THE CATHOLIC PAGE 4 Nonpublic school funding unresolved

June 8, 2018ommentator Vol. 56, No. 9 SERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 thecatholiccommentator.org C BREAKING THE CHAIN Metanoia offers peace to trafficking victims

By Bonny Van The Catholic Commentator

“I am their voice.” With those words, Sister Norma Nunez SOM gave an update on Metanoia Manor and unveiled disturb- Sister Norma Nunez SOM joins Father Jeff Bayhi, pastor of St. John the Baptist Church in Zachary, center, and ing human trafficking statistics during a Women in Bishop Marcelo Sanchez Sorondo, chancellor of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences and Social Sciences for the Spirit meeting May 24 at the St. Joseph Cathedral dedication of Metanoia Manor in April 26, 2017. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator parish hall in Baton Rouge. Metanoia Manor is a Baton Rouge shelter for young girls that are living in Metanoia Manor; that is why I from my nightmares. Being here I can break the chain female victims of human trafficking. It has been up am here,” Sister Norma said. “If they’re not there, I’m of addiction. Here, I can strengthen my education, my and running for the past few months. not here in front of you.” faith and my family, helping others while I am here at “Coming here to talk about Metanioa Manor and Sister Norma read the words of one of the girls now Metanoia … Finally, I can make my own choices.” human trafficking is not all about me, it’s all about the living at the safe house: “Metanoia Manor is a comfort SEE METANOIA PAGE 19 Deacon John Vu ordained

By Richard Meek the congregation who had thought about being a The Catholic Commentator priest to stand up so he could bless them. “For some reason, I stood up,” Deacon Vu re- A phrase from a simple Vietnamese prayer called. “That was another one of the beginning was an early preview of the calling that Deacon points where I felt called.” John Vu would ultimately answer. Deacon Vu took the penultimate step to Roughly translated, the prayer, which is tra- priesthood on May 26 when he was ordained ditionally recited at meals, says, “Thank you for a transitional deacon by Bishop Robert W. this meal. When I become your disciple, I will Muench at St. Joseph Cathedral. Deacon Vu will praise you.” spend the next five months at Immaculate Con- “When I thought of that as a child, I thought ception Church in Denham Springs under the it meant you had to be a priest,” said Deacon Vu. pastoral tutelage of pastor Father Frank Uter be- “I figured that prayer locks me in. fore returning to complete his final year at Notre “That was the first starting point that made Dame Seminary in New Orleans. me think about becoming a priest.” Deacon Vu is scheduled to be ordained to the A few years later but still at a young age, priesthood in May 2019, which would complete while attending Mass, the priest asked those in SEE CALLING PAGE 20

Bishop Robert W. Muench, right, ordained Deacon John Vu as a transitional deacon during ordination ceremonies on May 26 at St. Joseph Cathedral in Baton Rouge. Deacon Vu is scheduled to be ordained to the priesthood in May 2019. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator 2 The Catholic Commentator June 8, 2018 BISHOP MUENCH FLASHBACK Sowing the word of God By Dina Dow cles performed by him. We know Jesus acted out of love in all The Sunday Mass readings for the upcom- he did. This love is steeped in passion, zeal, ing weeks begin with a “fall” and end with an consistency and power; a power that heals, agricultural lesson. The messages from each restores and redeems. Jesus shows us the yield insight into reasons for redemption, rea- power of courage when faced with rejection, sons for hope and reasons for especially from those closest to courage. him. Instead of running away You can hide, but not Life-Giving from his critics, he invites for long FAI H them to a deep understanding of The account from the Book of forgiveness, with a warning that Genesis begins with the effects of “offense against the Holy Spirit is original sin. Adam and Eve, knowing what an everlasting sin.” On the other hand, those evil is, experience the brokenness of inner who faithfully follow him, as modeled by his harmony with God so much so they attempt mother, Mary, and do the will of God will to hide from him. To us this sounds ridic- be redeemed. Thus, we walk by faith in the ulous. Yet, think of a time when you made light of love and mercy of God, without fear a personal choice that you wish God would but with trust in his will for us. Here again just look the other way? The original frac- are more reasons for faith and hope, through Bishop Robert W. Muench blessed a time capsule on the grounds of the Cath- ture chosen by humanity not only broke redemption. (Dedicated to Todd F. #walkby olic Life Center on July 22, 2011. The capsule was buried 50 years after the harmony with God, it also broke union with faith) Papal Bull creating the Diocese of Baton Rouge was signed by St. John Paul people and creation, and thus opened the Finally, we hear an agricultural lesson XXIII. A seven-inch scrapbook was the first item to be placed in the capsule. gates of evil into the world resulting in decay in seed sowing. Jesus, teaching in parables, Every church, school, department and affiliated apostolate in the diocese and death. explains the “how-to” of sowing a field. This was asked to make a page for the scrapbook. Bishop Muench placed the last But, as we pray in Psalm 130, “With the analogy reveals that the seed is the word of item, a letter he wrote to the people of the diocese, when they open the cap- Lord there is mercy, and fullness of redemp- God and Jesus is the sower. He “sows” abun- sule in 50 years. Catholic Commentator file photo tion.” We also connect to Genesis 3:15 (aka dantly by his teaching and example. He de- the “Proto-Evangelium” – first announce- sires the entire field to be covered in seed, | DID YOU KNOW ment) the promise of hope, inclusive of love knowing it will eventually grow, and count- and mercy. God punishes the serpent, plac- ing on a crop ready for harvest will aid in ing it at odds with the woman. God tells growing in the kingdom of God. the evil tempter that the woman’s offspring We are the soil of this field. Our recep- Saint with a buzz will crush its head in defeat. This is the first tivity depends on the granules of our heart. promise of redemption for humanity, giving Am I like fertile soil, ready to do God’s will a reason for hope in the one that is to come, with love, trust and mercy? Am I like dry The story of St. Rita of Cascia bees at the convent are not white and pointing to the Messiah. The woman is dirt, parched with bitterness or anger? Am I never fails to create a buzz. but resemble the hue of a common Mary. Thus, the knot caused by Eve’s dis- like specks of dust blown away by the breeze A holy Italian mystic who was bee, only with no stinger. obedience was untied by Mary’s obedience, of the world? Am I in need of rehydration born in 1381, St. Rita is often asso- One of the bees was given to as Jesus, her “offspring” by the power of the through reconciliation to clear the clutter ciated with bees. The day after her Pope Urban VIII but eventually the Holy Spirit, came to restore humanity and in order to receive the seed? Am I becom- baptism, when she was five years bee made its way back to the con- free all from the enslavement of sin. ing a sower of the word of God, a disciple of old, a swarm of white bees report- vent. We walk by faith Christ, who, like the apostles, share the word edly swarmed around her mouth The sisters at the convent do not Courage. St. Paul writes in his Second of God, continue to care for the field, culti- and even alighted on her lips. They see the bees as a nuisance, only a Letter to the Corinthians that it takes cour- vate good fruit and build the kingdom? All it were seen to enter and leave her natural occurrence that happens to age to walk by faith, for we live for what we takes is one seed the size of a mustard seed partially open mouth but amazing- occur in their walls. are unable to see but we know and believe to yield a life-giving field glistening with ly she was not harmed nor did she St. Rita was buried in the basilica it to be true. Hence, our reason for courage grace. For this, we receive his word for the utter a whimper. of Cascia and was later discovered is because Jesus showed courage by his mis- redemption of our lives and become a sower Witnesses believed the event to to be incorrupt. Today, her body lies sion. There were days where critics were his of hope, taking courage that the kingdom in- be a mystery, although they could in the St. Rita shrine at Cascia. own relatives, who were concerned he had deed will grow! not explain it. She was canonized by Pope Leo gone off the deep end, labeling him a crazy. Dow is the Director of Evangelization Bees would not become a signif- XII on May 24, 1900. Even the scribes accused him of being the and Catechesis for the Diocese of Baton icant part of her legacy until years Naturally, many images of St. devil, despite the fact they witnessed mira- Rouge. later, following the death of her hus- Rita have her surrounded by bees. band and children and long after St. She is also often portrayed in a black Rita became an Augustinian nun at habit, which is historically inaccu- Cascia. In fact, bees did not reap- rate since sisters at the Magdalene pear until nearly 200 years after her monastery wore beige or brown. death in 1457, when they built a hive St. Rita is the patron saint of im- thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator in a wall of the monastery in which possible cases, difficult marriages she had lived. To this day, those and parenthood. Her feast day is Bishop Robert W. Muench Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager bees remain but hibernate for 10 May 22. Father Tom Ranzino Associate Publisher Bonny Van Staff Writer months of the year, emerging only Throughout history, the bee has Richard Meek Editor Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation during Holy Week. traditionally been a symbol of wis- Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor Nicole Latiolais Graphic Designer Reports say the bees never leave dom and industry. And St. Rita is the convent closure, spending a not the only saint with swarming The Catholic Commentator (ISSN 07460511; USPS 093-680) Published bi-weekly (every other week) by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge,1800 South Acadian Thruway, few weeks about the garden before bees in their hagiography, as bees Baton Rouge, LA 70808; 225-387-0983 or 225-387-0561. Periodical Postage Paid at Baton Rouge, LA. Copy must returning to the wall following the are often associated with St. Am- reach the above address by Wednesday for use in the next week’s paper. Subscription rate: $14.00 per year. POST- feast of St. Rita and sealing them- brose, St. Dominic and several oth- MASTER, send address changes to The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746. selves in their self-made holes. The ers. June 8, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 3

