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PAGE 3 Spiritual New Year’s resolutions CJanuary 1, 2021ommentator Vol. 58, No. 24 2020 LPA NEWSPAPER OF THE YEAR thecatholiccommentator.org GLIMMER OF HOPE Virus vaccine distributed at OLOL

By Richard Meek The Catholic Commentator

Excitement, tempered by a pinch of uncertainty and a splash of concern, briefly overwhelmed Sophia Solomon. For the past 10 months Solomon, Senior Director of Nursing at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center Center in Baton Rouge, has witnessed firsthand COVID-19’s carnage. She has watched patients suffer, and even die, alone, minus the comfort of family and friends. She has helped console and counsel her nursing staff, who have endured Sophia Solomon, Senior Nursing Director at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, was the third person professional challenges they could have to receive the COVID-19 vaccine shot on Dec. 16. “I felt blessed to be a part of it,” she said. Photo provided by Grace Weber | Our Lady of the Lake never imagined. Regional Medical Center Finally, the moment she had so eagerly anticipated but was not sure VID-19 vaccine, Solomon’s emotions “I was excited; I felt emotional, al- wanted to cry a little bit but I wanted to would ever come, had arrived. Only began to surge, perhaps a summation of most to the point where I can’t believe hold it together. minutes away from receiving the CO- what has been such a tumultuous year. this is really here,” she said. “I felt like I SEE VACCINE PAGE 16 2020: A year of challenges By Debbie Shelley social distance” and “wash your continued their mission to serve the The Catholic Commentator hands” a mantra from health of- needy and vulnerable of society. ficials and other leaders. As Loui- But Catholics showed resil- Even though the sickly pall siana became a hotspot for CO- ience in the midst of the pandemic. of COVID-19 and social un- VID-19, and state mandates were Churches responded with mask- rest threatened to seal many issued, the diocese adjusted by making ministries, reaching out to dreams in a coffin in 2020, making liturgical changes. As Loui- their at-risk population and serving stories of courage, inspiration, siana shut down for several weeks, meals to healthcare workers. celebrations, dialogue, ordi- in-person Mass celebrations were Neighborhood “drive-by” Sta- nations and forward-looking cancelled. The impact was keenly tions of the Cross also provided an changes give glimpses of new felt by many parishioners when alternative for celebrating Good dreams and hope for the future. they could not gather to celebrate Friday. Parishes celebrated live- The Diocese of Baton Rouge Holy Week and Easter. streamed Masses so people could, found itself grappling with the Holy water and baptismal fonts and continue to do so, “attend Mass coronavirus pandemic, which were emptied and remain dry. from home” and receive spiritual Lucas Noel receives first Communion from Father Paul spread like a spider web across Non-profit organizations, such as Communion. Parishes and schools Gros, parochial vicar of St. George Church in Baton the globe, causing death and Society of St. Vincent de Paul, also also hosted virtual events and fun- Rouge, during weekday Mass, June 4. Photo by Bonny Van | The isolation, crippling economies struggled to find ways to protect draisers. Catholic Commentator and making “mask up,” “keep employees and volunteers as they SEE 2020 PAGE 8 2 The Catholic Commentator January 1, 2021 | DID YOU KNOW JMJ: Jesus, Mary & Joseph By Dina Dow splendor of God’s love and mercy, is real. Con- The Christmas glow sequently, since God’s light shines upon them Welcome to 2021! they become radiant in the light of God and, If you’re not ready to take the memorate primarily the visitation of Looking back on 2020, one may want thus, are beacons of light for others to follow, Christmas decorations down, leave the Magi to see the newborn Christ. to simply forget and move on. Yet, as faith- resulting in the fruitful witness of unity and them up! The Eastern Churches’ celebration ful people we know that God is with us, ev- adoration. Jesus is the light. He is the source Move those Wise Men closer to of Theophany celebrates Christ’s er-present in the darkest nights of our light as we profess in the manger scene so they can get an and is one of the holiest and brightest days. God never the , “I believe up-close look at the Christ Child and feast days of the liturgical calendar. abandons his flock. Prayerful- Life-Giving in one Lord, Jesus Christ … deliver their gifts. Put a log in the One traditional way to celebrate ly, recall 2020 and meditate on FAI H God from God, light from light, fireplace and let the glow from the Epiphany involves using blessed these phrases, “Looking back, 2020 true God from true God …” fire and Christmas lights be part of chalk (by a priest) to mark the door- was … (complete the thought).” and “I As disciples of Jesus Christ the heavenly glow that comes from ways of homes with the current year have learned this past year to … (complete we are called to be radiant in his light, draw- the Epiphany, which and the initials of the the thought).” Follow this up with, “I am most ing others nearer to Jesus by the rays of his highlights the divine traditional names of grateful for … (complete the thought).” How splendor streaming forth from our life by our and majestic nature the Three Wise Men: has faith enlightened my experience? confident witness of faith, prayer, actions, of Christ. Caspar (C), Melchior January seems to be the month of renew- words, decisions; all of which in some way Epiphany comes (M) and Balthasar al, invoking promises we make for a “better or another impact the community in which from the Greek word (B). The practice way of living” that at times may wane as the we live, beginning in our homes. When oth- “epiphania,” or invokes a blessing year progresses. A substantial way to begin ers see us, do they see our source, the light “manifestation.” on those who live in the new year is to ask God, our heavenly fa- of Christ? The feast of Epiph- the house and – in ther who knows us better than we know our- M: Mary as Revealer of Truth any, also known as remembrance of the selves, “What are you calling me to renew In his Letter to the Ephesians, St. Paul “three kings day,” is Magi – all visitors to this year?” Spiritual resolutions are powerful reminds us of the stewardship of grace. By traditionally cele- the home. commitments for life, here present and life grace the mystery of Jesus Christ was re- brated the 12th day Another Italian eternal. In making spiritual resolutions we vealed to him for the benefit of generations after Christmas, tradition is of the are truly striving for holiness. If this is the to come. Grace is a “participation in the life Jan. 6. In the dioceses of the United “Befana.” In many parts of Italy and case, then it is most helpful for one to have of God and introduces us into the intimacy of States this feast has been moved to other countries gift-giving takes guidance, spiritual guidance as a source of Trinitarian life.” God does not force us to act the Sunday between Jan. 2 and Jan. place on Epiphany. In Italy it typi- faith, hope and love. upon grace, rather we are given freedom (free 8. This year’s solemnity will be cele- cally includes the figure if an elderly Keeping the path of holiness in the fore- will) to respond “and along with freedom, brated Jan. 3. lady named Befana. front of our minds for 2021, I offer these sim- the power to know him and love him. The As early as the third century, the According to legend, the Magi, ple initials: JMJ, to become the center of dai- soul only enters freely into the communion of Eastern Church, celebrated the birth on their way to find the Christ Child, ly living. The monogram, comprised of the love” (The Catechism of the , of the redeemer, primarily as the stayed one night at the home of a first letters of names of the , was Paragraphs 1997, 2002). manifestation of God to man. The hard-working elderly woman, Befa- primary script noted at the top of worksheets, Mary, full of grace, reveals to us the truth name Epiphany was given to the na. She took wonderful care of the tests, essays and prayers during my Catholic of Jesus Christ. As we grow in knowledge of feast. Toward the end of the fourth travelers. They told her they were on school days. Our teachers in all classes made Jesus, we come to know Mary. As we come century, as the feast gradually came their way to find the divine child and it a point for students to begin each lesson to know Mary we grow in wisdom and love to be known and celebrated in the invited Befana to accompany them. with JMJ (Jesus, Mary and Joseph). How can of Jesus. She is always pointing us to her son. West, the adoration of the Christ But she was carrying out the chores the Holy Family be for us a source of daily St. John Paul II writes of Mary in the encycli- Child by the Magi or Wise Men was and explained she had too many hope in this new year? The upcoming Sunday cal “Mother of the Redeemer,” “(Mary) is the stressed. other things to do. readings for the celebrations of the Epipha- model of faith, hope and charity. Among all The Catholic meaning of the gifts After the Wise Men left, Befana ny of the Lord and Baptism of the Lord offer believers she is like a ‘mirror’ in which are re- the Wise Men bring to the Christ regretted her decision. She gathered insight into their life and for our walk in ho- flected in the most profound and ‘clear’ way Child is of symbolic importance: many gifts and left her house with liness. ‘the mighty works of God’ (Para. 2); she was the gold represents kingly power, her broom in hand. She spent her life J: Jesus as The Source of Light the first to believe … she summons the faith- incense the great high priest and searching for this special child. On The prophet Isaiah proclaimed to the ex- ful to her son and his sacrifice, and to love myrrh the burial of the Lord. Epiphany, Befana gave gifts to chil- iled nation, “Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! for the father. For this reason, Mary’s faith, In the early church, Christians, dren, hoping that one of the children Your light has come, the glory of the Lord according to the church’s apostolic witness, particularly those in the East, com- to whom she gave a gift was Christ. shines upon you” (60:1-6). God’s promise of the faith of individuals and communities, memorated the Epiphany as the So learn a lesson from Befana, restoration, to bring the Jews home, away of places and gatherings, and of the various Magi’s visitation of Christ at the don’t let the glow of Christmas fade from the darkness and into the light of the SEE GOSPEL PAGE 11 manger, his baptism in the Jordan too soon, follow that Christmas Star River and his miracle at the wed- and watch the beginning of many ding feast at Cana all in one feast of unfolding “epiphanies” of Christ the Epiphany. By the fourth century, throughout the year: both Christmas and Epiphany had “After their audience with the been set as separate feasts in some king they set out. And behold, the thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator dioceses. star that they had seen at its rising At the Council of Tours in 567, preceded them, until it came and Bishop Michael G. Duca Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager the church set both Christmas Day stopped over the place where the Father Tom Ranzino Associate Publisher Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation and Epiphany as feast days on Dec. child was. They were overjoyed at Richard Meek Editor Nicole Latiolais Graphic Designer 25 and Jan. 6, respectively, and seeing the star, and on entering the Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor named the 12 days between the house they saw the child with Mary feasts as the Christmas season. his mother. They prostrated them- The Catholic Commentator (ISSN 07460511; USPS 093-680) Published bi-weekly (every other week) by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge,1800 South Acadian Thruway, Over time, the Western Church selves and did him homage. Then Baton Rouge, LA 70808; 225-387-0983 or 225-387-0561. Periodical Postage Paid at Baton Rouge, LA. Copy must separated the remaining feasts into they opened their treasures and of- reach the above address by Wednesday for use in the next week’s paper. Subscription rate: $14.00 per year. POST- their own celebrations, leaving the fered him gifts of gold, frankincense MASTER, send address changes to The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746. celebration of the Epiphany to com- and myrrh” (Mt. 2: 9-11). January 1, 2021 The Catholic Commentator 3 Beginning the new year with spiritual resolutions By Richard Meek If you are always just orientated toward spiritual life, taught to The Catholic Commentator worldly things, then that neglects the to- him by his spiritual tality of who we are. adviser in the semi- Christmas is over, the eggnog is in “We have to address body and soul as nary. short supply and so naturally thoughts Christians.” He said A stands turn to the new year and those time-hon- Dina Dow, director of the Office of for adoration, remind- ored albeit unrealistic resolutions, such Evangelization and Catechesis for the ing one of being in the as running a marathon by next weekend Diocese of Baton Rouge, said there are presence of God; T is or losing 20 pounds before Epiphany. several occasions during the year when for asking oneself what Inevitably, those resolutions quickly attention is drawn to the interior life. She to be thankful for; R, lose steam and fade into the boot hill of said that is often seen during Lent but perhaps the most diffi- previous failed resolutions. also when the new year comes around and cult, is regrets, looking But what about spiritual resolutions the opportunity presents itself for self-as- at ways one might have for the new year, where one is focused on sessment of the previous year. failed God during the the soul rather than the body? “The Lord is expecting us to grow in day; I represents in- “Spiritual resolutions are very prac- holiness through our lives of virtue,” Dow tercession; and P is the tical and very healthy,” said Father Mat- said. plan from that point. thew Graham, pastor at Immaculate Father Graham said it is important to “It causes us to re- Conception Church in Denham Springs. establish smart goals, with smart mean- flect, to have a conver- “Hopefully your spiritual life impacts ing specific, measurable, attainable, rele- sation with God and your physical life and attitude and di- vant and timely. then causes us to ask, rection where you are always orientated. He uses the acronym ATRIP in his own ‘How do I make my Father Matthew Graham, pastor at spiritual life more con- Church in Denham Springs, recommended setting aside a crete?’ ” he said. place in one’s home to keep focused on prayer or having a cor- An effective start- ner of a room with a crucifix or the image of a . Photo by ing point is praying a Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator Vaccine not a moral obligation decade of the rosary a day, while focusing CNA – Catholics are not morally development. However, they did use on the mysteries, Father Graham said. Bible and start reading the Gospels. obliged to take the coronavirus vaccine aborted fetal cell lines in the testing to He said by praying one decade a day, in a Father Graham suggested starting not and should appeal to the Holy Spirit for see if they were effective,” the archbish- month a person will have prayed all four with a holy hour but with a manageable wisdom, Joseph F. Nau- op explained. “The AstraZeneca one, on mysteries of the rosary. holy five minutes. mann of Kansas City in Kansas has the other hand, does use these aborted He also recommended reading the dai- “Set the phone (for the time), put it said. fetal cell lines that go back to 1960 when ly Gospel readings. Or simply picking up a SEE RESOLUTIONS PAGE 16 Speaking on EWTN’S Pro-Life Week- the abortions actually occurred.” ly with host Catherine Hadro, Archbish- Archbishop Naumann said it was op Naumann, chair of the United States “important” to note that “these are very Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Pro-life old cell lines,” and that “it’s not like new Committee, said that while all three of abortions are happening because of CatholiC the available vaccines have ties to a cell these vaccines.” line derived from an abortion, it would Despite the abortion connection, not be illicit for a Catholic to receive Archbishop Naumann, echoing a recent them. • The most currentdecree schedules from thefor theCongregation churches in theof the SChoolS “We need to ask the Holy Spirit Diocese to of BatonDoctrine Rouge. of the Faith, stated the vac- give us wisdom and to make the right cinations are “licit and permissible,” choice, the moral choice for us,” Arch- though not obligatory for our people,’” bishop Naumann said. “And we have to said Archbishop Naumann. Week weigh these goods: the good of protect- The Congregation for the Doctrine • Lists Spanish and signed Masses for Hearing ing our health, the health of ourImpaired loved Masses.of Faith stated Dec. 21 that it is “mor- ones, the health of the community. ally acceptable” to receive COVID-19 Coming in the Jan. 29 issue “And also at the same time, stand vaccines produced using cell lines from strongly to protect innocent human life aborted fetuses when no alternative is and to bring an end to the culture of available. Of special interest to parents, The Catholic Schools Week death and to abortion.” This does not in any way imply a le- section will feature information about the Catholic schools A person who receives the vaccine, gitimation of the grave evil of the prac- in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, current registration for the said Archbishop Naumann, must be tice of abortion or that there is a moral motivated in part by a desire to protect endorsement of the use of cell lines pro- next school year, distinguished graduates and more. the common good. ceeding from aborted fetuses, the Vati- Archbishop Naumann said there was can congregation said. a “moral justification” to receiving the The CDF noted that there had been Deadline for this section is Jan. 15 vaccine, but that “not everyone has to “diverse and sometimes conflicting” make that decision.” messages made in the media by bishops Call Wanda Koch at 225-387-0983 Those who do receive the vaccine, and Catholic organizations. however, “are even more obligated” to The CDF’s statement, approved by or email [email protected]. urge pharmaceutical companies and the Francis on Dec. 17, went on to say government to strive to produce ethical that the spread of the coronavirus that THE CATHOLIC vaccines. causes COVID-19 poses a grave danger “With the Moderna and the Pfizer and therefore the moral duty to avoid vaccine, there were no aborted fetal the remote passive material coopera- C   cell lines used in the production or the tion is not obligatory. 4 The Catholic Commentator NATIONAL | INTERNATIONAL January 1, 2021 Pope stresses unity, solidarity in message CNA – appealed for a peace message, Cardinal Peter Turkson, “culture of care” in his message for the prefect of the for Promoting 2021 World Day of Peace released Dec. Integral Human Development, under- 17. lined that Pope Francis decided to focus “The culture of care … calls for a com- on a “culture of care” in this year’s peace mon, supportive and inclusive commit- message because of the coronavirus ment to protecting and promoting the pandemic, which aggravated deeply in- dignity and good of all, a willingness to terrelated crises involving food, climate, show care and compassion, to work for the economy and migration. reconciliation and healing, and to ad- Pope Francis began his message for vance mutual respect and acceptance. the World Day of Peace by saying that As such, it represents a privileged path he had been thinking especially for all to peace,” Pope Francis wrote in the those who lost family members or loved peace message. ones, and all who lost their jobs in 2020. “May we never yield to the temptation He also paid tribute to all the physi- to disregard others, especially those in cians, nurses, pharmacists, researchers, greatest need and to look the other way; volunteers, chaplains and hospital per- instead, may we strive daily, in concrete sonnel who “have made and are con- and practical ways, to form a communi- tinuing to make, great sacrifices to be ty composed of brothers and sisters who present to the sick, to alleviate their suf- accept and care for one another.” ferings and to save their lives.” Pope Francis wrote that he envi- “Indeed, many of them have died in sioned this culture of care as a way to the process. In paying tribute to them, I combat the “culture of indifference, renew my appeal to political leaders and waste and confrontation so prevalent in In his message for the 2021 World Youth Day, Pope Francis appealed for a “culture of the private sector to spare no effort to our time.” care,” envisioning that as a way to combat the “culture of indifference, waste and con- ensure access to COVID-19 vaccines and He pointed to the spiritual and cor- frontation.” CNA photo to the essential technologies needed to poral works of mercy and charity prac- care for the sick, the poor and those who ticed by the early church as an example. shared what they had, so that no one strove to make their community a wel- are most vulnerable,” he said. “The first generation of Christians among them would be in need. They coming home, concerned for every hu- Pope Francis also expressed disap- man need and ready to care for those pointment that “alongside all these tes- most in need. It became customary to timonies of love and solidarity, we have make voluntary offerings in order to also seen a surge in various forms of na- feed the poor, bury the dead and care tionalism, racism and xenophobia, and for orphans, the elderly and victims of wars and conflicts that bring only death disasters like shipwrecks,” he said. and destruction in their wake.” The pope also said the principles of The 2021 World Day of Peace mes- the church’s social doctrine served as sage included multiple quotations from the basis for a culture of care. He en- his newest encyclical, “Fratelli tutti.” couraged world leaders to use these The pope stressed the need for rela- principles as a “compass” to lead the tionships between nations to be inspired way to “a more humane future in the by fraternity, mutual respect, solidarity process of globalization.” and the observance of international law. He highlighted the principles of care He also urged that humanitarian law be for the dignity and rights of each per- respected. son, care for the common good, care “Tragically, many regions and com- through solidarity and care and protec- munities can no longer remember a time tion of creation. when they dwelt in security and peace. “This will enable us to esteem the Numerous cities have become epicen- value and dignity of every person, to ters of insecurity: citizens struggle to act together in solidarity for the com- maintain their normal routine in the mon good and to bring relief to those face of indiscriminate attacks by explo- suffering from poverty, disease, slavery, sives, artillery and small arms. Children armed conflicts and discrimination. are unable to study,” he said. I ask everyone to take this compass in “Men and women cannot work to sup- hand and to become a prophetic witness port their families. Famine is spreading of the culture of care, working to over- in places where it was previously un- come the many existing social inequali- known. People are being forced to take ties,” he said. flight, leaving behind not only their The World Day of Peace – instituted homes but also their family history and by St. Paul VI in 1968 – is celebrated their cultural roots.” each year on Jan. 1. The pope provides a “While such conflicts have many message for the occasion, which is sent causes, the result is always the same: to foreign ministers around the world. destruction and humanitarian crises. The pope’s message for the 2021 We need to stop and ask ourselves what World Day of Peace is entitled, “A Cul- has led our world to see conflict as some- ture of Care as a Path to Peace.” The thing normal, and how our hearts can pope published the message on his 84th be converted and our ways of thinking birthday. changed, in order to work for true peace At a press conference presenting the in solidarity and fraternity,” he said. January 1, 2021 The Catholic Commentator 5 FranU, LCTCS agreement beneficial for both systems Special to identifying itself as a continuing educa- The Catholic Commentator tion destination for two-year college stu- dents from across Louisiana. Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady “It is important for our students to University and Louisiana Community know they are valued and welcomed at and Technical College System signed a universities such as FranU. In particular, Transfer Articulation Agreement on Dec. this seamless transfer agreement will 15 at LCTCS. bolster bachelorette nursing graduates The partnership with FranU further and other much needed healthcare pro- expands the reach of LCTCS opportu- fessionals in the Capital City Region, but nities, allowing students to earn certif- also statewide.” icates, associate degrees and bachelors “We are grateful to FranU for recog- and beyond in the various healthcare nizing both the academic and technical pathways, LCTCS president Monty Sulli- capabilities and of our students,” he add- van said. He said those educational path- ed. ways along with continuing education “FranU is a private university that opportunities provide access to students serves the public good, and this transfer statewide to the healthcare programs of- agreement with our LCTCS partners is fered at FranU through to the doctoral a perfect example of how we contribute level. to the needs of Louisiana’s citizens and For example, FranU’s registered the organizations that hire them,” FranU Dr. Tina Holland, left, president of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, and nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing President Dr. Tina Holland said. “It is Monty Sullivan, president of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, program is a “state partner where they critically important that we collaborate, greet each other after announcing a Transfer Articulation Agreement with the two challenge LCTCS registered nurse grad- not just as higher education, but that we schools. Photo by Kaye Self | FranU uates to expand their role as professional work closely with employers as well. To- nurses and prepares registered nurses gether we can establish what I envision Holland said colleges and universi- the people who make this state work, to for graduate education.” to be a system of well-defined on-ramps ties, and the businesses that hire FranU see to it that Louisianans fulfill their God “We are excited to announce this and off-ramps for folks to enter and exit graduates need to work together, not just given potential, such that when you grow transfer agreement,” Sullivan said. subsequent levels of education in prepa- by taking and filling orders for certain your people, you also grow your organi- “Through this partnership, FranU is ration for the next work experience.” kinds of human capital, but to “invest in zation and Louisiana.”

