THE

January 3, 2020ommentator Vol. 57, No. 24 SERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 thecatholiccommentator.org C A New Year’s message from the bishop s you receive this edi- in our resolve. And yet the Christ. If this is so central ly father is perfect” (Mt 5:48). tion of “The Catho- Gospel messages call us to to our Christian faith, how While this passage may seem Alic Commentator” I conversion and change as a can we be more successful in to put the achievement bar suppose we are all well into means of reshaping of our shaping our lives, as St. Paul fairly high, okay, impossibly our New Year’s resolutions. lives ultimately in the image says, so that we might “take high, it is a good place to start. Changes are tricky things and likeness of Christ. on the mind of Christ?” The truth is, and we know this because we often have a We are continually trying, I have a few suggestions deep in our hearts, that we strong beginning, but in the and should be trying, to that might guide our decisions will never be perfect as God end give up because we real- conform our lives with the based on a few passages of is perfect. But that doesn’t ize how hard it is to change. teaching of the church as it Scripture. mean that the perfect goal is From the Bishop We give in to the old ways reflects what it means to love In the Gospel we hear, “so wrong or that we should not Bishop Michael G. Duca because we were not perfect and to be a of Jesus be perfect just as your heaven- SEE DUCA PAGE 13 WINDOWS OF FAITH Creation and redemption depicted in stained glass

By Debbie Shelley The Catholic Commentator

Step through the chapel doors of the new Our Fish can be seen swimming throughout the stained-glass windows in the chapel at new Our Lady of the Lake Chil- Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital and through dren’s Hospital, which is set to open to the public later this year. Photo provided by Marie Constantin Photography the striking, colorful imagery of stained-glass win- dows, the archangels Michael, Gabriel and angel visitors encounter. “Gabriel is often depicted with a scroll and here sweep you up and place you before an altar window “Michael, whose medal many in our military wear, (the window) it is rolling down from heaven and the vividly depicting the story of creation and redemp- through legend and Scripture is the leader of the heav- disc of the sun, which I placed behind his head as a tion. The chapel is expected to open to the public enly host and receiver of departed souls. His name halo. I’ve used the face of my second son Blake, a for- later this year. means ‘the one who resembles God,’ ” said Wilson, mer Marine, as his visage.” “Angels on missions from God most often bring who used the face of his departed son, Van, a Navy The next angel is St. Raphael, meaning “God heals.” fear when they meet humans. The Bible speaks of Seal, as his visage. Wilson noted that in St. John’s Gospel a man who classes of angels, some with wings, eyes and fire with In the next window is St. Gabriel, whose name had been crippled for 38 years laid by the Sheep Pool ceaseless praising voices, others with flaming swords means “man of God” and made some of the most im- at Bethesda, where the sick, blind, lame and paralyzed or lances, other simply voices from heaven, or in portant announcements to human beings. gathered hoping to be in the pool first when an angel, bright heavenly host choirs. Some are just man-like “I like the idea that he also helps us understand the whom they believed was St. Raphael, “troubled the clothed in white. In every encounter there’s no doubt impossible, accept the miraculous,” said Wilson. “He waters” and healed them. we of earth are hearing from almighty God our cre- was the messenger to Zacharias and Mary of births to Jesus himself healed the crippled man, com- ator,” said artist Steve Wilson, creator of the glass come. He is also the cherubim stationed at the east of manding him to “rise, take up your mats and walk.” window images. Eden with the whirring, flashing sword to guard the “With his right hand pointed toward heaven as if to St. Michael, who guards the chapel door, is the first way back to the tree of life. SEE OLOL PAGE 16 2 The Catholic Commentator January 3, 2020 | PICTURES FROM THE PAST Clear vision for the New Year By Dina Dow respond to the heavenly star fixed in the fir- mament and follow the illumined sky which Happy New Year and new leads them to Jesus. It is in decade! The number ‘2020’ at this face-to-face encounter times denotes clear vision rath- Life-Giving they come to know, to pay er than a calendar year. The FAI H homage and to believe. St. John American Optometric Association Chrysostom writes in his hom- states, “20/20 vision does not neces- ily in St. Matthew, 7, “God calls sarily mean you have perfect vision. It only them by means of the things they are most indicates the sharpness or clarity of vision at familiar with; and he shows them a large and a distance.” In terms of our faith in God, how extraordinary star so that they would be im- sharp is my vision? Is my vision guided by pressed by its size and beauty.” God guided CELEBRATING THE NEW YEAR – Vietnamese New Year, 1979: A gala Vietnam- the perfect lens of God? What is clear to me? them through their regular occupation to find ese New Year celebration was held Sunday at the gym at Sacred Heart School What needs refinement? Do I have tunnel-vi- the Messiah, the promised one, our true light. in Baton Rouge by approximately 400 Vietnamese who settled in the Diocese sion? Is the peripheral view seeing that which We too have a star to discover, “a light and of Baton Rouge. The families enjoyed a supper and then a program of songs surrounds me? a guide in the sky of our soul. We have seen and dances that marked the beginning of the New Year on the Vietnamese The liturgical focus during the final days his star in the east and have come to worship calendar. The large crowd of families and their sponsors stands as a young of the Christmas season points to the Epiph- him. We have had the same experience. We choral group sings the Vietnamese National Anthem. Originally published any of the Lord, followed a week later by the also noticed a new light shining in our soul 1/31/1979. Photo provided by Archives Department of the Diocese of Baton Rouge feast of the of the Lord. Both cele- and growing increasingly brighter. It is a de- brations help establish foundations of our sire to live a fully Christian life.” (St. Jose’ faith’s “visual acuity” on this pilgrim journey. Maria Escriva, Christ is Passing By, 32) By | DID YOU KNOW Light from light this encounter we are radically transformed The brighter the light, the sharper the vi- into the life of Christ. sion. The sharper the vision, the clearer the What star is guiding my path? How is God path. Light is necessary when walking a dark calling me in my ordinary life to meet him? Come let us adore him path since it serves as a guide for our steps, Where do I desire increased light to overcome steers us away from obstacles, wrong turns the obstacles? Have I taken a wrong turn in We know the story of the three cies of the Old Testament when Ba- and creepy critters. We also need light for the darkness? Am I making my way along the wise men following a bright star to laam prophesied about the coming our faith. What is the source of light for our path illumined by the light of Christ? What see the baby Jesus. There’s even a Messiah marked by a star. Matthew faith? gifts am I placing at the feet of Jesus in or- Christmas carol that is quite pop- draws upon the Old Testament sto- The prophet Isaiah describes the radiant der to serve him and those he places on the ular during Mass on the feast of ry of Balaam, who had prophesied, light of the glory of the Lord which pierces the path? Am I publicly giving God special honor the Epiphany, “We Three Kings.” “I see him, though not now; I be- darkness of the earth and illumines a passage and respect as a living witness of Christ by So, who were these guys, exactly, hold him, though not near: A star for nations and kings to travel. Moreover, the regularly worshipping in Mass, performing and what is their role in the birth shall advance from Jacob,” (Nm radiance of God shines from those who be- , learning the faith, living the of Jesus, the manifestation of God 24:17). Isaiah also references gifts hold it with their own eyes. The faithful beam Ten Commandments and praying? as man? According to Scripture, from afar, “Caravans of camels with glory while offering praise from the Baptism: Visual acuity Matthew Chapter 2:1, “magi from shall fill you, dromedaries from depths of their hearts. Their eyes are raised There are no details of Jesus’ life between the east arrived in Jerusalem.” Ac- Midian and Ephah; all from Sheba in the splendor of the Lord. Hence, the source his presentation in the temple and his bap- cording to catholicstraightanswers. shall come bearing gold and frank- of light for our faith is the glory of God. tism. The ordinary years were seemingly com, in the days of King Herod, incense, and proclaiming the prais- Guided by the light typical as a Jewish family of the time. His ex- magi were part of a priestly caste es of the Lord” (Is 60:6). From this light comes the true light that traordinary mission was happening but had from Persia where astrology was The image of the Magi as kings draws us nearer to God. In the Gospel of Mat- yet to be revealed until, at the age of 30, when prominent. The Magi explained might also come from Psalm 72, thew, we hear of a guiding light, represented he asked John to baptize him. John hesitat- they were in search of “the new- “A Prayer for the King,” speaks of by a unique star that captures the sight of ed since he recognized Jesus as the Messiah born king of the Jews” and saw his the Gentiles paying homage to the the eyes of three magi, men like modern-day and one without sin. Yet, Jesus asked for the star, following it to pay him hom- Messiah, “May the kings of Tarsh- astronomers. Aware of the prophecies fore- allowance. Once plunged into the waters of age” (Mt 2:3). ish and the islands bring tribute, told of the expectation of a messiah, they SEE GOSPEL PAGE 6 The news disturbed King Herod, the kings of Arabia and Seba off who asked the Magi to return with gifts. May all kings bow before him, news of the baby’s location, in or- all nations serve him” (Ps 72:10-11), der also “do him homage” (Mt. according to catholiceducation.org. 2:8). But that is not how it played The website also noted that, “St. out. The Magi followed the star to Matthew recorded that the Magi thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator where it stopped, “and on entering brought three gifts, each also hav- the house they saw the child with ing a prophetic meaning: gold, the Bishop Michael G. Duca Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager Mary his mother. They prostrated gift for a king; frankincense, the Father Tom Ranzino Associate Publisher Bonny Van Staff Writer themselves and did him homage. gift for a priest; and myrrh – a Richard Meek Editor Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation Then they opened their treasures burial ointment, a gift for one who Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor Nicole Latiolais Graphic Designer and offered him gifts of gold, frank- would die.” incense, and myrrh” (Mt. 2:11). While we cannot bring such lav- 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, According to catholiceducation. ish gifts to the infant Jesus, we can Baton Rouge, LA 70808; 225-387-0983 or 225-387-0561. Periodical Postage Paid at Baton Rouge, LA. Copy must org, the Magi, identified in the sev- continue to adore him through the reach the above address by Wednesday for use in the next week’s paper. Subscription rate: $14.00 per year. POST- enth century as , Melchior feast of Epiphany with our prayers MASTER, send address changes to The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746. and Balthasar, fulfilled the prophe- sand good works. January 3, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 3 At year’s end, humanitarian aid for migrants moves across border