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Call Blocker Tree and Landscape today! Fully Licensed and Insured • Free Estimates Licensed Arborist #17-2227 • Licensed Irrigation #17-0691 Dancers and drummers from the N’Fungola Sibo African Dance Drum Company in New Orleans electrified Owners Trey Blocker and Brant Fox the crowd at the beginning of the Our Unity in Diversity and Our Diversity in Unity on the Solemnity of the Body and Blood Our Lord prayer service June 3 at St. Joseph Cathedral. Photos by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator Anthony ’s Italian Deli Prayer service celebrates Best Muffolettas in town! Fresh Made Party Trays racial diversity of diocese Cheese & Meat • Sandwiches Lasagna To-Go By Richard Meek out the cathedral. Made Fresh Daily The Catholic Commentator Rousing music was provided by the combined Large $47.95 choirs of Immaculate Conception, St. Francis Small $29.95 Mellifluous chords of unity filled St. Joseph Xavier Church in Baton Rouge and St. Paul the Cathedral on June 3 during a prayer service that Apostle Church in Baton Rouge; the Hispanic 5575 GOVERNMENT ST., JUST WEST OF JEFFERSON HWY. brought together people from all cultures and eth- Apostolate choir; and the choir from Christ the PHONE ORDERS WELCOME! 225-272-6817 OPEN MON.-SAT. 9:30 - 6:00 PM nicities. King Church and Catholic Center in Baton Rouge Baton Rouge’s only TRUE ITALIAN DELI Since 1978 The 90-minute Our Unity in Diversity and Our choir. Diversity in Unity on the So- “We are church, and we are lemnity of the Body and Blood celebrating church in a very of Our Lord was sponsored by powerful, unique, way,” said the Diocesan Racial Harmony Bishop Robert W. Muench For when Commission. during his closing remarks. “As “It is important when we a Catholic Church, we are not a you get come together and I think (to- local church, we are not a state day) is especially important church, we are not a country because we brought together church, we are not a national buffalo’d. all parts of the diocese, all dif- church. We are a church univer- ferent races, nationalities, lan- sal and this is what we are cele- guages,” said Father Tom Clark brating in a very powerful way.” SJ, chairman of the Racial Bishop Muench said several Harmony Commission and pastor at Immaculate images came to mind during the service, including Joe Skibinski, Agent We’ve got an agent for that. Conception Church in Baton Rouge. “Especially on those of a rainbow, prism and even a kaleidoscope. 1953 Perkins Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70808 Sometimes you just never know this day, Corpus Christi, when we celebrate Jesus He noted that in “our uniqueness is our strength. Bus: 225-387-0201 Toll Free: 888-387-0201 what’s going to cross your path. as the one who gathers us in unity.” Our diversity enriches us. Just know I have your back. The service featured a mixture of culturally “We have the gift of one another. This is who we So when accidents happen, diverse music, and Scriptures read in a variety of are and who God expects us to be.” you have a real person who languages, including English, Spanish, Vietnam- And he said reflecting that image beyond the can get the job done right, and ese, Ewe (Ghana), Igob (Nigeria), Portugese and church into society is a requirement and com- right away. Telugu (India). mandment of God. Like a good neighbor, Prayer readings were equally as diverse, in- The service also included eucharistic adoration State Farm is there.® cluding English, Igno, Portugese (southwest Afri- and a brief benediction. CALL ME TODAY. ca), Telugu (India) and Spanish. “It was just wonderful for us to be able to expe- Even before the service began the crowd was rience our diversity, experience the richness that electrified when members of the N’Fungola Sibo God has gifted us with,” Father Clark said. “And to African Dance Drum Company that included know that we are all one and that we all worship dancers processed down the aisle. one God, one Jesus, and we are part of the same Immediately after the service, the rapturous church.” 1101160.2 State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL beat of the drums once again cascaded through- SEE PRAYER PAGE 15 4 The Catholic Commentator NATIONAL | INTERNATIONAL June 8, 2018 Irish voters approve referendum allowing abortion

By Richard Meek tion of termination of pregnancy.” 12 weeks, up to 24 weeks on unspecified the unborn and it’s taking away from so- The Catholic Commentator “I have personally always had a mas- grounds for the health of the mother, and ciety as a whole.” sive heart for the pro-life movement, and up to birth where the child is diagnosed Van Haute said there is no way to cal- A St. Amant teenager preparing to em- it absolutely breaks my heart to know that with a life-limiting condition that means culate how many lives are going to be af- bark on a mission to Ireland said she is this is something we will be battling over he or she may not live long after birth. fected by the vote. She said when the life heartbroken by that country’s vote open- the next year while serving,” said Rachael An exit poll conducted by the Ireland’s of an unborn child is taken through abor- ing the door to abortion on demand. Duchmann, 18, who is a member of Holy national broadcaster RTE asked voters tion, not only does it affect the mother Yet, she said, the vote is only further Rosary Church in St. Amant. what motivated them to opt for either and the father of that child but also cur- evidence that God is leading her where “To me personally, this is just one “yes” or “no.” Among “yes” voters, the rent or future siblings and other family she is needed. more affirmation that this is where I am most important issues were the right to members. Results from the nationwide referen- needed,” added Duchmann, who will be choose (84 percent), the health or life of Bishop Brendan Leahy of Limerick dum showed that 66.4 percent of citizens a missionary in Ireland for 11 months the woman (69 percent), and pregnancy told Mass-goers on May 26 that the re- opted to remove the Eighth Amendment beginning this fall through NET Minis- as a result of rape (52 percent). sult “is deeply regrettable and chilling for from the Irish constitution, while 33.6 tries. Among “no” voters, they cited the right those of us who voted ‘no.’ ” percent voted to retain it. Turnout was Duchmann was with a friend when to life of the unborn (76 percent), the right He said “the final result of the referen- 64.5 percent. they learned of the repeal and believes to live of those with Down syndrome or dum is the will of the majority of the peo- Voters inserted the original amend- it was “truly all in God’s plans for me to other disabilities (36 percent), and reli- ple, though not all the people.” ment in the constitution in 1983 by a mar- be there with my pro-life voice. I think it gious views (28 percent). John McGuirk, spokesman for Save gin of 2-1, and it “acknowledges the right will shape our mission because these kids “I think (the vote) is tragic for a number the Eighth, which campaigned for a “no” to life of the unborn and, with due regard will be growing up in an Ireland that is of reasons,” said Danielle Van Haute, pro- vote, described the outcome as “a tragedy to the equal right to life of the mother, as carefree with life as we are. In a sense life coordinator for the Diocese of Baton of historic proportions.” guarantees in its laws to respect, and, as it’s one more way we will be able to relate Rouge. “We see Ireland taking a step back “The Eighth Amendment did not cre- far as practicable, by its laws to defend to them and help them to grow in their but doing it by proclaiming that it’s a step ate a right to life for the unborn child, it and vindicate that right.” faith.” forward and a right gained for women. merely acknowledged that such a right That text will now be deleted and re- Minister for Health Simon Harris has “But it’s anything but that. It’s taking exists, has always existed and will always placed with an article stating that “provi- said he would introduce legislation that away from the dignity of women, it’s tak- exist,” he said, insisting that “a wrong sion may be made by law for the regula- would allow abortion on demand up to ing away the protection that was given to SEE IRELAND PAGE 19 Fate of funding unresolved By Richard Meek the whole thing was going to fall apart. The Catholic Commentator Legislative maneuvering created a sense of chaos as the session wound to- The Louisiana Legislature is likely ward its midnight deadline, with some headed into a third special session of 2018 lawmakers even screaming at each other. with the fate of funding for nonpublic “I was disgusted by what I saw,” Tas- schools still hanging in the balance. man said. “To have things fall apart at the At risk is $16 million in funding for very last minute of a special session when child nutrition programs and required obviously there was compromise on the services, which was not included in an Senate side and at the same time still a underfunded budget adopted at the con- clear majority to support the half-cent tax clusion of a special session June 4. increase, and you had someone try to run Although legislators adopted the bud- out the clock was unbelievable.” get, an accompanying revenue-raising bill Eliminating funding for nonpublic was not. Gov. John Bel Edwards vowed schools would likely result in the closing that the bill that was adopted would not of the child nutrition program that feeds be the budget going into the 2018-19 fiscal thousands of low-income students state year beginning July 1. wide. In the Diocese of Baton Rouge, more support the works of Legislators rejected two sales tax pro- than 1,700 Catholic school students par- the Holy Father through the posals. A one-half cent tax proposal by ticipate in the free or reduced lunch pro- Rep. Walt Leger was defeated 64-40, fall- grams, with 769 of those taking advan- ing six votes of the two-thirds majority 70 tage of a government program where they Peter’s Pence Collection votes needed. A one-third cent proposal are served breakfast, lunch and dinner. by Rep. Lance Harris fell 68-38. Any new Also jeopardized is the funding for re- on the weekend of June 23 & 24. tax would replace the temporary one-cent quired services at the nonpublic schools. tax that goes off the books June 30. “That is why heading into a special ses- Rob Tasman, executive director of the sion it will be critical how much revenue is Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, generated,” said Tassman. “I really believe said he believes the school funding would that our best chance of being fully funded have been salvaged if the one-half cent is if the half-penny is passed.” proposal had passed. Lynda Carville, director of the child “Obviously, there was a breakdown at nutrition program for the diocese, said the very end of the session,” Tasman said. after the session ended she is hopeful the “It was a breakdown between whether program will be fully funded in the next www.usccb.org/peters-pence they would raise revenue by one-third or special session. She also expressed her ap- Copyright © 2017, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. one-half of a penny and they could not preciation to the legislators in both cham- All rights reserved. Photo: © CNS/Paul Haring. muster enough votes for either one. And bers who understand the importance of once those votes did not come, it was clear “what we do.” June 8, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 5 Spiritual nourishment weapon in weight battle

