THE CATHOLIC PAGES 10-11
Youth visit Angola August 17, ommentator2018 Vol. 56, No. 14 SERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 thecatholiccommentator.org C CELEBRATING TRADITION SJA kicks off 150th year
By Bonny Van The Catholic Commentator
The grounds of St. Joseph’s Academy in Baton Rouge were quiet as a summer sun shone brightly on the school’s new- est addition, a 23,150-square-foot Stu- dent Activity Center. But inside the facility, there was a hubbub of activity as students filled the bleachers and faculty and staff greeted alumnae and visitors for a ribbon- cutting ceremony and special blessing of the new building that kicked off the school’s year-long 150th Anniversary Bishop Robert W. Muench, with the assistance of SJA student Anna Claire Eagleton, blesses the new Student Activity Center at Celebration. St. Joseph’s Academy in Baton Rouge. Photo by Bonny Van | The Catholic Commentator “I’m happy to be with you today for many reasons,” said Bishop Robert W. dents, let alone any parents, at a single we could gather as a whole community ginning but as we got closer, we thought Muench. “One of which is I celebrate gathering. to be able to invite parents to come par- ‘Wow! This might coincide with the with you something that is twice as old The new student activity center also ticipate in Masses and celebrations in- 150th anniversary.’ ” as I am! It makes me feel young.” includes a training facility and workout cluding alumnae or community mem- SJA athletics director Dorinda Beau- The planning stages of the $6.7 mil- rooms with state-of-the-art equipment. bers,” said Suzie Toups Adler, president mont said the building is not just for lion activity center began four years ago But, it’s the ability to bring everyone to- of the SJA board of directors and chair- athletes but the entire SJA community. following a study revealing the former gether, under one roof, that has gener- man of the 150th Anniversary Celebra- “We’re so excited, it’s gorgeous,” activity center was not large enough ated the most excitement. tion. “The timing of the completion of said Beaumont, who has been with the to accommodate the school’s 1,110 stu- “We knew we needed a place where the building was not planned in the be- SEE ANNIVERSARY PAGE 19 Symbolism marks ceremony
By Richard Meek emony); however, they fit together well,” Father The Catholic Commentator Ranzino said. “They really comment on who we are as a church. The crucified Christ who greets The installation ceremony for Bishop-desig- Bishop Duca is also the resurrected Christ that nate Michael G. Duca is steeped in tradition and we proclaim at the eucharistic table that will one that is marked by its beauty, symbolism and both console and inspire Bishop Duca.” acknowledgement of the past by linking it to the The Rite of Installation, which comes from future, according to Father Tom Ranzino, vicar the Ceremonial of Bishops, quite simply be- WELCOME BACK – Father Cleo Milano, pastor of Our Lady of general for the Diocese of Baton Rouge. gins with a knock on the door from Bishop- Mercy School in Baton Rouge, greets students and their fami- Bishop-designate Duca will be installed on designate Duca, perhaps the most dramatic lies on the first day of school on Aug. 9. Students in grades 3Y Aug. 24 at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph Cathedral in Ba- of the symbolic components of the ceremony. through first grade will be attending classes in the new 30,000 ton Rouge. The knock comes after the initial procession square foot Lower School building. Photo by Bonny Van | The Catholic “There are a lot of moving parts (in the cer- SEE PROCESS PAGE 20 Commentator 2 The Catholic Commentator August 17, 2018 | PICTURES FROM THE PAST Faith seeking understanding
By Dina Dow within community life. Households of faith must decide whom they serve. This is not a Without a doubt the Scripture readings time for lukewarm faith, as we hear in the proclaimed during Mass for the 20th and Book of Joshua. Rather, this is a time to com- 21st Sundays of Ordinary Time (Year B) in- mit to serving God out of love and gratitude vite all to a deeper awakening of faith. Those for what he has done. St. Paul empha- seeking to understand are invit- sizes the commitment be- ed to sit at the table, taste and see tween husband and wife to the goodness of the Lord, share Life-Giving serve one another for the life in community, receive living FAI H sake of the other (Eph 5:21-32). bread and become what you receive. In other words, since the two Invitation are one flesh, then love is the The seven columns upon which wisdom act of willing the good for the other, instead has built her house (Prv 9:1) indicates per- of an ambitious, inward spiral of individual- fection. Here all are invited to eat, yet before ism. Here applied is the Golden Rule times the guests enter they must put aside “foolish- 10: “Love God above all others, and love your ness” and move toward understanding. What neighbor (i.e. Spouse),” with a love so great home, built upon perfection, are we called to that there exists a willingness to die for the enter that provides food, namely meat and other, as Christ died for the Church” (Eph St. Joseph’s Academy, as pictured in 1940 at its original downtown Baton wine, for us to eat? What home with such a 5:25). Rouge location. The school recently launched its year-long 150th anniversary set up invites us to set aside our ways, and in- St. Paul also stresses the importance of celebration. Below, women religious are pictured during a luncheon at SJA in crease in understanding? being sober in order to remain open to the 1962. Photo provided by the Archives Department | The Diocese of Baton Rouge Taste and see the goodness of the Holy Spirit. This implicates temperance rath- Lord er than prohibition. We are to make good use Psalm 34 radiates with gratitude in what of our time and fill it fully for the purpose of the Lord has done. A “taste” of God is a growing in understanding of the Lord. glimpse of eternity as we come to understand Eat and drink all the goodness he has bestowed. The eyes We continue with some of the most signifi- of faith help us to “see” the glory of God’s ac- cant Scripture passages for all to understand. tion, and to “taste” the sweetness of fatherly The Bread of Life Discourse in St. John’s Gos- care, so much so we keep our eyes fixed on pel, 6:51, 53-55, begins with Jesus’ words, “I him and “be radiant with joy.” Pope Francis am the living bread that came down from writes, “Christian joy is peace, peace that is heaven; whoever eats this bread will live for- deeply rooted, peace in the heart, the peace ever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh that only God can give.” Thus the root of joy for the life of the world.” Jesus said to them, is peace which comes from God for us to taste “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the and see. flesh of the son of man and drink his blood, From the depths of our souls we bless you do not have life within you. Whoever eats and praise him, knowing he hears, rescues, my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, saves, delivers, protects, and is beside us at and I will raise him on the last day. For my all times. Think of a time when you “sought flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink.” The EASY the Lord, and he answered you, delivered you What did he just say? from all your fears” (Ps(s) 34:5). The opposite Paragraph 1336 in The Catechism of the (Entrust-Acquiesce- Surrender-Yield) of fear is trust. How can I trust to ask God to Catholic Church explains, “The first an- deliver me? What are my fears? Where can I nouncement of the Eucharist divided the dis- Prayer begin? Saying a deliberate, slow “Our Father” ciples, just as the announcement of the Pas- may be a good place to start followed by a list sion scandalized them: ‘This is a hard saying; Dear God, I must rely more on you than on me. of “What am I most grateful for?” Perhaps sit who can listen to it?’ ” The Eucharist and the with this list, to “taste and see the goodness cross are stumbling blocks. It is the same I must rely more on your perfection than on my holiness. of the Lord.” mystery and it never ceases to be an occasion I must rely more on your faithfulness than on my promises. Community of division. I must rely more on your goodness than on my inclinations. One can “see” the goodness of the Lord SEE GOSPEL PAGE 15 I must rely more on your providence than on my planning. I must rely more on your grace than on my ability. I must rely more on your power than on my strength. I must rely more on your wisdom than on my ingenuity. I must rely more on your knowledge than on my understanding. thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator I must rely more on your judgment than on my discernment. I must rely more on your will than on my determination. Bishop-designate Michael G. Duca Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager I must rely more on your love than on my care. Father Tom Ranzino Associate Publisher Bonny Van Staff Writer I willingly submit, happily entrust and fully surrender my Richard Meek Editor Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation entire self – heart, mind, body, emotion, spirit and will – to you. Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor Nicole Latiolais Graphic Designer The Catholic Commentator (ISSN 07460511; USPS 093-680) Dear God, I must rely, and do rely, more on you than on me. Published bi-weekly (every other week) by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge,1800 South Acadian Thruway, Baton Rouge, LA 70808; 225-387-0983 or 225-387-0561. Periodical Postage Paid at Baton Rouge, LA. Copy must reach the above address by Wednesday for use in the next week’s paper. Subscription rate: $14.00 per year. POST- † Robert W. Muench, (Originally composed c. 2000) MASTER, send address changes to The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746. August 17, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 3 Educators gather for prayer By Bonny Van scores on the ACRE (Assessment The Catholic Commentator for Catechesis and Religious Ed- ucation) continue to rise each Just before the start of the school year. She credits not only 2018-19 school year, more than religion teachers but “the secular 900 educators from schools subject teachers who are rein- throughout the Diocese of Ba- forcing Catholic identify across ton Rouge converged for prayers, the curriculum.” blessings and a reminder of their “Through the ministry and mission: evangelizing hearts, theology classes, we’ve been able educating minds, encouraging to support their roles as educa- Above, Bishop Robert W. Muench talent and embracing the future. tors,” said Dina Dow, director talks about the importance of “We have to be living exten- of the Office of Evangelization ministering to students at the an- sions of Jesus Christ,” said Bish- and Catechesis for the diocese. nual Catholic Educators Gather- op Robert W. Muench during the “(They are) what I call ‘front line ing sponsored by the Catholic prayer service. “I don’t care how evangelizers’ in the classroom Schools Office. This year’s event well we know our subject mat- for the children, so the more was held at Most Blessed Sacra- ter. I don’t care how many years (the educators) grow in their ment Church in Baton Rouge. Pho- we’ve taught a particular lesson faith formation, the more they tos by Bonny Van | The Catholic Commentator plan. If we don’t begin with re- can pour out to the students be- alizing that we are doing more yond the academia because, first future that we may never know. than just carrying out a secular thing’s first, the students have to It makes a difference.” pursuit … we are not in public know the love of God.” The gathering ended with the Hundreds of educators packed Most Blessed Sacrament Church in Ba- education where you’re required Besides the prayer service, bishop commissioning educa- ton Rouge for the Catholic Schools Office Catholic Educators Gathering to keep your faith at home. And, teachers were able to visit with tors as ministers of the church Aug. 7. Bishop Robert W. Muench commissioned the teachers to fulfill we need one another as well as vendors who provided such at their schools, according to the vision of Catholic education in the Diocese of Baton Rouge. the Lord to help us.” goods as religious workbooks, Verges, with the commitment to According to Dr. Melanie computer software and school fulfill the vision of Catholic ed- Leah Barbato, a teacher at St. and remediation is important, Verges, superintendent of Cath- uniforms. And, they were able to ucation in the Diocese of Baton George School in Baton Rouge. but also their spirit. So, it was a olic Schools for the diocese, the reconnect with co-workers and Rouge. “It’s a good reminder that we’re good message from the bishop school year’s theme of “Waters fellow teachers in the diocese. “It’s definitely a motivation- here to minister to the children, to remind us the importance of of Life” reflects the “flow of the “It’s exciting,” said Elaine al experience for myself,” said while academics is important taking care of their souls.” Holy Spirit” and is a continua- Politz, a teacher at Our Lady of tion of last year’s theme of “The Mercy School in Baton Rouge, of Potter” and water flowing from the gathering. “It gets you excit- one piece of pottery to another. ed to come back refreshed and “We try to tie the themes to- ready for a great new year.” gether as we move along,” said “The prayer service is nice Verges. “ ‘Waters of Life’ – what just to have everybody together,” Join us do we do in education to give life said Aaron Finley, a teacher at to the child, to the family, to the St. Michael the Archangel High as we welcome community, to our church? And, School in Baton Rouge. “I got to so we want the Spirit to flow and see some of my old teachers so that we go with the flow and re- that was nice.” Bishop Michael G. Duca ally be fluid in our work.” Bishop Muench also remind- New this school year was ed educators of the importance recognition of teachers who of their job and their ministry. as the next bishop of the had completed certification “We have to make a commit- for basic, intermediate and ment of faith not only to God but Diocese of Baton Rouge advanced religious education. in the work God calls us to – the It’s part of the Catholic Schools ministry – and to try and never Office plan to promote strong give up, even with the most dif- in a special section of Catholic identify in schools and ficult students, because I’m com- the certification requirement pletely convinced, the best stu- The Catholic Commentator has been a part of the educator dents teach themselves, they’re contract since 2010. going to do fine,” said the bish- “Achieving religious ed certi- op. “But, the students that most in the issue of August 31. fication, whether you’re a math need our help are those that are teacher, a science teacher or a struggling … at home, with life, Deadline is Aug. 21. P.E. teacher means that you are wherever. And, try to be patient, better able to infuse Catholic but there’s a limit … but we try identify into your curriculum, to reach out to that student and and I really think that has sup- we never know when we might ported our students learning,” have that breakthrough one day, For more information call Wanda Koch said Verges. that may not even seem apparent at 225-387-0983 or email [email protected] According to Verges, student now, but may be sometime in the 4 The Catholic Commentator NATIONAL | INTERNATIONAL August 17, 2018 Church urged to address its leaders’ ‘moral failures of judgment’