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For as the heavens are of the children from that marriage? One of the na- emotions are noth- higher than the earth, so are my ways If the couple was free to marry tional program ing to be ashamed higher than your ways and my thoughts in the first place, any children Q hosts on Cath- of because they than your thoughts” (Is. 55:8–9). A born are legitimate regardless of olic Community Radio make God more “Emotions usually comprise our the fact that they later obtain a divorce stated that God has relatable to us. But responses to unexpected or uncontrol- and an annulment. no emotions because although God did lable events. But nothing can surprise Canon 1137 of The Code of Canon God is the same today, experience human or overwhelm that which is ‘the infinite Law states that “The children conceived tomorrow, always. emotions through act of being,’ so that means God lacks or born of a valid or putative marriage We can understand the human na- emotions. This doesn’t mean, howev- are legitimate.” Canon 1061 of the Code that on one hand, but ture he assumed er, that God is an impersonal force of defines putative: “An invalid marriage on the other hand we through his In- nature. It just means that although God is called putative if at least one party are confused and a carnation as Jesus has qualities we see in persons, God celebrated it in good faith, until both little dismayed. We Christ, God does himself is not a person, in the same parties become certain of its nulli- read about God being not experience way humans are persons. ty.” In other words, at least one of the moved or angered or Stump the emotions as part of “When the Bible describes God as parties considered the marriage to be pleased in many places his divine nature. having emotions such as anger, regret valid and there was no reason to think in the Old Testament. Deacon George Hooper The Incarnation or pleasure, we understand that these otherwise. We also read about makes God more are metaphors that describe how hu- The fact that a condition was later Jesus expressing what relatable precisely man beings relate to God, not how God established to render the union an- we consider emotions in the New Tes- because, as the The Catechism of the relates to us. Saying God is angry at nulled does not change the fact that the tament: His sadness about the death of Catholic Church says: ‘God transcends our sin or pleased with our obedience couple was thought to be married. The Lazarus, his emotions during the agony all creatures. We must therefore con- doesn’t mean God is reacting to some- Catholic Church, therefore, considers in the garden, etc. So, how can some- tinually purify our language of every- thing we did. It means we did some- their children to be legitimate, and to one say “God has no emotions?” thing in it that is limited, image-bound thing to alienate ourselves from God or my knowledge, they are also considered This is a “deep” question, so or imperfect, if we are not to confuse to draw us closer to him.” legitimate for civil purposes. I went to one of my research our image of God … with our human However, if a marriage is known to A sources, Catholic Answers. representations. Our human words DEACON HOOPER is a deacon assistant be invalid due to a known impediment Everything below is quoted from an always fall short of the mystery of God at Immaculate Conception Church in or lack of canonical form, children born article by Trent Horn, but there is much (42).’ Denham Springs. He can be reached at during that marriage are illegitimate. more. You can Google: Catholic An- If this is hard to grasp, remember [email protected].