By Debbie Shelley issues. sus and the Holy Spirit to guide tions, they are given the tools to becoming their right weight self. The Catholic Commentator “And it’s the interactions of them through their journey to create a concrete plan of action, “I hope they come away with, the people that create the reali- their right weight. such as what specific foods they ‘I have the most powerful force/ The triggers can come at any zations, thoughts, emotions and “We encourage them to see will add or eliminate within the partner and all I have to do is time ... after fighting with the sharing that can lead to change,” God as a source of strength and next 24 hours and how they can ask,’ ” said Waldman. spouse or looking for something Waldman said. guidance and a partner for this be prepared for those “trigger For more information about quick to eat with a carload of The Rosaryville program be- high mountain of challenge of point” moments. Beneath the Weight and future kids, blowing a work presen- gins with the participants look- losing a substantial amount of And particularly in the faith- workshops, including one that tation, sinking into the coach ing at themselves and who they weight,” Waldman said. based programs, the emphasis will be held at Rosaryville on and tuning in a favorite channel are before God. One of the med- In between activities, there is helping them to see that God Saturday, Oct. 20, visit beneath or while rooting for the Tigers, itations is taken from the book are Bible verse discussions can help them turn the key to theweight.org. Jaguars or Saints during game “Sadhana, A Way to God: Chris- which address using food as a time with friends and fami- tian Exercises in Easter Form,” coping strategy (focusing on Jos ly. But no matter the situation, by Father Daniel de Mello SJ. 1:9); guided meditations to right when one gives into the temp- In the meditative exercise, par- weight (focusing on Zep 3:17); tation to overeat, he or she can ticipants are to imagine looking danger zones and core issues be weighed down bodily as well at a statue that a sculptor was (featuring Is 41:10); and plan- as mentally and spiritually with commissioned to make of them ning a healthy weight lifestyle guilt. that is ready for public viewing. (focusing on Ps(s) 32:8). Through Beneath the Weight, They are encouraged to think “The Scriptures are used to sponsored by the non-profit about what their first impres- help to get them through the ATTORNEYS AT LAW organization Self-Care Health sion is, then say something to difficulty of this self-awareness 270 S. Sharp Road • Baton Rouge, LA 70815 • (225) 924-7597 Initiatives, people can address the statue. The people are then project and be inspired,” said overeating in response to stress, guided to imagine that they Waldman. JAMES R. COXE, III and ASSOCIATES moods and emotions. Work- have become the statue and how And there can be some pain- Personal Injury General Practice AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS WILLS and SUCCESSIONS shops are conducted throughout it feels to be the statue. Lastly, ful self-awareness as people WRONGFUL DEATH CORPORATIONS PRODUCT LIABILITY SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY Southeast Louisiana civil par- they imagine that Jesus walks check off items from a list of SEAMAN/HARBOR WORKERS CLAIMS REAL ESTATES ishes in public libraries, as well into the room and looks at it and danger zones and stress points MEDICAL MALPRACTICE CRIMINAL DEFENSE as for faith-based organizations, they dialogue. that indicate their weaknesses Family Law Personal Bankruptcy such as Rosaryville Spirit Life In another mediation, par- concerning overeating. Notary in Office Center in Ponchatoula, which fo- ticipants are encouraged to take But through honest self-eval- TELEPHONE (225) 924-7597 “In Home Consultations on Request” cuses on Bible verses and medi- deep breaths, express their ap- uations, sharing them in group tations. preciation to God, talk to him discussions and learning how Beneath the Weight was about weight challenges they to envision positive outcomes started by psychologist Dr. Lynn will face that day and ask Je- to negative or vulnerable situa- Brayton, Paul Waldman and nu- tritionist Danielle Paciera. The program does not have lectures, prescribed diets, exercises or services. “We looked at the power of NOW IS THE TIME human interaction and discov- ered that human interaction needed to be a primary consid- Don and Carl of Mr. D’s say don’t wait for eration in our program,” said Waldman. “We looked at the disaster to strike. Tree removal is a highly concept of what creates change technical, yet a delicate task that requires in a person. We looked at it from the standpoint that if you tell qualified professionals. Call on us BEFORE the someone what to do, no matter HURRICANE SEASON and we will give you a how wise it may be – it’s not as strong as when a person realiz- FREE quote on any tree removal or trimming. es themselves what needs to be changed and what needs to be done to address the change.” The workshops are centered around the idea that everyone has the ability to reach their de- Call Today! sired weight, but there is some- thing going on in their mind that Never attempt to stops them from getting there. 225-292-6756 trim or remove trees “We wanted to help people close to power lines or find the switch in their brains structures, as this could that allows a natural process for result in serious or fatal eating and lifestyle change,” said Mr. D’s Tree Service injury and/or significant Waldman. Don and Carl say THANKS to their customers in damage to your home or He said the workshops are meant to be fun, which includes the Baton Rouge area for over 35 years of service! property. dividing people into groups of Licensed and fully insured 6-10 to talk about their eating 6 The Catholic Commentator June 8, 2018 Strange wording in Our Father?/ Sausage on Ash Wednesday?

For years I had been puzzled lent of “do not let us enter into tempta- dog finished it up.) as a kid that one of the requirements for by the words “lead us not into tion.” I have since been troubled, wondering serious sin was “full consent of the will”? Qtemptation” in the Our Father. It The prayer is taken from the Gospels whether this was a sin that should be The Catechism of the Catholic Church always seemed to me unlikely that God of Matthew and Luke, written originally confessed to a priest. I did ask God’s for- defines this as “consent sufficiently would do that, and I wondered whether in Greek. The revised edition of the New giveness that day, and many times since. deliberate to be a personal choice” (No. the phrase had been mistranslated. Now American Bible, which is Is there a relationship 1859). So relax; you didn’t mean to do that Pope Francis has agreed that this the basis for the Lection- between sinfulness and anything wrong, so you didn’t even need wording is strange, I wonder if some- ary used at Masses in the intent to sin? (Mt. Airy, to be forgiven. thing like “leave us not in temptation United States, translates Georgia) One story. Some years back, I was in but deliver us from evil” would be more the petition as, “do not Albany on a day when Catholics from correct. (Crozet, Virginia) subject us to the final Lucky for your across New York state were gathering to test.” dog, who ap- learn about, and lobby on, issues where You should be credited for having The Catechism of the Aparently is not public policy and morality intersect. A seen the difficulty. (Many people, Catholic Church admits a Catholic! Seriously, bishop from downstate and I were at a AI’m afraid, have prayed the Our the difficulty of trans- though, your question lunch counter near the Capitol enjoying Father for years without reflecting on lating the Greek verb by makes me a little sad. bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwiches that phrase, without seeing a problem.) a singe English word, I would guess that you when at virtually the same moment we And now you have Pope Francis in your noting, “the Greek means grew up as I did in the realized, to our dismay and embarrass- corner. In December 2017, in a series of both ‘do not allow us to 1940s and 1950s, when ment, that it was Ash Wednesday. televised conversations about the Lord’s enter into temptation’ our primary image of As I recall, we finished the sandwich- Prayer with an Italian Catholic prison and ‘do not let us yield to God was of the “Great es rather than wasting them, and I am chaplain, the pope said, “It’s not (God) temptation’ ” (No. 2846). Question Corner Enforcer,” ever-vigilant quite certain that neither of us ever felt who pushes me into temptation to see to punish us for stepping compelled to confess it. how I fall. ... The one who leads us into I am old (not just Father Kenneth Doyle out of line. That is not temptation is Satan.” “elderly”) and what Jesus taught us FATHER DOYLE is a retired priest in the While not ordering a new translation Qsometimes forgetful. I did the about God. The Lord loves us, created us Diocese of Albany, New York. Ques- of the prayer, the pope noted that French unthinkable this past Ash Wednesday for a reason, is on our side and wants to tions may be sent to Father Kenneth bishops had decided that, beginning and prepared my usual breakfast of egg bring us to heaven. Doyle at [email protected] on the first Sunday of Advent in 2017, with sausage. I had actually eaten half of And, of course, “intention” is key to and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, French Catholics would say the equiva- it before I realized what I had done. (My sinfulness. Do you remember learning NY 12203.