WASHINGTON (CNS) – Over side of the border until their case Sister Norma Pimentel, became the last year, Catholic dioceses could be heard by a U.S. immi- the face of those in the church on the U.S. side of the border gration court. Since January, providing help. with Mexico, in places such as more than 55,000 trying to en- The Rio Grande’s Catholic El Paso and Brownsville, Texas, ter the U.S. to ask for asylum at Charities shelter, which she runs, scrambled to accommodate the various ports of entry have been was seeing up to 1,000 people growing number of children, forced to stay in Mexico and a day at the height of the wave men and women crossing the some in dangerous territories of incoming migrants in 2019, border, seeking asylum and en- controlled by drug cartels. said Sister Pimentel in a Nov. tering the U.S. Dioceses, such as the one in 10, 2019, interview with Catholic Donations, volunteers and fi- Matamoros, have stepped in News Service in Baltimore. HOME FOR CHRISTMAS – Crystella Magrum’s tumultuous year that nancial help flowed into shelters, to help but can only do so with At year’s end, that number started out with her being separated from her two young sons and such as the of the help of their sister dioceses had dropped to just 10 to 20 mi- living on the streets ended on a joyous note, when she was able to the Rio Grande Valley’s respite across the border. grants a day in McAllen, but that move into an apartment in Tigerland with her children in time to center in McAllen, didn’t mean the problem celebrate Christmas. Magrum said she owed much of her success to Texas, to help clothe, was over, said Sister Pi- Bishop Ott’s Sweet Dreams Shelter. Her story, which is one of heart feed and provide other mentel, a member of the break but also of inspiration set against the backdrop of a mother’s temporary help to the Missionaries of Jesus. love for her children, will be published in the Jan. 17 edition of The migrants. Like the Knights of Co- Catholic Commentator. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator But the introduc- lumbus, Sister Pimentel tion of the Migrant took her mission across Protection Protocols, the border into Mexico to also called MPP and help. But unlike the ame- popularly known as nities to be found at the the “Remain in Mex- shelter Catholic Chari- RESTHAVEN ico” policy, rolled out ties provided in McAllen, GARDENS OF MEMORY & FUNERAL HOME by the Trump admin- there is nowhere in the ® istration in early 2019, camps for the migrants greatly slowed the flow to sleep, eat, bathe or seek We make it personal. of migrants into the basic shelter from the ele- for a better farewell U.S. in the last part of ments while they wait. She 11817 Jefferson Highway the year. Yet, it didn’t posted video on Facebook 225-753-1440 slow the exodus, nor of a windstorm ripping www.resthavenbatonrouge.com Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso, Texas, shares a smile the conditions of vio- through the area, kicking with a Honduran girl named Cesia as he walks and lence, climate change up dust as migrants took prays with a group of migrants at the Lerdo Inter- 2x2” Rest.small.honor.those.cc’16 and poverty that have shelter in small tents. national Bridge in El Paso June 27. Over the last sent tens of thousands “This situation has be- 2020 Group Trips year, Catholic dioceses on the U.S. side of the bor- fleeing from Central come more complicated,” der with Mexico, in places such as El Paso and America, seeking safe- Sister Pimentel told CNS. Day Trip to the National Shrine of Brownsville, Texas, scrambled to accommodate ty or better econom- “The weather is changing. Blessed Seelos the growing number of children, men and women ic conditions to the There are rains coming, Friday, February 28 – Deadline January 15 crossing the border, seeking asylum and entering north. the cold. These families the U.S. Photo provided by CNS Many still are flee- are exposed to multiple Norwegian Cruise Panama Canal Cruise ing, and as 2019 came dangers and there’s a to an end, Catholic dioceses re- Makeshift camps have complete disarray.” with Fr. Mike Moroney and St. Alphonsus mained on alert to help the mi- formed close to the border in About 2,000 families have Oct. 9-24 grants – but this time, on the Mexico, where people wait their camped out on the Mexico side other side of the border. turn for a hearing on U.S. soil, of a bridge in Matamoros while Come join our informative presentations “It was a difficult year,” said even as figures released Dec. they wait to be called for their Bishop Eugenio Lira Rugarcia 19 showed the slim chance mi- asylum cases, she said. But it’s of the Diocese of Matamoros, grants have of getting in: Just not a place where hygienic or Jan. 21 – Lori Goynes with Royal Caribbean Mexico, during a joint event Dec. 117, out of the tens of thousands safety conditions exist, noted Open House 10 a.m. Presentation 1 p.m. 13 with Brownsville’s Bishop who showed up at the border Sister Pimentel, who worries Daniel E. Flores and Auxiliary since the policy began, have been particularly about what it could Jan. 23 – Celeste Pevahouse, Princess Cruise Lines Bishop Mario Aviles, as they wel- granted protection, according to mean for the health of children Alaska and Canada Presentation comed humanitarian aid from a December Syracuse Universi- and families. the des- ty report based on immigration Some groups, including Cath- 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. tined for a shelter for migrants court figures. olic organizations, are looking in Matamoros, Mexico. There, Previously, authorities had for short-term solutions, such as Jan. 29 – Sheila Bielich with AMA Waterways thousands of men, women and released migrants inside the U.S. organizing cleaning crews, tak- Experience the difference in river cruising children who normally would and many passed through shel- ing food and clothes and tents 2 p.m. have been able to enter the U.S. ters such as McAllen’s respite to provide minimum protection, as applicants for asylum, before center en route to a family mem- medical help, but for now “fam- Call Tootie for more information. MPP, now are stranded. ber’s home or a friend’s, anyone ilies are suffering tremendous- “Remain in Mexico” dictated who would take them in while ly,” Sister Pimentel said. “All we Pearson’s Travel World that anyone seeking asylum in they waited for a hearing. The re- want is that they be cared for 7949 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge • 225-926-3752 the U.S. had to stay on the other spite center’s executive director, with dignity.” 4 The Catholic Commentator NATIONAL | INTERNATIONAL January 3, 2020 lifts secrecy obligation for those who report having been abused

