Vol. 26, No. 11 June 2017 ConnectionThe Catholic

Fidel Mondragón’s ORDINATION Shreveport's Newest Priest to be Ordained in June

Also Inside New Priest Assignments Across the Diocese Seminarian Prepares for Transitional Diaconate Ordination

June 2017 1 The Catholic Letter from the Editor Connection ach year, The Catholic Connection boards (pinterest.com/cathconnection/ Publisher magazine takes a break during the pins), viewing diocesan event photos Bishop Michael G. Duca Esummer to prepare for another on Flickr (https://www.flickr.com/ year’s worth of bringing you news, photos/23683423@N05/albums) and Editor education and ways to strengthen downloading the CathConnections app Jessica Rinaudo your faith. This issue will be your last from the Apple and Android app stores. Contributors one until August. You can, however, I hope you have a wonderful and Jim Beadles Rosalba Quiroz stay in touch with the Diocese of blessed summer. See you in August! Shelly Bole Dianne Rachal Shreveport by liking us on Facebook Cathy Cobb Jessica Rinaudo (facebook.com/dioceseofshreveport), Lisa Cooper Marie Rinaudo following us on Twitter (twitter.com/ Bishop Michael Duca Sr. Martinette Rivers cathconnect), following our Pinterest Jessica Rinaudo, Editor Kim Long Katie Sciba Fr. Matthew Long Duane Trombetta Lucy Medvec Bonny Van Mary Morgan Mike Van Vranken Fr. Rothell Price John Mark Willcox Editorial Board Kim Long bishop’s june calendar Fr. Matthew Long Kelly Phelan Powell JUNE 1 Louisiana Interchurch JUNE 20 Catholic Dianne Rachal Conference Executive Committee Charities of Christine Rivers Meeting; St. Joseph Catholic Center, North Louisiana Deacon Mike Whitehead Alexandria; 12:30 p.m. Founders’ John Mark Willcox Reception; JUNE 3 65th Birthday Mass & CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier, Mission Statement Reception; Cathedral of St. John The Catholic Connection is a monthly Shreveport; 5:30 p.m. publication funded by your Diocesan Berchmans, Shreveport; 4:00 p.m. Stewardship Appeal; mailed to every JUNE 21 Investment Committee known Catholic household in the Diocese JUNE 4 Multicultural Mass; St. Mary of Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; of Shreveport. Our Mission is to advance the Pines Parish, Shreveport; 10:00 a.m. knowledge and understanding of our 10:00 a.m. Catholic Faith among the faithful. We seek 65th Birthday Mass & Reception; to foster the application of Christ’s teachings JUNE 23 Sacred Heart Feast Day Mass and our Church’s mission in our daily lives and Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish, & Celebration; Sacred Heart Parish, to encourage our sense of Catholic identity Monroe; 5:00 p.m. within our family, parish, and diocesan faith Rayville; 5:30 p.m. community. JUNE 10 Fidel Mondragón’s Ordination JUNE 24 Transitional Diaconate Subscriptions & Address Changes to the Priesthood; Cathedral of Ordination of Duane Trombetta; Holy Contact: Jessica Rinaudo, Editor St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; Trinity Parish, Shreveport; 10:00 a.m. Email: [email protected] 10:00 a.m. Write: JUNE 25 St. John the Baptist Parish's Catholic Connection JUNE 11 Mass in honor of Fr. Andre 3500 Fairfield Avenue 146th Anniversary/Feast Day Mass & McGrath, OFM’s 20th Anniversary Shreveport, LA 71104 Celebration of Fr. Michael Thang’wa, as Pastor of Our Lady of the Call: 318-868-4441 FMH’s Birthday; St. John the Baptist Fax: 318-868-4609 Blessed Sacrament Parish and 50th Parish, Many; 10:00 a.m. Website: www.thecatholicconnection.org Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood; Our Lady of the The Catholic Connection is a member JUNE 27 Fr. Timothy Hurd’s 25th of the Catholic Press Association. Blessed Sacrament Parish, Shreveport; Anniversary of Ordination to the 9:00 a.m. Priesthood Mass & Reception; St. Joseph Parish, Zwolle; 6:00 p.m. JUNE 12 Catholic Health Association Awards Banquet; Hilton New Orleans The Diocese of Shreveport complies with Virtus’s JUNE 28 Diocesan Finance Council Protecting God’s Children program. Classes are Riverside, New Orleans; 6:30 p.m. Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; offered every second Wednesday of the month at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. To report 12:00 p.m. child sexual abuse by a cleric or church worker in JUNE 14-17 United States Conference the Diocese of Shreveport, call Glennda Lawson. of Catholic Bishops’ Spring Meeting; JUNE 30 – JULY 5 Convocation of Hotline is 318-294-1031 and your local law enforcement agency. Indianapolis, IN Catholic Leaders; Orlando, FL

2 Catholic Connection contents june 2017 columns Don't Be Afraid to Be "Religious" by Bishop Michael Duca...... 4-5 Mike’s Meditations: Embracing All Prayer Types by Mike Van Vranken...... 6 In Review: Mission from the Depths by Tim Rinaldi reviewed by Marie Rinaudo...... 7 13 Jessica Rinaudo, Editor Faithful Food: Vulnerability and Risk by Kim Long...... 8 Domestic Church: Out of Habit with Prayer by Katie Sciba...... 9 From the Pope: The Mother of Hope from VIS...... 10 Navigating the Faith: Whoever Has Ears Ought to Hear by Cathy Cobb ...... 11 Second Collections for June and July by Fr. Rothell Price ...... 12 Vocations View: The Identity and Role of a Deacon by Duane Trombetta ...... 13 Kids' Connection: Saint Kateri Tekakwitha ...... 24 14 features Fidel Mondragón's Ordination: Shreveport's Newest Priest to be Ordained in June by Jessica Rinaudo ...... 14-15

news Religious Education Gets Boost at Our Lady of Fatima School by Bonny Van ...... 16 Diocese Focuses on Family Life Through Media and Catechetical Fair by Shelly Bole ...... 17 22 Join Us for Summer Catholic Camps for Teens! by Fr. Matthew Long ...... 18 Thank You for Strong Appeal Performance by John Mark Willcox ...... 18 New Priest Assignments Across the Diocese ...... 19 on the cover Loyola Staff Attended NCEA by Lisa Cooper ...... 20

Vol. 26, No. 11 June 2017 Aging Out Loud by Sr. Martinette Rivers, ols ...... 20 The Catholic Plans for SVdP Banquet Underway by Jim Beadles...... 21 Connection Catholic Charities Presents Bingo on the Bayou by Lucy Medvec ...... 21 Our Lady of Fatima Plenary Indulgence by Dianne Rachal ...... 22 Help Collect Socks for Prison Ministry by Mary Morgan ...... 22 Fidel Mondragón’s ORDINATION Shreveport's Newest Priest Hispanic News by Rosalba Quiroz ...... 23 to be Ordained in June School News ...... 25 Also Inside Around the Diocese ...... 26-27 New Priest Assignments Across the Diocese Seminarian Prepares for Transitional Diaconate Ordination

Across the Nation: Pope Francis Celebrated Mass and Canonization June 2017 1 at Fatima Shrine from Vatican Information Service ...... 28-29 Deacon Fidel Mondragón photographed in the St. Michael Mark Your Calendar ...... 30 Chapel next to the Cathedral of St. June and July Calendars ...... 31 John Berchmans in Shreveport.