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By Debbie Shelley “I really believe that when The Catholic Commentator two or more gather, God lis- tens,” said Durocher. “He al- The scent of heavenly roses seasoned ways hears us, but we don’t al- with Louisiana’s emblematic dish, jam- ways know it.” balaya, formed a banquet for spirit and Ficaro described the meet- body at “A Morning with the Blessed ings as a spiritual family gath- Mother” prayer meeting at the home of ering. Betty Robert of Gonzales on May 1. “I think it’s a church fami- Steam billowed from Robert’s back- ly environment here. A family yard as her son, Todd, stirred a cast iron celebrating around the church,” pot filled with the Cajun cuisine that she said. was started early in the morning to pro- The RCIA coordinator for vide lunch for the large group of attend- Christ the Redeemer Church ing people, who brought side dishes. in Thibodaux, Ficaro said the Todd said he began cooking jambalaya meetings have helped her in for groups and different events several her own ministry. years ago. “It’s good to know that “I love cooking for mom,” said Todd, there’s a time to be with other who was joined by his cousin Roy and people for my spiritual growth. family friend Anthony Bruno. We all need a time to let God But for many, the savoriest “main take care of us in his own way,” course” took place inside during the Ficaro said. prayer meeting. Betty Robert started The prayer meetings are held the monthly meetings four years ago af- at 10 a.m. on the first Tuesday ter receiving materials about Our Lady of the month from September of Fatima prayer groups in the mail. The through May. For more infor- first group had 18 attendees and Father Pictured during the crowning of Mary during A Morning With the Blessed Mother at the Gonzales mation, call Robert at 225-933- Matt Dupré was the speaker. Now the home of Betty Robert are, from left, vocalist Celeste Veillon, Ruth Hanson and Mary McGovern. 9508 or email bcrobert@eatel. rosary group averages up to 100 people Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator net. and a clergy member has always been present to speak. Anne Gregory, a member of St. John The May meeting, which was the last the Evangelist Church in Prairieville, one before a summer break, includ- said she enjoys the presence of the St. Thomas ed praying the rosary, Marian hymns, priests at the meetings, which she said crowning of the Blessed Mother and a grew through “word of mouth.” talk by Father Donald Blanchard, who Theresa Morales, also of Gonzales, More discussed how the Blessed Mother who brings her granddaughter Amily, 3, teaches people to say, “Let it be done to to the meetings, said, “I wouldn’t miss it me as you say,” during those moments for the world. I’m thankful to be able to of “wrestling with the Spirit.” The meal develop my prayer life with the help of followed. the Blessed Mother.” “I’m excited to do this,” said Celeste She said she believes Christ answers Veillon, who sang Marian hymns for the prayers in a gathering of people who are event and was accompanied on the key- devoted to Mary. Nationally Recognized as board by her mother, Romona, whom Attending the Marian meeting is also Celeste has sang with “for as long as I a chance for long-time friends Rowena A Blue Ribbon can remember.” Marcel, Kathleen Du- School of Excellence “My joy is when I rocher and Barbara Fi- can touch the hearts of caro, all of Thibodaux, the people here,” said “I think it’s a to begin a day together Celeste. on a prayerful note. She said Robert church family Marcel said, “We all “sets a beautiful exam- have a deep devotion to ple in her devotion to environment the Blessed Mother. Mary.” “We’ve been Ramona, who here. A family through painful times, was choir director at challenges and suf- St. Theresa of Avila celebrating around ferings together. They Church in Gonzales for (Durocher and Ficaro) many years, said she the church.” are prayer warriors.” strongly believes in She said she comes Jesus’ saying, “where Barbara Ficaro to the meetings out of a two or three are gath- “love of the Lord” that ered together in my is evident there. name, there am I in the midst of them.” “You feel the spirit of the Lord,” said “I believe in a congregational rosa- Marcel. “You don’t meet a stranger Limited Openings for the 2018-2019 School Year ry. I like the socialization and getting here.” Call to schedule your personal tour! together with people I don’t see all the Durocher said she particularly enjoys 225-275-2820 www.stmbr.org time,” said Ramona. the Marian hymns. 8 The Catholic Commentator June 8, 2018 Governor signs abortion law By Richard Meek ported by so many legislators.” The Catholic Commentator The bill garnered overwhelming support in both chambers, originally sailing through the Louisiana pro-life leaders praised state Senate by a 31-3 vote on April 24. The House lawmakers and Gov. John Bel Edwards for passed an amended bill May 15 by an 81-9 passing a bill banning abortions after 15 margin and the Senate concurred May 16 by weeks during the recently completed regular a 24-1 vote. session of the Legislature. Edwards signed the bill Senate Bill 181 carries into law May 30. a prison sentence of up to “The heart (of an un- two years for any medical born baby) is beating twice professional who performs as fast as the mothers, and an abortion after 15 weeks. especially with abortion, Also, women who elect to that gruesomely crushes have abortions after 15 weeks the body,” said Alexandra would not face criminal Seghers, the Legislative Li- charges. aison and Youth Program di- The bill would only take rector with Louisiana Right effect if a federal court and to Life. potentially the U.S. Supreme Bill sponsor Sen. John Court upholds a similar Milkovich has been a strong LADIES OF GRACE – The Constance Butler Chapter 9 Fourth Degree abortion law in Mississippi. pro-life advocate and said Knights of Peter Claver Ladies of Grace Division scholarship awards pro- “I’m happy to see that it Governor John Bel Edwards his bill is in an important gram was held April 14 at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Baton Rouge. passed,” said Danielle Van first step to protect unborn Seated are scholarship recipients, from left, Alaceia Smothers, Con- Haute, respect life coordinator for the Diocese children. stance Butler Scholarship; Nyah Johnson, Ivy-Beauregard Scholarship; of Baton Rouge. “I’m cautiously optimistic, as “We thank and commend our pro-life gov- and Breanna Auguster, Bishop Stanley Ott Scholarship. Committee we are waiting to see what happens (with the ernor for signing this bill and once again tak- members are Janet St. Cyr Moore, Catherine Flentroy, Theresa Hollins, Mississippi case). ing a stand for life,” Milkovich said. Delores Price, Betty Camble and Karen Tripeaux. Photo submitted by Carla Lewis. “It was encouraging to see that it was sup- “Recognizing that really no woman grows up wanting to have an abortion, so how can we help a woman who clearly is in crisis?” Van Haute said. RESTHAVEN Mississippi enacted its 15- week abortion ban in March GARDENS OF MEMORY & FUNERAL HOME but it was challenged immedi- ® ately and put on hold by a fed- We make it personal. eral judge. It faces what many for a better farewell expect to be an extended legal battle. 11817 Jefferson Highway Seghers said women facing 225-753-1440 www.resthavenbatonrouge.com an unwanted pregnancy do have the option of adoption, and said the Adoption Option Act “em- 2x2” Rest.small.honor.those.cc’16 powers women, especially in those instances where she may Hospice is not about giving up not feel ready to be a parent. “Where she’s scared. Where … it’s about taking control she feels alone. It’ll help give her concrete alternatives to • We rely upon the intercession of our Blessed Mother to assist us in imitating the healing ministry of Jesus abortion so she doesn’t have to Christ as we care for terminally ill patients and their families. subject her body to the trauma • We call forth the compassion and kindness of our staff, who serve in this health care ministry, to respond to of abortion or subject her baby the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of our patients and their families. to the trauma of abortion.” Van Haute said the vote fur- • We believe in the sacredness of life from conception to natural death, and we devote ourselves to ther cements Louisiana’s tra- supporting patients and families through the dying process at the end of life’s journey on this earth and dition of being the country’s new life in eternity. strongest pro-life state. “Louisiana is definitely not shy about bringing forward laws that will help to strength- en or help to further protect lives of the unborn in whatever The right people, way they can,” she said. “And doing the right thing also provide options for women for the right reason. who are abortion vulnerable.” SERVING PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS Louisiana and Mississippi www.NotreDameHospice-NO.org • (225) 243-7358 would have the earliest abor- 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. tion bans in the country if the law is ultimately upheld. June 8, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 9 Deacon Bains’ faith shines through the darkness

By Bonny Van that particular Gospel passage Bains. “I think our marriage was made in The Catholic Commentator inspired me.” heaven.” Mary Margaret, once an “ ‘You never give up,’ that was our mot- On July 13, 2002, Frank Bains of Ba- assistant principal at St. Jude to,” said Mary Margaret. “We’ll fight it to ton Rouge was ordained a deacon in the School in Baton Rouge, became the end, and this is not the end, it’s just Diocese of Baton Rouge. Two years later, the director of campus ministry different.” his life changed in a way he could never at St. Michael the Archangel “Deacon Frank and his wife, Mary have imagined. High School in Baton Rouge. Margaret, have been such a diligent and “I first noticed it down in Manresa She and her husband became authentic example, not only for their fam- (House of Retreats in Convent) in October an integral part of the students’ ily and our parish, but beyond the Saint 2004. My left eye started acting funny,” lives, with the high school serv- Jude community. Their presence at Saint recalled Deacon Bains. “I had something ing as “a platform for (Deacon Michael High School, for example, instills called NAION or Non-Arteritic Anterior Bains) in his ministry,” accord- courage in our young people during a very Ischemic Optic Neuropathy and that was ing to Mary Margaret. challenging time in their lives,” said Fa- in October of ’04. I didn’t know it at the “I became the ‘Deke,’ ” said ther Trey Nelson, pastor of St. Jude. “Here time, but if you have that, it’s inevitably Deacon Bains. “They’d refer to in our parish, Frank and Mary Margaret going to hit the other eye and in August Deacon Frank Bains, right, joined Father Trey Nelson, me as the ‘Deke’ – ‘Hey! It’s the have facilitated baptism seminars and of ’05, it hit the right eye. It took about a pastor of St. Jude the Apostle Church in Baton Rouge, ‘Deke.’ ” have always been ready to help in any way month from the time it hit until the time I to celebrate Mass on Sunday, May 6. It was Deacon After a couple of health set- possible. Frank has assisted countless lost it, and since August ‘05, I’ve lost sight Bains’ final Mass before retiring. Photo by Bonny Van | The backs for Mary Margaret, in- times at Mass, proclaiming the Gospel in both eyes.” Catholic Commentator cluding breast cancer in 2014 and offering the homily. If I were to sum Deacon Bains overcame the challenge and surgery on a benign brain up his example in one simple statement, to serve 16 years in the diaconate at St. Bains could continue his call to ministry. tumor this year, the couple is ready for I would say that, in admirably facing his Jude the Apostle Church in Baton Rouge. For this first occasion, Mary Margaret re- a slower pace and more time with their difficulties with his vision and blindness, He marked his retirement by celebrating corded the reading and it was played back family, including eight grandchildren. Frank has taught all of us how to see in a his last Mass on May 6. through an earpiece for Deacon Bains to As the couple reflects on this challenging new way.” “Frank was a (U.S.) Marine Corps pilot repeat. journey they’ve taken together, it is obvi- “I’ve learned to appreciate people in Vietnam, so we knew he had good vi- “When he came back up on the altar it ous they know each other’s strength. and feel their warmth and love and sup- sion and we never worried about his sight; was almost like everybody was just lifting “I can’t say enough about Mary Mar- port,” said Deacon Bains. “I just can’t say I mean that’s nothing that ever came him up, you know,” said Mary Margaret. garet. She has been special,” said Deacon enough about St. Jude parish.” across as a problem,” explained his wife, “It was a true witness to the people and Mary Margaret. the congregation, when you come from As Bains’ eyesight began to deterio- the depths of despair, ‘What am I going to rate, the couple was referred to a special- do with my life?,’ you know – so he started St. Thomas More ist in Atlanta for a second opinion. The doing baptisms and weddings and funer- appointment was set for Aug. 29, 2005. als.” Catholic School With a massive hurricane churning in the For each occasion, Mary Margaret A Nationally Recognized Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Gulf of Mexico, the couple left at 3:30 a.m. wrote a special liturgy, which was record- to avoid the traffic overflow of evacuees. ed and played back through the earpiece. seeks a The Bains made it to the appointment and “They’d see the little thing in his ear the diagnosis of NAION was confirmed, but sometimes that’s a mic, you know,” Technology Coordinator but returning to Baton Rouge was anoth- she said. “It was just beautiful that he er challenge. could get through those years just doing St. Thomas More Catholic School seeks a joyful, faith-filled “No gas stations were open. It’s like the it that way.” technology leader to support and further our vision for technology angels were just guiding us,” said Mary With special computer software for the integration and its alignment with the school’s mission. The ideal Margaret. blind, Deacon Bains continued his job as candidate will possess a positive attitude and a growth mindset, will “We filled up in Birmingham (Al- an engineer for two more years. After re- abama) and we wound up desperately tiring from that job, he was recruited to work extremely well with colleagues, and will be committed to the trying to get to a gas station,” said Dea- work for the Department of Environmen- utilization of best practices in the field of educational technology. con Bains. “We limped on to O’Neal Lane tal Quality, a job he held for nine years. and one station was open. We had to wait And, during it all, he continued to min- Responsibilities include: awhile but we got five gallons pumped be- ister, eventually memorizing the Gospel fore they lost electricity, but it was enough readings.  Establishing a school-wide technology plan to get us home.” “Over the years I’ve had so many peo-  While most of south Louisiana was ple come up and say that through his Furthering the integration of instructional technology adjusting to a new normal after Hurri- courage and inspiration and continuing  Technology training for faculty and staff cane Katrina, the Bains had to adjust to to do this in spite of his disability, he’s  Managing inventory & overseeing maintenance of hardware their own new normal. Father David Al- inspiring them not to give up in certain  Supporting colleagues with IT issues len, pastor of Holy Family Church in Port things,” said Mary Margaret.  Serving as point person for servers and internet Allen, was pastor of St. Jude the Apostle “I was at Mass one time and the Gos- Church in Baton Rouge at the time and pel was about the agony in the garden,”  Assisting with Rediker Admin Plus Database (Plus Portals) advised Deacon Bains “to take six months said Deacon Bains. “In that Gospel, that’s  Administering e-mail for faculty and staff off and pray and think about this situa- a Thursday, and he’s getting ready to face tion because he didn’t know what to do what he faces on that Friday. And, Jesus and we didn’t know what to do,” remem- is praying and the Bible says he’s praying To Apply: Submit letter of interest and resume to bered Mary Margaret. so hard that his sweat becomes like drops Five months later, Father Allen sug- of blood and he prays, ‘Father, if it’s your St. Thomas More Assistant Principal Ashley McDaniel gested Deacon Bains read the Gospel at will, let this cup pass me by’ and then he Christmas Mass. It was a challenge that went on to say, ‘Nevertheless, not my will via e-mail at [email protected]. helped the couple realize that Deacon but thy will be done,’ and hearing that,