WASHINGTON (CNS) – Archbishop failures of judgment on the part of church Theodore E. McCarrick “will rightly face” leaders.” a Vatican canonical process regarding To determine a course of action for the sexual abuse allegations against him, but USCCB to take, Cardinal DiNardo said he the U.S. Catholic Church must take steps convened the bishops’ Executive Commit- to respond to church leaders’ “moral fail- tee. ures of judgment,” said the president of “This meeting was the first of many the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. among bishops that will extend into our The accusations against Archbishop Administrative Committee meeting in Then-Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, retired archbishop of Washington, attends Pope McCarrick, a former cardinal and retired September and our general assembly in Francis’ address to a joint meeting of Congress at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. archbishop of Washington, D.C., “reveal a November,” he explained. “All of these Sept. 24, 2015. At right is John Carr, director of the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought grievous moral failure within the church,” discussions will be oriented toward dis- and Public Life at Georgetown University. The man at left is unidentified. CNS photo said Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Gal- cerning the right course of action for the veston-Houston. USCCB.” • He urged anyone who has experienced as we follow St. Paul’s instruction: ‘Do “They cause bishops anger, sadness Such work will “take some time,” but sexual assault or harassment by any- not conform yourselves to this age but be and shame; I know they do in me,” he he laid out four points to be acted upon one in the church to come forward. transformed by the renewal of your mind, said in an Aug. 1 statement. “They compel immediately: “Where the incident may rise to the that you may discern what is the will of bishops to ask, as I do, what more could • He encouraged each bishop in their level of a crime, please also contact lo- God, what is good and pleasing and per- have been done to protect the people of diocese “to respond with compassion cal law enforcement.” fect.’ ” God. Both the abuses themselves, and the and justice to anyone who has been • The USCCB “will pursue the many On July 28, Pope Francis accepted the fact that they have remained undisclosed sexually abused or harassed by anyone questions surrounding Archbishop resignation from the College of Cardinals for decades, have caused great harm to in the church. We should do whatever McCarrick’s conduct to the full extent of then-Cardinal McCarrick and ordered people’s lives and represent grave moral we can to accompany them.” of its authority; and where that au- him to maintain “a life of prayer and pen- thority finds its limits, the conference ance” until a canonical trial examines ac- will advocate with those who do have cusations that he sexually abused minors. Diocese of Baton Rouge Catholic Schools the authority. One way or the other, we In late June, the 88-year-old prelate are determined to find the truth in this said he would no longer exercise any pub- STATEMENT OF POLICY matter.” lic ministry “in obedience” to the Vatican The schools of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, admit • “Finally, we bishops recognize that a after an allegation he abused a teenager students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded spiritual conversion is needed as we 47 years ago in the Archdiocese of New or made available to students at its schools. They do not discriminate on the basis seek to restore the right relationship York was found credible. The cardinal has of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, among us and with the Lord. Our said he is innocent. admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school church is suffering from a crisis of sex- In the weeks that followed the an- administered programs. ual morality. The way forward must nouncement, another man came forward Additionally, in compliance with Title IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, no person involve learning from past sins.” claiming he was abused as a child by in the schools of the Diocese shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation Cardinal DiNardo said the failures of Archbishop McCarrick, and several for- in, or be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education judgment by church leaders in the case mer seminarians have spoken out about program or activity except as permitted under said Title IX. of Archbishop McCarrick “raise serious being sexually harassed by the former Finally, the schools of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, have adopted and will implement the imperatives of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act as questions.” cardinal at a beach house he had. amended, and will inform parents and students of their rights under this amendment “Why weren’t these allegations of sins In other developments, two New to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. against chastity and human dignity dis- Jersey dioceses where he served in the The above stated policy applies to the following schools and institutions of the closed when they were first brought to 1980s and 1990s said settlements had Diocese: church officials?” he asked. “Why wasn’t been reached in 2005 and 2007 in cases Ascension Diocesan Regional School School – EA/EI Partnership this egregious situation addressed de- of abuse claims against him that dated to Blessed Margaret of Castello St. Elizabeth Interparochial School cades sooner and with justice? What must his years of service in those dioceses. He REACH Program St. Francis Xavier School our seminaries do to protect the freedom was the founding bishop of the Diocese Special Education Program St. George School to discern a priestly vocation without be- of Metuchen, New Jersey, in 1981, then Catholic High School (Baton Rouge) St. Jean Vianney School ing subject to misuse of power?” headed the Archdiocese of Newark, New Catholic Elementary of Pointe Coupée St. John Interparochial School In conclusion, he asked all to “pray for Jersey, before being named to Washing- Catholic High of Pointe Coupée St. Joseph School God’s wisdom and strength for renewal ton in 2001. He retired in 2006. Cristo Rey Baton Rouge St. Joseph’s Academy Franciscan High School St. Jude the Apostle School Holy Family School St. Michael the Archangel Diocesan Holy Ghost School Regional High School Reach 95,000 readers in the Diocese of Baton Rouge Mater Dolorosa School St. Peter Chanel Interparochial School by placing your ad in The Catholic Commentator. Most Blessed Sacrament School St. Thomas Aquinas Diocesan Call 225-387-0983. Credit card accepted. Our Lady of Mercy School Regional High School Redemptorist St. Gerard School St. Thomas More School Sacred Heart of Jesus School THE CATHOLIC St. Aloysius School St. Alphonsus School ommentator CSERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 St. John Primary & St. Theresa Middle August 17, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 5
the Catholic COMMENTATOR Dress for success Next Issue Deadline ... AUGUST 22
By Debbie Shelley And the recovery is still ongo- and volunteer at the school as The Catholic Commentator ing for Carrier. she is able. “But with the help of St. Vin- “This helps to put things in It was the excitement of back cent de Paul I was able to clothe order and get ready for school, to school shopping for school them for another school year. for me and the kids,” said Sand- clothes, at least for girls, who I don’t know where I would be ers. walked out of the dressing rooms without them. Because I don’t Jalesia Allen, a single mom and twirled with delight in their want them to go back to school and member of St. Agnes Church new uniforms. The boys tended looking like foster children. I in Baton Rouge, said Uniforms to roll their eyes and groan when want them to go back looking for Kids helps her to apply mon- sent back to try on another set of like my own kids. And I was able ey toward school supplies and clothes. to do that with the help of St. other necessities. But even more noticeable was Vincent de Paul,” said Carrier “That (uniform costs) takes the look of relief and gratitude on with misty eyes. away from food,” said Allen. “It the faces of parents and caregiv- Her face brightened as she helps me to concentrate on what ers coming to the Uniforms for noted that one of the three foster we need rather than where we’re Kids distribution at the St. Vin- children was placed for adoption going to get the next uniform. It’s cent de Paul Store on Plank Road and her daughter is in the pro- a great help.” in Baton Rouge. cess of adopting the other two Her children spoke about The St. Vincent de Paul Soci- children. their dreams. ety provides uniforms for chil- dren who will attend Head Start through eighth-grade in the East Baton Rouge public and charter schools. Since July 10, the St. Vincent de Paul Society has dis- tributed about 3,000 uniforms to families who qualified based Magnolia House on their income, said Cheryl Scott, administrative assistant Estate Sales for Uniforms for Kids for SVDP. Once school starts, left over uni- 225-383-6923 forms will be given to the schools for the guidance counselors to Estate Liquidation give to children in need. Rex Ransome “Our goal is to give out 8,000 www.MagnoiaHouseEstateSales.com uniforms,” said Scott. The children each received Jalesia Allen looks over the new clothes her children, Janiah, left, and two sets of uniforms, one for Jaiden tried on during the St. Vincent de Paul Society’s Uniforms for warm and one for cold weather. Kids distribution. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator Come, Join the “I think this gives the kids a sense of ‘everybody’s wearing Brittney Sanders recently “I want to be a basketball Presentations on the same thing.’ They are not out moved from the New Orleans player,” said Jaiden, 9. of place. It builds their self-es- area and is undergoing kidney Janiah brightly said, “I want Our Group Cruises teem,” said Scott. “I’ve seen dialysis and living with her sis- to be a veterinarian.” Thursday, August 23 at 2:00 p.m. plenty of smiles. When we pack ter and brother-in-law’s family. Madeline Acosta and Cor- the bags, each child wants their Because she has not received rine Cook, seniors at St. Joseph’s given by Matt Rubin own bag … They say, ‘I’m going expected child support, Uni- Academy in Baton Rouge, said of Norwegian Cruise Line to start school in my new uni- form For Kids has helped her their time of volunteering to- form.’ ” focus on getting her children gether at Uniforms for Kids has 7-Day Hawaii Cruise Hilda Carrier, who is car- the things they need for school. turned their hearts even more Norwegian’s Pride of America ing for two foster children, was She said it’s also helpful for toward helping people. thankful for the uniforms. her children, Parker, 12, and The two conceded if they have May 25, 2019 She had three foster children Peyton, 8, adjust to their new to get a new uniform “it’s no big 7-Day Cruise when floodwaters damaged her schools. deal,” so the experience of seeing home in north Baton Rouge in “They’re already nervous be- how Uniforms for Kids helped Norwegian Breakaway the flood of 2016. cause they are going to a new families touched them. out of New Orleans Tootie Bonacorso “We lost everything,” said school,” said Sanders. “I want to go into law. I’ve al- Carrier. “I was at a crossroads She said her children are so- ways had that idea of wanting to of having to return the kids to ciable and should be able to fit help people,” said Acosta. Alaska 2019 Sale the foster care system for finan- in, but the uniforms will help en- “She’s giving like that,” smiled Wednesday, August 22 at 2:00 p.m. cial reasons. But I prayed about sure that. Cook. given by Celeste Pevahouse it, and God revealed to me that And she will also be able to Cook, who plans to pursue I didn’t need to put the kids focus on her health. a career in journalism, said the For additional information call Tootie. through more trauma because “I’m determined that I’m go- experience has fueled her desire they had been through the flood ing to get a kidney. That’s a goal to go on a mission trip to Central with me. By sending them back, I’m working toward,” said Sand- America. Pearson’s Travel World it would have been devastating ers. “That would be cool,” agreed 7949 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge • 225-926-3752 for them.” She plans to attend fieldtrips Acosta. 6 The Catholic Commentator August 17, 2018 Civil wedding ceremony – should we go?/Did Jesus die at 33?
My son is scheduled to be a Catholics attending an invalid wedding. gest. Why not explain to your son that, old when he died, and how do we groomsman for one of his best That decision is left to the prudent after thinking and praying about it, you know? Can you help us? (West Pawlet, Q friends, who has been living judgment of a Catholic, after prayerful- have decided to attend the ceremony Vermont) with his girlfriend for several years. ly considering several out of loyalty both to Although we do not know with It is to be a civil ceremony held in a factors. him and to his friend? certainty at what age Jesus died, hotel. I told my son that I would not be Maintaining peace- But tell him that you do Ait is generally believed that he was able to go since I am a Catholic and my ful relationships within have some reservations 33. The Gospel of St. Luke says, “When attendance would look like approval. a family is important. about doing so because Jesus began his ministry he was about 30 Naturally, my son was annoyed. Am I Also, it is certainly of your strong belief years of age” (3:23). And St. John’s Gos- doing the right thing? (County West- better for the couple that they should be pel notes that there were three annual meath, Ireland) in question to solidify married in a Catholic feasts of the Passover during the course As regards your son’s friend and their commitment with ceremony. of Christ’s public life one in Chapter 2:13 his bride-to-be, I am assuming a civil ceremony than Then, ask your son if (the cleansing of the Temple), another in A that at least one of them is a simply to continue he would feel comfort- 6:4 (the multiplication of the loaves) and Catholic. If not, of course, there is no living together and this able passing on your a final one in 11:55-57 at the time of the problem with your attending their wed- might even be the first feelings to his friend. crucifixion. ding. Non-Catholics, it stands to rea- step in their full return The ideal outcome Putting those references together, son, have no obligation to marry with to fidelity to Catholic would be that the one is led to the conclusion that Jesus the Catholic Church’s approval. But if practice. Question Corner friend, upon reflection, was probably 33 at the time of his at least one of them is a Catholic, then On the other hand, would be reminded of death. The actual age, though, does not some other considerations enter in. one must not give the Father Kenneth Doyle his religious respon- matter theologically, as no doctrinal Presumptively, their civil ceremony impression that the ca- sibilities and decide truths are built upon it. would not be a valid marriage in the nonical norms of mar- to have the marriage eyes of the church since they are not riage do not matter, so you wouldn’t blessed by the church. FATHER DOYLE is a retired priest in the being married by a Catholic priest or want your presence at the wedding to Diocese of Albany, New York. Ques- deacon or, in the alternative, with the be seen as a stamp of approval by the Our parish council the other tions may be sent to Father Kenneth required dispensation from the church. Catholic Church. night got into a discussion of Doyle at [email protected] But perhaps surprisingly canon law Weighing these several values, here Q several questions, one of which and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, has no explicit prohibition against is a course of action that I might sug- was this: Was Jesus actually 33 years NY 12203.