June 2017 3 la reflexiónDel Obispo por Obispo Michael G. Duca No Teman el ser “Religiosos” reo que es justo decir que en la cultura seglar hay prejuicios contra la religión. Tal vez el prejuicio ha estado siempre presente, Csin embargo ahora es más evidente. ¿Con que frecuencia han escuchado decir a algún famoso, o amigo o alguien que dejó el catolicismo, “yo soy espiritual pero no religioso”? esta frase pareciera indicar que el camino espiritual es el “mejor camino” y que la persona de alguna manera ha superado la religión. Esta frase se ha convertido en algo tan regular que para algunos suena profunda, pero yo pienso que es solamente otra manera de sacar a DIOS más y más fuera de nuestra cultura como una verdad que nos vincula. Es verdad que se han cometido muchos pecados en nombre de la religión, pero el problema está en las personas y no en nuestra religión, no en nuestra Fe Católica. El significado de la palabra religión es, (re-legio, del Latín) vincularnos de nuevo. En el contexto de la fe, el mayor propósito y significado de religión es vincularnos de nuevo a Dios. En la fe, reordenamos creo que un cristiano pueda decir esto. Solo piensen nuestro pensamiento para que nuestra moralidad, nuestra virtud, nuestra como se reveló Dios mismo. La palabra se hizo carne oración, el más grande significado de nuestras vidas este fundado en la en Jesucristo. Los apóstoles tuvieron que escuchar creencia de que Dios es el autor de la vida, el gran arquitecto de la creación a Jesús, conocerlo y amarlo, para permitirle que les y en que Él mandó a Su único hijo, Jesús como la auténtica revelación de revelara ¡QUIEN ES DIOS! Jesus no es un invento quién es Él. de un corazón humano. Es la Revelación de Dios Muchas veces con las tentaciones y asuntos de la vida olvidamos esta que nos llega de fuera de nosotros mismo y se revela verdad. Podemos decir que creemos en Dios, pero, al mismo tiempo nos en la más profunda verdad del corazón humano convertimos en no creyentes funcionales, quitando a Dios de nuestras vidas, y de nuestra identidad como Hijos de Dios. Para del centro y guía de ellas. Comenzamos a actuar sin cuidado por los demás, centrarnos nuevamente debemos permitirle a Dios solo para obtener el éxito y la riqueza; para buscar placeres sin respeto a los que se nos revele nuevamente. No hacemos esto demás, ni a nuestra propia dignidad o más aun ni a nuestros votos sagrados. simplemente como una práctica espiritual, sino Nos encontramos acercándonos más y más a los valores del mundo – siendo como una práctica religiosa, reconectarse con el vanos, juzgando, siendo egoístas, envidiosos y cerrados en sí mismos. Cuerpo de Cristo, con la iglesia, que continua Cuando dejamos de orar y de ir a la iglesia, llegamos a un momento en el dando a conocer la verdad de la revelación de Jesus que necesitamos preguntarnos: si no hay lugar para Dios en el centro de mi en los sacramentos, las escrituras y la tradición del vida, entonces ¿Qué cosa ocupa el nuevo centro de mi vida? Es mi trabajo, entendimiento que viene de los apóstoles. Una vez mi búsqueda por el éxito, mi deseo de más dinero, de popularidad, de que encontremos a Jesús y descubramos quien es influencia, de placer, de evitar llegar a la ancianidad…? Lo que sea que fuese, Dios, comenzamos a ver la verdad espiritualmente no será suficiente. de Jesús revelada en nuestro mismo ser, encontramos ¿Cómo podemos salir de esta vida vacía, de esta vida funcional de falta gozo, paz y una verdad que resuena en nuestros de fe? La respuesta es simple: ¡vayan a la iglesia! Comiencen a buscar que corazones. Dios sea el centro de su vida. Regresen a las prácticas religiosas que los llevan Yo sé que la iglesia a veces puede dar un reflejo a estar en contacto con Jesús, que los ayude a regresar a Dios, recordarles equivocado de Jesús en los encuentros cotidianos de lo que es bueno y verdadero. Su fe Católica es su camino a reordenar su que tenemos con algunos fieles o párrocos. Las pensamiento y su vida a la luz de su fe en Jesus y creer en Dios. Hacemos prácticas religiosas pueden ser vacías y algunas esto reconectándonos con los sacramentos, las enseñanzas de la iglesia, la veces ser de autoservicio. Pero el corazón de la lectura de las Sagradas Escrituras y la oración. Necesitamos redescubrir a Iglesia es Jesucristo y ahí es donde encontraremos la Dios no dentro de nosotros mismos sino en el Cuerpo de Cristo, la iglesia. verdadera enseñanza y encuentro con Cristo. Dejen Es ahí donde redescubriremos nuestro centro auténtico y verdadero. Algunos de preocuparse si son religiosos. Saquen fuerza, dirán que este es un camino a la antigua y que hay una manera más pura y inspiración y esperanza de su fe, de su religión espiritual. como Católicos Romanos. Regresen a la iglesia a Cuando alguien dice que es espiritual pero no religioso, existe una encontrarse con Cristo una vez más y reordenar su admisión silenciosa de que puede descubrir a Dios dentro de sí mismo. Yo no vida de manera que Dios sea el centro. • 4 Catholic Connection bishop’s REFLECTION by Bishop Michael G. Duca Don’t Be Afraid to Be “Religious” think it is fair to say that in today’s secular culture there is a bias against religion. Maybe the bias against it has always been there, I but it is certainly more pronounced. How often have you heard a celebrity, friend or even a fallen away Catholic say, “I am spiritual, but not religious”? It comes across as a statement that infers the spiritual path is the “higher path” and a person has somehow grown beyond religion. This has become such a regular statement that to some it sounds profound, but I think it is just another way of stripping GOD more and more out of our culture as a binding truth. It is true that there have been many sins Bishop Duca committed in the name of religion, but the problem lies with individuals, not in our religion, our Catholic Faith. The meaning of the word religion, (re-legio, Latin root) is to bind again. In the context of faith, the highest purpose and meaning don’t think a Christian can make this statement. of religion is to bind us back to God. In faith, we reorder our thinking Just think of how God revealed Himself. The so that our morality, our virtue, our prayer, the very ultimate meaning of Word became flesh in Jesus Christ. The apostles our lives is grounded in the belief that God is the author of life, the great had to listen to Jesus, come to know and love him, architect of creation and that He sent His son Jesus as the very revelation to allow Jesus to reveal to them WHO GOD IS! of who He is. Jesus is not a fabrication of the human heart. He Often times in the business and temptations of life we forget this truth. is the Revelation of God who comes from outside We may say that we believe in God, but can at the same time become ourselves and reveals the deepest truth about the functional unbelievers, stripping God out of our lives as our center and human heart and our identity as Children of God. guide. We begin to act without regard for others in the attainment of To re-center ourselves we must allow God to reveal success or wealth; to seek pleasures without respect for others, our own Himself to us once again. We do not do this as dignity or even our sacred vows. We find ourselves becoming more allied simply a spiritual practice, but as a religious one, with the values of the world – becoming vain, judgmental, self righteous, re-connecting with the Body of Christ, the Church, envious and self-centered. When we then stop praying and going to who continues to make known the truth and Church, we reach a moment when we need to ask ourselves a question: revelation of Jesus in the sacraments, the scriptures If there is no place for God at the center of my life, then what is the new and the tradition of understanding coming from the center of my life? Is it my job, my search for success, my desire for more apostles. Once we find Jesus and discover who God money, popularity, influence, pleasure, avoiding old age…? Whatever it is, we then begin to see spiritually the truth of Jesus is, it will not be enough. revealed in our very being, finding joy, peace and a How do we break out of this empty life, this functional unbelief? The truth that resonates in our hearts. answer is simple: go to Church! Begin to seek out God as the center of I am aware the Church can be at times an your life. Get back into the religious practices that put you back in contact imperfect reflection of Jesus in the everyday with Jesus, to help rebind yourself back to God, to remind yourself of encounters we may have with parishioners or what is good and true. Your Catholic faith is your way to reorder your pastors. Religious practices can become empty and thinking and life in light of your faith in Jesus and belief in God. We do at times self-serving. But the heart of the Church is this by reconnecting with the sacraments, the teachings of the Church, the Jesus Christ and here we will find the true teaching reading of scripture and prayer. We need to discover God not from within, and encounter with Christ. Stop worrying about but in the Body of Christ, the Church. It is there we will rediscover our being religious. Draw strength, inspiration and hope authentic center and truth. Some will suggest that this is an old-fashioned from your faith, from your religion as a Roman approach and a more spiritual approach is better and purer. Catholic. Come back to church to encounter Christ When someone says they are spiritual, and not religious, there is an once again and reorder your life with God at the unspoken assumption that they can discover God within themselves. I center. •

June 2017 5 mike’s meditations by Mike Van Vranken Embracing All Prayer Types Using Communal and Personal Prayer

recently overheard two people discussing (maybe arguing) about whose form of prayer was best. One thought Sunday Mass was the I best form of prayer because they could pray while hearing God’s Word, while taking communion, and while sharing the entire experience with other believers. The other was convinced that being one with God in a personal, individual engagement with the Almighty was the only way to pray. Of course, to put God in a box and suggest there is only one best way to be with Him limits our ability to experience Him in all Van Vranken things. In other words, it is not about pitting personal and internal prayer against vocal and communal prayer; it’s always about both. God is available to us in countless ways and forms. To limit those opportunities may be the saddest and most shallow decision we humans can make. We know that the temple in Jerusalem and the local synagogues were important to Jesus’ faith walk. In Luke’s gospel, we are told it was Jesus’ Him and loved Him beyond their own beliefs. custom to attend and even teach at the synagogue. We also find similar They realized the more personal and intimate love scriptures of Jesus in the temple. If praying with a community was they gave to God, the more love they received in important to Jesus, it should be important to us too, right? return. Consequently, the same love they shared When we consider we are members of the Body of Christ, communal with God, could now be shared with all people. And worship is a no brainer. It unites our praise and worship into a single their experiences were so deeply interwoven with celebration that more than just shows our connectedness as a body; God, it was always hard for them to find words to it also solidifies our understanding that we are all daughters and sons communicate them. of the living God. The joining together in prayer actually produces an Sometimes I’m asked how a person can begin a very experience of strength that reminds us we are not alone and we have personal and intimate prayer experience. My advice comfort, support and encouragement in all the people around us. is to consider a certified Spiritual Director for help. Additionally, when we see Christ in the person next to us, we begin to They are neither counselors nor therapists. Instead, realize that we have more in common with our diverse population than we their role is to help you with your relationship with first thought. It makes it easier to forgive, to assist, to feed and clothe and God. You will have conversations with them about heal everyone around us because the Holy Trinity resides in each of us. your prayer life and the ways you detect that God is At the same time, even though we can and should find God in all moving in your life. He or she is interested in your things, especially in each other, we still have that inner desire to be one actual experiences with God. It is as simple and as with God on a very personal and intimate basis. Yes, we can hear about deep as that. God’s love, and even feel it in other people. But, I have found there is So, if you have limited yourself to either weekly or nothing that compares to the truly knowing God’s love that comes from daily communal prayer with your church, or a regular engaging one-on-one with the Father, Son and Spirit who is within me. interior and intimate contemplative time with God, I And again, if we want examples from Jesus, the scriptures are full of urge you to consider encountering the Holy Trinity in stories where he went off and prayed alone to the Father all night. both forms. Just as they were both valuable to Jesus, I What did the desert fathers, the monks and the mystics all have in believe you will find them both very beneficial to you common? A deep inner life of oneness with God that allowed them to and your relationship with God as well. It’s not either experience the one who loved them first. Once they personally knew one or the other... It’s “both/and.” • the lover, they fell in love with God in a way they didn’t know possible. They continually joined with Him in quiet, contemplative prayer. A Mike is a writer, teacher, and co-author of the book, prayer that was so devoted to the lover that they didn’t ask for favors Faith Positive in a Negative World. You can contact or petitions. They talked with God, listened to Him, communed with him at www.mikevanvrankenministries.org

6 Catholic Connection in REVIEW reviewed by Marie Rinaudo

Mission from the Depths by Tim Rinaldi

n the middle of his first year at Tulane The children at the Dios de Amor shelter University, Michael was struggling to had been diagnosed with HIV and lived Istay focused on his studies. Unhappy in quarantined conditions. Michael and dissatisfied with his friends, he could not fathom how such a situation was beginning to question if he really was possible. His growing depression belonged in the university. Then one soon became obvious to Abby, a seasoned afternoon when he and his friends were missionary. As she described the next stop drinking and playing ball, Michael at an elementary school, she gave Michael accidentally broke a window in the simple and practical advice: give the nearby Catholic Center. Faced with mission a chance, focus on the children, possible expulsion, he went to the priest try to make them happy, forget about to resolve the disciplinary issue. To yourself. his surprise, the priest recommended In the days that followed, Michael that Michael perform service hours on threw himself into playing soccer with the the university’s spring mission trip to kids, looking out for those who seemed Honduras. Reluctant yet relieved that sad or lonely. As the days of Holy Week he would at least be able complete his began, he entered into the spirit of the freshman year, Michael accepted. Lenten prayers and services. The rituals This event is the opening of Tim filled Michael with solemnity and joy as “You saw how happy I Rinaldi’s first novel, Mission from the he joined the villagers in praying Christ’s was when I got back from Depths, a fictionalized version of his first passion and resurrection. Honduras. I want to always mission trip to Honduras. Through the After returning to Tulane, Michael was be that way but I'm eyes of Michael Rhodes, we experience still under the spell of the mission, but struggling. It's just hard to go the Honduran land and people. The gradually everyday life encroached and from the joys in the mountain airport was outdated and unkempt, the he began to sink slowly into darkness. village to finals and our streets had few stop lights and no visible Fortunately, Fr. Lydon recognized this fraternity brothers here. It's lanes, the cars were old and in disrepair, and decided to take action. When he met like no one understands what the unpainted houses had sagging doors with Michael, he told Michael to take the I experienced and I can't and broken windows and some were leadership role for the next mission. replicate it here.” enclosed by concrete walls topped with At this point the plot begins to – Tim Rinaldi in Mission barbed wire. Weeds, grass and trash lined unspool. Though Michael worked from the Depths every street. The conditions grew worse feverishly on plans for the upcoming as the missionaries made their first stop mission, he loses his focus in distractions: to assist the homeless. Initially, the people politics, personal ambition and romantic lined up in an orderly fashion to receive entanglements. He almost derails the their share of food and clothes; however, mission as he forgets for a time the as the pace slowed to a halt, the crowd purpose of the mission: to improve the grew restless and several began shoving life of the villagers. It is primarily his and throwing punches as they climbed affection for the Honduran people and aboard the truck and grabbed whatever land that leads to his redemption. they could carry – food, clothes, supplies. Anyone who has ever experienced Following that disturbing incident, the transformative power of a mission Michael began to seriously question the trip will readily understand Michael’s value of the mission. He repeated silently commitment and perseverance. what soon became a kind of mantra: Ten percent of all sales of Mission Mission from the Depths is availble “What am I doing here?” from the Depths supports the villages that for purchase from Amazon.com, or The next stop was even more troubling. Rinaldi sponsors. • www.timrinaldi.com.