10 The Catholic Commentator | June 8, 2018 June 8, 2018 | The Catholic Commentator 11

[1] [4] [5]

“It takes a lot of people to put this on and the support we get from volunteers is just amazing.” John Engquist Fishin’ Galore host

[6]

[8]

[7]

[2]

FISHIN’ GALORE 24TH ANNUAL

[9]

By Bonny Van “It’s amazing. It’s wonderful,” said 12-year- departments. It’s amazing the support we get.” [3] The Catholic Commentator old Baylee Scott, a St. Jude patient from Den- Elnora Blackledge-Lee, a cancer survivor, ham Springs, who was visiting the petting zoo. from Memphis, has had three of her four chil- On the morning of Saturday, May 5, down- “We have a family of six so we kind of di- dren treated at St. Jude’s for the past 10 years town Baton Rouge came alive with the lights vided and conquered with the kids,” said Bay- for brain and spinal tumors. According to and sirens of patrol cars on a special mission. lee’s mom, Sheri Scott. “There’s something for Blackledge-Lee, tests have been conducted on The officers were escorting chartered buses everybody of all ages. And, of course, we’re everything from their home, pipes and neigh- filled with patients of St. Jude Children’s Re- animal lovers so they gravitated to all the ani- borhood to even the church they attend. She search Hospital and their families to the 3 Bar mals.” said the next step is research into her “an- E Ranch in Clinton for the annual Fishin’ Ga- For this event, there were 160 registered pa- cestral history.” But, on this particular day in lore. Baton Rouge businessman John Engquist tients, along with their parents, siblings and May, her family was full of smiles. has hosted this event at his ranch for the past grandparents for an estimated crowd of 1,500, “This is vacation,” said Blackledge-Lee. 24 years. according to Engquist, who is a board mem- “This is our third time here. We usually sign “The gate opens at four o’clock, we have ber at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical up every year but somebody will get sick and some of the patients get here real early to fish,” Center. we couldn’t go or they didn’t want us to go that said Engquist. “It takes a lot of people to put this on and the far. But, this year, they (doctors) let us go.” Activities included more than just fishing. support we get from volunteers is just amaz- “It’s just a really special day and let’s these [4] Justin Pierce of Hurley, Mississippi [6] Fredrick Lee, Jr. of Memphis, [8] Jeremiah Corey is attending Fishin’ [1] The pond is full of activity for Fishin’ Galore. There were carnival games with prizes, face ing,” said Engquist. “We’ve got volunteers that kids get away from needles and chemo and enjoys a day of fishing with his family Tennessee has three sisters who Galore for the first time this year. Photos by Bonny Van | The Catholic Commentator painting, music, volleyball, arts and crafts, have been with us since the first year. We get a the pressures they deal with everyday and just at the 3 Bar E Farm in Clinton. are patients of St. Jude. This is the pony rides, petting zoo, Baton Rouge Police lot of support from the various police organi- have a day out in the country and just have fun [9] Baton Rouge police officers put on [2] Eddie Wilkes III gets his face painted. family’s third time to participate in K-9 demonstrations and, of course, lots of zations too. The Baton Rouge city police, state being kids,” said Engquist. “So, it’s a great day [5] Baylee Scott of Denham Springs Fishin’ Galore. a K-9 demonstration. [3] Juliauna Blackledge of Memphis, Tennessee food. police, all the local sheriff’s offices and police for them and a special day for us.” pets a goat in the petting zoo at this goes for a pony ride. year’s Fishin’ Galore in Clinton. [7] James Necomb of Mantachie, Mississippi makes a sand sculpture. 12 The Catholic Commentator June 8, 2018 Blessings on the Bayou comes to Baton Rouge

By Debbie Shelley with St. Thomas More under his cess. They were inspired by the and will help rebuild a fam- Through their mission work, The Catholic Commentator leadership. The mission will re- residents’ collective spirit and ily’s home, which may include Shaw said the youth will discon- sume again this year under the fierce determination to rebuild. hanging insulation or drywall, nect from their everyday con- The mission work started in banner Blessings Mission and With the support of donors, vol- mudding/spackling, texturing, cerns and distractions and live the Labadieville area through will focus on helping people in unteers and corporate partners, priming, painting, laying floors their Catholic faith in a deeper Blessings on the Bayou is com- the Baton Rouge area. the organization has grown from and or hanging trim, doors and sense. ing to Baton Rouge through the “We have been overwhelmed its New Orleans corporate head- baseboards. “You don’t have to go outside Blessings Mission, sponsored by by the support from St. Thomas quarters to other areas, includ- By working with Americorps of the country where there is St. Thomas More Church, June More,” said Father Alello. “It’s ing Baton Rouge. Its focus is to volunteers, Blessings Mission no cell phone service to discon- 13-17. been a great opportunity to help shrink the time between participants are exposed to the nect,” said Shaw. Father Michael Alello, pastor move outside of the church into disaster and recovery. program and they can decide She noted that while the par- of STM, began Blessings on the the community.” Larry noted that after a di- if they would like to join, Larry ticipants may have a hesitation Bayou in 2009 when he was pas- This year, STM will partner saster, SBP rebuilds for low- said. when they first begin the mis- tor of St. Philomena Church in with St. Bernard Project (SBP), to-moderate income residents Stephanie Shaw, former di- sion, “by Sunday they are in Labadieville as a way for youth a local organization assisting with a special focus on families rector of religious education at tears and don’t want to leave.” to see that they can serve people rebuilding efforts of area homes with small children, the elderly, St. Philomena who helped orga- She said the mission also “right in their own backyard” by damaged from the flood of 2016. disabled persons, war veterans, nize Blessings on the Bayou and pulls in the STM community as helping those on fixed incomes SBP will provide the volunteer the under- and underinsured, will also assist with the Bless- they help “the young church” in the Labadieville, Napoleon- sites. as well as victims of contractor ings Mission, said the Blessings by either directly volunteering ville and Thibodaux areas. According to Demitria Larry, fraud. Mission will be “about the simple in the work, serving as mentors In seven years, approximately volunteer coordinator/program Nationally, SPB rebuilds a di- things.” She said while rebuild- or adult supervisors, providing 1,000 people across the Diocese manager for SBP, Zack Rosen- saster impacted home in an av- ing efforts are “a portion of it,” shower facilities, serving on a of Baton Rouge have come to- burg and Liz McCartney, who erage of 61 days at 40 percent of youth will also be visiting the el- food line, providing dessert or gether to help the less fortunate, originally lived in Washing- the cost of market rate contrac- derly and homebound and form- praying. according to Father Alello. ton DC, started SBP after they tors by relying on the national ing relationships with members Rosie Vutera, STM youth di- The mission took a two-year volunteered in Louisiana’s St. service organization Americorps of the community. rector said, “We are keeping a lot hiatus, due to the flood of 2016 Bernard Parish following Hur- and volunteer labor, according to “We incorporate the manual of what Blessings on the Bayou and Father Alello being re-as- ricane Katrina and saw the slow Larry. labor, but we also incorporate was when we held it in Labadi- signed as pastor of St. Louis King progress of institutional or the The STM volunteers will re- prayer and visiting people,” said eville – serving our community of France, which was amulgated “traditional” rebuilding pro- ceive orientation and training Shaw. SEE BLESSINGS PAGE 19