Peace on Earth Blessings from The Catholic Commentator staff, Richard, Debbie, Wanda, Lisa and Nicole January 1, 2021 FAITH JOURNEY The Catholic Commentator 7 Pediatrician plays many roles in treating children By Debbie Shelley zenburg discovered pediatrics was his Another role is being a detective. ty of the children, as written about in the The Catholic Commentator calling. He completed his internship and “When (patients) are young they can’t Bible, and the Holy Spirit at work. residency training in pediatrics at Tulane tell you what’s wrong. They can’t speak “I laugh at some of the things they tell Pediatrician Dr. George J. Schwart- University in New Orleans. to you like an adult, so you try to figure me … I’ll walk into the room and they’ll zenburg teams up with families in their After his brothers moved to Baton things out,” said Schwartzenburg. scream, ‘I don’t want a shot!’ They’ll say, common goal of keeping children healthy Rouge, Schwartzenburg, his wife, Deb- He noted working with children re- ‘Your hair looks funny’ or ‘you have a big and happy. orah, and their growing family followed quires patience, working with them on nose,’ ” mused Schwartzenburg. Schwartzenburg, a Lake Charles na- suit and moved to the area in 1999 when their terms and helping them through Seeing God at work is the reward of tive, had several family members who Schwartzenburg joined The Pediatric their fears. Schwartzenburg’s were medical professionals, which drew Clinic, which merged with The Baton A third role for profession. him toward being a Rouge Clinic in 2017. Schwartzenburg, who Just as he sees doctor. They are active mem- is active in the Baton the beauty of a “I had older broth- bers of St. Thomas Rouge community beach or beautiful ers I looked up to for Bringing More Church in Ba- through his involve- sunrise, Schwart- their example,” said ton Rouge. ment with several zenburg sees that Schwartzenburg, one Schwartzenburg STM ministries, clubs same beauty “in a of 10 siblings. is board certified by and sporting events, newborn baby and Clifford, Ellis and JESUS the American Board is healer. all the patients I see, Edward Schwartz- To The of Pediatrics and is a “I always treat (my just as in nature.” enburg, all OB/GYN Fellow of the Ameri- patients) the same As a father of doctors, practiced to- can Academy of Pedi- way I would treat four, Schwartzen- gether. JOB atrics. During his ca- my own child,” said burg, who enjoys A graduate of St. reer, he has served as Schwartzenburg, backyard grilling Louis Catholic High School in Lake vice-president and president of the East whose patients often with family and Charles, Schwartzenburg received his Baton Rouge Pediatric Society, as call him “Dr. George.” friends, traveling Bachelor of Science degree at McNeese chief of pediatrics at Woman’s Hospital in During difficult Dr. George J. Schwartzenburg and conquering State University in Lake Charles. When Baton Rouge and is a current member of times, especially “DYI” projects, con- he entered LSU School of Medicine in the Woman’s Hospital Foundation. when a child is se- nects with the jour- Shreveport, where he received his medi- While “physician” is Schwartzenburg’s riously ill, Schwartzenburg said he has neys many of his patient’s families are go- cal degree, he thought he would become official occupation, he assumes multiple learned that “you ultimately have to rely ing through. And he approaches the care an OB/GYN physician like his brothers. roles in his daily interactions with chil- on faith in every situation.” of his patients not only with his pediatrics He noted, however, that “medical dren and families. “Without faith to lean on it would be so experience, but as a father as well. school is where you find out what your One role is teacher. very difficult,” said Schwartzenburg. “Getting a smile out of my patients, specialty is.” “I’m teaching (adults) everyday new But the challenges are eclipsed by the even when they don’t feel well, is a wel- In working with the children and fam- things that are going on,” said Schwartz- joys of Schwartzenburg’s profession. Ev- come and fulfilling challenge,” said ilies while pursuing his degree, Schwart- enburg. ery day he sees the innocence and hones- Schwartzenburg.

Printing some 40,000 copies every other week for the Diocese of Baton Rouge

PRECIOUS GIFTS – Seminarians in the Diocese of Baton Rouge recently gathered for a holy hour with THE CATHOLIC Bishop Michael G. Duca. Residents of Metanoia Manor, which is a safe haven for human trafficking victims, painted the Three Wise Men pictures to give to the seminarians. The girls literally spent hours ommentator CSERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 working on these priceless pieces. The seminarians were overwhelmed by these masterpieces and said they would treasure them forever and will be praying for all the girls. Bishop Duca, left, is pic- tured with Albert Blount and Ian Waller. Photo provided by Suzanne Payne | Office of Vocations THECATHOLICCOMMENTATOR.ORG 8 The Catholic Commentator | January 1, 2021 January 1, 2021 | The Catholic Commentator 9

[A] [B] [C]

[E] [A] Praying Act of Spiritual Communion unites Catholics with Christ in ab- [D] sence of Eucharist. Provided by Dina Dow [B] Kyla Beard gives out pastries to people in need visiting the food pantry at the St. Alphonsus Church in Greenwell Springs. [C] Several clergy members from the Diocese of Baton Rouge attended a prayer service led by Bishop Michael G. Duca, far right, at a proposed For- mosa Chemical plant in St. James. Attending, from left, were Father Mat- thew McCaughey, Deacon Alfred Adams, Father Vincent Dufresne, Father Tom Clark, Father Johnson and Deacon Chris Kellerman, who is scheduled to be ordained a priest in 2021. [D] On April 29, St. Margaret Queen of Scotland Church in Albany partnered with the SteaKhouse in Hammond to provide 100 meatloaf lunches to the workers.