June 2017 7 faithful FOOD by Kim Long Vulnerability and Risk

ords and their meanings the baby.” have become causalities in A vulnerable Jesus did not rest Wour current well on my mind years ago when world. It seems we I first heard these talks. I had can be overly casual been taught Jesus was strong, with their meanings, all-knowing and all-forgiving “loving” everything of my shortcomings. On that from soda to chocolate drive going from what felt like and “knowing” all one world to another, I began who cross our paths. Long to realize that vulnerability Recently I attended cuts both ways: Jesus coming three funeral services within a week. in the form of a baby and Jesus The pews were filled with people who hanging on a cross. In these were drawn by shared experiences with scenes vulnerability isn’t just the deceased. Perhaps something as encouraged, it is modeled for casual as a connection by marriage, us by Jesus from birth to death. influenced than I realized by popular rather than blood, a conversation from Jesus opened himself up to everyone, culture’s love affair with self and which we walked away transformed or being vulnerable and taking the ensuing privacy, not being vulnerable, not even sitting together in shared silence. risk each situation offered – who am I letting people in, not taking a risk. Driving home from funeral number not to follow? For example, I will cook for the two, which was “out in the country,” Popular culture doesn’t encourage bereaved, pray for any request, serve I reflected on the concept of knowing vulnerability, preferring to push in whatever way I can, but I seldom someone else (or oneself for that the narrative of self. Jesus was so ask for prayer, or say I need much of matter) and the word “vulnerability” countercultural. His embrace of anything. I seldom admit my own kept popping up. vulnerability is echoed in the lives of vulnerability. I don’t want to take any Poet and storyteller Jack Shea in his the people I knew who died that week. more risks, instead telling myself there talk on Christmas themes in Luke and They lived full lives, accomplished is too much to lose. Driving home from Matthew, spoke about the vulnerability many deeds, touched many and one of the funerals, I realized there is so of a baby born in a stable, making the through those transcendent moments much to gain. I had wandered far from contrast that Luke’s gospel “is like an continue to be present in the lives of Emmaus, far from who I had known aria, everyone singing all the time” those still here. myself to be. while Matthew’s gospel “is much Sitting in the pew in three different In the words of modern day mystic gloomier with Herod wanting to kill churches I realized I had been more Bob Seger, “The ashes smolder and the fire is soon gone, we end up cold and Recipe for a Life Well-Lived only on our own. I’ll take my chances babe, I’ll risk it all, I’ll win your love or Directions: I’ll take a fall.” 1) Take the life you have been 4) To this mixture add humor (not While this might not seem like an given and open it carefully. You don’t too much of the self deprecating engraved invitation, this is exactly want to miss the wonder it has for variety, it tends to sour the mixture). Stir well. that: we are invited to take the risk, be you. vulnerable and be amazed at what there 2) Add experiences that can 5) Add blessings and burdens, is to be known. laughter and sorrow. Blend well and be found at the intersection of “As the Father has loved me so I love vulnerability and risk. bring this to your Creator on a daily basis. you, remain in my love.” • 3) When you have enough, process the mixture with a 6) Repeat these steps daily. Kim Long is the Director of Religious combination of gentleness and Education at St. Mary of the Pines forgiveness. Parish in Shreveport.

8 Catholic Connection domestic CHURCH Start Your by Katie Sciba Prayer Life Out of Habit with Prayer Now! ur two-year-old daughter Jane Stick it to those lame excuses does not stay in bed, at least not and start a robust prayer life! Oon her own. It takes one of us parents sitting vigilantly nearby to compel I don’t have time... her to obey and be How do you spend your downtime quiet so she’ll fall asleep. during work or at home? Before you Sometimes the whole log on or catch up on your shows, process lasts hours. pray. For the most part I kill time with crossword I don’t know puzzles or Facebook, but how to pray... St. Therese said, “Prayer is a the wait for her to drift Sciba launching out of the heart towards off can be painstakingly God.” It doesn’t have to be beautiful boring. Several weeks ago when I took or eloquent, just honest. my turn to watch Jane, I impulsively grabbed a rosary off the shelf and began I’m too tired... praying. Full disclosure: this was not like “Come to me you who labor and me. I historically find all kinds of reasons to speak with Jesus. I discovered my are heavy laden and I will give you to avoid reciting the Rosary – it takes too downtime in the watch over my toddler, rest” (Matthew 11:28). It’s ok - Jesus, long, or I lose my train of thought so it which is plenty of time for a Rosary. In the Blessed Virgin Mary, the saints doesn’t feel prayerful, or I don’t feel like it. other seasons of life, periods of quiet were were all tired, too. The Lord wants Nearly in spite of myself, I made my way shorter than five minutes, during which you to entrust him with your fatigue, through the Glorious Mysteries, praying I could manage a couple of prayers and whether it be emotional, physical or each decade for one of our five children. petitions. In both circumstances, looking spiritual. The next night, I sat with Jane again heavenward was far better than anything – this time willingly – and took up my else I could have done to fill the gap. I don’t feel like it/ beads. I meditated on the Joyful Mysteries And once we find the time to pray, we with my husband at the heart of my have to push ourselves to seize it. Ask I don’t get anything intentions. The next night I prayed again. Jesus to give you the will to pray and out of it... Push yourself to take advantage of And again the one after. know that he’s ready to shower you with the chances God gives you to pray. The Rosary, or just prayer in general, grace to move closer to him. The more you pray, the more you can feel like such a task when we’re out of In prayer and meditation, Jesus has know God; and the more you know habit. And, out of habit, it’s easy to give given me a deeper understanding of his God, as His creation, the more you credence to even the weakest reasons to miraculous life on earth and assurance of will know yourself, His plan for you, avoid it. In our busyness we say there’s his divine will. Another fruit of praying and how precious others are. no time or we’re too tired. In our frailty has been the ability to see my family we say we don’t feel like it or we don’t get through the Lord’s eyes. I see more clearly anything out of it. than ever that they are precious; and not I’ve heard that we have to make time only that, but I better grasp the fact that to pray and while this is true, we can as a wife, as a mother, it’s my task and also find it hidden under seemingly privilege to help these particular souls innocuous habits. I didn’t realize it, but get to heaven. Now, where once was a Facebook and mindless time online were dreaded period of boredom is time gladly in the way of what has by grace become spent with God. • a new devotion for me. Every day at work or at home holds natural rhythms Katie Sciba is married to Andrew and of heightened activity and calm and it’s together they have five children. She is within the calm that we find the time the author of thecatholicwife.net.

June 2017 9 from the POPE from Vatican Information Services The Mother of Hope ear brothers and sisters, good morning! were to seize upon these details, giving us images that have In our catechesis on Christian hope, today we entered the history of art and literature. But the gospels just Dlook to Mary, Mother of hope. say, she was “standing.” She was there, in the worst moment, Mary went through more than one dark in the cruellest moment and suffered with her son. “She night on her journey as a mother. From stood.” her earliest appearance in the history of Mary “stood,” she was simply there. Here she is again, the the Gospels, she stands out as if she were young woman of Nazareth, now with her hair greyed by the a character in a drama. It was not easy to passing of the years, still coming to grips with a God who answer “yes” to the angel’s invitation: yet must only be embraced, and with a life that has reached she, a woman still in the flower of youth, the threshold of the deepest darkness. Mary “stood” in the answered with courage, despite knowing Pope Francis deepest darkness, but she “stood,” she stayed. She did not go nothing about the fate that awaited her. away. Mary is there, faithfully present, every time that there Mary at that moment appears to us like one of the many needs to be a lighted candle in a place of mist and fog. Not mothers of our world, brave to the extreme when it comes even she knew the destiny of resurrection that her Son was to welcoming in her womb the story of a new person to be at that instant opening up for all humanity: she is there out born. of fidelity to God’s plan, to which she proclaimed herself a That “yes” is the first step in a long list of acts of obedience servant in the first day of her vocation, but also due to her – a long list of acts of obedience! – who will accompany her instinct as a mother who simply suffers, every time that mother’s itinerary. So Mary appears in the gospels as a silent there is a son who goes through a passion. The sufferings of woman who often does not understand all that is happening mothers: we have all known strong women, who have faced around her, but ponders every word and every event in her so many sufferings for their children! heart. We find her again in the first day of the Church, she, In this arrangement there is a beautiful outline of Mary’s psychology: she is not a woman who is discouraged by the She is a woman who listens: do uncertainties of life, especially when nothing seems to go in the right direction. Nor is she a woman who protests with not forget that there is always a violence, who inveighs against the destiny in life that often great relationship between hope reveals a hostile face. Instead, she is a woman who listens: do not forget that there is always a great relationship between and listening, and Mary is a hope and listening, and Mary is a woman who listens. Mary woman who listens. welcomes existence just as it is given to us, with its happy days, but also with its tragedies we would never have wished to encounter – up to the supreme night of Mary, when her mother of hope, in the midst of that community of disciples, Son is nailed to the wood of the cross. so fragile: one had renounced, many had fled and all had Until that day, Mary had almost disappeared from the been afraid (cf. Acts 1:14). But she was simply there, in the story of the gospels: the sacred writers leave implicit this most normal of ways, as if it were something entirely natural: slow eclipse of her presence, her remaining silent while faced in the first Church enveloped in the light of the resurrection, with the mystery of a Son who obeys his Father. But Mary but also in the tremors of the first steps that she needed to reappears precisely at that crucial moment, when a good take in the world. number of his friends have fled out of fear. Mothers do not This is why we all love her as a mother. We are not betray, and at that moment, at the foot of the cross, none of orphans: we have a mother in heaven, Who is the holy us can say what was the cruelest passion: that of an innocent mother of God. Because she teaches us the virtue of waiting, man who dies on the scaffold of the cross, or the agony of a even when everything seems to be without meaning; she mother who witnesses the last moments of her son’s life. The is always trustful in the mystery of God, even when He gospels are laconic, and extremely discreet. They record in seems to be eclipsed by the evil in the world. In moments of a simple verb the presence of the mother: she “stood” (John difficulty, may Mary, the mother who Jesus gave to all of us, 19:25). She was standing. They say nothing of her reaction: always be able to sustain our steps, may she always be able to whether or not she wept… nothing; not even a brushstroke say to our hearts, “Arise! Look ahead, look to the horizon,” to describe her grief: the imagination of poets and painters because she is the mother of hope. Thank you. • 10 Catholic Connection navigating the Faith by Cathy Cobb When we are willing to listen to God, we Whoever Has Ears Ought to Hear discover such wonderful Good News which is ready to come alive on our hearts if we will only allow it in. In Mark 4:9, after telling the parable of the sower, Jesus says, “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” When he makes this statement, he is encouraging us to listen not just with our physical ears, but to make ourselves present to others with our whole beings. When we talk to Jesus, he shows how to listen beyond the words that come forth from our mouths. He hears that what we are truly asking for is healing, peace and love. When we offer others this type of listening, we n a recent speech, Pope Frances others. It is perfectly okay to admit can be like seeds that fall on the rich soil and lamented the frenetic pace of today’s to your family or friends that you are produce much fruit. May God grant us all ears Iworld and the lack of listening working on becoming a better listener that can truly hear. • skills that so easily takes root in our and to ask for help. With practice, families. Family members can become daily conversations can take on more Listening Skills to Develop so absorbed in their smartphones, he gracious tones. remarked, that they fail to greet one When our kids were young, I • Body language: Look the person speaking another in the morning or don’t make asked my husband to help me model to you in the eye. Nod your head. conversation during meals. This can good listening skills for our kids. We • Encourage: Let your speaker know you lead to a tendency to depersonalize began to make a concentrated effort are interested in what they have to say. “Oh, others, which then extends beyond not to interrupt the kids and to ask really?” “Yes, I understand.” the family to the wider society. He them not to interrupt us. Instead of encouraged listening over interrupting giving them generalized lectures about • Clarify: Summarize what you have heard one another, as so often seen on communicating, we looked for specific to be sure you understand it. television. “Where there is no dialogue, suggestions for better listening that • Wait until you are ready to listen: If you there is violence,” he said. we could share, such as turning off aren’t able to give your full attention, ask The solution to this problem is to the television or other background your speaker to wait until you can. work to improve our own listening noise when someone was speaking. skills. When children are learning to We asked them questions about what • Pay attention: Try to avoid thinking up talk, parents spend time helping them they were saying. When we spoke to the next thing you want to say while the develop expressive skills, but sometimes the kids, we asked them to stop what other person is talking. fail to instill another important basic they were doing, look at us and repeat • Don’t interrupt: Let someone finish their communication skill: the art of good what we had told them to be sure that thought before jumping in with yours. listening. we were all on the same page. To avoid • Manners: If you must interrupt for an If your family does not listen non-urgent interruptions, we put a urgent matter, excuse yourself and explain well, try to quietly model what good notebook and a pencil in a drawer in the urgency. Only do this for important listening looks like. Sit or stand still the kitchen to write a note of what they reasons! when others are talking and look wanted to remember. them in the eye, nodding your head We quickly began to see benefits • Avoid distractions: It is easier to hear or giving body language indicating in our family life, and our new what someone wants to tell you when you you are engaged. Sum up what others listening habits also improved how we eliminate background distractions such as say to be sure you understood them communicated with others outside our computers, mobile devices or televisions. correctly. Allow others to finish their home. My desire to be a better listener • Pray: Spend time reading and praying thoughts before interrupting them. has spilled over into my prayer life. with scripture, set aside time for listening to These small disciplines may yield great I realized I had been talking to God God. Take time to pray for the people who results. Pay attention to how often you more than I had been listening for what want you to listen to them. must resist the impulse to interrupt God has in mind for me. June 2017 11 second COLLECTIONS by Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General