St. Thomas More Catholic School A Nationally Recognized Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

Job Openings for the Following Middle School Teaching Positions St. Thomas More Catholic School seeks candidates for open teaching positions in Middle School Religion, English Language Arts (ELA), and part-time Spanish for the 2018-2019 academic year. The Back to School special section will be in the Founded in 1960, St. Thomas More has provided outstanding July 20 issue of The Catholic Commentator. intellectual and spiritual formation to students in Kindergarten Find out what will be happening in the through Eighth Grade for nearly 60 years. The school possesses a Diocese of Baton Rouge Catholic Schools warm and vibrant culture with a family spirit that permeates the for the 2018-2019 school year. community. Ideal teacher candidates will be joyful, faith-filled, loving, and growth-minded, committed to ongoing professional development and the utilization of best practices in all areas of Deadline is July 10! teaching and learning. Our teachers embrace the integration of instructional technology to maximize student learning and to prepare To inquire about advertising your products and our students to be responsible users of technology. St. Thomas More services to this specialized market teachers help students strive for excellence in all that they do, while or space reservation contact working with them to cultivate virtue and self-discipline. Wanda Koch at 225-387-0983 or email [email protected]. To Apply: Submit letter of interest and resume to THE CATHOLIC St. Thomas More Assistant Principal Ashley McDaniel via e-mail at [email protected]. C   June 8, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 13

Catechism of the Catholic Church IN HONOR OF THE FEAST OF THE SACRED HEART ON FRIDAY, JUNE 8:

CCC 478: Jesus knew and loved us each and all during his life, his agony and his Passion, and gave himself up for each one of us: “The Son of God ... loved me and gave himself for me.” He has loved us all with a human heart. For this reason, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, pierced by our sins and for our salvation, “is quite rightly considered the chief sign and symbol of that ... love with which the divine Redeemer continually loves the eternal Father and all human beings” without exception.

LIVING ROSARY – Second-graders at St. Jude the Apostle School in Baton Rouge presented a “living rosary” on May 22. The stu- dents, dressed in their first Communion outfits, began the ser- vice by crowning Mary, then they were seated in the shape of a rosary on the floor of the activity center. Altar servers moved behind the students as each one stood to represent a bead in the rosary. Photo provided by Starr Driesse | St. Jude School

Monday, June 4, 11 & 18 10 am – 12 pm Health and wellness activities, games, giveaways and free carousel rides! CLOSING CEREMONY – Kindergarten classes at Holy Ghost School in Hammond held a closing ceremony on May 18. Stu- dents led the ceremony with songs and Scriptures and teachers presented all students with an award for their accomplishments. Pictured, from left, are, front row, Caroline Caves and Layne Pegler; back row, Laila Domiano, Preston Dow, Selena Florian, Hannah Fontenot and Rory Franks. Photo provided by Cindy Wagner | Holy Ghost School Saturday, June 23 10 am – 1 pm A fun morning of games, giveaways and important health information for the entire family! TM The first 300 kids receive a free t-shirt

Join us near the Mall of Louisiana playland. © 2018 Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital Children’s Our Lady of the Lake © 2018

MAY CROWNING – Second-graders Robert David, left, and Lon- don Griffin of Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Baton Rouge were Register online honored to crown Mary at the annual May Crowning on May 2. at ololchildrens.org Photo provided by Lisa Cosse | Sacred Heart School 14 The Catholic Commentator ENTERTAINMENT June 8, 2018

Motion Picture Association of America ex whose proposal she long ago turned (Molly Gordon) who is also currently a MOVIE ratings: down. Buttoned-up federal judge Can- student there. Her kindly, upbeat man- G – General audiences; all ages admitted dice Bergen tries an online dating ser- ner makes her the toast of her daugh- PG – Parental guidance suggested; some vice and meets Richard Dreyfuss. And ter’s sorority and wins her the heart of a REVIEWS material may not be suitable for children USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting Mary Steenburgen and Craig T. Nelson handsome fraternity brother (Luke Ben- PG-13 – Parents are strongly cautioned to classifications: struggle to reignite the flames of passion ward). Everything about director and co- give special guidance for attendance of A-I – General patronage in their decades-old marriage. There’s writer Ben Falcone’s star vehicle for his children under 13; some material may be A-II – Adults and adolescents hardly a line of dialogue in director and wife McCarthy rings false, including its inappropriate for young children A-III – Adults co-writer Bill Holderman’s romantic affirmations of maternal and filial affec- R – Restricted; under 17 requires accom- A-IV – Adults, with reservations panying parent or adult guardian comedy, penned with Erin Simms, that tion and its rounds of mutual feminine L – Limited adult audience NC-17 – No one under 17 admitted doesn’t contain an innuendo, a smutty confidence building. Frivolously treated O – Morally offensive pun or some other tiresome joke about offscreen nonmarital and marital sexual an aging woman’s right to satisfaction activity, some of it in semi-public places, Batman Ninja combat violence and some lapses in lan- in the bedroom, a cause for which the unintentional drug use, comic brawling, Warner Home Entertainment guage make director Junpei Mizusaki’s film crusades relentlessly without re- sexual and anatomical humor, a couple Produced in Japan in the “anime” style, luxuriously detailed movie unsuitable gard to marital status or any other cir- of crude and numerous crass terms. A- with its distinctive settings, frantic ac- for children. But it’s possibly acceptable cumstance. Only Fonda’s tilt away from III; PG-13 tion scenes and unique character design, for older teens. Intense battle sequences, her licentious past and Steenburgen and this is a thrilling, confusing, gorgeous a few mild oaths and crass expressions. Nelson’s commitment to fidelity partially Solo: A Star Wars Story and bizarre straight-to-video film. A A-III; PG-13 retrieve the lowminded proceedings. Disney time machine built by a supervillain ape A misguided view of human sexual- The origins and early adventures of (voice of Fred Tatasciore) transports Bat- Book Club ity, an offscreen premarital encounter, future freebooter Han Solo (Alden Eh- man (voice of Roger Craig Smith) as well Paramount implied cohabitation, pervasive sexual renreich) are explored in this pleasing as most of his usual supporting cast to An ensemble of friends, all ladies of a humor, including an extended tasteless but insubstantial addition to the block- feudal Japan sometime around the 16th certain age, find a renewed interest in sight gag, several profanities and milder buster franchise. Indebted to one of century. As he battles Gotham’s nasti- amour after their book club takes on E.L. oaths, at least one rough and a couple of the villainous chiefs (Paul Bettany) of est (voices of Tom Kenny, Eric Bauza, James’ sadomasochistic “Fifty Shades” crude terms. L; PG-13 the intergalactic crime syndicate that Tara Strong, Tony Hale and Tatasciore) trilogy. Timid recent widow Diane Ke- has ensnared his childhood sweetheart who have taken on the role of Japanese aton lets the patronizing attitude of her Deadpool 2 (Emilia Clarke), the skilled but boastful warlords, the Caped Crusader is aided duo of over-solicitous adult daughters Fox pilot joins with a cynical thief (Woody by host of ninjas (their leader voiced by stand in the way of her romance with A second helping of excessively violent Harrelson) and the apelike creature Matthew Yang King) and some friends wealthy pilot Andy Garcia. Promiscuous, action with a side of foul-mouthed sar- (Joonas Suotamo) destined to become from back home (voices of Adam Croas- emotionally detached hotel owner Jane casm is on offer in director David Leitch’s his sidekick and first mate, both of whom dell and Yuri Lowenthal). Mostly stylized Fonda reconnects with Don Johnson, the follow-up to the 2016 original. This time are also beholden to the gangster, in an out, the titular smart aleck (Ryan Reyn- against-the-odds scheme to purloin a olds, who also co-wrote the script) teams stock of valuable fuel. Working from with a fellow mutant (Zazie Beetz) whose a script by the father-and-son team of superpower is amazing luck to prevent a Lawrence and Jonathan Kasdan, direc- time-traveling bionic warrior (Josh Bro- tor Ron Howard serves up action aplenty lin) from killing the fire-casting mutant and some engaging plot twists while Eh- lad (Julian Dennison) who will grow up renreich exudes cheeky charisma. But to murder the fighter’s wife and daugh- depth of character is lacking. In keeping ter. Bloodletting, especially the repeated with his later persona, as portrayed by dismemberment of the antihero, whose Harrison Ford, Solo’s rough-and-ready inability to die is a source of torment for approach to property rights is offset by him, overwhelms some potentially inter- his weakness for a good cause, making esting ethical material concerning re- this early chapter in his biography pos- venge, the morality of taking out a future sibly acceptable for older teens. Much villain and Deadpool’s effort to prove stylized violence, occasional innuendo, a himself worthy of his recently deceased few mild oaths, a couple of crass terms. live-in girlfriend (Morena Baccarin) by A-III; PG-13 becoming a better person. An ambigu- ous outlook on faith and a benign view of Wraith homosexual relationships are other trou- Out Cold bling elements. Pervasive gory violence, Earnest but flawed horror tale about drug use, a lesbian theme, a bizarre scene a family of three parents Jackson Hurst of exhibitionism, brief rear male nudity, and Ali Hillis and teen daughter Cath- some irreverent humor and a vaguely erine Frances whose Victorian home in anti-religious tone, about a dozen uses of Neenah, Wisconsin, becomes the venue profanity, at least one milder oath, con- for some unwelcome supernatural ac- stant rough and crude language, obscene tivity. Consultation with a priest (Lance gestures. O; R Henriksen) raises the possibility that the haunting is connected to the mother’s Life of the Party unexpected pregnancy and her plan to Warner Bros. abort her baby. The pro-life message of Anemic comedy in which middle-aged writer-director Michael O. Sajbel’s film mom Melissa McCarthy (who also co- is as honorable as it is unmistakable. wrote the script) is dumped by her hus- But blending this theme with well-worn band (Matt Walsh) in favor of the hard- exorcism and poltergeist tropes turns edged real estate agent (Julie Bowen) out to be a dubious decision. Possibly ac- with whom he has been having an affair ceptable for older teens. Some nonlethal and decides to get a fresh start by return- violence, a sexual predation plotline, a ing to the university she dropped out of nongraphic marital bedroom scene, a in order to have her now-grown daughter few sexual references. A-III; PG-13 June 8, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 15