VATICAN CITY (CNS)— Pope Fran- son of the position he holds in adminis- means or using whatever technology.” al law” are fulfilled, communication cis has abolished the obligation of se- tering the sacrament of confession and In describing the procedural norms with other authorities “and the sharing crecy for those who report having been not even the penitent can free him of it.” for how the tribunal of the Congrega- of information and documentation are sexually abused by a priest and for The instruction was published by tion for the Doctrine of the Faith is to be facilitated.” those who testify in a church trial or the Vatican along with changes to the composed and conducted, In September 2017, members of the process having to do with clerical sex- already-updated “Sacramentorum has removed the requirement that the Pontifical Commission for the Protec- ual abuse. Sanctitatis Tutela” (“Safeguarding the legal representative of the accused be a tion of Minors asked Pope Francis to “The person who files the report, Sanctity of the Sacraments”), the 2001 priest. The law now reads: “The role of reconsider Vatican norms maintaining the person who alleges to have been document issued by St. John Paul II advocate or procurator is carried out by the imposition of “pontifical secret” in harmed and the witnesses shall not be outlining procedures for the investi- a member of the faithful possessing a the church’s judicial handling of cleri- by any obligation of silence with gation and trial of any member of the doctorate in canon law, who is approved cal sex abuse and other grave crimes. regard to matters involving the case,” clergy accused of sexually abusing a by the presiding judge of the college.” The secret ensures cases are dealt the pope ordered in a new “Instruction child or vulnerable adult or accused of But the abolition of the pontifical with in strict confidentiality. Vatican On the Confidentiality of Legal Pro- acquiring, possessing or distributing secret over the entire Vatican process experts have said it was designed to pro- ceedings,” published Dec. 17. child pornography. is the greatest change made. And, not tect the dignity of everyone involved, In an accompanying note, Bishop In the first of the amendments, Pope only are victims and witnesses free to including the victim, the accused, their Juan Ignacio Arrieta, secretary of the Francis changed the definition of child discuss the case, the amended law spec- families and their communities. Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts, pornography. Previously the subject ifies that the still-in-effect obligation of But when Pope Francis called the said the change regarding the “pontif- was a person under the age of 14. The Vatican officials to maintain confidenti- presidents of the world’s bishops’ con- ical secret” has nothing to do with the new description of the crime says, “The ality “shall not prevent the fulfillment ferences to the Vatican for a summit on seal of the sacrament of confession. acquisition, possession or distribution of the obligations laid down in all plac- the abuse crisis in February, victims “The absolute obligation to observe by a cleric of pornographic images of es by civil laws, including any report- and experts alike urged a revision of the sacramental seal,” he said, “is an minors under the age of 18, for purpos- ing obligations, and the execution of the policy. obligation imposed on the priest by rea- es of sexual gratification, by whatever enforceable requests of civil judicial Linda Ghisoni, a canon lawyer and authorities.” undersecretary for at the Dicast- Charles Scicluna, ad- ery for Laity, the Family and Life, told junct secretary of the Congregation the summit removing the pontifical for the Doctrine of the Faith and the secret from abuse cases would reverse Vatican’s chief abuse investigator, told a situation or the impression of a sit- America Magazine the new law makes uation where secrecy “is used to hide clear that “anybody who discloses mis- problems rather than protect the values conduct or a crime and anybody who at stake,” including the confidentiality is impacted by the misconduct or the of the victims and the right of an ac- crime, and the witnesses, should never cused to a fair trial. be subject to a vow or a promise of si- Cardinal Reinhard Marx of Munich lence on the fact that they have report- and Freising, Germany, told the sum- ed.” mit that removing the pontifical secret The new law, he said, explicitly states would promote transparency in a scan- people’s “moral duty” to cooperate with dal where the lack of transparency has civil authorities in reporting and inves- meant “the rights of victims were effec- tigating the crime of abuse. “Moreover, tively trampled underfoot and left to there is an obligation not to bind people the whims of individuals.” who disclose misconduct or crimes by In his commentary, Bishop Arrie- any promise or vow of silence,” he ex- ta noted that already in May with the plained. publication of “Vos Estis Lux Mundi” In a separate interview with Vatican (“You are the light of the world”) on News, Archbishop Scicluna described procedures for handling allegations of as an “epochal change” the pope’s deci- abuse or of the cover-up of abuse, Pope sion to drop the “pontifical secret” – the Francis already banned imposing confi- highest level of confidentiality. “That dentiality agreements on victims. means, of course, the question of trans- The bishop also took pains to note parency now is being implemented at that the abolition of absolute secrecy – the highest level,” he said. the “pontifical secret,” which is invoked The new rules do not mean that doc- with an oath – was not the same thing uments from Vatican abuse investiga- as removing all obligations for confi- tions and trials will be made public, he dentiality. said, but “they are available for author- The “secrecy of the office” still ap- ities, or people who are interested par- plies to Vatican officials and others -in ties, and authorities who have a statu- volved in an investigation or trial of a tory jurisdiction over the matter.” cleric accused of abuse or of a bishop or In the past, when a government or religious accused of cover-up. court asked the Vatican for information Except for sharing information with on a case, the response usually was that civil authorities, the basic professional the material was covered by “pontifical secrecy serves, as the new law says, to secret.” Now, Archbishop Scicluna said, protect “the good name, image and pri- once “all the formalities of internation- vacy of all persons involved.” January 3, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 5 FOCUS founder to visit Baton Rouge

By Debbie Shelley would speak at St. Ann. Love” and “No Greater Love: A Biblical The Catholic Commentator “He said if FOCUS (a Catholic out- Walk Through Christ’s Passion,” St. Ann reach whose missionaries evangelize Church, 182 Church Road, Morganza; Dr. Edward Sri, theologian, co-found- college students) was brought to LSU, he Thursday, Jan. 30, 9 – 11:30 a.m., “In er of FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic Uni- would be happy to do it,” said Newton. the Dust of the Rabbi,” Bishop Robert versity Students) and developer of Bible After FOCUS came to LSU in 2017, E. Tracy Center, 1800 S. Acadian Thwy., studies utilized by many church parishes Newton put in a speaker’s engagement Baton Rouge, with Mass at 8:30 a.m. in in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, will visit request for Sri. She then received confir- the St. Joseph Chapel (optional); Theolo- the diocese Jan. 29–30. His visit is spon- mation that Sri would come to St. Ann. gy on Tap presentation for young adults, sored by the Office of Evangelization Newton also reached out to Dina Dow, Thursday, Jan. 30, 4 p.m., Tin Roof and Catechesis for the Diocese of Baton director of the Office of Evangelization Brewery, 624 Wyoming St., Baton Rouge; Rouge. and Catechesis for the Diocese of Baton and Jan. 30, 7 – 9 p.m., “Men, Women Several years ago Janice Newton, di- Rouge, and Sri’s visit was expanded to and the Mystery of Love: Living Theolo- rector of religious education at St. Ann incorporate the diocese. gy of the Body,” Christ the King Church Church in Morganza, attended a na- His schedule will be: Wednesday, Jan. and Catholic Center at LSU. tional Bible conference in Pennsylvania 29, 6:30 p.m., “Who Am I to Judge?: Re- To RSVP a lecture, visit learn.evang in which Sri spoke. She asked Sri if he sponding to Relativism with Logic and c atbr.org/rsv p/. Dr. Edward Sri

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Gospel  tentional catechesis. Consequently, this and self-flagellation From page 2 radiance beams into missionary service and care for others. When is violat- bers do self-flagellate the Jordan River, Jesus opened the eter- A clear vision for 2020 begins with a ing one’s body for one or two minutes nal pathway for us into his life. As he simple eye exam. Look through the lens Q through self-flag- a week but use a woven drew breath above the waters the Holy of faith with the eyes of Jesus Christ. ellation permitted to get cotton string that causes Spirit descended “like a dove” as the voice What needs clarity? What is my mission “more points” for going some discomfort but of God clearly identified his son (Mt 3:16- this year? What knowledge can I grow to heaven? In a book I’m does not draw blood. 17). from? What challenges am I facing be- reading about Padre Pio, The purpose of the prac- Baptism is “the gateway to life in the cause of my faith? Can I defend the faith there is a mention of fri- tice is to imitate Christ Spirit and the door which gives access to when challenged by others? How about ars whipping themselves by sharing in his suffer- the other sacraments. Through baptism my prayer life? Am I talking and listen- to the point of bleeding. ing. (St. Dominic prayed we are freed from sin and reborn as sons ing to God? Do I have time to kneel be- Is this what God expects with arms outstretched of God; we become members of Christ, fore Jesus, fully present in the Blessed of us, or are there fanatic for lengthy periods as are incorporated into the church and Sacrament? What area churches have ad- people who go to the ex- Jesus did on the cross.) made sharers in her mission: Baptism is oration chapels? Do I have a smudge on treme to be like Christ? In a 2010 article, the sacrament of regeneration through my lens? Is it time to make a good confes- (Beaverton, Oregon) Question Corner reacting to a report that water in the word. Having received in sion? When are confessions heard at my St. John Paul II kept baptism the word, the true light that en- church to ask for forgiveness for my sins No, I don’t think Father Kenneth Doyle a disciplinary belt in lightens every man, the person baptized and receive the merciful grace of God? that self-flagel- his closet, Father (now has been enlightened, he becomes a son As we begin anew in 2020, resolve to A lation is what “God expects of Bishop) Robert E. Barron explained of light, indeed, he becomes light himself embrace a newness of faith. Put on the us.” Corporal mortification has been that the instrument was likely a rope …” (Catechism #1213-1216) lens of God: sharp, merciful and kind, part of the Christian life for centuries, with a few small knots in it and that Baptism is the visual acuity of life in filled with joyful hope, unwavering faith but in contemporary society it is more the actual physical pain was probably Christ. Commanded by Jesus, (Mt 28:19) and radical love. It is amazing how clear often exemplified by such practices minimal. baptism configures our faith to a sharp we can see when our vision is guided by as dietary discipline. The portrayal in 20/20 vision. It establishes the founda- faith. Happy New Year! May God fill you “The Da Vinci Code” of under- FATHER DOYLE is a retired priest in the tion by which we see with the eyes of Jesus with his eternal peace. Amen. going bloody self-beatings is clearly an Diocese of Albany, New York. Questions and respond by that same clarity in what exaggeration. may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle we think, do and say. The clarity remains Dow is director of the Office of Evan- The website of the Catholic group at [email protected] and 30 strong as we become filled with endless gelization and Catechesis for the Diocese says that some of its mem- Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, NY 12203. rays incoming to know God through in- of Baton Rouge.