Second Collections for June & July SOLIDARITY FUND FOR THE CHURCH IN AFRICA Bulletin Dates: July 9th & 16th Collection Dates: July 22nd & 23rd he Solidarity Fund for the Church in Africa Tsupports pastoral projects that foster lasting peace and reconciliation in a continent often marked by division and tension. Please participate in this opportunity to stand with the people of Africa as they face these challenges. The Pastoral Solidarity Fund for the Church in Africa of the USCCB Subcommittee on the Church in Africa provides grants to finance pastoral projects that support the maintenance and growth of the Church in Africa. Funded projects include outreach Copyright © 2016, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photo: © CNS/Paul Haring. 80200217 programs, schools, evangelization and the education PETER’S PENCE of clergy and lay ministers. Bulletin Dates: June 18th & 25th As I was writing this article in May of 2017, I Collection Dates: July 1st & 2nd have just sent out information to our priests that 23 million people in Africa are on the brink of “ little mercy makes the world less cold and starvation. That is the equivalent to the number of more just.” – Pope Francis, Angelus, March 17, people living in our Episcopal Region, including the A2013. states of: “Let’s help the Holy Father to help others! Your Louisiana 4.67 million contribution, however small is important.” – The Mississippi 4.99 million Vatican website. Price Alabama 4.85 million “Be a Witness of Charity.” Each year, on or near the Tennessee 6.6. million Feast of the two great apostles, Peter and Paul, the Universal Church takes Kentucky 4.42 million up the Peter’s Pence Collection. Pope Francis, the Vicar of Jesus Christ on Any amount you give will alleviate the suffering earth, is called upon by individuals, families, communities and nations of millions of people and lead to solutions that to help them in a time of crisis and suffering. The Vicar of Christ always could permanently eliminate hunger in Africa and seeks to respond to such cries for help with the love and mercy of the Lord throughout the world. The Church in Africa is through the help of the Church, you, me and the Catholic faithful from growing, however many people still lack access to every nation around the world. This collection is taken up by Catholics basic resources and pastoral care. Many suffer due to around the globe and helps the Holy Father reach out to the suffering in high rates of poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, poor our world, especially to those enduring the effects of war and violence, education, disease and migration. Be generous in natural disasters, and religious persecution. Our Holy Father leads by your support of the Solidarity Fund for the Church example as he makes the buildings, personnel and resources of the Holy in Africa. I thank you in advance for your five loaves See readily available to those in need. Join him! and two fishes with which our Lord can do far more “Be a Witness of Charity.” Please participate generously in the Peter’s than we could ever hope or imagine! • Pence Collection. Join our Holy Father Francis in his mission, and ours, to bring the face and love of Jesus Christ to our brothers and sisters in Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General, is the Director of need of compassion, help, hope and mercy. Second Collections.

12 Catholic Connection vocations View by Duane Trombetta, Seminarian

The Identity and Role of a Deacon

y the Sacrament of Holy liturgy, celebrating the Sacraments Orders, a man is appointed of Baptism and Matrimony and Bto nourish the people of the presiding at Christian funerals. A Church with God’s Word and grace deacon participates in Christ’s in the name of Christ. He takes prophetic office by proclaiming on a sacramental character and a the Good News and by preaching share in Christ’s priesthood. The homilies. Last but not least, a word “ordination” comes from deacon participates in Christ’s the Latin word ordinatio, which kingly office by governing, guiding means “incorporation into an and administering within the established, ordered, and governed parameters of his assignment – body.” Accordingly, Holy Orders always submitting to the truth of the are “ordered” into the three ranks of transcendent God. bishop, priest and deacon. It should be noted that ordination In a few short weeks, I will be to the diaconate can be “permanent” ordained a deacon myself. In this or “transitional.” This means that timely article, I will reflect upon the men over the age of 35, and married deacon’s identity (“who he is”), and men may be ordained as permanent his roles in the Church (“what he deacons to serve the diocese and a does”). parish for life. Though a deacon’s identity is Alternately, suitable men who different from that of a bishop or a aspire to the priesthood may be priest, he does receive the Sacrament ordained as transitional deacons for of Holy Orders – so, a deacon is a a short time, later to be ordained as member of the ordained clergy. He is priests. In the case of the transitional Seminarian Duane Trombetta will be also a sharer in Christ’s mission and diaconate, the law of celibacy must ordained to the Transitional Diaconate on grace. In fact, a deacon holds this remain, and he may not be married. Saturday, June 24 at Holy Trinity Catholic identity in a special way because his Regardless, both permanent and Church in Downtown Shreveport. sacramental character configures him transitional deacons share the same to Christ who is deacon, or servant, identity and roles in the Church. attend this event and support Duane as he of all. In addition, a deacon is a After six years of seminary studies takes one of his final steps towards becoming sharer in the mission of the diocesan and formation, I believe I am well- a priest. bishop. And because his respect and prepared and ready to receive the obedience extend to his local church, Sacrament of Holy Orders and to Additionally, there will be an he is also a sharer in the mission of take on the identity and roles of a informational meeting for interested men his pastor. Most of all, a deacon is a deacon. I particularly identify with on the Permanent Diaconate on Saturday, servant. This applies to his identity the diakonia of servant. It is my June 17 at 9:00 a.m. in the Youth Room of at the altar, in his administrative hope and prayer to enjoy many years the Catholic Life Center next to St. Thomas duties, to other clergy and, of course, of ordained ministry to the people of Aquinas Parish in Ruston. For more to the people of God. the Diocese of Shreveport. information on this meeting, contact Deacon A deacon takes on some very Clary Nash, Director of the Permanent important roles in the Church, Duane Trombetta will be Diaconate, at [email protected]. • each related to the “offices” of ordained to the Transitional Christ: priest, prophet and king. Diaconate on Saturday, June 24, at Interested in a vocation to the priesthood He participates in Christ’s priestly 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic or religious life? Contact Fr. Matthew Long, Director of Vocations, 318-868-4441, or office by helping to sanctify the Church in downtown Shreveport. [email protected]. people – this includes assisting in the All are invited and encouraged to

June 2017 13 Fidel Mondragón’s ORDINATION Shreveport's Newest Priest to be Ordained in June by Jessica Rinaudo

efore Fidel MondragÓn landed in the Diocese of Shreveport, he spent many years in various Bseminaries, countries and a religious order, discerning the vocation God had planned for his life. After being a seminarian for the Diocese of Dallas, which downsized their foreign vocations, Fidel returned to Mexico before becoming a seminarian for the Diocese of Shreveport. That was two years ago. And Fidel has made the most out of his two years as a Top: Fidel Mondragon at his ordination to the transitional diaconate. seminarian for our diocese. He first went to Notre Dame Below: Fidel leads a pilgrimage to the Holy Door at the Cathedral of Seminary in New Orleans where he took review classes St. John Berchmans during the Year of Mercy. Right: Fidel conducts on the sacraments and history of the Church, as well his first baptism as a deacon of the Catholic Church. as English as a Second Language. He relished this time both for improving his English and for getting to know his brother seminarians of our diocese. Of them Fidel event for the Hispanic community. said, “I got to know them, because once a month we would “Rosalba Quiroz [Hispanic Ministry Director] asked me Bhave dinner together – we would talk about how things were to organize the visit to the Holy Door with the Hispanic going.” Community because it was the Year of Mercy. We invited After finishing his seminary classes in May of last year, Fidel all of the diocese. … We organized a Stations of the Cross moved to Mansfield, where he assisted Fr. Matthew Long in and did them in the Cathedral. After that, we explained the parish life. Year of Mercy, the meaning of mercy and why Pope Francis “When I arrived in Mansfield, I got involved with the convoked the Year of Mercy. Then we had a holy hour with community,” said Fidel. “I helped the Hispanic and Anglo Fr. Rigo Betancurt, Fr. Al Jost and Fr. Blane O’Neill. Bishop communities… I started a new program – Christian Formation Duca was there, too,” said Fidel. for Adults and Bible classes with Hispanics on Tuesdays. I On December 10, 2016, Fidel was ordained to the visited people, I prayed the rosary with them. I helped Fr. transitional diaconate at St. Mary of the Pines, and a month Matthew with the Masses.” later Bishop Duca assigned him to the Cathedral of St. John During this time he also taught adult formation classes and Berchmans, also serving St. Mary of the Pines two days a assisted with retreats at St. Mary of the Pines in Shreveport, week. He still continues in this assignment. and Christ the King in Bossier City. His formation classes “In the Cathedral I help with the everyday Mass and I have expanded to St. Thomas Aquinas in Ruston and Our Lady helped two times with the homily in English,” said Fidel “I of Perpetual Help in Farmerville, allowing Fidel to become help with the funerals, with the school Masses.” acquainted with people across the diocese. After two years, Fidel has adjusted from life in Mexico to It was during this time that Fidel organized a Year of Mercy life in north Louisiana, and embraces his vocation here with