area. The diocese, along with several School and Catholic High School, both in in ceremonies that were “scaled down” in  [F] 2020 church parishes and of Baton Rouge, as they were recognized as number of attendees but not in reverence From page 1 the Diocese of Baton Rouge, coordinated national Blue Ribbon Schools of Excel- and anointing of the Holy Spirit. On Aug. Couples married in scaled down ceremonies. Catholic insti- their relief efforts. lence. 1 Bishop Duca ordained Father Mathew tutions such as Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Univer- Adding some sparkle in the darkness in In October Catholic High School cel- Dunn as priest and Deacon Taylor Sanford sity in Baton Rouge graduated nurses on a “fast track” so they 2020 were anniversary and benchmark ebrated with a double orange and blue as transitional deacon at St. Joseph Cathe- Cristo Rey Baton Rouge could relieve frazzled medical workers. achievement celebrations. ribbon cutting ceremony for achieving dral in Baton Rouge. In Catholic schools, teachers held drive-by parades to say In January, St. Francis Xavier School a national record-setting sixth blue rib- One week later Bishop Duca ordained six Franciscan High School goodbye to their students, who left the classrooms for virtual and Church in Baton Rouge marked its bon and marking the official opening of new permanent , also at the cathe- lessons after the pandemic took hold. Graduates received their centennial celebration, showing how a its stunning Donnan Berry SC dral. Making history as the first graduat- celebrated its inaugural diplomas, albeit in much smaller ceremonies, to accommodate community can come together in the midst Student Center. ing class since the Diocese of Baton Rouge social distancing and safety standards, and showed creativity of adversity. St. Gerard School in Baton Rouge cel- and FranU collaborated together to offer graduating class with and spirit in doing so. Among those schools was Cristo Rey Father Joshua Johnson, pastor of Holy ebrated its 75th anniversary. Attendees a new diaconate formation program were Baton Rouge Franciscan High School, which held its inaugural Rosary Church in St. Amant, was interna- reminisced over Mardi Gras celebrations, Deacons Ehren Oschwald, Alec Campbell, an outdoor ceremony. graduation. tionally recognized as one of 12 people in scoring with “deadly jumpers” in basket- William Messenger, Gabriel Rico, Chris Once school was back in session for the fall, many students the world to restore people’s faith. As he ball games and meeting that “special some- Landry and Mark Reynaud. Smiles were evident as the came forward with smiles under their masks and were excited was honored, Holy Rosary received recog- one” resulting in a marriage that spanned And in envisioning the future, the dio- to see their peers after a long absence from the classroom and nition for its outreach to the poor and mar- several decades in the place that they call cese made history by appointing Ann Bol- graduates walked from adapted to new safety protocols. ginalized through its Full of Grace Café, “home.” tin as archivist, the first lay person to serve Even as the nation was in dire need of a COVID-19 vaccine a vision of Father Johnson’s that became Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospi- as chancellor in its 59-year history. Her ap- the football field where a it was further distressed over the outbreaks of violent protests a reality through the collaborative efforts tal in Baton Rouge celebrated the first an- pointment was among significant structur- [E] Bishop Michael G. Duca ordained in reaction to several killings of Blacks by white police. The and talents of parishioners. niversary. In March the hospital dedicated al changes, including the re-establishment Deacon Taylor Sanford, left, as transi- class photo was taken to Diocese of Baton Rouge was a beacon of light as it confronted In February, St. Gabriel Church in St. a newly opened chapel featuring rainbow- of the Bishop’s Cabinet to serve as an advi- tional deacon and Father Mathew racial prejudice by issuing statements condemning racial big- Gabriel celebrated living “his-story” for color stained glass windows that serve as sory council to Bishop Duca in administra- Dunn, right, to the priesthood during the area where the cars otry, hosting workshops and days of reflections and highlight- 250 years along the banks of the Missis- God’s presence to families with children tive matters at the Catholic Life Center. ordination ceremonies Aug. 1 at St. Jo- ing African Americans on the pathway to sainthood to pro- sippi River. facing medical crisis. As the new liturgical year dawned, the seph Cathedral in Baton Rouge. were parked and family mote racial harmony. Cupid also demonstrated he can “hit the In conjunction with its first anniversary, diocese launched a new redesigned web- [F] Bishop Michael G. Duca annoints When Formosa Plastics proposed to build a chemical site mark” as couples celebrating their 25th, the hospital also opened its newest addi- site that is not only an invitation to evan- the hands of Deacon Mark Reynaud members awaiting. in St. James Civil Parish at a gravesite for slaves, Bishop Mi- 50th, 65th & over anniversaries gathered tion to pediatric service offerings – a Level gelization but also an information outlet when he ordained him to the perma- chael G. Duca celebrated an All Day prayer service at at St. Thomas More Church in Baton Rouge III Surgical Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for all diocesan news. The website, which nent diaconate. Reymaud was part of Photos by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator the site. The event was attended by several clergy members for a Wedding Mass celebration and recep- (NICU). was launched on the First Sunday of Ad- the first class to graduate from the dia- from across the diocese and lay faithful. tion. Among those were Lloyd and Audrey While the coronavirus postponed, it did vent, provides information and resources conate formation program since it was The diocese also stood by its neighbors through an outpour- Schroeder, who celebrated eight decades of not stop the vocational call for men who to Catholic Life Center to employees as revamped by the Diocese of Baton ing of generosity when Hurricane Laura struck the Gulf Coast love and their 75th wedding anniversary. were ordained to the priesthood, transi- well as the entirety of the faithful of the Rouge and Fransican Missionaries of and southwest Louisiana, and particularly, the Lake Charles It was “cordon blue” time for St. Jude tional diaconate and permanent diaconate diocese. Our Lady University. 10 The Catholic Commentator January 1, 2021

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THE FIRST CHRISTMAS – Holy Ghost School in Hammond re- cently held their play “The First Christmas.” Brayleigh Bagot, upper left, portrays a glorious angel. Wiseman Trip Lynch, upper right, prepares to take his gift to baby Jesus. Jace Bar- ney, left, plays his drums as a drummer boy. Kylee Ridgel, below, portrays Mary as she sings “Breath of Heaven.” Photos provided by Cindy Wagner | Holy Ghost School

Joe Skibinski, Agent January 1, 2021 The Catholic Commentator 11

resurrection Christ gives this mission to his GOSPEL  1234 56789 11120 131 From page 2 apostles: ‘Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father 41 51 61 groups existing in the church, is passed on simul- and of the son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching 71 81 91 taneously through both the mind and the heart them to observe all that I have commanded you” continually through prayer. Mary is constantly (Para. 1223). 02 12 22 present on this journey of faith of the people of From his first public appearance on earth to his 243 2 265 2 God towards the light as she exclaims, ‘My soul last, Jesus bookends his mission with the com- magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God mand of baptism. What does this tell us? Review 72 82 209 313 my savior’ ” (Para. 42). Are we, like Mary, reveal- the passage, “On coming up out of the water he 332 343 53 63 ing the truth in Jesus Christ by our hope, prayer, (John the Baptist) saw the heavens being torn 73 398 3 04 sacrifices and trust? open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon J: Joseph as Protector of the Chosen him (Jesus). And a voice came from the heav- 14 24 34 The Gospel reading account of the visit of the ens, “You are my beloved son; with you I am well 44 54 64 Magi manifests the halting amount of trust need- pleased” (Mk 1: 10-11). ed for the path of holiness. The Magi, as you may The fullness of the was revealed, called 74 498 40515 recall, are inspired to follow the star which leads a Theophany, as the voice of the father reveals the 532 545 56575 5 85 them ultimately to the source of light, the Mes- son, and the Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus. He siah, an infant who entered the world in a family. is the chosen one. 95 06 16 Their encounter with Christ was abundant in joy, We are made for life in the Trinity. Unlike Je- 26 36 46 adoration and reverence, giving earthly gifts for sus, our redeemer, we need baptism for the grace the divine king. To protect the little one from the to overcome death to sin and welcome new life as 56 66 76 envy of King Herod, they, as directed by a divine new creatures in the mystical body of Christ. Bap- moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www warning in a dream, took another path home. tism is necessary for our . Jesus shows ACROSS DOWN Witnessing this profound encounter was Jo- us and is the way, the truth and the life. We are 1 “Your word is a ___ for my feet” (Ps 1 “So the king ordered Daniel to be seph, foster father of the Christ Child. In his life- invited to new life through the saving waters of 119:105) brought and cast into the ___ den.” time, Joseph also experienced divine interven- baptism where grace empowers virtues of faith to 5 Monastic press? (Dan 6:17) 10 Leaf of a book 2 Farewell, from Jacques tion in dreams, each time building upon existing believe, hope to look forward and love to live in 14 Notion 3 Watery fruit virtues of faith, hope and love with strength, re- the fullness of life in Christ for today and for eter- 15 Contract 4 A step in ballet assurance, trust and confidence, as he protected nity, as Isaiah proclaims, “You will draw water 16 Land measure 5 “Behold, I am with you ___…” (Mt 17 Lubricates 28:20) Jesus and Mary. Joseph is the protector of the joyfully from the springs of salvation. (Is 12:3).” 18 Narrowest part of the torso 6 Type of bag chosen one. Titles which describe this incredible A simple way to begin 2021 is by a spiritual re- 19 Something we all look for 7 Parisian bath man are “worker, husband, foster father, most newal in our baptismal promises: Do you reject 20 Fascist leader? 8 Writer pure, most obedient, mirror of patience, as well Satan and all his works and all his empty prom- 21 Desert food 9 Nevertheless 22 They are just what the doctor 10 Juan’s clergyman as patron of the dying, of the universal church, ises? Do you renounce sin, so as to live in the ordered 11 Suffix ool.)(z of fathers, travelers, immigrants, protector of the freedom of the children of God? Do you believe 23 The Lord’s Day 12 Between white and black , zealous defender of Christ and my per- in God, the father almighty, creator of heaven and 25 “For my ___ is easy, and my burden 13 Long fish sonal favorite, terror of demons. How fitting it is earth? Do you believe in Jesus Christ, his only is light.” (Mt 11:30) 21 “O ___! We crown thee with blos- 27 Catholic international aid org. soms today” for Pope Francis to call the faithful people into son, our Lord, who was born of the Virgin Mary, 28 KFC add-on 22 Classic Jags a Year of St. Joseph, through the encyclical “Pa- suffered death and was buried, rose again from 29 TV station 24 705, to Cato tris Corde” (translated “With a Father’s Heart”) the dead and is seated at the right hand of the fa- 32 “Have ___ on us” 26 Lyric poems on the 150th anniversary of the proclamation of ther? Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy 35 Employs 28 Catholic Academy Award-winning 36 Smelter input actress Hayward St. Joseph as patron of the Universal Church, that Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the 37 Sch. of higher learning 29 NYC nightclub began Dec. 8. Are we, like St. Joseph, striving to forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, 38 Communion wafers 30 Bric-a-___ protect the call to faith, hope and love by foster- and life everlasting? 40 Foretell 31 Search 41 Religious instruction, formerly 32 Great in quantity ing others on their pilgrim journey? Are we ador- May we, in this New Year, joyfully respond to (abbr.) 33 Differ ending ing God in our life? Are we, in modeling St. Jo- our baptismal promises and strive for holiness 42 Conclusion 34 Astronaut Sally seph, listening and responding to God’s call with as we embrace the Holy Family to become our 43 Clerical color 38 Tarsus, to Paul open minds and hearts? source of light, truth and protection. JMJ. 44 Half a laugh 39 Distance measuring instrument 45 “Let’s go” 40 Belgrade resident The chosen: Baptized in Christ 46 Gaslight, for one 42 202, in ancient Rome We read in the catechism, “Jesus begins his Dow is the director of the Office of Evangeli- 47 Per ___ 43 Spoiled child public life after having himself baptized by St. zation and Catechesis for the Diocese of Baton 48 Priest and missionary to the Far East 46 Practiced John the Baptist in the Jordan River. After his Rouge. 52 Veranda 47 Catholic comedian DeVito 55 Joseph was sold into slavery here 49 Inspire profoundly 58 High-tech hosp. test 50 Take off the board 59 East of Eden son 51 He is ___! THE CATHOLIC COMMENTATOR 60 Kitchen top 52 Refrain syllables 61 French protest cry 53 Mars, to the Greeks 62 Part of Cassius’ look, in Julius Caesar 54 Genesis skipper 63 Rock the Church is built on 56 Reliable kind of guy 64 Think 57 Dominican theologian Congar 65 Wan 60 Burn-prevention rating, briefly Hot-off the Press 66 Winter Jack 61 Total (abbr.) 67 Prom attendee Solution on page 14 & Delivered to You for Only $14 per year TO SUBSCRIBE, CALL 225-387-0983. 12 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT January 1, 2021 An odd year New Year’s resolutions