Look for Bishop Michael G. Duca’s Sacrament of Confirmation The CaThoLiC CommenTaTor 2020 Winter Schedule aT your LoCaL ouTLeTs inCLuding: Thursday, Jan. 16 7:00 PM Our Lady of Mercy, Baton Rouge ✔ Affinity Nursing Home, Baton Rouge ✔ Oak Wood Nursing Home, Zachary Monday, Jan. 20 7:00 PM St. Theresa of Avila, Gonzales ✔ Anthony's Deli, Baton Rouge ✔ Old Jefferson Community Care, ✔ Alexander’s Highland Market, Baton Rouge Thursday, Jan. 23 7:00 PM St. Mark, Gonzales Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Regional Friday, Jan. 24 7:00 PM , Denham Springs ✔ Ascension Books & Gifts, Gonzales Medical Center, Baton Rouge and ✔ Baton Rouge General Hospital, Walker Saturday, Jan. 25 4:00 PM St. Anne/St. Anthony, Sorrento ✔ Baton Rouge Our Lady of the Lake Physician Wednesday, Jan. 29 7:00 PM St. Stephen/St. Joseph, French Settlement ✔ Baton Rouge Healthcare, Baker Group, offices with locations ✔ Benedetto’s Market, Addis throughout the Diocese Thursday, Jan. 30 7:00 PM St. John the Baptist, Brusly ✔ Ponchatoula ✔ Baton Rouge Bohning Supermarket, Reeve’s Supermarket, Saturday, Feb. 1 4:00 PM Ascension/St. Francis/ ✔ Calandro’s Supermarkets, ✔ Rouses, Baton Rouge, Gonzales, Our Lady of Prompt Succor Baton Rouge Donaldsonville, Hammond, Plaquemine, ✔ and Gifts, Baton Rouge Prairieville and Zachary Ascension of Our Lord, Donaldsonville ✔ Daigle’s Supermarket, White Castle ✔ St. Elizabeth Hospital, Gonzales Thursday, Feb. 6 7:00 PM Immaculate Conception, Lakeland ✔ Fran U, Baton Rouge ✔ St. Mary’s Books & Gifts, ✔ Grace Healthcare, Slaughter Baton Rouge Monday, Feb. 10 7:00 PM St. Mary of False River/St. Augustine ✔ Hi Nabor Supermarkets, Baton Rouge ✔ St. Vincent dePaul Stores throughout St. Mary, New Roads ✔ Hubbins Grocery, Port Allen the diocese Tuesday, Feb. 11 7:00 PM Most Blessed Sacrament, Baton Rouge ✔ Lane Regional Hospital, Zachary ✔ Schexnayer Supermarket, Vacherie ✔ Louisiana Vet Home, Jackson ✔ Southside Produce, Baton Rouge Thursday, Feb. 13 7:00 PM St. John the Evangelist, Plaquemine ✔ ✔ Matherne’s Supermarkets, Tony’s Seafood, Baton Rouge Saturday, Feb. 15 4:00 PM St. Patrick, Baton Rouge Baton Rouge ✔ UPS Store, Coursey Blvd., Baton ✔ Magnuson Hotel, St. Francisville Rouge Sunday, Feb. 16 11:00 AM Sacred Heart, Baton Rouge ✔ North Ridgely Healthcare, Baker ✔ Whole Foods Market, Baton Rouge Monday, Feb. 17 6:30 PM St. Joseph, Paulina ✔ Oak Point Supermarket, Central ✔ Winn Dixie in Hammond, New Roads Tuesday, Feb. 18 6:30 PM St. Michael/Most Sacred Heart Church as well as your local church St. Michael, Convent Wednesday, Feb. 19 7:00 PM St. James/St. Philip/Our Lady of Peace Our Lady of Peace, Vacherie Thursday, Feb. 20 7:00 PM St. Joseph/Immaculate Heart/St. Frances St. Joseph, Grosse Tete January 3, 2020 FAITH JOURNEY The Catholic Commentator 7 A new observance – Word of God Sunday By Barry Schoedel contrary is equally true: with- of the ’s compelling proclaimers of the entrusted to the church, may Special to out the Scriptures, the events of renewed emphasis on the cen- word. more and more fill the hearts The Catholic Commentator the mission of Jesus, and of his trality of the sacred Scriptures Pastors could give away Bi- of men. Just as the life of the church, in this world would re- to the life of every Christian. It bles or a book of the Bible to the church is strengthened through This year, on the liturgical main incomprehensible. Hence, should be evidence of and an entire assembly combined with more frequent celebration of the memorial of St. Jerome, Pope St. Jerome could rightly claim: opportunity for deepening our emphasizing how to read and eucharistic mystery, similarly Francis announced that the ‘Ignorance of Scriptures is igno- commitment as a church to that pray with the word of God. we may hope for a new stimulus third Sunday in Ordinary Time, rance of Christ.’ ” very renewal. The Holy Father emphasized for the life of the Spirit from a Jan. 26, “is to be devoted to the It was at the end of the Year Some suggestions that Pope that catechists, who assist peo- growing reverence for the word celebration, study and dissem- of Mercy that Pope Francis ini- Francis makes in terms of how ple to grow in their faith, ought of God, which ‘lasts forever’ (Is. ination of the Word of God.” tially proposed setting aside a to observe Word of God Sunday to feel an urgent need for per- 40:8; see 1 1:23-25; “Dei Similar to Catechetical Sunday, Sunday where the church would are: sonal renewal through famil- Verbum,” 26). this will be a yearly observance. focus on the word of God. He Enthronement of the sacred iarity with and study of the sa- May the Scriptures be ev- In the Apostolic Letter “Ape- hoped it would be an occasion text during the eucharistic cel- cred Scriptures. er-more our wisdom and our ruit Illis: Instituting the Sunday for the church to grow in under- ebration. In closing, let us turn to that peace! of the Word of God,” the Holy standing of the “dialogue be- Highlight the importance of document of the Second Vati- Father writes: tween the Lord and his people.” the proclamation of the word can Council that was so much a Schoedel is associate direc- “The relationship between The letter also mentions both of God by emphasizing in the part of the renewal of devotion tor of the office of Evangeliza- the risen Lord, the community “Dei Verbum,” from the Second homily the honor that it is due. to the Scriptures. It encouraged tion & Catechesis for the Dio- of believers and sacred Scrip- Vatican Council, and “Verbum Bishops could celebrate the that, cese of Baton Rouge. ture is essential to our identity Domini,” by Pope Benedict Rite of Installation of Lectors “... through the reading and (A version of this article as Christians. Without the Lord XVI, as relevant sources of or similar commissioning of study of the sacred books, the originally appeared on Nov. 13, who opens our minds to them, church teaching on the word of readers. word of God may spread rapid- 2019, on the blog for the Of- it is impossible to understand God. Understood this way, this Renewed efforts at training ly and be glorified” (2 Thes 3:1) fice of Evangelization and Cat- the Scriptures in depth. Yet the observance is a practical fruit members of the faithful to be and the treasure of revelation, echesis at evangcatbr.org.)