14 Catholic Connection open arms. The people and clergy, in turn, have welcomed him warmly. “I am so grateful for Bishop Duca and all the priests here. They are very kind to me and welcome me. They tell me, ‘Fidel you are welcome. We are very glad to have you.’ They encourage me,” said Fidel. “I feel comfortable here, I feel welcome in both communities. The Spanish community, ok they love you, but the Anglo community is very warm and they receive me,” added Fidel. “I want to be part of this diocese, to consecrate my life as a priest,” he said. And after so many years of discerning and traveling, Fidel is excited to finally be approaching his ordination to the priesthood and his ministry as a Catholic priest. of God, the love of God and drive them family, my friends, the people around the “I look forward to helping the to Christ.” world are praying for the seminarians, people. I want to be the person As he reflected back on his long journey for the priests. … And after this difficult who can manifest this mercy of to the priesthood, Fidel shared stories of presentation I went to the chapel and God, this love of God and help his time in seminary. One in particular I said, ‘Thank you God. For you are the people be close to behind me, you sustain Christ. Because I talk me. And I want to with the people… continue – because if they need somebody you continue calling to hear them. I know me, I want to continue my priest ordination answering you.’” is close, but this is Fidel’s ordination when my work will to the priesthood will begin,” said Fidel. be Saturday, June He added, “I 10, at 10:00 a.m. at remember my the Cathedral of St. instructors in the John Berchmans. seminary said, ‘This Bishop Michael Duca is not your goal to be will ordain Fidel as a a priest. The goal is priest for the Diocese first, your salvation.’ of Shreveport. All Following this members of the faithful vocation, I want to be with God, reflected his vocational path. are encouraged to attend. but I want many people, through “Sometimes when I was walking in the “As a diocese, we are fortunate that me to be saved, too. They will seminary, I would say, ‘I have this class Fidel’s journey has brought him to us so hear the Word of God. I can give and it is very difficult. And I will have a that he can serve the wonderful people the Body of Christ. I can forgive presentation tomorrow and the priest, he of our region,” said Bishop Duca. “I am sins, it is not me, but I can be this is tough.’ But I did my presentation, and anxious for our local Church to benefit instrument. … This is what I want when I finished I felt very good. I said, from his ministry as an ordained priest most for the people: to be this ‘This is not me on my own. Many people and I believe he has so much to offer to instrument to manifest the mercy are praying for me, for my vocation. My our entire faith community.” •

June 2017 15 local NEWS Relgious Education Gets Boost at Our Lady of Fatima by Bonny Van

Christmas present. “I said let’s dream big, what do you need?” First on the list were books. Bole contacted a representative from Sadlier Publishing Company, which donated 20 books. Grant money was used to buy the rest. Money from the grant has also been used to purchase a laptop and a rolling cart so that Humphrey can move to different classrooms. “We’ve also used the money to buy a DVD set that covers the basics of our faith and Elmo clickers which allow the kids to answer questions remotely with the SMART board,” said Bole. Left to right: Sr. Carol Shively, OSU, Superintendent; Fr. Joe Martina, Pastor of Our Lady of Fatima Parish; Dr. Carynn Wiggins, Principal; Shelly Bole, Director of Catechesis; Jamie “We’ve also bought portable Humphrey, Religion Teacher batteries and a keyboard for Jamie, and we still have $1500 left! We’ve uring the school year, funds from the state can be used for been able to do so much more than Wednesday morning Mass for religious material,” she said. “I was we imagined. We’re going to hold off Dstudents at Our Lady of Fatima really saddened by this and Jamie, the until the fall to see what they need,” School in Monroe is much more than religion she said. just a time to celebrate the Eucharist. teacher, told Humphrey It’s also much more than time spent me that said the in prayer, listening to scripture or many of the materials have taking a break from class work. For the children had made a big majority of the 200 students, it’s the never heard impact already. only chance they have to experience about God.” “The God. Jamie children “So many of our students are un- Humphrey are more churched, except through the school,” has been organized and said principal Dr. Carynn Wiggins. the religion we are back on That is why a $5,000 grant from the teacher at Some of the religious resources purchased for Our track with our Black and Indian Missions has been the school Lady of Fatima School with the aid of a Black and catechism,” she such a blessing. for the past Indian Missions grant. said. “If not Shelly Bole, Director of Catechesis 12 years. Teaching without books for us, most of for the Diocese of Shreveport, applied and other student materials has been them would not know about God.” for the grant a year ago after a visit to challenging. “This really does make a difference Fatima School opened her eyes to the “We’re trying to teach them about in the lives of these children,” says Dr. lack of religious material available for the Gospel and instill good moral Wiggins. “I tell people all the time, teaching. values,” she said. you don’t have to cross an ocean to “Ninety-five percent of the students Bole says the grant, awarded have a mission field, you simply have are funded by state tuition and zero just before Christmas, was a great to cross a parking lot.” •

16 Catholic Connection Diocese Focuses on Family Life Through Media and Catechetical Fair by Shelly Bole, Director of Catechesis

emember that song by Sister Sledge? “We are family, I got Rall my sisters with me!”? The Catholic Church sees family as much larger, in fact Pope Francis says that the parish/church is the “family of families,” so in essence everyone who belongs to a parish/church is a family member (single, divorced, widowed, married, child, teen, etc.) In fact in Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis wrote, “There is no stereotype of the ideal family but rather a challenging mosaic made up of many different realities, with all their joys, hopes and problems.” (57) As a single person who has spent most of my adult life in states other than my biological family, I embrace the quote, “Friends are the family we choose.” The beauty of family life in the 20th reflecting on families (both biological In addition to Jesus Table Talk, the century is the ability to connect in a and chosen). The World Meeting of annual Catechetical Fair will focus on variety of ways. Someone who lives far Families last August is a perfect example. how catechists can engage parents in away can connect not just through calls The Office of Catechesis is also the formation of their children. We will and texts, but visually through social learning more about and reflecting also begin offering more seminars on media. Yet even with all these ways on family life. One of the first steps parenting and grand-parenting; what to connect, there is nothing that can for families to connect is meal time: you should know about social media and replace the actual in person, face-to-face intentional, everyone together, cell your teen; and communication. encounter. The Church recognizes the phones down, eating together. The Holy Family is our model for importance of that live encounter: think You may have noticed and followed family life. And before you think, of the Sacrament of Reconciliation – it the Lenten Tuesdays Fast and Feasting “Well, they were the Holy Family – we must happen in person so that there is a Family Style on our app, Facebook can’t compete,” remember they had physical as well as spiritual connection page and in bulletins, which offered their share of burdens: Mary was an with our Forgiving Father. In fact all of a simple question for families to talk unwed pregnant teen; Joseph was an our Sacraments must happen “live and in about together. We are continuing the older man; they had to travel on a person.” Tuesday ritual with Jesus Table Talk. donkey; the Child was born poor; the As family, what can we learn from this Each Tuesday morning a new question babe’s life was threatened; the Child centuries-old wisdom? We can learn that is offered through the Diocesan App, got lost; the list goes on and on. They in our often over-scheduled lives, we CatholicConnections, our Facebook struggled. But as Pope Francis said, must schedule time for the live, face-to- page and in church bulletins. “Families are not a problem, they are face encounters with those we love. We The questions are easy, and yet first and foremost an opportunity” can learn that like the sacraments, family challenging: “What was the weirdest (Amoris Laetitia, 7). time is sacred and must be protected. thing you said today?” “King David, Join the diocese in growing confident We can learn that food is central to our of the Old Testament wrote most of Catholic families through Facebook, the socialization as family. We can learn Psalms, which were sung! David loved CathConnects App and the Diocesan that celebrations are important! We can joyful, lively music. He was known to Family Faith webpage: http://www. learn that through family we experience leap and dance for the Lord! What song dioshpt.org/ministries/catechesis/family- God’s love and mercy in the context of was stuck in your head today?’ The faith/ where you will find amazing relationships. goal of Jesus Table Talk is to help start resources for parenting, single parents, The Catholic Church, in her wisdom, conversations that are out of the ordinary divorced/separated and much more. is spending more time learning from and and can be discussed with anyone! New resources are being added weekly. • June 2017 17 Join Us for Summer Catholic Thank You for Camps for Teens! Strong Appeal by Fr. Matthew Long, Director of Vocations Performance! by John Mark Willcox ear Parents, As I look back on my young adulthood, As parents of teenagers, you I can pinpoint key moments when I made he 2017 Annual Diocesan Dwant the very best for your choices for good – choices for God. For Stewardship Appeal is three children. As faithful Catholics, you want me, these moments began in my teens and Tquarters of the way home with them to grow closer to the Church in their continued in my twenties. I can say with the following churches achieving teen years, not drift away from it. You want sincerity that I wish I would have attended pledge goal and locations at or above them to discover their true vocations in a camp like the ones offered by our diocese. our overall diocesan percentage of life, whatever they may be. Most of all, you So I want to encourage you in the pledge goal (74%) for this year: want your child to be happy – to be well strongest possible language: please seriously Pledge Goal or Higher: educated, well rounded and well loved. consider registering your child for Beloved • St. Mary of the Pines – Shreveport I want those things for your children, (July 13-16) or Mission Possible (July • Mary, Queen of Peace – Bossier City too. And not just for your kids, but for 16-19). Yes, the campers are going to have • St. Ann – Ebarb every teenager in our diocese. That’s a blast. Yes, they are going to come home • St. Lawrence – Swartz essentially why we created the Mission tired and happy. But most all, they are • St. Margaret – Homer Possible and Beloved summer camps. Over going to return home with a renewed love • St. Terence – Toledo Bend the past six years, I’ve seen firsthand what for Jesus. That, of course, is what matters these camps do for our Catholic teens. most in life. At or Above Diocesan Percentage of Time and again, I’ve seen the proverbial May the Lord bless you and your family Pledge Goal: “light bulb” go off, not just in their heads, in this Easter Season! • Cathedral of St. John Berchmans – but in their hearts. Shreveport In Christ through Mary Immaculate, In a very real way, our annual Summer • St. Elizabeth Ann Seton – Shreveport Camps help “launch” teens into life. The • St. Jude – Benton camps are a springboard for becoming • Jesus the Good Shepherd – Monroe strong men and women who love Jesus and • Holy Trinity – Shreveport the Church, and are open to God’s will in • St. Joseph – Zwolle Fr. Matthew Long their lives. • St. Joseph – Mansfield • St. Paschal – West Monroe • St. John the Baptist – Many Register at www.shvcamps.com • Sacred Heart – Shreveport • Sacred Heart – Rayville • St. Patrick – Lake Providence • St. Clement – Vivian • Our Lady of Perpetual Help – Farmerville • St. George – Coushatta • St. Theresa – Delhi • St. Joseph – Bastrop • Sacred Heart – Oak Grove Bishop Duca thanks all our worship locations and the faithful throughout the diocese who have contributed to this year’s Appeal campaign. If you have yet to participate, your help is needed! Our goal is $1.5 million and the Church counts on your support to provide for the people of our diocese. You can participate by using the 2017 Appeal pledge card found on page 30 of this issue. May God bless you for your generosity! •

18 Catholic Connection New Priest Assignments Across the Diocese from the Office of Bishop Michael Duca

Fr. Jerry Daigle Fr. Karl Daigle Fr. Mark Franklin Fr. Keith Garvin Fr. Charles Glorioso Fr. Tim Hurd Fr. Joe Kallookalam

Fr. Matthew Long Fr. Joe Martina Fr. James McLelland Fr. Philip Michiels Fr. James Moran Fr. Richard Norsworthy Fr. Rothell Price