Look for The CaThoLiC CommenTaTor aT your LoCaL ouTLeTs inCLuding: Subscribe Today! Receive The Catholic ✔ ✔ Affinity Nursing Home, Baton Rouge Oak Wood Nursing Home, Zachary Commentator in your ✔ Anthony's Deli, Baton Rouge ✔ Old Jefferson Community Care, ✔ Alexander’s Highland Market, Baton Rouge mailbox every other Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Regional ✔ Ascension Books & Gifts, Gonzales Medical Center, Baton Rouge and week—all year long. ✔ Baton Rouge General Hospital, Walker Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Physician ✔ Baton Rouge Healthcare, Baker Group, offices with locations ✔ Benedetto’s Market, Addis throughout the Diocese THE CATHOLIC ✔ Bohning Supermarket, Ponchatoula ✔ Reeve’s Supermarket, Baton Rouge Commentator ✔ Calandro’s Supermarkets, ✔ Rouses, Baton Rouge, Gonzales, Baton Rouge Donaldsonville, Hammond, Plaquemine, ENCLOSED Check Money order for $14 per person per year. ✔ Catholic Art and Gifts, Baton Rouge Prairieville and Zachary I’d like to give a subscription for an additional $14 per year. ✔ Daigle’s Supermarket, White Castle ✔ St. Elizabeth Hospital, Gonzales To pay by credit card, call The Catholic Commentator at 225-387-0983. ✔ Fran U, Baton Rouge ✔ St. Mary’s Books & Gifts, ✔ Grace Healthcare, Slaughter Baton Rouge SEND MY SUBSCRIPTION TO: ✔ Hi Nabor Supermarkets, Baton Rouge ✔ St. Vincent dePaul Stores throughout ✔ Hubbins Grocery, Port Allen the diocese NAME ______✔ Lane Regional Hospital, Zachary ✔ Schexnayer Supermarket, Vacherie ADDRESS ______✔ Louisiana Vet Home, Jackson ✔ Southside Produce, Baton Rouge ✔ Matherne’s Supermarkets, ✔ Tony’s Seafood, Baton Rouge CITY ______STATE ______Baton Rouge ✔ UPS Store, Coursey Blvd., Baton ✔ Magnuson Hotel, St. Francisville Rouge ZIP ______✔ North Ridgely Healthcare, Baker ✔ Whole Foods Market, Baton Rouge —AND PLEASE SEND GIFT SUBSCRIPTION TO— ✔ Oak Point Supermarket, Central ✔ Winn Dixie in Hammond, New Roads NAME ______as well as your local church parish ADDRESS ______CITY ______STATE ______ZIP ______GIVEN BY ______
MAIL TO: THE CATHOLIC COMMENTATOR, P. O. BOX 3316, BATON ROUGE, LA 70821-3316 August 17, 2018 FAITH JOURNEY The Catholic Commentator 7 Thirst for justice satisfied through the joy of the Gospel
By Debbie Shelley Canada to Mexico through the their stories their history, their faith. You have to believe in God. something wrong. Because the The Catholic Commentator heartland of the United States joys and their pains.” You have to believe in a God who Gospel brings me joy.” is just. One major break and the Another role model was Fa- makes all things possible, even Father Andrus’ face radiat- Hungering and thirsting for land will be completely unusable ther Elmer Powell SVD, a former in the midst of what seems to ed as he talked about one of his righteousness means loving peo- ever again because of the type of pastor of St. Paul. be an impossible, hopeless situ- favorite songs performed by the ple enough to get involved in their oil that comes through American “Father Powell taught me the ation. St. Paul Gospel Choir: “This Joy I lives and protect their dignity as Native sacred grounds, coming importance of being a real fight- “You’ve got to work for it and Have.” The song states, “This joy sons and daughters of God, ac- through the American farmer’s er for justice. In my early minis- you’ve got to believe, ‘It can hap- that I have the world didn’t give cording to Father Rick Andrus try, he was the one in my order pen and I have something that me. This joy that I have the world SVD, pastor of St. Paul the Apos- who spoke truth to power in the can help it happen.’ ” can’t take it away.” tle Church in Baton Rouge. The Beatitudes church, in the neighborhood and And the most important thing “That sums it up. I do what I In looking at the fourth beat- in society,” he said. people can offer for a just world do because I’m called to do it. I itude, a key point to remember Blessed are the poor in spirit, Father Andrus acknowledged, is a sense of joy. don’t look for immediate results. about “righteousness” is God for theirs is the kingdom of “We all fall short of being who we “We’ve got to proclaim God My relationship with God gives alone is righteous, said Father are called to be. But by the grace with more joy,” said Father An- me a sense of joy. There are peo- Andrus. heaven. of God, saints are no longer sin- drus. “If my life as a shepherd, as ple who will try to take away my “What Jesus is saying (in the ners and because of that we are a pastor, a preacher, of trying to joy. They didn’t give it to me, and beatitude) is that ‘Blessed are Blessed are those who mourn, called, and we have the ability to be loving with the heart of God they can’t take it away,” said Fa- those who have a heart like God.’ for they will be comforted. make the transformation of the doesn’t bring joy, then there’s ther Andrus. God’s heart is not set on what is communities we live in.” right for some, but for all,” said Blessed are the meek, Throughout his ministry, Fa- Father Andrus. ther Andrus worked tirelessly He recalls the pivotal point in for they will inherit the earth. for, and has served on a number Anthony ’s Italian Deli his desire for righteousness came of boards, addressing racial har- Fresh Made during his cross-cultural train- Blessed are those who hunger mony, prison reform, rights of BEST MUFFOLETTAS IN TOWN! ing for the Society of the Divine and thirst for righteousness, the unborn and elderly, as well as Party Trays Cheese & Meat Word Missionaries when he wit- for they will be filled. accessibility to education and so- nessed injustices done by police cialization, healthcare, safe plac- Sandwiches to black youth he was accompa- Blessed are the merciful, es to live and quality food. He’s nying after a Christmas Eve mid- helped former and current gang Lasagna To-Go for they will be shown mercy. night Mass. members find the right path in Made Fresh Daily their lives and has worked with Part 4 of 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, officials to develop a more just Large $47.95 for they will see God. use of force police policy. Small $29.95 “It opened my eyes to the He noted that he is able to do real kind of injustices that go on Blessed are the peacemakers, what he does because he has the 5575 GOVERNMENT ST., JUST WEST OF JEFFERSON HWY. around the world,” said Father support of the “awesome people PHONE ORDERS WELCOME! 225-272-6817 OPEN MON.-SAT. 9:30 - 6:00 PM Andrus. for they will be called children of St. Paul.” Baton Rouge’s only TRUE ITALIAN DELI Since 1978 Through his experiences of of God. “I’ve got a church full of mis- living in the African-American sionary disciples, people who community, Father Andrus said, Blessed are those who are have the heart of God,” beamed “I really began not only to see, persecuted because of Father Andrus. “So I’m not look- but to feel the world in a totally ing at myself, but at a host of peo- For when different way. righteousness, for theirs is the ple who are out doing the will of “The whole idea of seeking af- kingdom of heaven. God.” you get ter the heart of God … when the Prayer is vital when seeking rich man came to Jesus and said Blessed are you when people justice. Father Andrus said he buffalo’d. ‘What must I do to be saved?’ … insult you, persecute you and and his fellow missionary priests (Jesus said) ‘Love God with all are thankful for the 24-hour your heart and soul and your falsely say all kinds of evil against prayer support of the Holy Spirit neighbor as yourself.’ ” you because of me. Rejoice and Missionary Sisters and the Holy He added, “God doesn’t want be glad, because great is your Spirit Adoration Sisters. part of my heart. God wants 100 People may not become in- Joe Skibinski, Agent We’ve got an agent for that. reward in heaven, 1953 Perkins Rd percent of my heart. He wants volved in addressing injustices Baton Rouge, LA 70808 Sometimes you just never know me to not only love him with all because they fear retaliation, Bus: 225-387-0201 Toll Free: for in the same way they 888-387-0201 what’s going to cross your path. my heart, but he wants me to love persecuted the prophets they don’t think they have the Just know I have your back. others with all my heart – the time or skills, or say, “it’s always who were before you. So when accidents happen, victim as well as the victimizer been this way and it’s always go- you have a real person who and that’s tough. It’s easier for ing to be this way.” can get the job done right, and me to respond to those who have most precious fields, that are go- The key to combating such re- right away. been victimized, but I also have ing through Acadian waterways.” luctance is faith and hope, Father Like a good neighbor, to respond at times to the person Father Andrus’ role models Andrus emphasized. State Farm is there.® who did the harm.” include Bishop Dominic Carmon, “There’s a lot of things that I CALL ME TODAY. Hungering and thirsting for auxiliary bishop-emeritus of the am dissatisfied with, that I don’t righteousness also includes cre- Archdiocese of New Orleans. like, that rubs me the wrong way. ation, said Father Andrus. “He was a very humble, holy But I step out as a man of faith. “There’s a lot of injustice that’s man, a man who led by exam- I have that incredible hope that done to the air, the land, the wa- ple,” said Father Andrus. “Bishop things get better if you invest ter,” said Father Andrus. “I don’t Dominic has a shepherd’s heart. yourself in it,” said Father An- 1101160.2 State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL think the pipeline coming from He knows about people’s lives, drus. “You have to have a sense of 8 The Catholic Commentator August 17, 2018 Deacons attend National Diaconate Congress
Staff Report Newark, New Jersey; Bishop Frederick Campbell of Columbus, Ohio; Bishop More 20 deacons along with their W. Shawn McKnight of Jefferson City, wives from the Diocese of Baton Rouge Missouri; Bishop Emeritux Gerald Ki- attended the 2018 National Diaconate canas of Tucson, Arizona; Archbishop Congress in New Orleans July 22-28. Samuel Aquila of Denver; and Archbish- More than 20 deacons and their wives from the Diocese of Baton Rouge recently attend- There were over 2800 deacons and op Daniel Cardinal DiNardo of Galves- ed the 2018 National Diaconate Congress in New Orleans. Photo provided by Deacon John Veron | Di- wives from the United States attending ton-Houston delivered addresses. ocese of Baton Rouge the Congress, which had its theme “Je- The recurring theme of the presen- sus Christ the Servant: Yesterday, Today, tations was the deacon as servant, as a munal worship. threefold ministry to word, liturgy and and Forever.” The Congress marked the bridge to the pastor and the bishop for The speakers said the deacon is the charity is shifting from primarily a litur- 50th anniversary of the reinstitution of those on the margins; the poor, the im- church’s emissary to those the pastor does gical one to one of word and charity, ac- the permanent diaconate in the United prisoned, the sick, the unchurched and not regularly come into contact with. The cording to the speakers. States. those who you would not normally see at deacon then should pray constantly and The deacon of today is greater pre- More than 50 years ago with his motu Mass on Sunday. Although deacons today not just the required prayers of his prom- pared due to his formation program to proprio “Sacrum Diaconatus Ordinem” serve many roles, this diaconal charism of ise to the bishop at ordination, the Divine preach and teach than in earlier years. Blessed Pope Paul VI issued general humble service to those on the outside is Office, but a concerted effort to meditate The future of the deacon is envisioned norms for restoring the permanent di- at the heart of the deacon’s call to minis- and contemplate within the Gospels the to take on more roles within the church aconate, which was a vital part of the ear- try, according to the presenters. very person of Jesus Christ the servant. especially in leadership and service and ly church. The deacon brings with him to the Additionally, they emphasized the deacon especially in those parishes without a The opening Mass was celebrated by Sunday liturgy the trials, sorrows, joys must stay alert to his personal quest for priestly presence. Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic and pains of those souls who are not pres- holiness. The deacon’s education, training and Nuncio to the United States. ent and goes forth from the liturgy to pro- The role of the deacon continues to allegiance and service to his bishop The key note addresses were given by claim the Gospel and nurture those same evolve and is now in the early stages of puts him in a unique position to serve Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of New souls. Therefore, the deacon is the bridge development within the Catholic Church. as a clergy presence wherever there is a Orleans; Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of for the pastor and those gathered in com- The permanent diaconate’s essential need.