SHARiNG JOY – Bishop Michael G. Duca distributed hundreds of toys to children at the annual St. Vincent de Paul Society gift giveaway on Dec. 21. This was one of several St. Vincent de Paul Christmas gift distributions going on around the Dio- Joe Skibinski, Agent cese of Baton Rouge. Photos by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator

Toys were distributed to 752 children. Pictured, right, sisters Ciari Clark, 5, and Chloe Clark, 7, smile as they wait in line to receive a toy from the bishop. 8 The Catholic Commentator | January 3, 2020 January 3, 2020 | The Catholic Commentator 9

Holy Ghost School | Hammond

St. John Interparochial School | Plaquemine St. Joseph’s Academy/Catholic High School | Baton Rouge

Do you hear what I hear... St. School | Baton Rouge St. George School | Baton Rouge

Mater Dolorosa School | Independence Sacred Heart of Jesus School | Baton Rouge School | Port Allen 10 The Catholic Commentator January 3, 2020

TOY DRIVE – Fourth-graders at Holy Ghost School in Hammond collected toys to donate to the Pedi- atric Unit at North Oaks Hospital. The students’ annual generosity helps the hospital provide needed toys and supplies for their patients. Photo provided by Cindy Wagner | Holy Ghost School

SWEATER WEATHER – Students at St. Michael the Archangel High School in Baton Rouge have fun on Tacky Sweater Day, Dec. 6. Photo SUBMIT YOUR SCHOOL NEWS provided by Kaye Self | St. Michael High School TO BONNY VAN AT [email protected]

CatholiC

• The most current schedules for the churches in the SChoolS Diocese of Baton Rouge.

Week TOP TECH – At St. Peter Chanel School in Paulina, students are learning how to create low-voltage paper circuits with card stock, • Lists Spanish and signed Masses for Hearing LEDs, copper tape and coin batteries in technology classes. Third- Impaired Masses. Of special interest to parents, The Catholic Schools Week graders made Rudolf magnets to display on their lockers. Pic- section will feature information about the Catholic schools tured, from left, are Daegan Louque, Sage LeBlanc, Rylan Dona- dieu, Lillie Gravois, Ava Veillon, Mia Forsyth; back row, Leah in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, current registration for the Johnson, Brennan Armand, Laynie LeBlanc, Evan Babin and Aydin next school year, distinguished graduates and more. Loque. Photo provided by Paula Poche | St. Peter Chanel School Deadline for this section is Jan. 7, 2020. Call Wanda Koch at 225-387-0983 or email [email protected].

THE CATHOLIC

TOY DRIVE – Pre-kindergarten students at St. Aloysius School in Baton Rouge collected toys for children for the Christmas season. Photo provided by Edie Boudreaux | St. Aloysius School C   January 3, 2020 ENTERTAINMENT The Catholic Commentator 11

12345 6789 11120 131 Motion Picture Association of America MOVIE ratings: 41 51 61 G – General audiences; all ages admitted 1178 91 REVIEWS PG – Parental guidance suggested; some USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting material may not be suitable for children 02 221 2 PG-13 – Parents are strongly cautioned to give classifications: 24253 2 62 A-I – General patronage special guidance for attendance of children A-II – Adults and adolescents under 13; some material may be inappropriate 72 298 2 A-III – Adults for young children A-IV – Adults, with reservations R – Restricted; under 17 requires accompanying 330123 343 353 L – Limited adult audience parent or adult guardian 63 387 3 93 O – Morally offensive NC-17 – No one under 17 admitted 04 14 432 4

444564 Dark Waters action sequences, director Lino DiSalvo’s mean- Focus dering musical adventure, which also features 48497 4 510 5 Fact-based drama about poisoned water, voice work by Adam Lambert as a loony Roman 25 35 similar to 2000’s “Erin Brockovich,” has a sin- emperor, is too frightening for tots and strays gle crusading lawyer (Mark Ruffalo) taking on momentarily into some questionable dialogue. 45 565 557 598 506 a powerful company – in this case, DuPont – Still, themes of teamwork, friendship, fam- 16 26 36 that’s been dumping industrial waste from the ily bonds and forgiveness go some way toward manufacture of Teflon around Parkersburg, compensating for its obvious aesthetic short- 46 56 66 West Virginia, the loyal company town where comings. Considerable peril, stylized combat moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www the coating is made. The ambitious attorney, violence, two vaguely crass terms. A-II ; PG ACROSS 2 “Three ___ Match” who used to represent chemical companies, be- 1 Genesis to Deuteronomy 3 Tell on comes involved in the situation at the urging of The Two 6 ThinkPads, e.g. 4 Queen’s worker a stubborn local farmer (Bill Camp) who knows Netflix 10 Commit a deadly sin 5 Course 14 Silly 6 Most likely, Paul’s first epistle (abbr.) his grandmother (Marcia Dangerfield). Director Glossy but highly speculative account of a visit 15 Beancurd 7 French wood Todd Haynes and screenwriters Mario Correa to the Vatican by Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio (Jon- 16 Rock add-on 8 Julliard deg. and Matthew Michael Carnahan limn a rural athan Pryce), the future Pope Francis, shortly 17 Leader of the Maccabees 9 Misgiving 19 Demeanor 10 Clunkers landscape where the sun seems never to shine before the resignation of his predecessor, Bene- 20 “None of us lives to himself, and 11 Beneficial and the wealthy exploit and poison the poor dict XVI (Anthony Hopkins). Screenwriter An- none of us ___ to himself.” (Rom 12 Guide with seeming impunity. Some rough and pro- thony McCarten and director Fernando Meire- 14:7) 13 Is inclined 21 Shared 18 “Bind them upon your heart always; fane language, occasional animal gore. A-III; lles ill-advisedly try to extol Francis by trashing 23 Mythological vengeance deities ___ them about your neck.” (Prov PG-13 Benedict, presenting the latter as doddering and 26 Those whom Jesus came to call 6:21) detached from the realities of modern life. They 27 Wash bowl 22 Fixing grub for GI’s Jumanji: The Next Level counterbalance this somewhat with an extend- 28 Jeremiah was put in these (Jer 20:1- 23 Goodwill 2) 24 Consumers Columbia ed sequence of flashbacks showing Jesuit Father 30 Retaliate 25 Outer covering Playful gender-bending within the context of a Bergoglio’s quasi-collaborationist approach to 32 Boat spot 26 Traded video-game alternate universe mingles with an the brutal military regime that came to power 33 Doze 27 Bundle 36 ___ of Hosts 29 Former Russian rulers unexpectedly somber message about approach- in Argentina following a 1976 coup d’etat, a sub- 37 museum (with “el”) 31 Typify ing death in this follow-up to the 2017 original. ject about which they seem to imagine that they 39 Flat-fish 33 Scandinavian Director Jake Kasdan, who co-wrote the screen- have acquired a clarity and certainty that has 40 Hosp.trauma centers 34 Extraterrestrial 41 Coffin stand 35 They’re above abs play with Jeff Pinkner and , has evaded many others. But when it comes to the 42 Acid used in the production of 38 Restraint made, in spite of the sight gags about physical two pontificates, their bias is more than appar- explosives 39 Alphabet string abilities and regenerated characters, a reflec- ent. Fine performances by the leads and high 44 Obsessive preoccupation 41 The “B” of N.B. tion on adult responsibilities, mortality and production values do not compensate adequate- 46 Tricks 43 Land of St. Patrick 47 Source of the cedar trees used in 44 Lola, Broadway dancer and convert self-esteem. Dwayne Johnson and Karen Gil- ly for a fast and loose version of recent church the temple to Catholicism lan are the most prominent of the avatars into history. Themes requiring mature discernment, 50 Number of apostles after Judas died 45 Catholic female lead of “Everybody whom the core cast of the kickoff (Alex Wolff, scenes of violence, a few sexual references, one 52 Section of New York City Loves Raymond” 53 “How will it end for those who ___ 47 Capital of Tibet Morgan Turner, Ser’Darius Blain and Madison mild profanity, a single crass term. A-III; PG-13 to obey the gospel of God?” (1 Pet 48 Artist’s support Iseman), among others, are transformed before 4:17) 49 “Let us ___ bread together on our embarking on a quest during which they take Uncut Gems 54 On the ocean knees.” A24 55 Sacraments group 51 Nero’s full deck? on the brutal leader (Rory McCann) of a violent 61 Catholic actor Connery 53 Symbol of the Holy Spirit empire. An old game, a familiar plot and eternal Relentlessly grating character study of a low- 62 Nothing 56 Actor Beatty verities are a potent combination. Intense ac- life jewelry merchant (Adam Sandler) in New 63 Snare 57 Also tion sequences, fleeting sexual references, three York’s Diamond District as he juggles his wife 64 ___ Seltzer 58 Acknowledgement of debt 65 Biblical garden 59 Benedictine letters profanities, occasional crude language. A-III; (Idina Menzel), the employee who doubles as 66 Distrust 60 “…the kingdom of heaven is like a PG-13 his mistress (Julia Fox), the basketball gambling ___” (Mt 13:47) addiction that has left him in debt to his loan DOWN 1 Catholic newsman Russert Playmobil: The Movie shark -in-law (Eric Bogosian) and his Solution on page 18 STX fraught relationship with hoops star Kevin Gar- Four years after their parents were killed in nett (playing himself). Although the abrasive a car accident, a formerly free-spirited teen girl tone is deliberate, the effect is that of a skillfully (Anya Taylor-Joy) and her fun-loving younger composed sonata for fingernails on a black- brother (Gabriel Bateman) are at odds because board. Directors and brothers Josh and Benny of her overprotectiveness. But after they’re Safdie, who co-wrote the script with Ronald magically transported to a world inhabited by Bronstein, also hold out the protagonist’s affair the titular line of toys, and he is kidnapped, she as a potential source of happiness. Gunplay and embarks on a quest to rescue him. She finds an physical violence, some gore, benignly viewed unlikely ally in the form of a laidback food truck adultery, strong sexual content including im- driver (voice of Jim Gaffigan) and is also aided plied lesbian activity, voyeurism and rear nu- by a James Bond-like spy (voice of Daniel Rad- dity, frequent profanities, pervasive rough and cliffe). Mostly animated, but bracketed by live- crude language, an obscene gesture. O; R 12 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT January 3, 2020 There is a time for prayer, a time for saving the planet, and a time for voting