“

Fr. Lijo Thomas Fr. Pike Thomas Fr. Mark Watson Fr. Biju Kurakose Fr. Joseph Kuzhichalil Fr. Paul Thunduparampil Priest New Assignment Effective Date Fr. Jerry Daigle Pastoral Administrator, St. Clement, Vivian June 1, 2017, until a pastor is named Fr. Karl Daigle Pastor, St. Jude, Benton June 1, 2017 Fr. Mark Franklin Pastor, St. Matthew, Monroe July 1, 2017 Fr. Keith Garvin Relieved as Pastoral Administrator, St. Matthew, Monroe (Will continue as pastor of Jesus the Good Shepherd) July 1, 2017 Fr. Charles Glorioso Holy Angels Masses May 3, 2017 Fr. Tim Hurd Pastor, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Shreveport September 1, 2017 Fr. Joseph Kallookalam, cmi Pastor, St. Patrick, Lake Providence & July 1, 2017 Sacred Heart, Oak Grove Fr. Matthew Long Pastor, St. Joseph, Shreveport July 1, 2017 Fr. Joseph Martina Pastor, St. Pius X, Shreveport July 1, 2017 Fr. James McLelland Retired June 1, 2017 Fr. Philip Michiels Retired June 1, 2017 Fr. James Moran, co St. Joseph, Mansfield & St. Ann, Stonewall July 1, 2017 Fr. Richard Norsworthy Pastor, St. Joseph, Zwolle July 1, 2017 Fr. Rothell Price Pastoral Administrator, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Shreveport June 1 – August 29, 2017 Fr. Lijo Thomas, cmi Pastoral Administrator, Our Lady of Fatima, Monroe July 1 - October 31, 2017 (In Addition to current assignment as Pastor, St. Joseph, Bastrop) Fr. Pike Thomas Retired June 1, 2017 Fr. Mark Watson Pastor, Christ the King, Bossier City July 1, 2017 Fr. Biju Kurakose, cmi To be assigned upon summer arrival Fr. Joseph Kuzichalil, cmi To be assigned upon summer arrival Fr. Paul Thundurparampil, cmi To be assigned upon summer arrival

June 2017 19 Loyola Staff Attended NCEA Aging Out Loud by Lisa Cooper, Loyola College Prep by Sr. Martinette Rivers, OLS

oyola faculty members returned Lwith great ideas and inspiration after attending the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) Conference and Expo in April. The NCEA convention is the largest private education association gathering in the nation and is held in fellowship here is a smile on God’s face and music in His voice as He with the Archdiocese looks upon all who are aging out loud. Aging needs not of St. Louis. At the only our loving, personal attention, but listening from the Assistant Principal Stephanie Johnson T conference, Counselor at the National Catholic Education heart to what older adults have to say to everyone. Susan Hymel, Assistant Assocation Conference Henri Nouwen said, “Joy does not simply happen to us. We Principal of Instruction have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” Our joy Stephanie Johnson, Advancement Director Melanie Johnson must be shared with others. and Theology teachers Marcos Villalba and T.C. Veit joined Don’t allow our wrinkles or graying hair to slow down our educators from across the United States and Canada to exchange gait or rob us of life’s aging joys as we celebrate who we have ideas about cutting-edge research and technologies related to become. We can still “Go out to the whole world and proclaim education. the Good news to all creation.” (Mark 16:15). Stephanie Johnson said, “My own personal take away was that Our journey of aging is not finished until we finish serving I enjoyed hearing from leaders in schools just like Loyola about others. Who knows where we are going and exactly what will differentiated instruction, technology implementation and faith happen as we age out loud by not allowing stress, loneliness formation in Catholic schools.” and depression to take hold of our lives? Veit echoes the other members in saying the experience at the In this life only three things should be uppermost in our conference was wonderful. Of particular interest to Veit were minds: faith, hope and love – not age. This month, create the sessions on Theology of the Body and Service Involving the a sense of unity among others by inspiring them. Look for Family. others who are showing us what getting older looks like and Veit explained that a growing number of Catholic schools listen to the issues they are concerned about. Speak out about across the U.S. are teaching Theology of the Body as a class important aging issues. We shouldn’t keep silent or disconnect starting in elementary school right through high school. ourselves from others as we age, lest we breed all sorts of The session on Service involving the Family helped Catholic maladies of the body, mind and spirit. schools learn more about shifting the focus of service to one For me, aging is a lifetime of fruitfulness, love, graying hair, which involves the entire family and not the students alone. Veit wrinkles and the joy that is our birthright from God because explained, “They are focusing on the corporal works of mercy, we belong to Him. He is a God of unlimited abundance and sending students with their families out into the community has more than enough for us. Blessed are we who have made for various events as well as having them do things at home good use of our years! Blessed are the aging hearts who wait like creating homeless bags that will then later be distributed.” patiently for their lives to be increased, theirs is the Kingdom Utilizing this shift in focus from sending money through of God. students to inviting families to participate actively in serving the Time is not our enemy, but our friend. Let us not delay any communities, these schools have found a way to meet each of the longer, but age out loud, filling our lives with laughter, friends seven corporal works of mercy for their K-12 students. and family and allowing the Spirit to move our hearts to do Those participating in the conference represent all aspects of new things. Catholic and faith-based education from preschool, elementary, May our aging out loud be iced with the beauty of our secondary, adult education, colleges and universities to local mind, spirit, connectedness and decorated with happiness, joy, parish pastors, priests, parish volunteers and more. Attendees respect, friends, love and laughter. May we be filled with new had available to them more than 200 professional development attitudes about what it means to be ourselves. Thank God for sessions, beautiful liturgies, and special events. • all the tomorrows as we live our future closer to Him. •

20 Catholic Connection Plans for SVdP Banquet Underway Catholic Charities of North by Jim Beadles, Vice President of Diocesan Society of St. Vincent de Paul Louisiana presents

by Lucy Medvec

Presentation at the 2016 St. Vincent de Paul Banquet, "Not Too Far From Here." atholic Charities’ popular lessings come in many diverse enough, the Centenary Choir performed fundraiser, “Bingo on the packages. The Society of St. several songs, including the theme CBayou,” is returning this BVincent de Paul is no exception. song, leaving most of us speechless and year on Saturday, August 19th. As a mission, more than 275 local inspired. After selling out last year’s event, Vincentians provide services such as The success of the 2016 Banquet “Bingo on the Bayou” will move to rent and utility assistance, furniture, set the bar high for 2017. We heard East Ridge Country Club in order food and pharmacy services. The entire from so many people about how much to accommodate more people. In organization consists of volunteers. they enjoyed the program, as well as addition to seven games of bingo, the There is no paid staff or overhead, from many who were unable to attend fundraiser will include dinner and a and virtually every dollar raised goes but heard about it, that we decided to silent auction. to help those in need. In 2016, local present the “Not Too Far From Here… Local priests from around the Vincentians conducted more than 2,400 Encore” for the 2017 St. Vincent de diocese will once again serve as bingo in-home visits, and helped more than Paul Banquet. callers for the event with prizes 12,000 of our neighbors. This year, we have as speakers Andrew being gift certificates to upscale local All of our resources come from the Randall from Abounding Faith Temple, restaurants. generosity of the community, and we and Dr. Brad Jurkovich from First All proceeds from “Bingo on the are grateful for the gifts that sustain our Bossier. Having speakers from other Bayou” will benefit the programs of ministry. Our primary fundraiser each faiths is important, as we understand Catholic Charities of North Louisiana year is the St. Vincent de Paul Annual that no one faith or group can create the including financial education, Banquet, which will be held this year systemic change needed to truly make a emergency assistance, healthy eating on September 12 at the Bossier Civic difference in the lives of those we serve. classes, parenting programs and Center. The Centenary Choir will also assistance for low-income mothers, To say we were blessed by being a make a return appearance! Please and immigration services. part of the 2016 banquet would be a join us on September 12, 2017 at Individual tickets are $50 each with gross understatement. The theme of last 6:30 p.m. at the Bossier Civic Center. table sponsor levels of $750, $1000, year was based on the song, “Not Too Tickets will go on sale soon. Look for and $1500. Dress is casual and the Far From Here.” That song has a strong more information in your bulletins event is open to guests 21 years and message that regardless of where you are, and online at our website www. older. you do not have to look very far to find svdpshreveport.org, or on Facebook at If you are interested in serving on someone waiting for you to be the face St. Vincent de Paul Shreveport. the event committee, please contact of Christ in their life. On behalf of all Vincentians, I Lucy Medvec at lmedvec@ccnla. We had two incredible speakers: want to thank Bishop Duca for the org. For sponsorship information or Bishop Lawrence Brandon from Praise continued blessing of his support. It to order tickets, please contact the Temple, and Dr. Pat Day from First is sincerely appreciated. See you in Catholic Charities office at 318-865- United Methodist And, if that was not September! • 0200 ext. 101. •

June 2017 21 Our Lady of Fatima Plenary Help Collect Socks Indulgence for Prison Ministry by Dianne Rachal, Director of Worship by Mary Morgan, Prison Minister