Paid Advertisement The 7 Stupid Mistakes Husbands Make Leaving Their Wives Hanging at the Courthouse, IRS, and Nursing Home Yesterday, I met with a nice couple about their estate plan because the wife attended one of my seminars Baton Rouge-Workshop 1 Baton Rouge-Workshop 2 and thought they needed a plan. It was immediately Tuesday August 21st Tuesday August 21st apparent that the husband took care of all of the Superior Grill Gino’s Restaurant finances and the wife never engaged in the process. 7333 Highland Road 4542 Bennington Avenue The husband did all the talking for the two of them 11:00am-1:00pm 6:00pm-8:00pm and thought that by simply having a hand-written Lunch Provided Afterwards! Dinner Provided Afterwards! Will, everything was covered. WRONG! Once the husband realized that he was unintentionally expos- Baton Rouge-Workshop 3 Hammond/Ponchatoula Workshop 4 ing his wife to significant court costs, unnecessary Wednesday August 22nd Thursday August 23rd delays, protracted litigation, nursing home poverty Poche Estate Planning Office Tope LA/Ruby Room and more, he gladly acted with her in setting up their 4960 Bluebonnet Blvd., Suite C 111-B East Thomas Street estate plan to avoid the “7 Stupid Mistakes” people 9:30am-11:30am 11:00am-1:00pm make when they don’t take the time to plan: Refreshments Provided Afterwards! Lunch Provided Afterwards! Laura Poché 1. No tax protection Author & Estate Planning & Administration Attorney 2. No protection from children and their spouses Attend A Workshop With Laura Poche And Discover Mandeville/Covington Workshop 5 Denham Springs/Central Workshop 6 3. No protection from the court system How To: Thursday August 23rd Friday August 24th 4. No periodic review of estate plan Poché Estate Planning Office Duke’s Restaurant 5. No protection from long term care costs •Avoid Costs And Delays Of A Louisiana Succession; 2315 Florida St. Bldg. 200, Ste. 202 (New Restaurant Location) 6. No interdiction protection 7 •Avoid losing your life savings to nursing home costs; 2:30pm-4:30pm 2591 Range Ave Refreshments Provided Afterwards! 7. No ongoing relationship established with a trusted •Create a fast and simple estate plan for your family; 1:00pm-3:00pm estate attorney •Avoid the NEW 40% estate tax; Lunch Provided Afterwards! •Determine whether you need a Will or Trust (or both!); “I’ve known Laura for several If you pass away before you put certain types of •Keep the government out of your estate settlement; Baton Rouge-Workshop 7 years, and I trust and respect •Start the five year look-back period for nursing homes; Trusts into place to protect your hard earned assets Tuesday August 28th her. My husband and I felt •Enrich your family relationships! •STOP worrying about and take care of your loved ones, here are some of Juban’s Restaurant completely comfortable with her your estate once and for all! the unintended consequences that are likely to occur. 3739 Perkins Rd. explanation of our options and 11:00am-1:00pm IMPORTANT GUIDELINES FOR OUR WORKSHOPS:Because seating at these workshops is limited, and we want to be able to accommodate you comfort- professional guidance.” ably, interested persons must register by calling our office or registering online as soon as possible. First come, first served! Our workshops are open to Lunch Provided Afterwards! FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES ONLY and current Poche’ Law Firm clients. The workshops are geared towards people who intend to put a legal estate plan in place Ginger Adam Corley, NOW. Please bring your calendar to your workshop should you decide to start your legal estate planning immediately! Finally, if married, both spouses must Baton Rouge, Louisiana attend the workshop unless a spouse is homebound and cannot travel. Thank you for your attention to these important guidelines for our workshops. Poché Estate Planning Law Firm Call 225-224-8099 To Register! Call 225-224-8099 To Register! 4960 Bluebonnet Blvd., Suite C, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 PocheEstatePlanning.com 2315 Florida St. Building 200, Suite 202, Mandeville, LA 70448 *By Appt. Only August 17, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 9
PASTOR INSTALLATION – Bishop Robert W. Muench presents Father Matthew Gra- ST. PATRICK PASTOR INSTALLATION – Bishop Robert W. Muench, left, hugs Father ham to the congregation during a pastor installation ceremony on July 28 at St. Michael Micelli after instating him as pastor of St. Patrick Church in Baton Rouge Jules Church in Belle Rose. Father Graham was also installed as pastor at St. Eliza- on Aug. 4. Looking on is Deacon Pete Walsh. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator beth Church in Paincourtville on July 29. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator
Save on Medicare Supplement Insurance BUY DIRECT/NO AGENT
How Much Will You Save
Now you can apply for Medicare Supplement Insurance online at any time – NO WAITING. Compare rates instantly online NOW at catholicmedicaresupp.com or call 1-844-633-6565. This product is available online or by telephone only! ▪ Shop & apply online ▪ You could have coverage in minutes ▪ Multiple plans to meet your budget ▪ All plans GUARANTEED RENEWABLE* ▪ Use your same doctors If you think you are paying too much for your Medicare Supplement Insurance, we dare you to compare. Go to catholicmedicaresupp.com or call 1-844-633-6565. Catholic Life Insurance is neither connected with or endorsed by the US government or the federal Medicare program. Products, rates, and services may not be available in all states. *Your certificate cannot be canceled. It will be renewed as long as the premiums are paid on time and the information on yourapplication does not contain a material misrepresentation.
MSAD 05/18 LA This advertisement applies to form series MSDTC 4-18 (or state-specific variation thereof). 10 The Catholic Commentator | August 17, 2018 August 17, 2018 | The Catholic Commentator 11
THE END of
Peer ministry inmates challenged retreat attendees to evaluate what Youth listen to stories of redemption at Angola Prison Confirmation candidates at St. John the Baptist Church in Brusly take a photo before boarding the bus for a confir- is important to them in their lives. THE ROAD Hospice chapel. mation retreat at Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola. Photos by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator By Debbie Shelley and prayed the Our Father. youth toured the new Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel. As they walked The Catholic Commentator Upon arriving at St. Augustine Chapel, which was built in the 1950s, toward the chapel entrance they and the peer inmates affectionately Confirmation retreat attendees and their the youth unloaded ice chests filled with sandwiches, water and other waved goodbye to each other, though separated by a razor wire fence. Sleepy teens from St. John the Baptist Church in Brusly boarded chaperones walk the hall of Angola Prison’s goodies and ate lunch with the Catholic inmate peer ministers. Some The inmates’ messages then went forth to the outside world through a bus around 6:45 a.m. on July 14 for the almost 2–hour drive to of the ministers completed the Ministry and Theology program (MAT) the youth. the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, considered “the end of Red Hat Cell Block. and the Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension Program (LIMEX). “I think it was most inspiring that these guys who, though they hit the road,” both geographically as well as the end of the lives for a Inmate Frederick Kirkpatrick urged the youth to commit their lives rock bottom, were able to strengthen their majority of the inmates housed there. to God. faith and use it to pull them out of the darkest As the bus ambled along Hwy. 66 some of the youth looked out “It doesn’t take long for something to happen that will affect the rest times of their life,” said Emily Hemba. their windows at the rolling hills of Tunica Trace, topped with vari- of your life,” warned Kirkpatrick. Michael Sanchez said, “One of the most un- ous hardwood and pine trees, and appeared to ponder what they He said amidst the difficulties in prison, he felt peace when God forgettable things about the Angola trip was would experience at their confirmation retreat at the maximum called him to peer ministry. He assured the youth their confirmation they (peer ministers) are living proof of how security prison. journey will result in peace. God changes people. It was inspiring to see When the bus reached the front gate, the teens looked at the “Each one of you will stand before your family and friends and com- how these prisoners were changed to disciples imposing guard towers and razor wire fences around the property mit yourself to the Catholic faith. That’s the best decision you will ever in the Catholic faith.” and visitors preparing to enter a building to visit their incarcerated make,” said Kirkpatrick. Breanna Dupuy said, “I thought it would be loved ones, no doubt stories of broken lives. It seemed it would be Inmate Robert Stewart urged the teens to select friends carefully. like going to see a jail you usually hear about a tough visit. “If you try to be cool and hang out with the wrong crowd, it opens up … I actually felt quite comfortable. I know God But many retreatants’ assumption going into the day were the door to the wrong things,” said Stewart, who said he identifies with impacts certain people’s lives, but to see how flipped upside down as they found warmth, redemption and new people who come from broken families. he changed the inmates’ lives made me realize life in the midst of the prison’s dark confines. Stewart said when he arrived at Angola prison he didn’t care about he can impact everyone.” The youth’s first stop was Angola’s hospice program, considered himself. After he attended Mass, he felt called to peer ministry. “It made me feel hope that the world can be the nation’s best-known prison hospice program. “Who got me into it? Jesus. He’s the role model,” said Stewart. good,” said Kristyn Alford. “They look after Inmate hospice volunteers do “the dirty work” in caring for dy- He acknowledged, “Everyone in here has a challenge. But God will each other like family.” ing prisoners, such as bathing the inmates and changing their di- find a way. Do I suffer? Yes, I suffer. But he changes you all the way Jaselyn Berthelot said, “The (prisoners’) apers, after working their “regular jobs” during the day, said Jay around. And now you have a choice. Make each day better than the stories showed me I can re-evaluate my life Jackson, Angola chaplain. rest.” and really think about my decisions. It made In the hospice chapel, which walls were adorned with quilts Inmate Gary Boudreaux stressed violence is not the way to solve ten- me realize how big a step confirmation is go- made by inmates for the dying, the youth learned about the love, sions. ing to be. I didn’t expect it to be that big, but compassion and community present at the hospice. For example, “You have to release the hate in your heart and fill it with love,” said it’s one of the most important decisions I will 72 hours before a prisoner’s expected death, a vigil is kept so he Boudreaux. make in my life.” does not die alone. Through prayer people strengthen their identity in God, according Jade Dicapo said, “It’s powerful seeing peo- A funeral procession for inmates buried at Angola’s cemetery in- to Boudreaux. ple bringing Jesus even though they are hav- (Top) Angola inmate peer ministers led confirmation clude an ornate horse-drawn hearse built by inmates. The teens “What do you stand for?” asked Boudreaux. “For me it’s my church ing hard times.” candidates at St. John the Baptist Church in Brusly in were moved as they watched a slide show accompanied by music and my church brothers. You are also a church community, where you Logan Zimmerman was touched by the sto- small group discussions. capturing the hospice process through the final burial. are able to pray for people and be prayed for.” ries of redemption that occur at the prison’s (Bottom) Thad Webb leads youth in song at the Angola The youth also toured the notorious Red Hat Cell Block, which at Inmate Emmerson Simmons said when it comes to faith people must hospice and said he saw a new side of prison. Prison confirmation retreat. one time was the last stop for prisoners who were executed in the be ready to suffer and sacrifice, pointing to Jesus as a man with a min- “It made me more confident of my confirma- electric chair. istry to the cross. tion journey,” said Zimmerman. The last stop before the retreat was the death chamber. Jackson “Know what you believe and why, because you may be called on to Dax Delapasse said, “I was wary going in, discussed challenges to the constitutionality of Louisiana’s lethal defend it,” said Simmons. but I was amazed how people stepped into their (peer ministers’) lives injection process, the higher cost of appeals of death sentences ver- After small group discussions led by the peer ministers, some youth and that made them happier, and now they are doing that for others.” sus life in prison and the number of inmates on death row who are cried as each one of them shared with the peer ministers standing be- Katie Tuminello, who went as a mentor, said, “It made me realize that found innocent because of DNA evidence. Before leaving, the youth fore them what they learned from their encounter. a lot of stuff happens in life, but God still made them an instrument to placed their hands on the bed where the inmates were executed After Mass celebrated by St. John pastor Father Matt Lorrain, the share his message of faith, peace and grace.” 12 The Catholic Commentator August 17, 2018 Youth experience joy through helping the needy
By Richard Meek er 9th Ward), and (helping) older Perhaps leaving even a more last- The Catholic Commentator people made me look at things ing impression was helping an differently,” Helms said. “When I elderly woman clean up the five A serenity that often accom- see older people, I help them with vegetable gardens she maintains. panies a leisurely outing in a their groceries, asking them if The lady told the youth she had southeast Louisiana swamp was they need things. requested assistance from several abruptly interrupted when a “It helped me understand a lot companies but they all refused. snake suddenly appeared on the of things but at the same time I “I was thinking ‘What would side of the canoe in which Kath- felt if I do certain things (by help- Jesus do?’ ” she said. “He would leen Helms was paddling. ing others) things would be differ- help people and to spread his The snake did not sliver its way ent.” word, spreading his word through into the canoe, but seeing a snake Materrinan Zehyoue, Faith nature.” for the first time certainly left its Acts youth coordinator for the Asiah Mason, also a Cristo mark on the Cristo Rey Baton Loyola Institute for Ministry, said Rey junior, said the lady was “so Rouge Franciscan High School the program is a seven-day, resi- appreciative” of the help, but for junior. Helms, seeing a live snake dential youth theology institute Mason the seeds planted will sow for the first time, admitted she for rising high school juniors and benefits far beyond a Lower 9th was too busy trying to get away for seniors. She said the focus is on Ward garden. She said she learned fear to set in. environmental sustainability and to appreciate assisting people, not But the experience was one of the call for Catholics to care for just for the money but “helping many she and 11 of her Cristo Rey the earth. people to let God in your heart.” classmates and a total of 25 stu- Zehyoue said the week is cen- “No one does a garden but I dents from around the country tered on “Laudato Si,” the encyc- want to start one,” Mason said, shared during Loyola University’s lical letter Pope Francis wrote in adding that her grandfather is Faith Acts summer program, held 2015. starting to grow his own toma- for one week at its uptown New Upon returning to Baton toes. “Instead of us buying vegeta- Orleans campus. Through practi- Rouge, Cristo Rey junior Meleyah bles and have all of those chemi- cal real life experiences, such as Murphy, based on her experience, cals, you have natural grown visiting the Lower 9th Ward and is committed to launching envi- vegetables.” seeing areas that still have not re- ronmentally friendly projects, in- All three of the students agreed BACKPACK BLESSING – Students at Holy Ghost Catholic covered from the ravage of Hurri- cluding establishing a community the week helped deepen their own School in Baton Rouge returned to their first full day of cane Katrina to helping an elderly garden that would involve friends spiritual lives. Murphy said she school on Aug. 9. During morning assembly, Father Cayet woman plant a vegetable garden, and peers. learned to keep an open mind, Mangiaracina OP said a special prayer and blessed the stu- the students learned lifelong les- Murphy admitted to being be accepting of others and always dents and their backpacks. First grader Avery Gay, bows sons about trust, faith and provid- stunned by the conditions she look for the good in others. her head and raises her hand in blessing of the new school ing for the less fortunate. found in the Lower 9th Ward, in- “I was already close to God but year. Photo provided by Cindy Wagner | Holy Ghost Catholic School “Being with people whose cluding the conditions of the roads it helped me draw even closer to houses are messed up (in the Low- and even the trees that are dying. him,” she added. “My goal this (school) year is to tell people to come (in 2019).” Mason said her lesson was rooted in trust, to trust others Hospice is About Living and to always have faith. Helms said the week brought • We rely upon the intercession of our Blessed Mother to assist us in imitating the healing ministry of Jesus her closer to God and provided Christ as we care for terminally ill patients and their families. an understanding in many ar- •We call forth the compassion and kindness of our staff, who serve in this health care ministry, to respond to eas of life, including steward- the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of our patients and their families. ship of the environment. She said counselors discussed such •We believe in the sacredness of life from conception to natural death, and we devote ourselves to topics as recycling and water supporting patients and families through the dying process at the end of life’s journey on this earth and new life in eternity. use. “We can use that a lot in our community to make it better,” she said. In addition to living on a college campus for a week and learning a variety of disciplines, Zehyoue noted the students had The right people, the option to earn either 60 ser- doing the right thing vice hours or three college cred- for the right reason. SERVING PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS its. She added this year was the www.NotreDameHospice-NO.org • (225) 243-7358 second of the Faith Acts Insti- Notre Dame Hospice does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability or age in admission, treatment, ability to pay, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. tute which is funded from a Lily Foundation grant. August 17, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 13
Cristo Rey BISHOP MICHAEL G. DUCA seeking corporate SPECIAL SECTION Call Blocker Tree and Landscape today! COMING Fully Licensed and Insured • Free Estimates partners Licensed Arborist #17-2227 • Licensed Irrigation #17-0691 AUGUST 31ST Staff report Cristo Rey students and its job Owners Trey Blocker and Brant Fox partners share a mission to ad- Cristo Rey Baton Rouge vance both the quality of the Franciscan High School is still workforce in the area and educa- seeking 18 jobs to allow stu- tion landscape. dents to report to work in Sep- “The school’s mission is a tember in conjunction with the great opportunity for both to school’s unique corporate work work in harmony,” said Carissa program. Graves, vice president of com- The money earned by the stu- munity engagement at Cristo dents pays their tuition. Through Rey. the corporate work program, The school opened at the site students rotate their schedule of the former Redemptorist High with each of them working five School in August 2016, but was full days a month. forced to relocate after flood wa- “There is little variance or gap ters deposited up to four feet of in what is delivered each day, de- water in the buildings. Students spite rotating students, which we returned to the original campus all find amazing,” said Stephen earlier this year, attending class Waguespack, CEO and president in modular buildings. of the Louisiana Association of For more information, call Business and Industry. 225-615-7479 or visit cristorey- According to school officials, br.org. Back to School
Is a check-up on your back-to-school list? Back-to-school time means making sure your kids are up to date with immunizations, screenings and sports physicals. Get ahead this year by scheduling an appointment online with our pediatricians.
