann Derouen, St. Martinville and Mrs. Lisa Trumps, Lafayette. Presenters of the oils: Oil of the Sick, Ewing and Beverly Latimer, Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Lafayette; Oil of the Catechumens:
Ms. Donna Hanna, RCIA team member, Holy Cross, Lafayette; Oil of Chrism: Ms. Milan Milson, Confirmation candidate, St. Joseph Church, Broussard. Oil Bearers: Deacon Ken Soignier, Deacon Herd Guilbeau and Deacon Tom Sommers.
Good Friday reflection
“The Cross stands as a symbol of Christ’s victory over sin and death,” Bishop Michael Jarrell said in his homily at the Good Friday service of the Lord’s passion. Bishop Jarrell chose the image of Christ being nailed to the cross as a reminder of our participation in the act of crucifixion. “I want to reflect today on the motion of hammering. I have two questions, the first is have you been hammered this year? Nobody gets through life without being hammered. We reflect on our own lives to see what injustices we have suffered. Have we taken those to the cross? He related an encounter with a young man at his door, seeking the offices of the diocese, to learn the name of his baby, apparently born out of wedlock and placed for adoption. A small example of the way we get bothered. “Life is often unfair, we suffer injustices. Do we take these to the cross and ask Jesus about it as He is being nailed to the cross?” the bishop asked. Bishop Jarrell said he often reads about people concerned with injustice saying “a benevolent God would not do this,” or “God has a lot of explaining to do.” In reality, Bishop Jarrell said we should take these before our crucified Lord, “he has the answer. The Lord Himself was crucified for our sins,” he said. The second question the bishop proposed, “How have you hammered others? That too is part of our reflection. Jesus died for our sins, which means we also have hammered the nails. Have we asked forgiveness?” . “Our reflection today digs deeper into Christ’s suffering, the suffering of humanity and Christ’s salvation of the world,” the bishop concluded.
Easter Vigil: A message of joy, hope
“The Easter message is one of joy and hope,” Bishop Michael Jarrell said in his homily at the Easter vigil service in the Cathedral of St.
The Paschal candle is carried into the dark church where the people light their own candles from its fire. The Dark church and the Paschal candle represent the light of Christ entering into our darkened world. Photos by P.C. Piazza.
On Holy Thursday evening, the Washing of the Feet is an integral part of the Liturgy, symbolizing Christ’s washing of the disciples feet during the Last Supper. In the photo above, Father Chester Arceneaux, center, washes the feet of 12 parishioners of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist.
John the Evangelist. Not withstanding the many tragedies and disasters in today’s world, Bishop Jarrell emphasized, “Tonight in our Passover feast, the message is not pessimistic. It is glorious, triumphant... It is full of promises fulfilled and promises to be filled. The message of the Resurrection looks to the future, and it is a future full of hope,” the bishop said. Bishop Jarrell reviewed the incredible things which Christianity offers. “ The Eternal Word becomes flesh, God becomes man, amazing, but true indeed. Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah. It can’t be true. The scribes said we know this man, his family, He is from Galilee. Can any good come from Galilee? Impossible, but true indeed. “And his works, miraculous signs, a man born blind is given sight, Lazarus raised from the dead, finally Jesus raised from the dead, all impossible, but true indeed,” the bishop pointed out. “That is the message of life
which brings so much joy and hope, not only for Jesus but for all of us who are baptized in Him,” Bishop Jarrell said. The Old Testament scriptures read during the vigil service recall the Creation of the world, how God looked it over and found it good. “Tonight we look at the whole of creation and like God, we find it good” Bishop Jarrell continued. “We Christians are hopeful. We work for justice and peace for all people in the whole world, since all bear the image of our God,” he pointed out. “We are hopeful and our hope is centered in Christ, the Messiah, who passed over from death to life,” the bishop concluded. For all the ceremonies the bishop was assisted by clergy of the Cathedral including Father Chester Arceneaux, pastor; Msgr. Richard Mouton and Father Cyprien Eze, in residence. Special music was provided by the Cathedral choir and orchestra directed by Tom Niel.
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NCEA Distinguished Graduate
Opelousas Catholic School recently honored Albert J. Taylor with the N.C.E.A. Distinguished Graduate award for living his Catholic teachings through his significant contributions to the Catholic Church and community over his lifetime. An alumnus from the Holy Ghost 1947 class (now Opelousas Catholic), he is pictured at the reception on campus following the presentation of his award at the all-school mass in St. Landry Catholic Church.