ur feet are very important to us and just like Dr. Seuss wrote, “they all look Odifferent: little feet, big feet, long feet, short feet, white, brown, black or yellow feet.” Feet are everywhere and God loves them all. Jesus did a lot n Saturday, May 13, the 100th anniversary of the apparitions of walking and talking about them. He let a woman of Our Lady of Fatima, Pope Francis declared canonized wash his feet and was pleased when she anointed Osaints, Jacinta and Francesco Marto, two of the three them. At the Last Supper he washed the apostles’ feet. shepherd children to whom Our Lady appeared. A one-year Jubilee Why am I writing about feet? Because I have began on November 27, 2016, the First Sunday of Advent, and will discovered a need. Back in the early 90’s a mother continue until November 26, 2017. The Apostolic Penitentiary has in my parish was making visits to see her son in the granted a plenary indulgence for the centennial anniversary of the parish jail. I felt in my heart the phrase, “Offer to Fatima apparitions. “The plenary indulgence of the jubilee is granted: go with her.” What began as a message from the to pious faithful who visit with devotion an image of Our Lady of Holy Spirit eventually turned into a calling to assist Fatima solemnly displayed for public veneration in any temple, oratory in Prison Ministry, and those heart messages have or adequate place, during the days of the anniversary of the apparitions never stopped coming. Since that time I have visited (the 13th of each month, from May to October 2017), and devotedly many correctional centers and written many letters to participate there in any celebration or prayer in honor of the Virgin prisoners. Mary, pray the Our Father, recite the Symbol of Faith (Creed) and Today, I have this dream to tell you about – a invoke Our Lady of Fatima.” Christmas starting in July dream. On one of my “To obtain the plenary indulgence, the faithful, truly penitent weekly visits to the Bossier Max facility, I noticed the and animated with charity, must fulfill the following conditions: worn out white socks on most of the women’s feet. sacramental confession, Eucharistic communion and prayer for the When they arrive, they must give up everything they intentions of the Holy Father.” come in with (even socks). They are given a striped top and pants and a slipper type pair of shoes. If The parishes in the Diocese of Shreveport with images of Our someone arrives without any funds to purchase socks, Lady of Fatima for veneration at the time of this publication are: they depend on other inmates to share any extras. • Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport The floors are concrete and cold, and they only get a • Mary, Queen of Peace Parish, Bossier City small sleeping blanket. • St. Jude Parish, Benton I am working to give a new pair of socks to each • St. Patrick Parish, Lake Providence person in the facility for Christmas. In Bossier that • Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Monroe is about 1,400 individuals. If we as the Catholic Church could collect 1,400 pairs of socks, we would O God, who chose the Mother of your Son to be our Mother also, have enough for all of these prisoners. Grant us that, persevering in penance and prayer Someone will thank you from the “bottom of For the salvation of the world, their feet” one day if you help with this endeavor. We may further more effectively each day the reign of Christ. Churches and groups wanting to donate socks Who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen. should contact Mary Morgan at 318-742-3774. • 22 Catholic Connection hispanic NEWS por Rosalba Quiroz Fidel Mondragón González, Sacerdote para la Diócesis de Shreveport “ ngresé a Estados Unidos patrocinado por la Diócesis de Shreveport, y si Calendario del Mes de IMonseñor Obispo Michael Duca, Junio - Julio 2017 Dios y la Inmaculada Virgen María así Junio: lo desean, me convertiré en sacerdote 3 Día de Servicio en su parroquia para esta diócesis en un futuro para crédito de Escuela Pastoral cercano”. Su hermano en Cristo: Fidel 10 Ordenación Sacerdotal del diácono Mondragón González”. Fidel Mondragón, Catedral de San Así terminó su artículo de Juan Berchmans presentación a la diócesis de Shreveport 11 Cantamisa de Fidel Mondragón, hace un año, el entonces seminarista Sta. María de los Pinos, Fidel Mondragón. Después de Celebración terrenos de la feria integrarse a la diócesis y recibir estudios 24 Escuela Pastoral, Cristo Rey adicionales sobre el trabajo pastoral en Estados Unidos, fue ordenado Diácono Julio: transitorio en diciembre del 2016. 15 3ª reunión en preparación para Ahora finalmente, tendremos la Búsqueda 8. Centro Católico, 11 am – 4 pm dicha de ser parte de su Ordenación la Catedral de St. John Berchmans, Sacerdotal y estar aún más unido a 939 Jordan Street, Shreveport, LA 21-23 Retiro Búsqueda 8, Scottsville, nosotros como sacerdote diocesano. 71101 en punto de las 10:00 a.m. TX (viernes 6 p.m. – domingo 4 Que nuestro Señor lo ilumine y guie seguida por una recepción en la misma pm) para que sea un pastor compasivo y catedral. 29 1ª reunión en preparación para sabio y nos pueda guiar y acompañar Su Cantamisa será el día siguiente, Retiro Experiencia Cristo 7. 10am en la vida espiritual de nosotros y de 11 de junio del 2017 en punto de – 2 pm. Centro Católico. nuestras familias. las 11:30 a.m. en la Parroquia de Detalles de la Ordenación Santa María de los Pinos, 1050 Bert sacerdotal y Cantamisa Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport, y celebración cortesía principalmente residida por nuestro Obispo LA 71118. Después del Cantamisa de la familia de Fidel y las comunidades Michael G. Duca, concelebrada estamos todos invitados a celebrar hispanas de la diócesis. Seamos parte de Ppor sacerdotes de la diócesis con en los terrenos de la feria en la estas festividades históricas de bendición, y quienes han sido parte su vida y 3710 Hudson Street, Shreveport LA en honor de nuestro futuro sacerdote formación el 10 de junio del 2017 en 71109 donde habrá comida, mariachi Fidel Mondragón González. •

June 2017 23 Kids' Connection! This Month We Learn About

Saint kateri tekakwitha Kateri waswho born towas Mohawk she? and Algonquin • St. KateriInteresting placed thorns under facts her sleeping parents and grew up in a Mohawk tribe. When mat and laid on them, a practice of the Mohawks, she was 4-years-old, her family contracted while praying, offering her suffering. smallpox. The disease killed both of her parents • Kateri is known as the “Lily of the Mohawks” and her brother, and left her with facial scars. because lilies are both symbolic of purity and the She was adpoted by her aunt and uncle. There Blessed Mother. were many battles between the French and the Mohawks while she grew up. Jesuit missionaries • She is the patron saint of the environment, loss came to her village and over the years she learned of parents, exiled people and Native Americans. from them and worked beside them to care for wounded warriors. Kateri refused to marry and eventually converted to Christianity. She died young at the age of 23, in the arms of her best friend and spiritual sister, Marie Thérèse.

Word Find ADOPTED ENVIRONMENT MOHAWKS AMERICAN JESUITS SMALLPOX CHASTE KATERI TEKAKWITHA CONVERT LILY THORNS

24 Catholic Connection JGS Participate in school NEWS Beautiful Lengths

SJS Inducts Students in Honors Society

o us, it’s hair. To women battling n Wednesday, May 10, St. induction based on the five pillars cancer, it’s hope. Jesus the Good Joseph Catholic School of membership: scholarship, service, TShepherd School students, Paula Owelcomed 23 inductees leadership, citizenship and character. Pham, 6th; Morgan Tonore, 3rd; Adeline into the St. Joseph Catholic School Congratulations to all students for Bruscato, 2nd; and Millie Clay, 1st Chapter of National Junior Honor being selected to join the National donated their 8-inch ponytails to Pantene Society. Students are nominated for Junior Honor Society! Beautiful Lengths on Wednesday, May 3, in the school gymnasium in front of the entire school assembly. Pantene Beautiful Retirement Celebration for Principal Jo Lengths has partnered with the American Cazes at St. John Berchmans School Cancer Society to make and distribute real-hair wigs to women in need. More than 800,000 ponytails have been donated to date! Thank you Kelly Southern, owner of Southern Salon, for donating her time and talent to such a worthy cause!

OLF 5th Graders Hard at Work

he Cathedral of St. John The retirement Mass was said in Berchmans parish and school conjunction with the First Holy Tcelebrated Jo Cazes with a Communion Mass. Afterwards, retirement party in her honor. Jo will all attended a catered lunch and ho needs pencil and paper when be retiring as principal at the close reception and presentation of parting you have desks and markers? of this school year after 12 years of gifts. A plaque was presented to Jo, Students are working hard in Mr. service at St. John Berchmans and dedicating the school library in her W Johnson’s 5th grade class. 44 combined years in education. name.

June 2017 25 around the Foot Washing at St. Jude DIOCESE

Fr. Thang'wa Led Prayer for LA Senate

t. Jude participated in foot washing on Holy Thursday. Pictured are Joey and SCandace Brickner and family. May Crowning in Many

r. Mike Thang’wa gave prayer each session. He also was the opening prayer at the given a tour of the Capitol, seeing FLouisiana Senate on April 25. the view from the top and going to He was invited by Senator Barrow the fourth floor where the governor’s Peacock, District 37, Shreveport- office is and where news conferences Bossier. The Senate is opened with are held. he youth of St. John the Baptist Parish in Many brought flowers for the St. Joseph PSR Students Present Rice Bowl Tannual crowning of Mary in May. St. Joseph Altar, Mansfield

r. Rothell Price, Vicar General of Religion of St. Joseph Parish in t. Joseph in Mansfield hosted a St. and Director of Special Shreveport. Teachers, Bonnie Vanni Joseph Altar on March 19 for both Collections, was presented with and Suji Sujith, along with students, F St. Joseph, Mansfield and St. Ann, a check in the amount of $775.11 Joshua and Theresa Sujith made the S Stonewall. Both churches contributed to from the Rice Bowl Lenten donations presentation to Fr. Price for the efforts the decorations and food for the event. of the students of the Parish School of Catholic Relief Services. 26 Catholic Connection Fr. Tim Surprised with First Communion at Confirmation at Anniversary Gift St. Lawrence St. Joseph, Bastrop

he children of St. Joseph Parish t. Lawrence Parish in Swartz, t. Joseph Parish in Bastrop held in Zwolle and St. Ann Church held First Communion on its Confirmation on Sunday, Tin Ebarb surprised Fr. Tim Hurd SSunday, April 30. Fr. Job SMay 7. Confirmands are with an engraved bench for his 25th Scaria is pictured with the first pictured with Bishop Duca, Deacon anniversary of priesthood. communicants. Marc Vereen and Fr. Lijo Thomas.

Fr. Gaitley Led Cathedral's St. Joseph, Shreveport Divine Mercy Retreat First Communion

r. Michael Gaitley, MIC, and the Marian Missionaries conducted a Divine Mercy Day Retreat Fon Saturday, April 22, at the Cathedral of St. John irst Communion was held at St. Joseph Parish in Berchmans for over 200 attendees from throughout the Shreveport on May 6 and 7. Communicants are diocese and surrounding areas. Pictured: Fr. Gaitley offers Fpictured with Deacon Bruce Pistorius, Deacon Bill a blessing of the Divine Mercy images for retreatants. Roche and Fr. Mark Franklin.

June 2017 27 across the NATION from Vatican Information Services

We need but take not of all, Fatima is more than anything this mantle of Light that protects us, refuge under the here as in almost no other place on earth. We need but take refuge under protection of the the protection of the Virgin Mary and to ask her, as the Salve Regina teaches: Virgin Mary and to ask “show unto us… Jesus.” Dear pilgrims, we have a Mother. her, as the Salve Regina We have a Mother! Clinging to her like children, we live in the hope that teaches: "show unto rests on Jesus. As we heard in the us... Jesus. " second reading, “those who receive the abundance of the grace and the Pope Francis at the Shrine free gift of righteousness exercise of Our Lady of Fatima dominion in life through the one man, Jesus Christ” (Rom 5:17). When Jesus ascended to heaven, He brought to Pope Francis Celebrated Mass and the Heavenly Father our humanity, which He assumed in the womb of the Canonization at Fatima Shrine Virgin Mary and will never forsake. During Pilgrimage to Fatima Shrine, Pope Canonized Like an anchor, let us fix our hope on Francisco Marto and Jacinta Marto that humanity, seated in heaven at the right hand of the Father. May this hope t 10:00 a.m. on May 13, the day of May 13, a hundred years ago. guide our lives! It is a hope that sustains Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin That evening, Jacinta could not restrain us always, to our dying breath. AMary of Fátima, on the plaza herself and told the secret to her mother: Confirmed in this hope, we have of the Shrine, the Holy Father Francis “Today I saw Our Lady.” They had seen gathered here to give thanks for the celebrated Holy Mass on the occasion of the Mother of Heaven. Many others countless graces bestowed over these the centenary of the apparitions, during sought to share that vision, but… they past hundred years. All of them passed which the Blesseds Francisco Marto did not see her. The Virgin Mother beneath the mantle of light that Our and Jacinta Marto were canonized. The did not come here so that we could Lady has spread over the four corners of Eucharistic Celebration was attended see her. We will have all eternity for the earth, beginning with this land of by the Presidents of the Republic of that, provided, of course, that we go to Portugal, so rich in hope. We can take Portugal, of Paraguay and of São Tomé e heaven. as our examples Saint Francisco and Príncipe, whom the pope greeted at the Our Lady foretold, and warned us Saint Jacinta, whom the Virgin Mary end of the rite. about, a way of life that is godless and introduced into the immense ocean of During the Mass, after the rite of indeed profanes God in His creatures. God’s light and taught to adore Him. canonization and the proclamation of Such a life – frequently proposed and That was the source of their strength in the Gospel, the Holy Father pronounced imposed – risks leading to hell. Mary overcoming opposition and suffering. the following homily: came to remind us that God’s light God’s presence became constant in “[There] appeared in heaven a woman dwells within us and protects us, for, as their lives, as is evident from their clothed with the sun.” So the seer of we heard in the first reading, “the child insistent prayers for sinners and their Patmos tells us in the Book of Revelation [of the woman] was snatched away and desire to remain ever near “the hidden (12:1), adding that she was about to taken to God” (Rev 12:5). In Lucia’s Jesus” in the tabernacle. give birth to a son. Then, in the Gospel, account, the three chosen children In her Memoirs, Sister Lucia quotes we hear Jesus say to his disciple, “Here found themselves surrounded by God’s Jacinta who had just been granted a is your mother” (Jn 19:27). We have a light as it radiated from Our Lady. She vision: “Do you not see all those streets, Mother! “So beautiful a Lady,” as the enveloped them in the mantle of Light all those paths and fields full of people seers of Fatima said to one another as that God had given her. According to the crying out for food, yet have nothing to they returned home on that blessed belief and experience of many pilgrims, if eat? And the Holy Father in a church,