ololchildrens.org/backtoschool
CLUB HOUSE – Students at Catholic Elementary of Pointe Coupee in New Roads will have more opportunities this school year to join new clubs including drama, choir, STEM, art and book club. “If a group of students have a particular interest, we encourage them to form a club,” says principal Jason Chauvin. “CESPC is their school, we simply work for them.” Photo provided by Megan Girling- house | Catholic Elementary 14 The Catholic Commentator ENTERTAINMENT August 17, 2018
Motion Picture Association of America to open a hotel honoring her memory on the Cartoon Network TV series hilariously MOVIE ratings: the Greek isle she loved. As it does so, we harpoons a wide range of pop-culture tar- G – General audiences; all ages admitted discover why mom could never say for gets in a manner that will amuse grown- PG – Parental guidance suggested; some certain which of three men (in the disco ups, while kids will be diverted by its vivid REVIEWS material may not be suitable for children USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting era, Hugh Skinner, Jeremy Irvine and imagery. As helmed by Aaron Horvath PG-13 – Parents are strongly cautioned to classifications: Josh Dylan, nowadays, Colin Firth, Pierce and Peter Rida Michail, and scripted by give special guidance for attendance of A-I – General patronage Brosnan and Stellan Skarsgard) was her Horvath and Michael Jelenic, the snappy children under 13; some material may be A-II – Adults and adolescents daughter’s dad. Beyond the bedroom, proceedings carry good messages about inappropriate for young children A-III – Adults the ensemble of characters, rounded out friendship, teamwork and the dangers of R – Restricted; under 17 requires accom- A-IV – Adults, with reservations panying parent or adult guardian by, among others, ma’s best friends and selfishness. But some parents may not ap- L – Limited adult audience NC-17 – No one under 17 admitted bandmates (once Jessica Keenan Wynn preciate the potty jokes or a final line of O – Morally offensive and Alexa Davies, now Christine Baran- dialogue encouraging youngsters to ask ski and Julie Walters) behaves very nicely, about the birds and bees. Occasional scat- Skyscraper harsh violence with some gore, a couple of for the most part. And writer-director Ol ological and anatomical humor, a single Universal gruesome images, at least one use of pro- Parker includes both a prayer-like opening vague reference to reproduction. A-II; PG An American security expert (Dwayne fanity and a milder oath, a single rough number and a sequence leading up to an Johnson) gets more than he bargained for and about a half-dozen crude terms. A-III; Orthodox baptism. But, although it’s ref- Christopher Robin when he agrees to review the safeguards PG-13 erenced rather than portrayed, the blithe Disney at the world’s tallest building in Hong acceptance of casual sex taking place Enchanting fantasy in which, having Kong whose owner (Chin Han) puts him Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again within hours of people meeting each oth- grown into a harried middle-aged ef- and his family up there during their visit. Universal er is obviously not in keeping either with ficiency expert (Ewan McGregor), the A plot to destroy the structure leaves his The exuberant kitsch that was the trade- scriptural values or with human dignity. formerly free-spirited title character pri- wife (Neve Campbell) and kids (McKenna mark of the Swedish band Abba lives on Benignly viewed promiscuity, a nonmari- oritizes work over family life, provoking a Roberts and Noah Cottrell) trapped by a in this musical romance built around their tal bedroom scene, some sexual humor, a crisis in his relationship with his devoted raging multi-floor fire, with no one likely songs that serves as both a prequel and a single profanity. L; PG-13 wife (Hayley Atwell) and loving daughter to be able to save them except Dad. Any- sequel to the 2008 adaptation of the Broad- (Bronte Carmichael). To his rescue comes one with a fear of heights will cringe as way hit “Mamma Mia.” Unfortunately, the Mission: Impossible – Fallout his iconic childhood teddy bear, Winnie writer-director Rawson Marshall Thurber sexual morals on display are as tacky as Paramount the Pooh (voice of Jim Cummings). A re- puts Johnson through his hair-raising the score. The film shuttles between the Engrossing espionage sequel in which turn to Winnie’s realm, the Hundred Acre paces hundreds of stories above terra 1979 adventures of a youthful version Tom Cruise’s by-now iconic American Wood, ensues, as does a reunion with its firma. Others will note that, although the (Lily James) of the much-mourned matri- agent Ethan Hunt and his team (Ving other immortal inhabitants, most promi- battles in which Johnson engages during arch played by Meryl Streep in the original Rhames and Simon Pegg) battle not only nently Tigger (also voiced by Cummings), this easily forgotten action picture are not and, briefly, here and the present-day ef- the maniacal anarchist (Sean Harris) Eeyore (voice of Brad Garrett) and Piglet especially bloody, they are brutal. Much forts of her daughter (Amanda Seyfried) they tangled with in the last outing but a (voice of Nick Mohammed) all of whom, glamorous criminal mastermind (Vanessa like Winnie himself, gently help the busi- Kirby) in possession of enough plutonium nessman to see the error of his materialist to wipe out vast populations. Their quest ways. Director Marc Forster and screen- is made all the more difficult when Hunt writers Alex Ross Perry, Tom McCarthy is forced by the head of the CIA (Angela and Allison Schroeder make deft use of Bassett) to collaborate with one of her the figures created by A.A. Milne and E.H. operatives (Henry Cavill) and when he Shepard in the 1920s, marshaling droll discovers that an old ally (Rebecca Fer- humor to convey the message that there guson) is at cross purposes with him this are better goals to be pursued than merely time. Intricate plot twists and impressive getting ahead. Though problematic ele- stunts are the hallmarks of director and ments are entirely absent, the film is too co-writer Christopher McQuarrie’s long sophisticated for tots, who might also be but vigorous film, the sixth in a franchise disturbed by its scenes of mild peril. A ma- ultimately based on the TV series of the ture story line, nonviolent action. A-II; PG 1960s. Despite extensive, though mostly restrained, action and the eventual show- The Darkest Minds casing of Hunt’s fraught marital situation, Fox this thrill ride may be acceptable for older Derivative dystopian thriller about teens. Much violence with some gore and superhumanly gifted teens running for gruesome images, acceptability of divorce, their lives, based on Alexandra Bracken’s a couple of uses of profanity, two milder best-selling novel and directed by Jenni- oaths, a single rough and several crude fer Yuh Nelson. Sometime in the future terms A-III; PG-13 a pandemic has devastated society, kill- ing 98 percent of the children. The few Teen Titans Go! To the Movies who survive have a variety of paranormal Warner Bros. powers and are considered a threat by the Witty animated comedy in which a adult world. With the help of a kindly doc- youthful version of Batman’s sidekick tor (Mandy Moore), a telepath (Amandla Robin (voice of Scott Menville) and the en- Stenberg) escapes from one of the intern- semble of crime fighters (voices of Greg Ci- ment camps to which the kids have been pes, Khary Payton, Tara Strong and Hyn- sent. She meets up with fellow fugitives den Walch) he leads set out to join other (Harris Dickinson, Miya Cech, Skylan superheroes who have had movies made Brooks) and together they hope to make it about them. They acquire the evil nemesis to a teen-run safe haven. Despite a posi- (voice of Will Arnett) considered essential tive message about tolerance, the dark and to this quest and convince a Hollywood ultraviolent tone places this film firmly director (voice of Kristen Bell) to feature out of reach for younger viewers. Intense them. But Robin’s ego and the silliness of scenes of bloodless violence, including his pals get in the way, leading to a breakup torture, several crude and a couple of crass of the group. This big-screen adaptation of terms. A-III; PG-13 August 17, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 15
1234 5678 901112131 Pope revises catechism to say 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 death penalty is ‘inadmissible’ 243 2 265 272
28 2390321 3 VATICAN CITY (CNS) – the most serious crimes.” very serious crimes. In addi- Building on the development “Evangelium Vitae” (“The tion, a new understanding has 343 353 36 37 of Catholic Church teaching Gospel of Life”) was St. John emerged of the significance of 38 39 40 against capital punishment, Paul’s 1995 encyclical on the penal sanctions imposed by the Pope Francis has ordered a dignity and sacredness of all state. Lastly, more effective sys- 41 42 43 revision of the Catechism of human life. The encyclical led to tems of detention have been de- 454 4 46 the Catholic Church to assert an updating of the Catechism of veloped, which ensure the due “the death penalty is inadmis- the Catholic Church, which he protection of citizens but, at the 57 498 40515 sible because it is an attack on originally promulgated in 1992 same time, do not definitively 532 545 55 56 the inviolability and dignity of and which recognized “the right deprive the guilty of the possi- the person” and to commit the and duty of legitimate public bility of redemption,” the new 587 5 59 60 church to working toward its authority to punish malefactors section continues. 61 62 63 abolition worldwide. by means of penalties commen- Pope Francis’ change to the 64 65 66 The catechism’s paragraph on surate with the gravity of the text concludes: “Consequently, capital punishment, 2267, al- crime, not excluding, in cases of the church teaches, in the light www.wordgamesforcatholics.com ready had been updated by St. extreme gravity, the death pen- of the Gospel, that ‘the death ACROSS 2 Adjective for the Bishop of Rome John Paul II in 1997 to strength- alty.” penalty is inadmissible because 1 Recent pope, affectionately 3 Angry 5 Person in authority 4 There was no room here en its skepticism about the need At the same time, the origi- it is an attack on the inviolabil- 9 The start of an oak 5 Lot, to Abraham to use the death penalty in the nal version of the catechism ity and dignity of the person,’ 14 Pull down 6 Greek epic poem modern world and, particularly, still urged the use of “bloodless and she works with determina- 15 Writer Wiesel 7 Cartons 16 Jesus was in the tomb for these many 8 Court unit to affirm the importance of pro- means” when possible to punish tion for its abolition worldwide.” days 9 US Justice Dept. agency tecting all human life. criminals and protect citizens. The development of church 17 Interval 10 Oratory Announcing the change Aug. The catechism now will read: doctrine away from seeing the 18 Liquid measure 11 Killer whale 2, Cardinal Luis Ladaria, pre- “Recourse to the death penalty death penalty as a possibly le- 19 Confronts 12 Go for a spin? 20 Watched the baby 13 Promontory fect of the Congregation for the on the part of legitimate author- gitimate punishment for the 21 Cries of discovery 21 “A dillar, a dollar, ___ o’clock scholar” Doctrine of the Faith, said, “The ity, following a fair trial, was most serious crimes, the car- 22 Friends 24 IRS experts new text, following in the foot- long considered an appropriate dinal said, “centers principally 23 Selected by vote 25 Lean-to 25 Nazareth, to Jesus 26 Pundit’s page steps of the teaching of John response to the gravity of cer- on the clearer awareness of the 28 Church seat 27 “For us ___, and for our salvation…” Paul II in ‘Evangelium Vitae,’ tain crimes and an acceptable, church for the respect due to ev- 29 Bleak 29 DC Catholic university team affirms that ending the life of albeit extreme, means of safe- ery human life.’ 33 The Evil One 30 Balanced 36 Loom-made 31 Plants a criminal as punishment for a guarding the common good. Pope Francis said “human 37 Broadcast to the world (abbr.) 32 Satisfy crime is inadmissible because “Today, however, there is an justice is imperfect” and said 38 Goes to court 33 They travel at speeds greater than it attacks the dignity of the per- increasing awareness that the the death penalty loses all legit- 39 Howled the speed of sound (abbr.) son, a dignity that is not lost dignity of the person is not lost imacy in penal systems where 40 Salamander 34 French 41 As yet unscheduled, briefly department even after having committed even after the commission of judicial error is possible. 