Elise LaFleur places first in Mt. Carmel Social Studies Fair
Elise LaFleur, pictured above, a seventh grade student at Mt. Carmel Elementary in Abbeville placed first in the Mt. Carmel Social Studies fair recently. She also placed first at the parish social studies fair and second at the regional social studies fair in Lafayette. Her topic was the John F. Kennedy assassination entitled “Fatal Triangle – John F. Kennedy, Lee Harvey Oswald and Jack Ruby.” By placing second at regional, she will compete at the State Social Studies Fair in Lake Charles on May 10th, 2011. Elise is the daughter of Ricky and Cecile LaFleur.
Personal ordinariate for former Anglicans to reach nearly 1,000 LONDON (CNS) The first personal ordinariate created for former Anglicans who decided to enter the Catholic Church reached almost 1,000 by the end of the Easter Vigil. The personal ordinariate was established under Pope Benedict XVI’s November 2009 apostolic constitution “Anglicanorum coetibus.” It allows the group reception of former Anglicans into the Catholic Church while allowing them to retain much of their distinctive patrimony – including married priests – as well as their liturgical practices. Msgr. Keith Newton, who heads the ordinariate, told Catholic News Service that “many Anglicans are watching the process carefully. There will certainly be a second wave. This is only the beginning,” he said.
Vermilion Catholic Chi Upsilon club helps community
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May 2011
Vermilion Catholic Chi Upsilon club recently helped out their community by collecting and bringing gifts to the women and children at Faith House in Lafayette. The purpose of the club, which is led by Erin Hebert, is to offer the 9th-12th grade students of Vermilion Catholic a network of support in their choice to remain chaste until marriage.
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Helping those who help others
Shadow Way of the Cross presented by Rayne Catholic Elementary
Knights of Columbus Council #2398 (Breaux Bridge) recently made donations to the parish organizations, thus lending a helping hand to those who help others in St. Martin Parish. Pictured from left to right are: Cornell Boudreaux (council treasurer), Mike Hebert (representing Special Olympics), Hazel Roy (representing Eye Glass Fund), Anthony Russo (representing Arc of St. Martin Parish), and Dale Boudreaux (KC member of #2398 and District Deputy). Photo submitted by Lucy Ellender
During the Fridays of Lent, the students of Rayne Catholic Elementary School had a special activity for the school. Pictured above is a presentation of a “Shadow Way of the Cross.” The dramatic effect and the impact of the shadow images was especially moving according to students and faculty. Photo submitted by Rayne Catholic Elementary School.
Mother/daughter tea party in Loreauville
In Loreauville, Our Lady of Good Counsel Court #1401 recently sponsored a Mother/ Daughter tea party in St. Theresa Hall. All participants were treated to cake and punch, while the daughters made bookmarks and received refurbished Barbie dolls provided by CDA member Gladys Boutte. Photo submitted by Claudette Thibodeaux
Please support the 2011-2012 Bishop’s Services Appeal
Sts. Leo-Seton holds ‘FUNd Raiser’
Sts. Leo-Seton Catholic School in Lafayette recently held their FUNd Raiser, ”Running with Faith” Jog-A-Thon, kick-off assembly. Being one of the school’s two major fund raisers, students and staff alike anxiously await the annual spring event. This year’s theme is “Ride the SLS Wave.” Prior to the student assembly and start of the five week FUNd Raiser, staff joined together at their make-shift beach party for a fun kick off memory photo. Pictured left to right, back row, Tanning Turtle, Chris Mueschke; Flip Flopper, Trista Badeaux; Beach Body, Paul “Cap” Craig; Beach Body, Kenneth Green; Flip Flopper, Kim Cormier and Hula Dancer, Kellie Trosclair. Middle row, left to right, Diving Dolphin, Lettie Guilbeau; Pesky Pirate, Debbie Touchet and Hula Dancer, Mitzi Moss Duhon. Front row, left to right, Boogie Boarder, Stephanie Leger; Flip Flopper, Marie Hebert and Little Leo the Lion-Avery Cormier. Photo furnished by Sts. Leo-Seton Catholic School.
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