28 Catholic Connection praying before the Immaculate Heart of mobilization against the indifference Mary? And all those people praying with that chills the heart and worsens USCCB him?” Thank you, brothers and sisters, our myopia. We do not want to be a for being here with me! I could not fail stillborn hope! Life can survive only news to come here to venerate the Virgin because of the generosity of other lives. & notes Mary and to entrust to her all her sons “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the from United States Conference and daughters. Under her mantle they earth and dies, it remains just a single of Catholic Bishops are not lost; from her embrace will come grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit” the hope and the peace that they require, (Jn 12:24). The Lord, Who always • U.S. Bishops to Meet June 14- and that I implore for all my brothers goes before us, said this and did this. 15 in Indianapolis; Discussions and sisters in baptism and in our human Whenever we experience the cross, he will include Religious Liberty, Immigration, Upcoming Synod family, especially the sick and the has already experienced it before us. The bishops will also discuss and disabled, prisoners and the unemployed, We do not mount the cross to find vote on whether to establish the the poor and the abandoned. Dear Jesus. Instead it was he who, in his Ad Hoc Committee for Religious brothers and sisters, let us pray to God self-abasement, descended even to the Liberty as a permanent USCCB with the hope that others will hear cross, in order to find us, to dispel the committee. Other items considered us; and let us speak to others with the darkness of evil within us, and to bring for discussion and votes are: certainty that God will help us. us back to the light. the revised Guidelines for the Indeed, God created us to be a With Mary’s protection, may we be Celebration of the Sacraments source of hope for others, a true and for our world sentinels of the dawn, with Persons with Disabilities, a attainable hope, in accordance with contemplating the true face of Jesus the collection of blessings in Spanish each person’s state of life. In “asking” Savior, resplendent at Easter. Thus may (the Bendicional: Sexta Parte), and “demanding” of each of us the we rediscover the young and beautiful and a new translation of the fulfilment of the duties of our proper face of the Church, which shines forth Order of Blessing the Oil of state (Letters of Sister Lucia, 28 when she is missionary, welcoming, free, Catechumens and of the Sick and February 1943), God effects a general faithful, poor in means and rich in love. • of Consecrating the Chrism.

• U.S. Bishops Chairman Calls on Senate to Strip Harmful Proposals from House-Passed Health Care Bill Happy 65th Birthday Since discussions about repealing the Affordable Care Act began, the Bishop Michael Duca ! U.S. Bishops have repeatedly called for Congress to honor key moral The Catholic Faithful of the Diocese of Shreveport are cordially invited principles in health care reform. to attend Mass and a Reception on the occasion of the 65th Birthday Among them are: access for all of Bishop Michael G. Duca people to comprehensive, quality health care that is truly affordable, Southern and Western Deanery Eastern Deanery including extra consideration for Faithful and Clergy are invited Faithful and Clergy are invited to pre-existing conditions; respect for life by preventing the use of federal to celebrate at the 4:00 p.m celebrate the 5:00 p.m. funds for abortion or to purchase Anticipated Mass Evening Mass health care plans that cover it; and Saturday, June 3, 2017 Sunday, June 4, 2017 conscience protections. Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish • USCCB President: Executive 939 Jordan Street 2510 Emerson Street Order Begins a Process We Shreveport LA 71101 Monroe, LA 71201 will continue to advocate for Reception immediately following Reception immediately following permanent relief from Congress on issues of critical importance to in St. Vincent’s Hall at Loyola in Moore Hall people of faith. Religious freedom College Prep is a fundamental right that should Bishop Duca has requested that in lieu of gifts or honoraria, donations be made to be upheld by all branches of the Office of Church Vocations of the Diocese of Shreveport. government and not subject to political whims.

June 2017 29 Joseph Parish, Zwolle, located at 307 Hammond St. in Zwolle. Reception immediately following. RSVP to jubilee25@ mark your bellsouth.net. BeLoved Camp for Teen Girls 7/13 Experience an unforgettable, life-changing camp packed with awesome activities and authentic Catholic CALENDAR spirituality! This camp for teen girls will be at the rustic-but- comfortable King’s Camp, where a top-notch ropes course is Informational Meeting on the flanked by the bayou and a picturesque pond. The days include 6/17 Permanent Diaconate competitive games, great food, Catholic devotions and down The Diocese of Shreveport will host an informational time at the pool. To register and for more information, visit meeting for men interested in enrolling in the permanent www.shvcamps.com. diaconate program in 2018. This meeting will take place on Saturday, June 17, in the Youth Room at the Catholic 2017 Diocesan RCIA Workshop Life Center, next to St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Ruston, 7/15 This year’s annual RCIA Workshop is on beginning at 9:00 a.m. St. Thomas Aquinas Parish is located “Ministering to the Already Baptized” – How the already at 810 Carey St. in Ruston. For more information, contact baptized journey within the community of faith toward Deacon Clary Nash at [email protected], or 318-532-0280. reception into full communion or the completion of initiation. The workshop will be given by Jim Schellman at the Catholic St. John the Baptist and Fr. Thang'wa's Center, located at 3500 Fairfield Avenue in Shreveport from 6/25 Anniversary Celebrations 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Registration is $40 and deadline is July St. John the Baptist in Many will celebrate its 146th year 1. For more information, call 318-868-4441, or email Dianne of existence as well as Pastor Fr. Michael Thang’wa’s birthday Rachal at [email protected]. and 7th Anniversary of Ordination on Sunday, June 25, at the 10:00 a.m. Mass with Bishop Michael Duca. There will Mission Possible Camp for Teen Boys be a luncheon following Mass. For more information, call the 7/16 Experience an unforgettable, life-changing church office at 318-256-5680. camp packed with awesome activities and authentic Catholic spirituality! This camp for teen boys will be at the rustic-but- Mass in Honor of Fr. Hurd's Silver comfortable King’s Camp, where a top-notch ropes course is 6/27 Anniversary to the Priesthood flanked by the bayou and a picturesque pond. The days include A Mass of thanksgiving commemorating the silver competitive games, great food, Catholic devotions and down anniversary of ordination of the priesthood of Fr. Timothy time at the pool. To register and for more information, visit C. Hurd will be held on Tuesday, June 27, at 6:00 p.m. at St. www.shvcamps.com.

2017 Diocesan stewardship Appeal I / We would like to contribute to the Diocesan Stewardship Appeal with a total yearly pledge of:

$10,000 $2,500 $800 $400 $200 $7,500 $2,000 $750 $350 $150 $5,000 $1,500 $650 $300 $100 $3,500 $1,000 $500 $250 $______

At this time I / we are enclosing: $______Please send monthly reminders to: Print Name______

Address______Diocese of Shreveport City______State______Zip Code______The Catholic Center 3500 Fairfield Avenue My / Our Church Parish______hreveport S , LA 71104 Signature______www.dioshpt.org You may make a credit card payment online at: www.dioshpt.org (Click on Stewardship)

30 Catholic Connection JUNE & JULY 2017

JUNE 2017 CALENDAR JULY 2017 CALENDAR

JUNE 1 - St. Justin, martyr JULY 1 - Second Collection: Peter's Pence JUNE 2 - Sts. Marcelinus & Peter, martyrs St. Junipero Serra, priest JUNE 3 - Bishop Duca's 65th Birthday Celebration, Cathedral JULY 2 - Second Collection: Peter's Pence of St. John Berchmans, 4pm St. Charles Lwanga & Companions, martyrs JULY 3 - St. Thomas, apostle JUNE 4 - PENTECOST SUNDAY JULY 4 - Independence Day Multicultural Mass, St. Mary of the Pines Parish, Catholic Center Closed Shreveport, 10am JULY 5 - St. Anthony Zaccaria, priest; St. Elizabeth of Portugal Bishop Duca's 65th Birthday Celebration, Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish, 5pm JULY 6 - St. Maria Goretti, virgin & martyr JUNE 5 - St. Boniface, bishop& martyr JULY 10 - Deadline for August Catholic Connection JUNE 6 - St. Norbert, bishop JULY 11 - St. Benedict, abbot JUNE 9 - St. Ephrem, deacon & doctor of the Church JULY 12 - Protecting God's Children, Catholic Center, 6pm JUNE 10 - Ordination to the Priesthood of Fidel Mondragon, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 10am JULY 13 - BeLoved Camp for Teen Girls (through 7/16), JUNE 11 - Mass for Fr. Andre McGrath's 50th Anniversary to King's Camp, Mer Rouge the Priesthood, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament JULY 14 - St. Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin Parish, Shreveport, 9am The Most Holy Trinity JULY 15 - 2017 RCIA Workshop, Catholic Center, 9am St. Bonaventure, bishop & doctor of the Church JUNE 13 - St. Anthony of Padua, priest & doctor of the Church JUNE 14 - Protecting God's Children, Catholic Center, 6pm JULY 16 - Mission Possible Camp for Teen Boys (through 7/19), King's Camp, Mer Rouge JUNE 17 - Informational Meeting on the Permanent Diaconate, Catholic Life Center, Ruston, 9am JULY 18 - St. Camilus de Lellis, priest JUNE 18 - Corpus Christi - The Most Holy Body & Blood of Christ JULY 20 - St. Apolinaris, bishop JUNE 21 - Investment Committee Meeting, Catholic Center, 10am JULY 21 - St. Lawrence of Brindisi, priest & doctor of the Church St. Aloysius Gonzaga, religious JUNE 22 - St. Paulinus of Nola, bishop; Sts. John Fisher, bishop, JULY 22 - Second Collection: Solidarity Fund for the and Thomas More, martyrs Church in Africa St. Mary Magdalene JUNE 23 - The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus JULY 23 - Second Collection: Solidarity Fund for the JUNE 24 - Ordination to the Transitional Diaconate of Duane Church in Africa Trombetta, Holy Trinity Parish, 10am The Nativity of St. John the Baptist JULY 24 - St. Sharbel Makhluf, priest JUNE 25 - St. John the Baptist Parish's 145th Anniversary Mass & JULY 25 - St. James, apostle Feast Day Celebration, Many, 10am JULY 26 - Sts. Joachim & Anne, parents of Mary JUNE 27 - Fr. Tim Hurd's 25th Anniversary to the Priesthood Mass, St. Joseph Parish, Zwolle, 6pm JULY 29 - St. Martha St. Cyril of Alexandria, bishop JULY 31 - Parish Year-End Financials Due JUNE 28 - Diocesan Finance Council Meeting, Catholic St. Ignatius of Loyola, priest Center, 12pm St. Irenaeus, bishop & martyr JUNE 29 - Sts. Peter and Paul, apostles JUNE 30 - The First Martyrs of the Holy Roman Church

June 2017 31 ConnectionThe Catholic DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave. • Shreveport, LA 71104 Fairfield

Photo of the Month

Bishop Michael G. Duca presents a check to a member of Holy Angels Residential Facility during the 25th Annual Red Mass at Holy Trinity in downtown Shreveport. The Red Mass honors lawyers, judges and court officials. This year’s honoree was Holy Angels.

32 Catholic Connection