42 “…a chosen race, a ___ priesthood” 35 Mr. Mack, and others (1 Pet 2:9) 36 “Fort” diocese in Indiana 43 The house of a parson 39 ___ of Genesis 44 Meetings 40 Apprehends by Jesus, himself, THE Word of God, and by the GOSPEL 46 Nahum follower (abbr.) 42 Narrow inlet power of the Holy Spirit transforms the substance From page 2 47 Cod relative 43 Catholic author ___ Higgins Clark into the REAL body, blood, soul and divinity of Je- 48 Adjective for Esau 45 Old Testament town that was home “Will you also go away?”: the Lord’s question sus Christ? 52 202, in ancient Rome of the tribe of Ephraim 55 “We are many parts, we are all one 46 Some years of Jesus’ life echoes through the ages, as a loving invitation to Jesus’ invitation to faith is now accompanied ___…” 48 According to Proverbs, a gracious discover that only he has “the words of eternal life” with the necessity to eat his flesh and drink his 56 A ___ on your house woman gets this (Prov 11:16) and that to receive in faith the gift of his Eucharist blood. “Thus, in the epiclesis, the church asks the 57 Relaxes 49 The ___ Room, where the disciples 59 ___ of milk experienced the Holy Spirit is to receive the Lord himself.” father to send his Holy Spirit on the bread and and honey 50 Theme Do I believe this? Do I doubt? Is Jesus speak- wine, so that by his power they may become the 60 Mtg. 51 Not needed ing symbolically? Is this truly Jesus’ body and body and blood of Jesus Christ and so that those 61 Farewell, from Juan 52 Stuff of 62 The duck in “Peter and the Wolf” creation blood, food for eternal life? If so, where can I re- who take part in the Eucharist may be one body 63 Inheritor 53 Set of principles ceive this priceless, eternal gift that will give life and one spirit. In the institution narrative, the 64 Okays 54 Hip bones everlasting? power of the words and the action of Christ, and 65 Give notice 55 Small yeast cake Faith seeks understanding. Recall, Jesus the power of the Holy Spirit, make sacramen- 66 Medieval Spanish chest 58 Military sign-up org. 59 Not high DOWN changed water into wine, multiplied the fish caught tally present under the species of bread and wine 60 “I got it!” 1 ___ tree by the apostles, multiplied the loaves and the fish Christ’s body and blood, his sacrifice offered on Solution on page 18 on two occasions for thousands to eat, walked the cross once for all” (Catechism 1353). on water, healed thousands with words alone, or Jesus then said to the Twelve, “Do you also want touch, cast out demons, raised three people from to leave?” Simon Peter answered him, “Master, to the dead, and himself resurrected after being cru- whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal Mr. D’s Tree Service cified, died and buried. Do I believe in these mira- life. We have come to believe and are convinced cles? As Christians, we do. that you are the Holy One of God” (Jn 6:67-69). ovEr 35 yEars ExpErIEncE Thus, if one professes to believe in these actual Lord, increase my faith that I may grow in under- Don Decell, owner and efficacious miracles and works of Jesus, then standing, join in the faithful community at Mass carl BaBin, owner why is the teaching of “eat my flesh and drink my and come to “taste and see” YOU in the Eucharist. • Economical • Fully Insured • Quality Work blood” still, to this day, difficult for some to be- Amen. lieve? Why is it hard to believe a miracle happens CALL TODAY! at Mass as the Communion host and wine appear Dow is the director of Evangelization and Cat- 225-292-6756 to be as such (accidents), yet through words given echesis for the Diocese of Baton Rouge. 16 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT August 17, 2018 | editorial Gratitude is the key to a Protecting all life personal relationship with God Capital punishment has once again inter- sected at the crossroads of politics and the efore taking a two-month July into a posture of waiting, marking away respect for human life. through August break in his usual the days until, in my fantasy, the treat- Separated by thousands of miles, and even Bschedule, Pope Francis gave some ments ended and I could live life again. But, further by ideologies, Louisiana Attorney Gen- spiritual tips to those attending his final gen- strangely, as the days unfolded, to my own eral Jeff Landry and Pope Francis have recently eral audience on June 27. He said that if you surprise, I found that I was living through spoken out on the death penalty, and the chasm want to have a personal relationship with one of the richer and happier periods in my could not be wider. God, even, and maybe especially on vacation, life. Inside of the tiredness, nausea and Landry, a staunch proponent of capital pun- ask yourselves in the silence of your hearts, neuropathy, I was finding a rich enjoyment ishment, has publicly called out Gov. John Bel “How much has God done for me? How in friendships, colleagues, work and (on Edwards, claiming the governor is stalling the many beautiful things has God done for me?” days when I could actually taste them) food process of carrying out executions in Louisiana. Gratitude for God’s saving love has to and drink. The six months within which I The most recent execution in the state was in come first. We don’t follow God’s command- was undergoing cancer treatment turned 2010. ments, his way of life, by the strength of out to be, to my own surprise, six happy and Although the generally accepted method of our own willpower. It is the remembrance Another deeply meaningful months.” lethal injection is shelved, at least temporarily, of all the ways he has loved us and blessed Father Rolheiser concludes his column of Landry, dipping into the annals of history, has us that keeps us close to God. That is what Feb. 22, 2012 remembering a saying of John suggested the return of the hangman. He has Scripture shows us: “first the Red Sea, then Perspective Shea: “Life includes suffering. When you’re even floated the unseemly idea of employing Mount Sinai” (and the commandments). Father John Carville spending all your energies to only rejoice in a guillotine, although that was more likely for The same pattern holds true in everyone’s that part of life that does not include suffer- shock value than intelligent dialogue. life. “To obey God,” Pope Francis said, “we must first re- ing, you will not enter into life because you will be domi- Pope Francis stunned many observers, Cath- member his benefits.” nated by fear and exclusion and not faith. Cancer taught olic and otherwise, when he recently rewrote We have to remember this when teaching our children me this lesson and, for that and your prayers, I am most one provision of The Catechism of the Catholic the Christian life. If all our children hear is obligations, grateful.” Church and said the death penalty is inadmis- commitments and consistency, they won’t remain faithful God’s love comes to us so often through others. That sible under all circumstances, correctly stating long to what is really a beautiful way of life. When God first is one thing that those of us who have lived long become it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of spoke to Moses, the pope pointed out, he said, “I am the more and more aware of as the years role by. We are the person. Previously, the Catechism contained Lord your God.” God wanted Moses to know that he was blessed by the mercy of God bestowed upon us through the a caveat allowing the death penalty when it was his loving father. He was not a stranger. He is our father love, care-giving, prayers and generosity of others. the “only practicable way” to secure the safety also, as Jesus taught his disciples to address God in prayer. Suffering too has its own role to play in the mercy of and defend lives in a community, although even Like Jesus, we have to begin there: “As the father has loved God’s divine providence. In that same column entitled “In that was updated by St. John Paul in 1997 to me, so I have loved you.” Gratitude,” Father Rolheiser included a poem of one of strengthen its skepticism about the need for Gratitude has been the key virtue for another well- America’s most famous writers, John Updike. From Moses capital punishment in the modern world, one known spiritual guide, Father Ronald Rolheiser (Yes, the to Updike, our most important response to God’s mercy where guillotines are considered passé. priest on the next page of The Catholic Commentator). must be gratitude. The poem is entitled, “Fever.” Call it what you may, but that particular While Pope Francis urged us to take advantage of vacation “I have brought back a good message from the land of technicality has previously provided an aper- time to increase our personal relationship with God by 102 degrees: God exists. I had seriously doubted it before; ture for Catholic politicians to stray from their reflecting on God’s blessings given to us, Father Rolheiser but the bedposts spoke of it with utmost confidence, the faith and endorse the death penalty. The pope’s found the importance of gratitude through illness. In 2011 threads in my blanket took it for granted, the tree outside decision will undoubtedly challenge many of he was diagnosed with colon cancer. After six months my window dismissed all complaints, and I have not slept those same politicians, from state and local of chemotherapy treatment he was pronounced cancer so justly for years. office holders to governors and even Supreme free in January of 2012. He had planned what he would It is hard, now to convey how emblematically appear- Court justices. do when finally free from all of the pain of treatment and ances sat upon the membranes of my consciousness; but Most striking is that while Landry’s com- the anxiety of waiting to see if it would work and free him it is truth long known, that some secrets are hidden from ments are politically based, the pontiff’s state- of the disease. When it did work, he was surprised in an health.” ments are deeply rooted in the seeds of his own unexpected way. faith. He understands that as human beings, “But life is what happens to you while you are planning FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest in the Diocese of Baton and that as Catholics, the dignity of life must al- your life ... While undergoing cancer treatments I learned Rouge and writes on current topics for The Catholic ways be respected, even under the most difficult something. When I first started treatments I began mark- Commentator. He can be reached at johnnycarville@ of circumstances. ing a calendar ... putting my life on hold, putting myself gmail.com. Opposing the death penalty, which has never been proven to be a deterrent to crime, | Pray for those who pray for us is not an endorsement of the heinous behavior Please pray for the priests, deacons and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese. of a murderer but protection of the sanctity of life, whether it is the life of an unborn child Aug. 22 Rev. Vincent J. Dufresne Br. James Burns SC Dcn. Thomas D. Benoit or a person on death row. God guarantees the Dcn. Michael F. Thompson Aug. 27 Rev. Gilbert A. Enderle CSsR Sr. June Engelbrecht OP personal dignity of every person, even that of Br. Paul Montero SC Dcn. P. Chauvin Wilkinson Jr. Sept. 1 Rev. Matthew J. Graham a murderer, which, admittedly, can tug at one’s Aug. 23 Rev. Thomas P. Duhé Sr. M. Dominique MC Dcn. Mark T. Berard emotions. Dcn. J. Thomas Traylor Aug. 28 Rev. Carl Evans Br. Ramon Daunis SC Landry will likely continue his public as- Sr. Mary Ann Diaz DM Dcn. Alfred Adams Sr. Sept. 2 Rev. Paul A. Gros sault on Edwards, which seem to be politically Aug. 24 Rev. Matthew C. Dupré Br. William Cawley SC Dcn. Willie M. Berthelot Sr. motivated. Dcn. John W. Veron Aug. 29 Rev. Michael French SJ Sr. Dianne Fanguy CSJ Pope Francis, meanwhile, will continue to Br. Marcus Turcotte SC Dcn. Michael A. Agnello Sept. 3 Rev. Eric V. Gyan follow Christ in his own life and use Christ to Aug. 25 Rev. Reuben C. Dykes Sr. M. Donald MC Dcn. William B. Blair Jr. guide him in his decisions and his writings. As Dcn. J. Peter Walsh Aug. 30 Rev. Michael A. Galea Br. Alan Drain SC Catholics we should be proud and thankful for Sr. Therese Dinh ICM Dcn. Frank E. Bains Sept. 4 Rev. Ryan Hallford his courage, even in the face of detractors in his Aug. 26 Rev. Denis O. Ekwugha Br. Eldon Crifasi SC Dcn. Daniel S. Borné own church. Dcn. James E. Wax Aug. 31 Rev. Henry W. Gautreau Jr. Sr. Ileana Fernandez CSJ August 17, 2018 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 17 Why I believe in God