e finished the waiting time of With the psalmist we must pray, “Arise, back again.” about seeing him in the poor and the Advent. I hope with joy and cast us not off forever! Arise, help us! Second, get on board with Pope vulnerable. Wthanksgiving for the loving Redeem us for your kindnesses’ sake.” Francis’ Encyclical “Laudato Si’ ” and Third, all of us who are of voting age and merciful God who chose to share While Scripture is a good source fight climate change. Did you know that should make a resolution to vote in ev- our lives at Christmas. Now we are re- of prayer, we can pray in our own this past July was the hottest month ery election. The creators of our nation- cuperating from New Year’s celebrat- words and with the Catholic prayers worldwide in recorded human history? al launched an experiment ing and wondering if we really want we learned growing up. I came across California was on fire and the Green- in democratic self-government based to keep the resolutions we made or a short column in Commonwealth land ice sheet was melting 10 billion on the political rule of the people. This should still make for the coming year. Magazine published in New York City tons of water causing the sea level to is achieved through the right of every I would like to suggest a few resolu- by Catholic laypeople. rise around the world. citizen to vote. As the Constitutional tions for 2020 that I think are timely One of their staff, a America has pulled out Convention ended, Benjamin Franklin and practical. woman named B. D. Mc- of the 2015 Paris Climate was asked if the framers had created a First, set a daily time for prayer and Clay, wrote about “Small Agreement but quite a monarchy or a republic. He answered, do just that in whatever way best suits Graces,” how big cities few individual states “A republic, if you can keep it.” The first you. We have always a need to pray, can breed indifference including California and and most important step in keeping our but the chaos we are now experiencing and how prayer helps us New York have set net- democracy is voting. in our city, our country and our world resist it. As she notes, “In zero goals for fossil-fuel Why should we make this one of calls for prayer in an urgent way. Just most of America’s cities emissions. And there our resolutions? Because most of us this morning, while thinking about you can’t walk a block are alternative technolo- are not voting. According to figures on what I should write for my first column or two without meeting gies to help meet those election results reported in the New of 2020, I glanced at our daily Advo- someone who is in a state goals. I saw windmills in York Times and on eligible voter-popu- cate newspaper and saw that three of of serious destitution ... Alaska this past Septem- lation estimates from the United States the four stories on the front page dealt Meanwhile ambulances ber. There is also solar Election Project, in the last U.S. Senate with five killings in and around Baton scream past you; people energy being produced race, Louisiana was dead last of all 50 Rouge, and pages 2 and 3 added six weep on the bus.” You Another now in Louisiana on states with less than 34 percent of our killed at a New Jersey Jewish market, feel helpless, and the some homes and larger eligible voters voting. We probably did 71 soldiers killed in a jihadist attack proximity of so much Perspective buildings. better in the gubernatorial race. How- in Niger, West Africa, and finally, two suffering and chaos can You may ask, “How ever, important elections are coming up killed plus a suicide bomber at a U.S. breed indifference. Father John Carville religious is a resolution in 2020. We all need to make a resolu- base in Afghanistan. Human life in our As she walks through doing whatever I can to tion to do our civic duty and vote our time is cheap and getting cheaper. the city, she tries to fight climate change?” conscience in every one of them. We need to find a way to peace and remember to pray; nothing fancy, “just Pope Francis reminds us that, as intel- Along with that free advice, I wish an end to violence. But nothing we Hail Marys and Our Fathers ... And it ligent beings capable of scientific and you all a Happy New Year! do seems to work. Like the psalmist is one action I can take to prevent the moral action, we have been given by in Psalm 44, we can feel helpless and hardening of my heart in a city where our creator the duty of caring for our FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest in the wonder if God has forgotten us. But that often seems like the only way global home. Besides, it is our poor Diocese of Baton Rouge and writes we have to keep faith and hope alive, to live as I pass from one extreme to and homeless brothers and sisters who on current topics for The Catholic realizing that what we cannot do alone, another with every step — wealth to suffer most from dangerous changes in Commentator. He can be reached at God can help us find a way to achieve. poverty, highbrow to lowbrow, and then our climate. We know what Jesus said [email protected].

| Pray for those who pray for us Letters to the Editor Please pray for the priests, and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese.

Letters to the Editor should be typed and limited to 350 words Dec. 30 Rev. Michael J. Alello Jan. 6 Rev. Frank B. Bass and should contain the name and address of the writer, though Dcn. W. Brent Duplessis Dcn. Ronald J. Hebert the address will not be printed. We reserve the right to edit all Br. Robert Croteau SC Sr. Evelyn Mee CSJ letters. Send to: Letters to the Editor, The Catholic Commenta- Dec. 31 Rev. David E. Allen Jan. 7 Rev. M. Jeffery Bayhi tor, P. O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316, or to tcc@ Dcn. Jeff R. Easley Dcn. Clayton A. Hollier Sr. Alphonse Maria CMC Br. Harold Harris SC diobr.org. Jan. 1 Rev. Richard R. Andrus SVD Jan. 8 Rev. Mark B. Beard Dcn. John Ferguson III Dcn. George Hooper Br. Ramon Daunis SC Sr. Anne Meridier CSJ Jan. 2 Rev. Joey F. Angeles Jan. 9 Rev. Robert H. Berggreen Mission Statement Dcn. Natale (Nat) J. Garofalo Dcn. Micheal J. (Shelley) Joseph Sr. Maricel Marturi DM Br. Ray Hebert SC The mission of The Catholic Commentator is to provide news, Jan. 3 Rev. Jaime Arrambide CSsR Jan. 10 Rev. Donald V. Blanchard information and commentary to the people of the Diocese of Dcn. Edward J. Gauthreaux Dcn. John A. Jung Jr. Br. Alan Drain SC Sr. Ann Catherine Nguyen FMOL Baton Rouge, Catholics and their neighbors alike. In doing so, The Jan. 4 Rev. Charles A. Atuah MSP Jan. 11 Rev. Pat Broussard Catholic Commentator strives to further the wider mission of the Dcn. Steven C. Gonzales Dcn. Robert J. Kusch Church: to evangelize, to communicate, to educate and to give Sr. Ann Maria Mathew SOM Br. Dwight Kenney SC the Catholic viewpoint on important issues of the present day. Jan. 5 Rev. J. Cary Bani Jan. 12 Rev. Jules A. Brunet Dcn. Richard H. Grant Dcn. Ronald D. LeGrange Br. Carl Evans SC Sr. Hong Vuong Quy Nguyen ICM January 3, 2020 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 13