1234 56789 11120 131 Chilean priests say they felt 41 51 61 71 81 91

210 2 232 2 welcomed, listened to by pope 224562 287 2 209 3132333

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – After meeting with Although Father de la Fuente did not provide 3536374 3 398 3 04 Pope Francis for more than four hours, a Chilean details of the decisions the pope has made with 14 432 4 44 priest who suffered abuse and a priest whom min- regard to the culture of abuse and cover-up in the isters to survivors said they felt comforted and Chilean church, he said that they would take time 465 4 74 84 hopeful for the church’s future in their country. and involve steps for “the short, medium and long 4590521 5 The pope met June 2 with five priests who the term.” Vatican described as being “victims of abuses of Father Astaburuaga said that he was greatly con- 543 5 565 5758595 power, of conscience and of sexual abuse.” soled by the pope and confirmed that his over 20 6162630 646 56 Two priests who have accompanied the survivors years of counseling survivors of abuse “was not in “in their juridical and spiritual journey” and “two vain.” 66 687 6 96 laypeople involved in this suffering” also were in- The pope celebrated a private Mass with the 07 17 27 vited by Pope Francis. They were all guests at the group June 2 and met with members of the Domus Sanctae Marthae, the Vatican residence group together and individually, a Vatican state- 37 47 57 where Pope Francis lives. ment said. drow.www g moc.scilohtacrofsema Speaking to journalists after the groups’ final The aim of the meetings was to achieve a greater meeting with the pope June 2, Father Francisco understanding of “the reality lived by some of the ACROSS 3 Anxiety 1 Evil king 4 Attack on all sides Astaburuaga Ossa, who has accompanied survi- faithful and Chilean clergy,” the Vatican statement 5 Honest incense? 5 Hesitated vors of abuse, said the pope asked forgiveness for said. 10 Drilling grp. 6 Hwy. the abuse and subsequent cover-ups committed by “With the help of these five priests, the pope 14 Note 7 Shepherd-turned-prophet members of the church. seeks to remedy the internal rupture of the com- 15 Hindu principle of life 8 River nymph 16 “This ___ sudden!” 9 Chef’s tools “What he told us in the last meeting was, ‘I ask munity. Thus, rebuilding a healthy relationship be- 17 Drags 10 Sign of papal office forgiveness. I ask you for forgiveness in the name tween the faithful and their shepherds can begin, 18 Seventh century pope 11 67A, in the Douay of the church for what you have lived, for what you once all are conscious of their own wounds,” the 19 Tide 12 Nicholas II was the last have told me. I ask forgiveness.’ And that is very Vatican said. 20 Agreement 13 Reproduction 22 Barbarity 21 PBS funder comforting and shows great humility on the part of Like the three laymen Pope Francis hosted in 24 Lounges 23 Nice month the Holy Father, to once again ask for forgiveness. I late April, the priests were abused by Father Fer- 26 “Confiteor ___” 25 “Go away” am very grateful to the pope,” Father Astaburuaga nando Karadima and his followers in the parish of 27 Diocese or bishop starter 28 Evil king said. Sagrado Corazon de Providencia, also known as 29 Our Lady of Prompt ___ 30 Refer to a biblical passage 34 One of the seven deadly sins 31 Slayer of Abel In addition to Father Astaburuaga, the priests the community of “El Bosque” (“The Forest”). 38 “…___ saw Elba” 32 Book containing calendar of Masses meeting the pope were Fathers Eugenio de la Known as an influential and charismatic priest, 40 Papal crown 33 Beams Fuente Lora, Alejandro Vial Amunategui, Javier Father Karadima founded a Catholic Action group 41 Certain code 34 Scandinavian Barros Bascunan and Sergio Cobo Montalva. in the wealthy Santiago parish and drew hundreds 42 Mends 35 Bear up there 44 Orderly 36 Galilee, and others The four other members of the group wished to of young men to the priesthood. Four of Father 45 Old Testament hymn 37 Baby powder remain anonymous. Karadima’s proteges went on to become bishops, 47 Method 39 Francis Xavier preached here Father de la Fuente, a survivor of abuse, told including Bishop Juan Barros of Osorno. 48 Grandson of Adam 43 School for the clergy 49 Catholic apologist and mathemati- 46 God is the Supreme Being who journalists that he came to Rome with three ex- However, several former seminarians of “El cian ___ all things and keeps them in pectations: “gratitude for the pope’s invitation; the Bosque” revealed in 2010 that the Chilean priest 51 Dulls existence comfort of knowing that we will meet with Peter, sexually abused them and other members of the 53 ___ Plaines 50 Deadly with the Holy Father; and also hope.” parish community for years. One year later, Father 55 Travel cost 52 Full house sign 60 Gilbert and Sullivan work 54 Vestment made of a narrow strip of The pope, he said, “greatly exceeded my expecta- Karadima was sentenced by the Vatican to a life of 65 “Beats me” cloth tions.” prayer and penance after he was found guilty of 66 ___ de camp 56 Vatican news service “I have an immense gratitude for his welcoming. sexual abuse. 67 One of the prophets 57 Worship I was greatly comforted to be completely under- Before the meetings began, Father Astaburuaga 69 Female rabbits 58 Witherspoon of “Legally Blonde” 70 Bigger than big 59 Relaxed stood by an admirably empathetic person, who suf- told Catholic News Service he was going with an 71 “Are you calling me ___?” 60 Diocese of Honolulu island fered with my pain, and I have great hope because “open heart and mind to be surprised by God.” 72 Scottish Gaelic 61 There were 3 popes with this name he has a very ample and profound understanding “Tomorrow I go with an open heart to speak with 73 Some cars in the 20th century of the problem,” he said. The pope also has identi- the pope. He wants to listen to us and we want to 74 Southpaw 62 Verge 75 Faith is like a mustard ___ 63 Grass fied “concrete paths for moving forward.” share with him,” he told CNS June 1. 64 “Whatever!” DOWN 68 “Take, ___; this is my body.” (Mt 1 Catholic fitness guru, Charles ___ 26:26) 2 In Mt 12:25, Jesus said this divided prayer tion, adoration and powerful music, could not stand Solution on page 18 From page 3 beautiful sense of togetherness, I hope every one leaves this mother “When we all come together, we church different than we came be- see how beautiful this is, how many cause we have been in a special different experiences are encom- presence,” Bishop Muench said. “I’m Magnolia House passed here,” he added. so glad I spent this time in this place “In the richness of our celebra- with you and I will never forget it.” Estate Sales Holy Rosary Church in St. Amant pastor Father Josh Johnson, left, and Dea- 225-383-6923 con Alfred Adams, director of the Office of Black Catholics, kneel during benediction of the Eucharist during the Our Unity in Diversity and Our Di- Estate Liquidation versity in Unity on the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Our Lord prayer Rex Ransome service at St. Joseph Cathedral in Baton Rouge on June 3. Photo by Richard Meek | www.MagnoiaHouseEstateSales.com The Catholic Commentator 16 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT June 8, 2018 | editorial The church, institution or people?