ome of my favorite authors are agnostics, men have died; the convergence of the anecdotal testimony the exact extent that I take my faith seriously and live it and women who face life honestly and coura- of hundreds of individuals who have been clinically out in fidelity; the more faithful I am, the more at peace Sgeously without faith in a personal God. They’re dead and resuscitated back to life; the things we some- I am, and vice versa. stoics mostly, persons who have made peace with the times intuitively know beyond all logical reason; the Inherent in all of this too is a certain “law of karma,” fact that God may not exist and that perhaps death constant recurrence of resurrection in our lives; the namely, the universe gives back to us morally exactly ends everything for us. I see this, for example, in the essential triumph of truth and goodness throughout what we give to it. As Jesus worded it, the measure late James Hillman, a man whom I greatly admire and history; the fact that hope never dies, the unyielding you measure out is the measure that will be measured who has much to teach believers about what it means imperative we feel inside of ourselves to be reconciled back to you. What we breathe out is what we’re going to to listen to and honor the human soul. with others before we die; the infinite inhale. If I breathe out selfishness, selfishness is what But here’s something I don’t admire depth of the human heart; and, yes, even I will inhale; if I breathe out bitterness, that’s what I’ll in these agnostic stoics: While they face the very ability of atheists and agnostics meet at every turn; conversely, if I breathe out love, with courage what it should mean for us to intuit that somehow it still all makes gracious and forgiveness, these will be given back to me if God doesn’t exist and death ends our sense, points to the existence of a living, in the exact measure that I give them out. Our lives and personal existence, they don’t, with the personal God. our universe have a deep, innate, non-negotiable struc- same courage, ask the question of what it I believe that God exists because faith ture of love and justice written into them, one that can should mean for us if God does exist and works; at least to the extent we work it. only be underwritten by a living, personal, divine mind death does not end our personal exis- The existence of God proves itself true to and heart of love. tence. What if God does exist and what the extent that we take it seriously and None of this, of course, proves God’s existence with if the tenets of our faith are true? They live our lives in face of it. Simply put, the kind of proof we find in science or mathematics; but need too, to face that question. we’re happy and at peace to the exact ex- God isn’t found at the end of an empirical test, a math- I believe that God exists, not because tent that we risk, explicitly or implicitly, ematical equation or a philosophical syllogism. God is I have never had doubts, or because I living lives of faith. The happiest people I found, explicitly or implicitly, in living a good, honest, was raised in the faith by persons whose know are also the most generous, selfless, gracious, selfless, moral life, and this can happen inside lives gave deep witness to its truth, or In Exile gracious and reverent persons I know. of religion or outside of it. because perennially the vast majority That’s no accident. The Belgium Benedictine, Benoit Standaert, submits of people on this planet believe in God. Father Ron Rolheiser Leon Bloy once asserted that there’s that wisdom is three things, and a fourth. Wisdom is a I believe that a personal God exists only one true sadness in life, that of not respect for knowledge; wisdom is a respect for honesty for more reasons than I can name: the being a saint. We see that in the story and aesthetics; and wisdom is a respect for mystery. But goodness of saints; the hook in my own heart that has of the rich young man in the Gospels who turns down there’s a fourth – wisdom is a respect for Someone. never let me go; the interface of faith with my own Jesus’ invitation to live his faith more deeply. He goes experience, the courage of religious martyrs through- away sad. Of course, being a saint and being sad are Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, theologian, teacher and out history; the stunning depth of Jesus’ teachings; the never all or nothing, both have degrees. But there’s a award-winning author, is president of the Oblate deep insights contained in other religions, the mystical constant: We’re happy or sad in direct proportion to our School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas. He can be experience of countless people; our sense of connection fidelity or infidelity to what’s one, true, good and beauti- contacted through his website ronrolheiser.com and inside the communion of saints with loved ones who ful. I know that existentially: I’m happy and at peace to facebook.com/ronrolheiser. Keep holy the commute and the car pool
ur minivan is one big Christ can come to each find God in her car. is calling us to be. silver stereotype. of us on the road. Perhaps he Our van is an Odyssey. Just as we gather around our O Granola bar wrap- shows up on our daily commute, (When we bought it, I begged kitchen table – which I’m quick pers on the floor. Cheerios stuck inviting us to choose compas- my husband to rename his car to claim as holy space in the do- between seats. Baseball gear sion over aggression. Maybe he the Iliad so we could have a mestic church – we spend time rolling around the back. squeezes in during the latest matching pair.) together in our car each day. We I’ll admit our car is over- pickup from sports practice, But the name rings true. share conversation, questions looked; I’d never let the house nudging us to welcome the Within the Odyssey’s walls, our and the occasional snack en get this dirty. It’s also much-ma- sweaty teammates piling in the family is traveling together on route to the places we are called: Mothering ligned, as I crack jokes regularly back as Christ himself. a long journey over years and home, school, office, church and about minivan life. But there’s not a single rush years. Our house-on-wheels is every stop along the way. Spirit I know I’m not alone in feel- hour or road traveled where God full in this stage of life, ringing Sometimes on a solo drive ing like we live in the car some does not go with us. with laughter, fighting, music to a meeting for work, I notice line, “WhetherLaura Fanucci they travel for days. The average American St. Frances of Rome – wife, and even prayer. the silence: sweet, rare, fleet- business or pleasure, let them spends about an hour a day mother and servant of Rome’s Inside our car, we’ve offered ing. As an introvert, I secretly always find Christ to be the driving. sick and poor – is the patron morning blessings on every savor the quiet without kids in companion of their journey.” But St. Catherine of Siena saint of motorists. Legend holds drive to school. We’ve said Hail the backseat: no screaming, no May the same be said of our said that all the way to heaven is that her guardian angel carried Mary for racing ambulances squabbling over songs on the families – and our cars, too. heaven. What if our time spent a lantern before her whenever with sirens screaming. We’ve radio. driving mattered as much as our she traveled to light the road tackled big life questions from When the car is bursting FANUCCI is a mother, writer destinations? and keep her safe. kids in the backseat. We’ve navi- with noise again, I’m better able and director of a project on Could our hours on the road St. Frances is also famous for gated hard-but-good conversa- to give thanks for the life I’ve vocation at the Collegeville be sacred space? saying, “Sometimes a wife must tions between spouses in the been given – because I’ve felt Institute in Collegeville, Min- If we believe God is omni- leave God at the altar to find front. the contrast between full and nesota. She is the author of present, there is no place where him in her household manage- When I stop to see, I realize empty. several books, including “Ev- God is not. The Holy Spirit ment.” that it’s in our van (as in our The Catholic “Book of Bless- eryday Sacrament: The Messy hovers over the minivan’s chaos, Sometimes, then, a mom home) that we are becoming the ings” offers a prayer for bless- Grace of Parenting,” and blogs too. must dig through the clutter to people and the family that God ing a vehicle. It includes the at.motheringspirit.com. 18 The Catholic Commentator COMING EVENTS August 17, 2018
Sacred Heart Movie Night – Sacred Heart of Jesus prayer will be offered after Mass. For more informa- formation and to register, call 225-993-2443, email Church, 2250 Main St., Baton Rouge, will host a movie tion, call 225-698-3110. [email protected] or visit helpour night, “Hand of the Master: The Art and Life of Dom marriage.com. Gregory De Wit,” Saturday, Aug. 18, 5:30 p.m. The art- Theology in a Bottle – Father Jamin David, pastor work of Sacred Heart will be featured in the film. For of St. Margaret Church, 30300 Catholic Hall Road, Al- Archdiocese of New Orleans Retreat Center – Sis- more information, call 225-387-6671. bany, will talk about, “A Recipe for the Next Elixir: The ter Noël Toomey OP will present a day of reflection, Mechanics of Episcopal Succession,” on Sunday, Aug. “Have That Mind in You Which was in Jesus Christ,” Prayer Service for New Bishop – The Diocese of 26, 6:45 p.m., at the St. Margaret Room of the Hall of Friday, Sept. 9, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., with a noon Mass. Baton Rouge will host a prayer service for Bishop- Saints. For more information, call 225-567-3573. The retreat will feature practices of imaginative prayer designate Michael G. Duca on the evening before his as a way of taking on the mind of Jesus. Father Don- installation as the sixth bishop of Baton Rouge Thurs- Metanoia Benefit Concert– “Metanoia Live,” a ald Blanchard will present a silent retreat Friday, Sept. day, Aug. 23, 7 p.m., at St. George Church, 7808 St. concert benefitting Metanoia Manor, a home for sex 14 – Sunday, Sept. 18. To register and for cost infor- George St., Baton Rouge. The event will also be simul- trafficking victims, will take place Sunday, Aug. 26, 4 mation on these events, visit retreats.arch-no.org/re- cast online at facebook.com/catholiclifetv. All are wel- – 7 p.m., at Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road, Ba- treats or call Susan Halligan at 504-267-9604. come. ton Rouge. Tickets are $15 each and can be purchased online at varsitytheater.com or at the door on the day Faith Formation Program – Author Kathryn Rosaryville Retreats – Rosaryville Spirit Life of the concert. Clarke, who writes under the pseudonym, “Anne, the Center, 39003 Rosaryville Road, Road, Ponchatoula lay apostle,” will present a faith formation program, will host two upcoming retreats. Becky Eldredge and Women in Spirit – Jan Grimes and Sarah Perez will “Becoming Thoughtful Men and Women of God,” Fri- Stephanie Clouter Davis will present a preached silent tell their story of how music and medicine brought day, Sept. 14, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 15, Ignatian Retreat Thursday, Aug. 23 – Sunday, Aug. 26. them together, “Full Circle: Music, Struggle, Reunion 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, The retreat will focus on the Ignatian exercises. Writer and Inspiration,” at the Women in Spirit meeting on 15615 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge. Cost is $25 and and playwright Paula Darcy will present a silent re- Monday, Aug. 27, 12 p.m., at St. Joseph Cathedral, lunch will be provided. Registration is required. For treat Thursday, Sept. 6 – Sunday, Sept. 9. To register Fourth and Main streets, Baton Rouge. Women in information, call 225-362-4508. and for costs of these events, call 225-294-5039, email Spirit is an interfaith gathering for women seeking [email protected] or catholicretreatcenter.org. spiritual growth and a chance to network. A compli- 40 Days for Life – Baton Rouge’s 40 Days for Life, mentary lunch will be served. To RSVP, email wis@ a time of prayer, fasting and community outreach to Catholic Charismatic Mass – Father Jason Palermo, cathedralbr.org or call the cathedral office at 225- help end abortion, will take place Wednesday, Sept. pastor of St. Joseph Church, 5710 Hwy. 16, French Set- 387-5928. 26 – Sunday, Nov. 4. Participants will pray peacefully tlement, will host a Charismatic Mass and healing ser- outside of Delta Clinic of Baton Rouge abortion facil- vice Sunday, Aug. 26 at St. Joseph. Mercy Beaucoup Marriage Help – A Retrouvaille weekend will be ity, 756 Colonial Drive, Baton Rouge. For information, will provide the music. Praise and worship begin at held to help couples with troubled marriages Fri- visit 40daysforlifebr.com or call Danielle Van Haute at 1:30 p.m. and the Mass will begin at 2 p.m. Individual day, Sept. 7 – Sunday, Sept. 9. For confidential in- 225-242-0164.