nd so it ends. A A year in a time of pandemic that brought unprecedented ur publishing date for this issue bors and plague. Egyptian first-born and finally drowns death, despair of The Catholic Commentator In this particular story King David Pharaoh’s army. Certainly the author and destruction Ois New Year’s Day. Tradition- has been blessed after years of war and of Exodus, which is a divinely inspired finally gasped its ally we are supposed to greet the day hardship by hard won peace and pros- book, is not saying that any of this hap- last breath only prepared with resolutions to make the perity. But King David does not trust pened naturally. But the end of all this (depending on coming year better than the last. If that God will continue to bless him. violence leaves the Jews in the desert when you read- resolutions were wishes, resolution He would rather be completely domi- of Arabia preparing to receive the ing this) hours number one for nearly everyone would nant over his neighboring kingdoms. Holy Land as God’s gift and become a ago. probably be, “May I So he calls for a census nation. From there will come the Mes- It was a year never see another year so that he may be able to siah, God’s true son, and his disciples in which terms Wandering like 2020.” However, conscript more soldiers who will spread his church throughout such as pandem- the coronavirus pan- and raise more taxes to the world. ic, quarantine, Catholic demic will last in our na- pay them. Lesson two: God works to bring vaccine, PPE, tion well into 2021 until God is not pleased. good out of evil, even out of human- n95, asymptom- Richard Meek somewhere between He wants King David ity’s history of violence. I can’t help atic and contact 70% and 90% of our and his people to trust thinking of our modern example tracing infiltrated our vernacular; a year population is vaccinated. God to keep his prom- of World War II where God seems in which masks were not only mandatory And then, what will we ises. So, through his to have used Walter Churchill and but actually became fashion accessories, do? What will the recov- prophet, Gad, God tells President Franklin Roosevelt, Gen- with many carefully selecting the mask ery look like? What will King David that he will eral Dwight Eisenhower and General du jour to match the outfit; a year in it become in our medical suffer but he may pick Douglas McArthur and their fighting which we agonizingly watched our loved community, our busi- his poison. It can be men and women to end the horror ones die alone, surrounded not by family ness community, our famine, war or plague. of Nazism and Japanese militarism. but by machines humming the tune of work force community, Another King David surprisingly God then saved not only the Jews but death; a year in which a deadly disease our church community chooses plague. Famine much of humanity itself. was politicized and actually became a and our core community, Perspective could happen naturally Finally, there are some catastrophes flash point in a presidential election; a the family? in Palestine where there that are beyond our understanding year in which our cities burned, as racial I have no crystal ball, Father John Carville was a lot of arid land but not our faith. Accidents, storms, unrest bubbled over into the streets; a and I am neither politi- subject to long draught fires, earthquakes, cancer and other year in which the names George Floyd cian nor economist. Heck, I don’t even and hungry locusts. His people could diseases like COVID-19 cut short lives and Breonna Taylor will forever be etched have a wife, children and grandchil- suffer for a long time, especially the that had so much promise and were so in our memory and a permanent stain on dren, but as a priest I am as curious as poor in the countryside. dear to us. We are left asking why, and the American conscious; a year in which anyone about what this experience of King David was the greatest general we know there is no answer short of Louisiana was the gateway for six hur- a pandemic will mean for our future, of his day. He knew the kind of war reunion in heaven. ricane/tropical storms slamming into its especially for our church community that would be waged, sparing neither God, however, let his own son suffer fragile coast; a year in which hurricane for which I have some responsibility. women nor children. Also, what crops such a death and then raised him to season itself set unprecedented records; And that means that hopes and wishes there were would be confiscated for show us that death is not the end of us. a year in which colleges and professional must become resolutions that lead to the enemy soldiers. People of his day He also inspired an unknown author teams risked the lives of so many by fool- some kind of action. I have read as often connected disease with a direct in the Old Testament to describe the ishly attempting to stage football seasons; much as I could about the pandemic act of God. They knew nothing about faith of Job. a year in which we went into the holiday and our faith life together and have viruses. So King David bet on God’s Job would not reject God despite his season not even sure who was going to be been impressed by two experts whose mercy and forgiveness. God would not great losses. Instead he proclaimed: “I our next president. direction I found helpful. let his people suffer overlong. King know that my Redeemer lives ... And This past year, and let’s just call it The first is Walter Brueggemann, David wrote “... your kindness O Lord, from my flesh I shall see God; my in- that and never allow the number of the one of the great Biblical scholars writ- endures forever; forsake not the work most being is consumed with longing” actual year to cross our lips ever again, ing today. He is not afraid to ask the of your hands” (Ps 138:8). King David (Jb: 19:25-27). was one in which, at some point, we were question, “What is God calling us to do trusted that he would find mercy in Lesson three: When catastrophe all forced to look into the mirror, to take in times of great catastrophes like this God, not in human hands. And he strikes and we are overcome with no stock or even reevaluate our lives, to pandemic? Brueggemann’s response is knew that he must ask for it in prayer. answer to our why, look at a crucifix. learn to live with less, to redefine what found in a new book, “Virus as a Sum- Lesson number one: Catastrophes One day in heaven, God will answer was important. We all had our personal mons to Faith: Biblical Reflections in a will happen. They are built into nature our longing. struggles, whether they were mental, per- Time of Pandemic.” or often brought about by human evil. Bruggemann’s insights into Scrip- haps the most common, physical or even Brueggemann uses the example of God will help us, but he wants us to ture strengthen our faith for the new financial to overcome. King David in the Old Testament Book pray, to ask, to work with him using year in the midst of the pandemic. The Personally, for me it was two potential- of Samuel to explain how the ancient the skills we have learned through sci- second author I have read during this ly life threatening health issues. On two Jews thought of catastrophe and their ence and experience. time is Pope Francis. He has published occasions, when the tunnel of darkness relationship to God. Put simply, they There are other times when God a little book entitled “Life after the was so overwhelming I believed there was understood that when they were faith- did not wait for the Jews to sin before Pandemic.” His resolutions are more no light on the other side, I turned to the ful to God, they ate well, were safe in allowing evil to befall them. He cre- concrete. I will talk about them in my one person whom I love with all my heart their cities and countryside and also ated violence to save them. This is the next column. and simply said, “I don’t think I’m going safe from plague. When they were un- great lesson of the book of Exodus. to make it.” faithful, they usually faced three evils God works through Moses and Aaron FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest in the With her help, and because God obvi- or curses which were always possible to obtain freedom from slavery for Diocese of Baton Rouge and writes on ously has other plans for this cantanker- given their geographic locale and the his people. Pharaoh doesn’t com- current topics for The Catholic Com- ous old reporter, I survived. time in which they lived. These were ply. So God sends plaques of frogs mentator. He can be reached at johnny SEE MEEK PAGE 13 famine, attack by their pagan neigh- and locusts, causes the death of the [email protected]. January 1, 2021 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 13