DUCA  teachings of the Church and the Once we have the spiritual our lives and call upon the grace is to change our behavior and understanding we have of the ideal that will guide us, it is of God to help us. avoid serious sin, then we must From page 1 scriptures. Those ideals guide important to keep trying to In the end it is more about make a complete break no mat- we should not set our hopes us and, even though we will reach our goal. First, be honest. faithfulness than perfection. ter how big the commitment is high. The goal that guides our never be perfect, we keep striv- To make a real change we are And so if you have begun your and depend on the mercy and change is as important as the ing for perfection because these not talking about a sprint to the New Year’s resolution and you love of God who will provide bad habit or action we want are the values that will rightly finish as in a quick race. We are have already blown it – smoked what we need. In other areas of to change. In fact, this goal shape our lives. We should talking about a marathon be- a cigarette, had too much drink our lives we should take really should be the first consideration understand that we become cause it will usually take a long or cheated on your diet – the small steps. One of the things because in our striving for a virtuous not in achieving the time to affect a serious change answer is not to give up and say, we often try to do is change our particular ideal we are shaping goal perfectly, but in the striving in our lives. “Well, I blew it this year, so I whole life at once. To change the person we are becoming. If for holiness. As St. James says, our “per- won’t have to start again until our life means to change more our desire to lose weight is really The words of St. James take severance should be perfect.” next year,” but rather to simply than one little behavior. A small about vanity, for example, the us a little deeper into this mys- We must put our emphasis not say, “I blew it yesterday, but commitment done faithfully will more we strive to reach our goal tery of conversion: “and let per- on being perfect, but on the today I begin again.” It is that often have the effect of making the more vain we will become. severance be perfect, so that you grace of God. So each day as we faithful decision each day to big changes in our lives and lead We should always seek a may be perfect and completely examine how we are doing, we pick up our cross and to follow us to deep spiritual insights. higher goal that reflects the per- lacking in nothing” (James 1:4). should accept that each day it Christ that causes us to grow in It is my prayer that this New fect ideal that God has given us Paul says from a dif- is not about how perfect we are virtue. Year will be a time of conversion in the example of Jesus, which ferent point of view: “I have in achieving our goals, but how My last humble insight is that and holy change in your life. we discover in our spiritual lives competed well; I have finished perfectly we continue to begin we should take small changes May we say next year that this through prayerful reflection on the race; I have kept the faith” (2 over and over again to seek the except where serious sin is was a good year, a year of grace the witness of Jesus Christ, the Timothy 4:7). mind and the heart of Christ in involved. If our spiritual need and conversion.

Another meaning of Christmas A prayer ome years ago at a religious conference a man ap- the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. proached the microphone and after apologizing for This may come as a surprise to us since, until quite recently, to keep Swhat he felt would be an inappropriate question, asked our preaching and catechesis has not often made this explicit. this: “I love my dog. When he dies will he go to heaven? Do However what St. Paul is saying here is that physical creation animals have eternal life?” itself, the cosmic world, will, at the end of time, be transformed The answer to that might come as a surprise to many of us, in some glorious way and enter into heaven, just as human be- god first but, looked at through the eyes of Christian faith, yes, his dog ings do. He’s also saying that, like us, it too somehow senses its can go to heaven. It’s one of the meanings of Christmas. God mortality and groans to be set free from its present limits. came into the world to save the world, not just the people living We need to ask ourselves this question? What do we believe this New in it. The incarnation has meaning for human- will happen to physical creation at the end of ity, but also for the cosmos itself. We don’t know time? Will it be destroyed, burnt-up, annihi- Year exactly what that means, and our imaginations lated? Or, will it simply be abandoned and left aren’t up to the task of picturing it, but, because of empty and deserted like a stage after a play has Dear God, the incarnation, dogs too can go to heaven. Is this ended, while we go on to life elsewhere? Scrip- Thank you that you make fanciful? No, it’s scriptural teaching. ture informs us otherwise, that is, it tells us that At Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus physical creation itself, our planet earth, will also all things new. Thank you for and see in his birth the beginning of the mystery be transformed (“liberated from its bondage to all that you’ve allowed into our of the incarnation unfolding in history, the mys- decay”) and enter into heaven with us. How will lives this past year, the good tery of God becoming human in physical flesh in this happen? We can’t imagine it, just as we can’t along with the hard things, order to save the world. What we tend to struggle imagine our own transformed state. But Scrip- which have reminded us how with though is how we understand what’s meant ture assures us that it will happen because, like much we need you and rely on by Christ saving the world. Most of us take that ourselves, our world, physical creation, is also your presence filling us every to mean that Christ came into the world to save destined to die, and, like us, it intuits its mortality single day. the people, those of us with self-awareness and In Exile and groans under that sentence, aching to be set We pray for your Spirit to eternal souls. free from its limitations and become immortal. lead us each step of this New That’s true, but our faith also asks us to believe Science agrees. It tells us that physical creation Father Ron Rolheiser Year. We ask that you will that God’s saving activity in the Christ extends to is mortal, that the sun is burning out, that energy guide our decisions and turn more than only human beings and more than even animals is ever-so-slowly decreasing and that the earth as we know it and other living things. God’s saving activity in Christ reaches will someday die. The earth is as mortal as we are and so if it’s our hearts to deeply desire so deep that it saves creation itself – the oceans, the moun- to have a future it needs to be saved by something or someone you above all else. We ask that tains, the soil that grows our food, the desert sands and the from outside itself. That something and someone are revealed you will open doors needing to earth itself. Christ came to save all of those things too, not just in the mystery of the incarnation within which God takes on be opened and close the ones us, the people. physical flesh in Christ in order to save the world – and what needing to be shut tight. We Where, you might ask, does Scripture teach this? It teaches he came to save was not just us, the people living on this earth, ask that you would help us re- it most everywhere in implicit ways though it teaches it quite but rather, “the world,” the planet itself, and everything on it. lease our grip on the things to explicitly in a number of different places. For example, in the Jesus assured us that nothing is ever ultimately . No which you’ve said “no,” “not Epistle to the Romans (8, 18-22) St. Paul writes “I consider hair falls from someone’s head and no sparrow falls from the yet,” or “wait.” We ask for help that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the sky and simply disappears forever, as if it had never been. God to pursue you first, above every glory that will be revealed in us. For the creation waits in eager created, loves, cares for and ultimately resurrects every bit of dream and desire you’ve put expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the cre- creation for all eternity – including a beloved dog. within our hearts. ation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that creation itself Father Ron Rolheiser, theologian, teacher and award- Amen will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into winning author, is president of the Oblate School of Theology Source: crosswalk.com. the freedom and glory of the children of God.” in San Antonio, Texas. He can be contacted through his website We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in ronrolheiser.com and facebook.com/ronrolheiser. 14 The Catholic Commentator COMING EVENTS January 3, 2020

New Orleans Retreats – The Archdiocese of New [email protected]. St. Gabriel Room, 444 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge. For Orleans Retreat Center, 5500 St. Mary St., Metairie, details, call Ethlyn White at 225-803-3391 or email will host the following retreats: “Becoming a Disciple Secular Franciscan Meeting – The monthly meeting [email protected]. of Christ”, by Father Glenn LeCompte, of the Diocese of of the Secular Franciscan Order will be held Sunday, Houman-Thibodaux, Friday, Jan. 10 – Sunday, Jan. 12; Jan. 26, in the Chapel of St. Francis of at Maryville Divorced/Separated Program – Registration is “Finding God in the Now,” by Father Jim Sichko of the Convent, 4200 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, beginning being taken for Journey of Hope, a program address- Diocese of Lexington, Kentucky, Friday, Jan. 17 – Sun- at 1 p.m. with the recitation of the . ing the concerns of divorced/separated Catholics, that day, Jan. 19. For cost information and to register, visit For further information, email Ruth Powers OFS at will meet Sundays, beginning Feb. 9, 2:30 – 5 p.m., at neworleansretreats.org or call 504-887-1420. [email protected] or call 601-807-4153. St. Aloysius Church, 2025 Stuart Ave., Baton Rouge. Fee is $40, due with registration and scholarships Cross Wise Meeting – Anne Harmon Brett will – The Secular Order of Dis- are available. For more information email afalgoust@ speak at a Cross Wise Ministry meeting, Wednesday, calced Carmelites will meet Sunday, Jan. 12, 1:30 p.m., staloysiusparish.com or call Angela Falgoust at 225- Jan. 15, 10 a.m., at St. Patrick Church, 12424 Brogdon at the Our Lady of Mercy Parish Activity Center in the 343-6657. Lane, Baton Rouge. For more information, call Pam Folse at 225-753-5750. UGLY SWEATERS RAISE MON- Men’s Road to Emmaus Retreat – Rosaryville Spirit EY – Students at Holy Family Life Center, 39003 Rosaryville Road, Ponchatoula, will School in Port Allen partici- host a Men’s Road to Emmaus Retreat Friday, Jan. 24 – pated in “Ugly Christmas Sunday, Jan. 26. For more information and to register, Sweater Day” and raised visit catholicretreatcenter.org or call 225-294-5039. more than $1,000 for Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Louisiana Life March – Louisiana Life March will Hospital in Baton Rouge. Fac- take place Saturday, Jan. 25, 10 a.m. – noon. The ulty and staff went to the hos- route will begin at the grassy area outside the Loui- pital to deliver the check and siana State Capitol, and proceed down Fourth Street wrapped gifts for the young to Galvez Plaza, where a program will take place. For patients who won’t be home more information, visit prolifelouisiana.org/louisiana- for the holidays. Photo provided by life-march-south. to the march, Bishop Michael Annette Fitzgerald | Holy Family School G. Duca will celebrate a Respect Life Mass at 8:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Cathedral, Fourth and Main streets, Baton Rouge. For more information about the Mass, call Danielle Van Haute at 225-242-0164 or email