The Catholic Commentator For help placing your classi ed ad, PO Box 3316 call 225-387-0983. All classi ed ads are prepaid. Baton Rouge LA 70821-3316 C Credit cards are now accepted. ANNOUNCEMENTS BUSINESS SERVICE BUSINESS SERVICE BUSINESS SERVICE BUSINESS SERVICE While we at The Catholic Commenta- BROUSSEAU'S Painting TURNING 65? CALL TYRONE LEBLANC’S TREE & STUMP tor do our best to bring reliable ad- Interior and exterior painting. Experi- MEDICARE QUESTIONS? “WHEN IT NEEDS FIXING” REMOVAL, INC. vertisers to our readers, we are not enced and reliable. Free estimates. Call WE CAN HELP LEAKING SINKS, FAUCETS, TOILETS Prompt service–Free estimates responsible for any claims made by 225-241-8488. JOE GOODSON 225 572 2275 AND GARBAGE DISPOSALS FULLY INSURED JOHNNY STUART 225 907 3619 PLUS OTHER REPAIRS E. H. “Eddie” LeBlanc any advertiser. Donnie’s Furniture Repair & Upholstery. CALL 225-802-4522 OR 225-346-6246 Phone 383-7316 We do re nishing, repairs, caning, Anthony's Furniture Specialties. We re- painting of furniture and upholstery. store hurricane damaged furniture. If it's Mr. D’s Tree Service HOUSEKEEPER In business 43 years. Pick up and de- furniture, we do it all! Re nishing, re-up- 3 Licensed Arborists MATURE DEPENDABLE FOR RENT livery. 10876 Greenwell Springs Road. holstery, pick up and delivery, etc. 2263 Free Estimates 20 + YEARS EXPERIENCE 225-272-2577. See our showroom. Florida Blvd., BR. 225-413-2607. Fully Insured HAVE REFERENCES Perkins Rowe – Condo for lease. 1 bed- Don Decell owner CALL DEBBIE room 1 bath, poolside. Secured parking. THOMAS LUNDIN, CPA Dave’s Bicycle Repair and Sales. Free 225-292-6756 225-266-7655 $1450 per month. Also available, studio Accounting and taxes for businesses, pickup and delivery, free estimates, ex- apartment $1000 month. Call 225-715- non-pro ts and individuals; business, pert economical repair on all brands. 6428. computer, nancial and management Call 225-924-4337 or www.davesbicycle services. 30 years experience; profes- repair. com. PLACE YOUR AD HERE. sional, prompt and personal attention. Reach some 95,000 readers by placing your ad OR ALE Call 225-296-0404. Allan’s Tree Service F S Specializes in large and dangerous tree in The Catholic Commentator! Greenoaks Memorial Park. Promise HOUSE WASHING AND DRIVEWAY removal. Licensed and insured. Senior Garden. Single plot. $3000. Call CLEANING. FREE ESTIMATE. CALL STEVE citizen and law/military discounts. Allan CALL 225-387-0983. Credit cards accepted. 225-926-7110. 225-413-2225 Johnson 225-241-8789.
Print Your Ad Here JPII NIBS ACORN EARN EL IE THREE SPAN PINT FACES SAT AHAS PALS ELECTED HOME DATES TO RUN: PEW HOPELESS Check Category: ❑ Announcements ❑ Business Services ❑ Cards of Thanks ❑ For Rent ❑ For Sale ❑ Help Wanted SATAN WO VEN VOA ❑ Positions Wanted ❑ Legal Notices ❑ Other SUES BAYED NEWT Mail to: The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 TBD ROYAL MANSE Enclosed is $9.50 for the rst 15 words + 15¢ for each word thereafter + 25¢ per line for each special e ect (all caps, centered SESS IONS HAB line, bold lettering); for a total of $______for each issue. Call for charging on your credit card. HAKE HIRSUTE Advertisements will not NAME CC II BODY POX be published without ADDRESS LOLLS LAND APPT full payment in advance. AD IOS OBOE HE IR CITY PHONE YEAHS WARN ARCA moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www August 17, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 19 ANNIVERSARY From page 1 school for 22 years. “We have outgrown our old activity cen- ter for Mass, so you can see the beauty of it and multipurpose use for the whole school.” “This new facility is fabulous and just to celebrate our history with the sisters and what they’ve done and going back to them, relating what their mission was and always keeping the mission here … it’s going to be an excit- ing year,” said assistant athletic director Nan Murtagh, who has worked at the school for 35 Bishop Robert W. Muench joins Baton Rouge Mayor Sharon Weston years, including 25 as coach of Broom and St. Joseph’s Academy faculty and alumnae to cut the rib- the swim team. bon at SJA’s new Student Activity Center. The ceremony was held on The ceremony included a pa- the first day of school Aug. 8 and kicked of a year of events celebrating rade of students representing the school’s 150th anniversary. Photos by Bonny Van | The Catholic Commentator the different groups that will be using the activity center. Last in The 23,150-square-foot Student Activity Center includes a workout the line-up were two students remove his jacket and put it on, in 1868 when four Sisters of St. room and will be used for sporting events as well as school events, in- hoisting the giant trophy from to the wild cheers and applause Joseph arrived in Baton Rouge cluding Mass. the 2018 National High School of the audience. to take over an orphanage for 11 Championship, won by SJA Adler said she was pleased to young girls left parentless by the Christ, to be one with God and to tremendous impact on every- cheerleaders in February in Or- see the turnout and excitement Civil War. Two weeks later, the serve the “dear neighbor.” one,” said Sister Joan, who once lando, Florida. generated from two years of sisters opened St. Joseph’s Day Sister Joan LaPlace CSJ, as- also served as principal of SJA. “None of us anticipated for planning. She noted that an early School in a small house on Sev- sociate director of mission, has “So, I think the challenges were this senior year to be so special, morning balloon release by the enth Street. Through the years, been with SJA since 1964 and greater than we even realized but we’re glad it is,” said Grace senior class served as a reminder the school continued to grow, credits that mission with help- which is just as well because we Wisdom. of her’s and others’ strong con- and in 1941 moved from down- ing the school to successfully didn’t know what to do except to “These students and alums nection to the school. town Baton Rouge to its current, navigate through challenging pray a lot and to do our best.” that come back, they know that “When we let the balloons go, 15-acre location on Broussard times. And, still the school thrived, they’re not forgotten and this the balloons stayed clumped to- Street. “It’s mind boggling to know growing and outgrowing class- place is still standing because of gether as a unit until you could Longevity is one common that when I first came, (SJA) was rooms, facilities and buildings. people like them and that’s what barely see them,” said Adler. theme among the current staff, a one-through-12 school and it For more information on the I want the girls to remember “They didn’t disperse, and I a testament to the mission of wasn’t long before we were into year-long celebration, visit St. and carry out … and continue to thought it was so symbolic.” the Sisters of St. Joseph, which civil rights, the Vietnam war, Joseph’s Academy website at serve their dear neighbor,” said St. Joseph’s Academy opened is rooted in the mission of Jesus drugs, all of that, which had a sjabr.org SJA principal Stacia Andricain, who has been with the school 23 years. “You’ve got to carry it out and know that they are a part of something so wonderful in this Baton Rouge community.” In his remarks, Bishop Muench noted the amount of people, time, effort and money invested in the new facility but also mentioned there was a deeper meaning to that invest- ment. “It’s never the buildings that are the most important,” said the bishop. “It is the people, individ- ually and collectively, working together for the good of you cur- rent students, future students and past students … because graduation is not the end of the journey, but the continuing of the journey in cooperation with this great place, for your well be- ing and for you to help others.” HE ATHOLIC NIVERSITY F MERICA After blessing the activity T C U O A center with holy water, Bishop National Collection Muench was presented with a lifetime pass to all SJA home Please give generously in the parish collection on Saturday, Sept. 1, and Sunday, Sept. 2. volleyball and basketball games Preparing the next generation of leaders for our Church and nation. Learn more at and an SJA spirit shirt, which collection.cua.edu. prompted the bishop to quickly 20 The Catholic Commentator August 17, 2018
PROCESS the sacristy. From page 1 Once everyone is in place, the opening song, which once again will be “Lift High of priests, deacons, ministers, servers, the Cross,” will stop and Bishop Muench BISHOP-DESIGNATE DUCA bishops and archbishops, with the con- will offer the greeting and go to where INSTALLATION SCHEDULE gregation singing “Lift High the Cross.” Bishop-designate Duca is seated to offi- Also precluding Bishop-designate Du- cially greet him. Bishop-designate Duca ca’s knocking on the door is a second pro- will stand and say, “Praise be God the fa- Thursday, August 23, 2018, at 7:00 p.m. cession that will include Bishop Robert W. ther of Our Lord Jesus Christ.” Evening Prayer at St. George Catholic Church Muench, Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond Archbishop Aymond will then intro- Reception to follow in the gym. Open to the public. of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, Msgr. duce Msgr. Erbi, who will be carrying This event will also be aired live on Catholic Life TV Walter Erbi, Chargé d’Affaires at the Ap- the Apostolic Letter of Appointment, also and streamed. ostolic Nunciature in the United States, known as the Papal Bull. The Papal Bull Deacon Ed Gauthreaux, Deacon Tim is the official document from Pope Fran- Friday, August 24, 2018, 2:00 p.m. Grimes, as well as individuals carrying cis appointing Bishop-Designate Duca as Installation at St. Joseph Cathedral a crucifix, an empty water bowl and two the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Baton servers holding candles. Rouge. By invitation only, event will be live streamed. Those in the second procession will Msgr. Erbi will say, “let it be shown, Friday, August 24, 4:30-7:00 p.m. gather at the rear of the church, at which let it be read,” and then present the Papal time the music will stop and Bishop-des- Bull to chancellor Father Paul Yi. The Col- Reception at Catholic Life Center ignate Duca, using a rubber-headed mal- lege of Consultors will proceed to the altar 1800 S. Acadian Thruway | Open to the public. let, will knock at the door of the cathe- to view the document, and it will also be dral. Two hospitality ministers will open shown to the congregation before being BOTH EVENING PRAYER & THE INSTALLATION WILL BE LIVE-STREAMED ON: the doors and Bishop-designate Duca will placed at a table on the altar. Catholic TV’s website: http://www.catholiclifetv.org/ walk in, wearing his mitre but not carry- After that is completed, Archbishop Catholic TV’s Facebook page and on YouTube Live, both accessible from Catholic TV’s website. ing the crosier, which, at that point, will Aymond, carrying the crosier, will come Cox Cable Channel 15 be carried by Archbishop Aymond. down from the presider’s chair to meet Fidelity Cable Channel 14 Father Ranzino said the knock is Msgr. Erbi. During that time, Bishop THE INSTALLATION WILL BE LIVE-STREAMED ON: the bishop-designate saying “ ‘I’m Muench will rise and go stand next to Catholic Community Radio website: Youtube: Search Catholic Community Radio here. I’d like to come in.’ It’s a way of Bishop-designate Duca. http://www.ccradio.live WBRZ PLUS (2.2) With Closed Captioning literally saying we welcome you who Archbishop Aymond and Msgr. Erbi WPRY 1380 AM in Baton Rouge Over the air with an antenna on 2.2 are at the door. will then usher Bishop-designate Duca to WPRY LP 105.9 FM in Baton Rouge Cox Cable Channel 11 & 1011 in HD “In a beautiful way he comes to us the presider’s chair, and Archbishop Ay- WQNO 690 AM in New Orleans Eatel Channel 2 Facebook.com/catholiccommunityradio Live on Roku knocking at the door. And there to greet mond will present the bishop-designate Twitter: @LACatholicRadio Live on WBRZ.com him at the door will be all of us.” with the crosier, which is the original cro- After entering but before processing to sier used by Bishop Robert E. Tracy dur- the altar, Bishop-designate Duca kisses ing his installation as the founding bishop the crucifix. He will also sign himself with of the diocese in 1961. Once seated in the water taken from the baptismal font that chair and presented the crosier, Bishop- ance of strategic symbol making,” Father those who have confessed their sins and will be presented to him in the water bowl. designate Duca will officially be the new Ranzino said. “I really love the fact this is received Communion, Father Ranzino “The purpose (of kissing the cross) is to bishop. the crosier (Bishop Tracy) used when (he) said. remind him of whose mission he serves,” Archbishop Aymond and Msgr. Erbi was installed (as the first bishop of the “By the doing of these ritual acts we are Father Ranzino said. “He signs himself will then join Bishop Muench on the diocese).” speaking loudly something in many ways with water as a reminder to him and all of bench where Bishop-designate Duca was The first reading, which is from Revela- is deeper than words,” he added. “We are us that it is in the waters of baptism that previously seated, where they will remain tions, will be read in Spanish, and the sec- a worldwide church yet we are directly we were first claimed by God. for the remainder of the celebration. ond, which comes from St. Paul’s Letter connected to Francis our pope. We are a “And it is out of his baptismal call that Once seated, representatives of the to the Ephesians, will be read in French. church rooted in our baptism. And in that he is available to serve in his ministry of priests, deacons and several ministries The Gospel reading, which will be from baptism we are all one. bishop for the sake of the church.” will come to the altar and briefly greet the St. John’s Gospel, will be read in English. “If somebody comes and they are not Archbishop Aymond will initially sit new bishop. The universal prayers response will be Catholic and they are just looking, they’re in the presider’s chair on the altar at the At that point, Father Ranzino said the in English, French and Vietnamese. going to be surprised how the music com- beginning of the ceremony, and Bishop ceremony continues as the Liturgy of the “Our attempt is to make this as inclu- ments on what we’re doing, how visually Muench will be to his left and Msgr. Erbi Eucharist is celebrated by who will then sive as we can because the church itself is we will participate with your eyes, our to his right. Bishop-designate Duca will officially be Bishop Duca. a variety of people,” Father Ranzino said. ears. There will be a lot of movement and be seated on a bench against a wall near “I find (the ceremony) a really nice bal- Plenary indulgences will be granted to probably some surprises.”
Hot Rod Vinnie says:
Don’t trade it or sell it, donate it! The Society of St. Vincent de Paul needs car, motorcycle, jet ski, boat, riding lawnmower, camper and motor-home donations. Proceeds benefit the poor and homeless served by the Bishop Ott Shelter Program, St. Vincent de Paul Dining Room, St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy and Myriam’s House. Call (225) 383-7837, ext. O to make your donation or online at svdpbr.org. Free Towing!!!
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul – Serving our Community Since 1865