MEEK  Our evolution in admiration and imitation From page 12 But for all of us deeply ingrained in hen I was a young boy grow- now enflame our imaginations, draw one who deserves it is a sin because we that darkness of this past year, even ing up in a Catholic com- our admiration and who we most like to are withholding food from someone when the clouds were at their angriest, Wmunity, the catechesis of the imitate. who needs it to live on. Beauty, talent when the modern day biblical plague time tried to inspire the hearts of the In the early 19th century, Alban But- and grace need to be recognized and called coronavirus threatened an young with stories of martyrs, saints ler, an English convert, collected stories acknowledged. Admiration is not the entire society, when the illumination of and other people who lived out high of the lives of the saints and eventually issue. The issue rather is that while we city lights was outshined by the flames ideals in terms of virtue and faith. I set them together in 12-volume set, need to admire and acknowledge the of burning buildings, there shone a remember one story in particular that famously know as “Butler’s Lives of the gifts of the talented and the beautiful, glimmer of hope. caught my imagination and inspired Saints.” For nearly 200 years, these these are not always the lives we should As the new year dawns, as it takes me, the story of a third-century Chris- books inspired Christians, young and be imitating, unless they also radiate its first breath, as the events of the past tian martyr, St. Tarcisius. old. No longer. Today, “Butler’s Lives of virtue and saintliness. We shouldn’t too year await to be interpreted by history, As legend (or truth) has it, St. the Saints” has effectively been replaced easily identify human grace with moral hope is indeed abundant. One only Tarcisius was a 12-year-old by People maga- virtue. But that’s a problem. needs to look in the right places. acolyte during the time of zine, Sports Illus- As well, one of the weaknesses in We find hope in every syringe of the the early Christian per- trated, Rolling Stone, our churches today is that while we coronavirus vaccine, with a justified secutions. At that time, Time and the multiple have vastly upgraded and refined our optimism that by the summer, life will Christians in Rome were of other magazines intellectual imagination and now have begin returning to normal. Perhaps celebrating the Eucharist which chronicle the better and healthier theological and armed with that reality, we will never in secret in the catacombs. lives of the rich and biblical studies, we struggle to touch be so grateful to welcome our annual After those secret Masses famous and stare out hearts. We struggle to get people to pilgrimage of heat and humidity, for someone, a deacon or an at us from every news- fall in love with their faith and espe- this year, rather than quarantining acolyte, would carry the stand and grocery- cially with their church. We struggle to in our own homes, we can actually be eucharistic species, the store check-out line. enflame their romantic imagination as outside, with a far different perspective Blessed Sacrament, to the In effect, we have we once did by invoking the lives of the of the steamy days and humid nights sick and to prisoners. One moved: from St. saints. that were taken from us a year ago. day, after one of those Tarcisius to Justin Where might we go with all of this? There is also hope for healing secret Masses, young St. In Exile Bieber; from St. Can we find again saints to enflame among the races and encouraging Tarcisius was carrying the Therese of Lisieux to our ideals? Can the fine work done signs that racial equality is finally on a Blessed Sacrament on route Father Ron Rolheiser Taylor Swift; from St. today by Robert Ellsberg on hagiog- genuine path to reality. Bishop Shelton to a prison when he was ac- Thomas Aquinas to raphy (on the lives of the saints and J. Fabre of the Diocese of Houma- costed by a mob. He refused Tom Brady; from St. other moral giants who have passed Thibodaux and chairman of the US- to hand over the Blessed Sacrament, Monica to Meryl Streep; from St. Au- before us) become the new “Butler’s CCB’s Ad Hoc Committee on Racism, protected it with his own body, and gustine to Mark Zuckerberg; from St. Lives of the Saints?” Can secular bi- offered as much when he recently told was beaten to death as a result. Julian of Norwich to Marianne Wil- ographies of some moral giants in our The Catholic Commentator that he As a 12-year-old boy that story liamson; and from the first African own age draw our imitation? Is there a finds hope in the fact that people are enflamed my romantic imagination. I American saint, St. Martin de Porres, St. Tarcisius out there who can inspire now talking about race and looking at wanted to have that kind of high ideal to LeBron James. It’s these people the young? race from a different perspective. in my life. In my young imagination, St. who are now enflaming our romantic Today, more than ever, we need Bishop Fabre, a New Roads na- Tarcisius was the ultimate hero whom I imagination and inviting our imita- inspiring stories about women and tive and favorite son of the Diocese of wanted to be like. tion. men, young and old, who have lived out Baton Rouge, said he also sees hope We’ve come a long way from there, Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that heroic virtue. Without such ideals to because he truly believes in the power both in our culture and in our churches. these people are bad or there’s anything emulate, we too quickly identify moral of Jesus and the power of the Holy We’re no longer moved romantically wrong with admiring them. Indeed, virtue with human grace and deprive Spirit coming to our assistance. much by either the saints of old or the we owe them some admiration because ourselves of higher spiritual ideals. We all emerged from this year saints of today. Yes, we still make an all beauty and talent take their origin as changed individuals, and in that official place for them in our churches in God, who is the author of all good FATHER RON ROLHEISER, theologian, change we can find hope. Perhaps it’s and in our highest ideals, but now we’re things. From a saint’s virtue, to a movie teacher and award-winning author, giving our loved ones that extra hug, moved romantically much more by star’s physical beauty, to an athlete’s is president of the Oblate School of fully realizing the immediacy of how the lives of the rich, the famous, the grace, there’s only one author at the Theology in San Antonio, Texas. He life can change; perhaps we can spend beautiful, the pop stars, the profes- origin of all that grace, God. St. Thomas can be contacted through his website more time with family and friends and sional athletes, the physically gifted and Aquinas once rightly pointed out that ronrolheiser.com and facebook.com/ spend less time at the office, under- the intellectually gifted. It’s they who to withhold a compliment from some- ronrolheiser. standing that work will always be there but family and friends will not be; | PRAY FOR THOSE WHO PRAY FOR US perhaps it’s finally taking that special trip that has been planned for so long Please pray for the priests, deacons and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese. or addressing items on our bucket list. Jan. 7 Rev. Michael French SJ Br. Dwight Kenney SC Dcn. John A. Jung Jr. Or change might simply mean tak- Dcn. Jeff R. Easley Jan. 12 Rev. Paul A. Gros Sr. Margarida Maria Vasques FMOL ing a walk in the park, appreciating Br. Harold Harris SC Dcn. Ronald J. Hebert Jan. 17 Rev. J. Clifton Hill CSsp nature, hearing God’s voice reaching Jan. 8 Rev. Michael A. Galea Sr. Vandana Thomas CMC Dcn. Robert J. Kusch out to us through the sounds of his Dcn. Natale (Nat) J. Garofalo Jan. 13 Rev. Eric V. Gyan Br. Roger LeMoyne SC blessed creatures. Sr. Mary Lucille Stelly SSF Dcn. Clayton A. Hollier Jan. 18 Rev. Tat-Thang Hoang CSsR As Bishop Fabre put it so elo- Jan. 9 Rev. Henry W. Gautreau Jr. Br. Clifford King Dcn. Chris Landry quently, it is the power of Jesus and Dcn. Edward J. Gauthreaux Jan. 14 Rev. Ryan Hallford Sr. Adelaide Williamson CSJ the Holy Spirit that will bring a return Br. Ray Hebert SC Dcn. George Hooper Jan. 19 Rev. Elisesus Ibeh MSP to normalcy, put that song back in our Jan. 10 Rev. Matthew J. Graham Sr. Tam Thanh Tran ICM Dcn. Albert Levy III hearts. Dcn. Steven C. Gonzales Jan. 15 Rev. Patrick Healy SSJ Br. Malcolm Melcher SC It was Jesus who lifted us up to Sr. Patricia Sullivan CSJ Dcn. Micheal J. (Shelley) Joseph Jan. 20 Rev. Joshua D. Johnson carry us over the abyss of the past year, Jan. 11 Rev. Timothy Grimes Br. Noel Lemmon SC Dcn. James A. Little and it is through him where we find Dcn. Richard H. Grant Jan. 16 Rev. Ray Hebert SC Sr. Martha Ann Abshire FMOL hope in the new year. 14 The Catholic Commentator COMING EVENTS January 1, 2021

St. Agnes Masses – St. Agnes Church, 749 East Blvd., Baton Rouge, will celebrate the following Masses: Pro-life Mass, Tuesday, Jan. 12, 5:30 p.m.; Feast of the Epiphany traditional Latin Mass, Wednesday, Jan. 6, 5:30 p.m.; feast day of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Mass, Friday, Jan. 8, 6 a.m., noon and 5:30 p.m. (traditional Latin Mass). Also: Feast of St. Agnes Thursday, Jan., 21, 6 a.m., noon and 5:30 p.m. (traditional Latin Mass); Octave of feast of St. Agnes, Thursday, Jan. 28, 5:30 p.m. (traditional Latin Mass) and St. Charbel healing Mass, Friday, Jan. 22, 6 p.m. For more information, call 225-383-4127.