The Catholic Commentator For help placing your classified ad, PO Box 3316 call 225-387-0983. All classified ads are prepaid. Baton Rouge LA 70821-3316 Classifieds Credit cards are now accepted. Announcements Business service Business service Business service Business service

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Print Your Ad Here TORAH IBMS LUST INANE TOFU ETTE MATTATHIAS MIEN DIES POOLED FURIES SINNERS DATES TO RUN: BASIN STOCKS Check Category: ❑ Announcements ❑ Business Services ❑ Cards of Thanks ❑ For Rent ❑ For Sale ❑ Help Wanted AVENGE SL IP NAP ❑ Positions Wanted ❑ Legal Notices ❑ Other LORD PRADO SOLE Mail to: The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 ERS BIER NITR IC Enclosed is $9.50 for the first 15 words + 15¢ for each word thereafter + 25¢ per line for each special effect (all caps, centered FETISH RUSES line, bold lettering); for a total of $______for each issue. Call for charging on your credit card. LEBANON ELEVEN NAME Advertisements will not HARLEM FA IL be published without ASEA INITIAT ION ADDRESS full payment in advance. SEAN ZERO NOOSE CITY PHONE ALKA EDEN DOUBT moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www January 3, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 15

THE CATHOLIC Mom who lost son to suicide leads COMMENTATOR seminars to educate others, spread hope Hot-off the Press & ERIE, Pa. (CNS) – Three years ago, Betty Koscinski, 75, lost her son to sui- Deliveredto You for cide. She now spends most of her time and energy spreading hope and educat- Only $14 per year ing others about mental illness. “Not many people at my age start out on a new path,” said Koscinski, a mem- ber of Notre Dame Parish in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. Before her son Joe’s death in 2016 at age 41, she already had been work- ing for 10 years as a behavioral special- ist consultant, a mobile therapist and a program integrity consultant. She gave presentations on stress management, eating disorders, depression and sui- cide prevention. Earlier, she taught theology and physical education for 19 years at Ken- Betty Koscinski of Notre Dame Church in Hermitage, Pa., center, poses with her husband, nedy Catholic High School in - Karol, second from right, and their children John Paul, Carley, Karen, Joe, Annie and Julie. TO SUBSCRIBE, age. Their son Joe committed suicide at age 41 in 2016. Mental illness had plagued him since CALL 225-387-0983. Nothing in her professional back- college, and Betty Koscinski spends much of the year shedding light on mental illness ground prepared her for the shock of and suicide. Photo provided by CNS | Courtesy Betty Koscinski losing her own son. But it did, however, provide the resources and skills neces- sary to begin sharing her grief journey behaviors and the choices they make,” in new ways. Koscinski said. “I want to educate peo- Since Joe’s death, she developed a ple about the signs to look for when a 90-minute seminar, titled “Stop the loved one might be contemplating sui- Stigma.” She weaves together her son’s cide.” day-to-day struggles up to his tragic According to statistics from the death. She also discusses the myths and World Health Organization; Suicide misunderstandings about mental ill- Awareness Voices of Education, or ness, as well as important information SAVE; and the Centers for Disease Con- about suicide prevention. trol: “My hope is to save lives through ed- • Nearly 800,000 people die by ucation,” she told Faith magazine of the suicide in the world each year, Diocese of Erie. which is roughly one death every Additionally, Koscinski is a speaker 40 seconds. for Crisis Intervention Team training • Suicide is the second leading for law enforcement. The weeklong pro- cause of death among individu- gram is designed to guide interactions als between ages 10 and 34. It is between police officers and those living the fourth leading cause of death with mental illness. among individuals between ages In November, she spoke for the sec- of 35 and 54. ond time at the Crisis Intervention As- • Depression is the leading cause sociation of Pennsylvania’s state confer- of disability worldwide. The ence in Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in highest suicide rates in the U.S. Farmington, Pennsylvania. are among whites, American In- She also is a trained facilitator for a dians and Alaska Natives. program called “Talk Saves Lives,” en- At one of her presentations to law dorsed by the American Foundation of enforcement, a burly police officer came Suicide Prevention. She discusses sui- up to Koscinski and gave her a huge hug. cide, especially as it pertains to youth. “He held me in his arms and thanked Additionally, she has given related me,” Koscinski said. “He said he would presentations to several public high never look at someone with mental ill- schools in two Pennsylvania counties, ness in the same way again.” and at Kennedy Catholic. She’s hoping Her three years of grief, she said, to offer her expertise and personal in- have turned to light. sight to other Catholic schools. “My life has meaning and purpose “I want people to understand that again,” she said. “It’s so gratifying for Please give generously in the those who suffer from mental illness are me at the age of 75 to know that I am collection on January 25 and 26. not crazy. They are just people like you making a difference, giving people a and me who got dealt a very unfair card better understanding of mental illness, in life, a chemical imbalance in their and offering hope to those who are brain which affects their thinking, their struggling.” 16 The Catholic Commentator January 3, 2020

A stunning altar window portrays the story of creation and redemption in the chapel Our Lady of the Lake Chil- dren’s Hospital. Photos provided by Marie Constantin Photography OLOL  From page 1 the Psalms, God’s hands, especially his right hand, saves, sustains, gives victory, gives times/seasons, say, ‘It is God who heals,’ this (window) depiction of holds our hands and upholds us. That is why I’ve placed Raphael with his feet and other hand troubling the his hands above and below creation,” Wilson said. waters has the face of my friend Dr. Richard Carter, Wilson portrayed the darkened, crucified Christ be- a retired physician who loved his patients and is still tween creation and two crippled children, one helped generous with his time, money and talents for other by a Franciscan sister. Christian causes,” Wilson said. The signature depiction of Louisiana wildlife The altar window is inspired by the Genesis cre- throughout the hospital is seen in the chapel as well. ation story, according to Wilson. Swimming in the waters of the windows are fish “The Spirit of God moved on the face of the waters, which were designed and painted by Warren Sim- then he said ‘Let there be light,’ ” said Wilson. mons, who restored all the St. Francis windows in the “We know that in the first chapter of St. John, all children’s garden at the hospital. things were spoken into existence through the Word, “He is the master craftsman who took my watercol- Jesus, the light and life of men,” he added. or designs and with the help of Colt Hurst, Sarah La- “But in many places in Scripture, especially savio and Ellen Ogden, produced and installed these (chapel) windows,” said Wilson.

An LSU graduate with a master’s de- gree in fine arts, Wilson said the hall- In 2020, Give the Best mark of anyone who studied under LSU Gift of All – Yourself! professor Paul Dufor is “their exuberant use of color.” “In these windows I’ve tried to use the Every day there are people who are praying for a whole spectrum. I’ve also tried to color miracle – just an everyday miracle – like a hot them as if a child’s coloring book, stay- meal, a prescription filled, a warm bed or a decent ing bright at the top, lowering the value pair of shoes. You can help. (darkening) toward the water,” said Wil- son. Volunteer Opportunities: The method creating the stained-glass  Manna Givers - We need individuals or groups windows involves fusing the materials in who can bring in a purchased or prepared supper a kiln. once a month for our homeless guests. “It’s been that way for a couple thou-  Dining Room Volunteers – Help with our meal sand of years,” said Wilson, who noted that “stained glass is the medium of the service at the St. Vincent de Paul Dining Room. church.”  Pharmacy Volunteers – We have a volunteer job Stating that the chapel definitely has for you helping us with our Fill A Prescription for a Catholic presence, Wilson hopes the the Needy effort. messages of heavenly accompaniment,  Book and Collectible Volunteers – Help us sort protection, healing and comfort will and organize donated books and antiques. In speak to everyone. addition, we need help organizing clothing/shoe “May all who use this chapel for donations for needy families at St. Vincent de prayer, song or receiving Holy Com- Paul Stores throughout our community! munion feel their joy, the presence of strong superhero like angels and espe-  Many Other Volunteer Opportunities – Waiting cially the presence of the Lord for ‘it is Just for YOU - Visit us at svdpbr.org and sign-up he that has made us’ and loves us,” Wil- for one of many heavenly volunteer experiences at son said. St. Vincent de Paul. Visit us on Facebook at Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Greater Baton Rouge. St. Gabriel the Archangel, the great com- municator and bearer of the most impor- You can have a life with purpose by sharing the tant messages in human history, is present Gospel -- Get involved with St. Vincent de Paul! in the chapel through stained glass medi- um.