Men of the Immaculata Conference – The Men of the Immaculata will host their 2021 conference “St. Joseph: Pil- lar of Families, Protector of the Church, Terror of Demons,” Saturday, Feb. 20, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. George Church, 7808 St. George Dr., Baton Rouge. Featured speakers will be, Dr. Allen Hunt of Dynamic Catholic; Deacon Harold- Burke Sivers, author and Catholic radio show host; and Father Rueben Dykes, pastor of Mater Dolorosa Church in Independence. Bishop Michael G. Duca will celebrate Mass. Tickets pricing for attending the conference in person at St. George is $60 for adults and $40 for students (ages 13-24). For those that are unable to attend in person there will be a virtual ticket option which will include a link to watch the LIVE NATIVITY – St. Jules Church in Belle Rose held a live Nativity on Dec. 18 at the church. A large number of conference for $40, to receive a conference bag with a book parishioners attended, and all who participated in the Nativity scene wore masks. Photo provided by Wendy Ourso | St. Jules and rosary, and $20, without the bag and conference mate- Church rials. Tickets can be purchased by visiting catholicmenbr. com.

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  VACCINE “It really helped me to Solomon, who manages RESOLUTIONS it is turning an area of a closet From page 1 From page 3 make the decision for myself, several hundred nurses, nurs- that is not needed into an altar “As soon as I got the injec- and yes, I felt comfortable,” ing assistants and clerical per- down and don’t look at it,” he said. area or having a corner of a room tion, I had a sense of relief. I said Solomon, who had no side sonnel, was adamant about “When the time is up, you will re- with a crucifix or the image of a felt blessed to be a part of it.” effects other than a bit of sore- setting an example to her em- alize you want to do it more. And saint. He said this is valuable in Solomon was the third per- ness from the vaccine. ployees about not being afraid. then you build up to 10 minutes. several ways, including during son at OLOL to receive the Despite the assurances, not After receiving the injection, “The goal is to do it from now the struggles that inevitably arise vaccine on Dec. 16, and similar all medical professionals at she said several team mem- until Lent and at Lent you will in one’s prayer life. to so many others, including OLOL have elected to receive bers told her “we trust you and say, ‘I want to go deeper; I need “If we are struggling, what am members of her own nursing the vaccine. Dr. Richard Vath, we trust you that you will tell to add more of what I can focus I going to look at?” he said. “Am I staff and even some, she had chief executive officer for the us is if you don’t feel well.” on,’ ” he said. “At Lent re-evalu- going to look at the TV, am I go- her own reservations. Franciscan Health System, re- “I told them is it is truly a ate and do something different or ing to look at the phone? That’s Nationally, some questions spects those decisions but be- personal decision, something go deeper. That way it gives us a not going to help. have arisen about the vaccine’s lieves that over time, as more you have to determine what specific goal.” “If I have something that’s re- effectiveness and potential people receive the vaccine and is best for you,” Solomon said. Dow said one resolution is ligious and holy and set apart, I side effects, creating hesitancy suffer no side effects, people “I am an African American to simply ask, “What can I do know that will give me a place to and even doubt for some about will become less fearful. female. I have a lot of minor- during my days and nights that focus.” receiving the injection. He said people are falling ity employees. COVID has not would draw me closer to God?” Father Graham said one of Solomon said her concerns into what he describes as three done well in our community Suggestions included having his go-to prayers in times of his were allayed after speaking groups. The first group is med- well.” a calendar that has a Scripture own discouragement is Hail Holy with Dr. Katie O’Neal, an in- ical professionals who might She has explained nurses reading for each day sitting on Queen. fectious disease specialist on be a bit skeptical because the face risks daily but the vac- one’s desk, or reading books of He also suggested journaling staff at OLOL and Assistant vaccine is something they are cine can reduce the chance of daily reflections. and finding a prayer partner so Professor of Medicine in the not used to; the second group severe illness and even death. “It will make you stop and each person can be held account- Section of Infectious Diseases is mostly compromised of “I let them know I am not pause for a minute and during able for adhering to their spiri- at LSU’s School of Medicine. younger individuals who be- pressuring them but I do en- that time you are building that tual resolutions. O’Neal explained to OLOL’s lieve they are not at risk and courage them to get the vac- relationship with God through “We have to continue working medical leaders that the pro- don’t believe they can get any cine not only for yourself but communication,” she said. at it,” he said. “Always know with cess of developing the vaccine serious complications or dis- for your family members,” she Dow also emphasized receiv- the Lord you can begin again. was not done in haste, as some ease and are not sure if they said. “I can tell (that comment) ing the sacraments, especially That is the beauty of the prayer have indicated, but in fact want to even receive the shot. has touched some people. I the Eucharist, by attending life.” had been ongoing for about 15 “There is a third group, and think just by example, (by weekly Mass. Dow has her own personal years. this is where I fall. We’ve never receiving the injection) has “The more we take the time reminder to keep her focused O’Neal said the vaccine is seen anything this effective in helped my team members.” to be with the Lord the more – the initials JMJ (Jesus, Mary a two-step process, with the the history of vaccines,” Vath Solomon said the vaccine time we will want to spend with and Joseph). She will often sign a first injection being the body said. “Because of the side ef- has offered hope that fam- the Lord,” she said. “It’s defi- restaurant bill with those initials receiving the shot but likely fects being so minimal, it was ily gatherings and other such nitely a sacrifice because it’s a and add a cross. not reacting. However, any an easy decision for me.” events may soon be on the part of time we have to commit “It guides us in the virtues reaction would be immediate, Thanks to someone who horizon. She added the caveat to. The commitment is simply and can keep us on a simple within the first 15 to 30 min- was scheduled not showing up that before a gathering of any because we love the Lord and path to holiness by simply say- utes, so OLOL physicians were to receive the vaccine, Vath, type, including family events, the Lord loves us. Why would ing ‘JMJ,’ ” she said. “How do on site to address those reac- who is in one of the high risk the new norm, once the vac- we miss opportunities to have you spread the good news in the tions. categories, was able to receive cine is widely available to the that communication? everyday things that you do? The second injection is the the shot, on Dec. 16. He said general public, might be to ask “The goal is to have the Lord How do you help people to know body actually making antibod- the soreness he experienced those invited, “Did you get the present in our hearts and on our Jesus every day?” ies to fight off the virus, and was less than when he gets the vaccine?” lips at all times.” She said the fruitfulness one Solomon learned some people flu vaccine. Vath said he is hoping the Dow also suggested the novel experiences in his or her own life might briefly experience a low- “Some people will still be vaccine will become widely idea of picking one or two saints by setting and following spiritual grade temperature or flu like fearful of it,” he said, but add- available perhaps as early as each year to learn about and ask resolutions are far greater than symptoms. She said O’Neal ed he and staff members are late March and believes by the that saint or saints for their inter- they could have imagined. recommended staff members exploring ways to assure in- summer “we will begin to see cession through daily prayer. “Every day with the Lord is ev- have the opportunity to take dividuals who might feel less more returning of normality Father Graham recommend- ery day with the divine, which is off the day after receiving the comfortable as to the safety of and maybe in the fall before it ed setting aside a place in one’s anticipating our lives in eternity,” injection as a precaution. the vaccine. is large scale.” home focused on prayer, whether Dow said “So we start now.”

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