bout a month ago I was at my Jesus came to show us a differ- the church our younger generation. Irish tragedy brother’s house for a gathering ent image of God than the Jewish Many of them have become “nones.” Aof friends and relatives. After people of his day had, and a different In preparation for the synod, he about 8 p.m., most of the guests were image, I suspect, than the one the has sent questionnaires to all of the merica’s culture of death is appar- gone, leaving only the two of us, my younger generation of today is reject- world’s Catholic dioceses to canvass ently catching on across the pond. sister-in-law, and a couple from out of ing. Yes, the Bible Old Testament and ground level opinions on the prob- A On May 25, voters in Ireland town who are close friends to the three New Testament pictures a God who is lem and solutions to it. How do we overwhelmingly approved a referendum to of us and who were spending the night. all-loving, but not a Pollyanna kind of evangelize the millennials? So far, overturn that country’s ban on abortion, We began talking about the younger God who never lets us suffer. The God participation in the survey has not paving the way for abortion on demand for generation’s attitudes of the Bible is all-knowing, been strong, according to the National up to 12 weeks. towards the Catholic but Jesus’ God is not God Catholic Reporter Newspaper (March Two-thirds of the electorate voted in fa- faith. Before we realized the scientist, not Einstein’s 23 – April 5). vor of the referendum, with only 33.6 per- it, the clock was showing fine-tuner of the universe, A conference was held recently, cent against. midnight. Apparently but the God who knows the March 5-7, at Notre Dame University Perhaps most telling is 90 percent of parents as well as priests hearts of everyone and can in South Bend, to address cultural is- young voters aged 18-26 approved the refer- are very bewildered by be our consolation in a con- sues that may be a cause of the exodus endum. Additionally, the vote is further evi- what the generation that fusing, and often very cruel, of so many young people from our dence of the marginalization of the church’s has grown up in the “in- world. Nor is Jesus’ God Catholic Church and many Protestant once powerful influence in Ireland, a coun- formation age” chooses all-powerful in the sense of churches as well. Speakers blamed the try that only three years ago approved to believe or not believe controlling our every action. culture so influenced by excessive use same-sex marriage. about religion. Jesus invited from everyone of smartphones and media technology The referendum removes the Eighth I woke up thinking he met a response of love, a encouraging users “to focus on what is Amendment to the constitution approved about our conversation, conversion of heart, a gift of new, not what is important, creating by a 2-1 margin in 1983, which acknowledg- picked up the morn- service to others. He never ‘suckers for irrelevancy.’ ” They also es the right to life of the unborn. ing paper, and in the Another forced anyone, but asked spoke of reduction of all knowledge to Of course, supporters stressed, likely “eatpraylive” section of us to choose. “I am the way, the scientific method, excessive indi- with a wink and a smile, that laws gov- The Advocate was a long Perspective the truth, and the life.” If vidualism and pornography. Sugges- erning abortion will be restrictive. Where article entitled “Most we freely follow his way of tions to address these negative influ- have we heard that misleading diatribe be- Americans believe but Father John Carville love, we will find the truth ences from breakout sessions included ing spewed before? Perhaps it was in 1973, not always in the God of goodness, of God’s Spirit, involving young people in pilgrimages when Roe v Wade became the law of the of the Bible.” According to the Pew and live through that Spirit with Jesus and service projects. land in the United States, allegedly with re- Research group, about 10 percent of and the father forever. An editorial in the same issue strictions. Americans don’t believe in the God of God is not Pollyanna, nor, however of NCR criticized blaming younger However, that law evolved into an open the Bible or any higher power. They is he a vague higher power. God is our people for the culture in which they invitation to abortion on demand, leading are the real atheists. “But among the father who is imaged for us in his son, are growing up. While it might be true to the legalized murder of millions of young so-called ‘nones’—a broad category of Jesus, who told us, “If you know me, that young people seem turned off by babies who never had the opportunity to ex- atheists, agnostics and those who an- then you will also know my father ... institutions, it is up to us to put a more perience life outside of their mother’s womb. swer “none of the above” on questions Whoever has seen me has seen the Christ-like face on our church. We have There is no reason to expect anything about religion fully 72 percent believe Father” (Jn 14:7-9). The Jesus that to be more inviting, less exclusive, different among the Irish. Already, legisla- in a higher power of some kind.” we know as the embodiment of self- more focused on charitable works and tion is expected to be introduced permit- There seems to be a lot of confusion sacrificing love is the image of God. It less on imposing rules. The people of ting abortion for a child up to birth who is about this “God of the Bible.” In the is not, I think, this God nor his image God, especially those 34 and under, are diagnosed with a life-limiting condition survey report he is described as “the in human flesh, Jesus, who is being looking for inspiration and authentic- (think special needs). So the millions of spe- conventional all-loving, all-knowing, rejected by the young people of today. ity. “Examples of people who walk the cial needs children who are yet to be born all-powerful God of the Bible.” One This God is a personal God who speaks faith and live the heart of the Gospel but would bring so much love to the proper could wonder whether the survey- through Jesus to our hearts more than are more convincing than hours of home could potentially be massacred right takers have read the New Testament to our minds. Could it be an imper- apologetics and glitzy presentations on up to delivery. where Jesus says that no one has seen sonal church that they are leaving, a up-to-date delivery platforms.” Also getting caught up in the tide is the father except himself who has come church that appears more like an in- Pray for the synod, for the pope, the Northern Ireland, where momentum ap- down from heaven. Whoever believes stitution than like the “people of God” bishops and our young people. pears to be gaining to legalize abortion in in him, Jesus, will have eternal life. He described in Vatican II’s document on that country. goes on to say, “I am the living bread the church? FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest in the Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, who that came down from heaven; whoever Pope Francis has convoked another Diocese of Baton Rouge and writes on campaigned for the referendum, reacted to eats this bread will live forever; and Synod of Bishops to meet this com- current topics for The Catholic the outcome by saying his country is now the bread that I will give is my flesh for ing October to address the question Commentator. He can be reached at see editorial page 17 the life of the world” (Jn 6:46-51). of how do we keep and/or call back to [email protected].

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

June 12 Rev. Gerard R. Martin Sr. Geraldine Riendeau CSJ Dcn. J. Peter Walsh June 23 Rev. Caye A. (Trey) Nelson III Dcn. Eliazar Salinas Jr. June 16 Rev. Roberto Merced OP Sr. Brendan Mary Ronayne FMOL Dcn. Michael A. Agnello Br. Ronald Hingle SC Dcn. Michael F. Thompson June 20 Rev. Cleo J. Milano Sr. Eileen Rower FMOL June. 13 Rev. Pat.rick J. Mascarella Br. Noel Lemmon SC Dcn. James E. Wax June 24 Rev. Hung Viet Nguyen ICM Dcn. Mario (Sam) Sammartino June 17 Rev. Andrew J. Merrick Br. Malcolm Melcher SC Dcn. Frank E. Bains Sr. Alexandrine Rasoanirina SOM Dcn. J. Thomas Traylor June 21 Rev. Nutan S. Minj IMS Br. Marcus Turcotte SC June 14 Rev. Matthew E. McCaughey Sr. Janet Roesner CSJ Dcn. P. Chauvin Wilkinson Jr. June 25 Rev. Martin Thanh Van Nguyen ICM Dcn. Joseph M. Scimeca June 18 Rev. Victor G. Messina Sr. Guadalupe Rosales HMSS Dcn. Thomas D. Benoit Br. Clifford King SC Dcn. John W. Veron June 22 Rev. Michael J. Moroney Sr. Cynthia Sabathier CSJ June 15 Rev. Paul A. McDuffie Br. Roger LeMoyne SC Dcn. Alfred Adams Sr. Dcn. Rudolph w. Stahl June 19 Rev. Michael A. Miceli Br. Paul Montero Sc June 8, 2018 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 17 Mercy, truth, and pastoral practice

ecently a student I’d taught decades lationship to their churches to be compassionate in the makes for a true sacrament and what con- ago made this comment to me: because what they’ve met in same way and immediately ditions make for a valid and licit minister R“It’s been more than 20 years their churches doesn’t speak spells out what that means of a sacrament. It is important too to ask since I took your class and I’ve forgotten well of God. by telling us that God loves who should be admitted to the Eucharist most everything you taught. What I do I say this in sympathy. sinners and saints in exactly and it is important to set forth certain remember from your class is that we’re It’s not easy to do God the same way. God does not norms to be followed in preparation for supposed to always try not to make God adequately, let alone well. have preferential love for baptism, the Eucharist and marriage. look stupid.” But we must try, and so the virtuous. Difficult pastoral questions arise I hope that’s true. I hope that’s some- all of our sacramental and Shocking to us too is around these issues, among other is- thing people take away from my lectures pastoral practices need to the fact that Jesus never sues, and this is not suggesting that they and writings because I believe that the reflect a healthy theology of defends himself when should always be resolved in a way that first task of any Christian apologetics is to God, that is, reflect the God attacked. Moreover he most immediately and simplistically rescue God from stupidity, arbitrariness, whom Jesus incarnated and is critical of those who, reflects God’s universal will for salva- narrowness, legalism, rigidity, tribalism revealed. What did Jesus whatever their sincerity, try tion and God’s infinite understanding and everything else that’s bad but gets as- reveal about God? In Exile to block access to him. He and mercy. Admittedly, sometimes the sociated with God. A healthy theology of First, that God has no surrenders himself to die long-term benefit of living a hard truth God must underwrite all our apologetics favorites and that there Father Ron Rolheiser rather than defend himself. can override the short-range need to and pastoral practices. Anything we do in must be full equality among He never meets hatred more quickly take away the pain and the the name of God should reflect God. races, among rich and poor, among slave with hatred and dies loving and forgiving heartache. But, even so, a theology of God It’s no accident that atheism, anti-cler- and free, and among male and female. No those who are killing him. that reflects the compassion and mercy of icalism and the many diatribes leveled one person, race, gender or nation is more Jesus is also clear that it’s not neces- God should always be reflected in every against the church and religion today favored than others by God. Nobody is sarily those who explicitly profess God pastoral decision we make. Otherwise we can always point to some bad theology first. All are privileged. and religion who are his true followers, make God look stupid – arbitrary, tribal, or church practice on which to base their Next, Jesus taught that God is espe- but rather those, irrespective of their cruel, and antithetical to church practice. skepticism and anger. Atheism is always cially compassionate and understanding explicit faith or church practice, who do Marilynne Robinson says Christianity a parasite, feeding off bad religion. So towards the weak and towards sinners. the will of God on earth. is too great a narrative to be underwritten too is much of the negativity towards the Jesus scandalized his religious contempo- Finally, and centrally, Jesus is clear by any lesser tale and that should forbid in churches which is so common today. An raries by sitting down with public sinners that his message is, first of all, good news particular its being subordinated to nar- anti-church attitude feeds on bad religion without first asking them to repent. He for the poor, that any preaching in his rowness, legalism and lack of compassion. and so we who believe in God and church welcomed everyone in ways that often name that isn’t good news for the poor is should be examining ourselves more than offended the religious propriety of the not his Gospel. OBLATE FATHER RON ROLHEISER, theologian, defending ourselves. time and he sometimes went against the We need to keep these things in mind teacher and award-winning author, is Moreover more important than the religious sensitivity of his contempo- even as we recognize the validity and president of the Oblate School of Theol- criticism of atheists are the many people raries, as we see from his conversation importance of the ongoing debates among ogy in San Antonio, Texas. He can who have been hurt by their churches. A with the Samaritan woman or when he and within our churches about whom and be contacted through his website huge number of persons today no longer grants a healing to the daughter of a Syro- what makes for true discipleship and true ronrolheiser.com and facebook.com/ go to church or have a very strained re- Phoenician woman. Moreover he asks us sacrament. It is important to ask what ronrolheiser.

EDITORIAL Why is this? Was it simply a techno- From page 16 Yanny vs. laurel logical limitation of the time because nearly all communication was oral? Or is more “open and respectful.” there something peculiar about hear- He also said this vote was for ur senses often deceive us. The recent “yanny vs. laurel” ing that makes it a privileged sense for the “next generation.” debate on the internet saw those who heard the word “laurel” perceiving faith? No, Mr. Varadkar is not cor- Oarguing with those who heard the word “yanny” when listen- The church’s newest feast, that of rect. Irish voters have done ing to a vocabulary.com recording of the word “laurel.” Mary, Mother of the Church, provides a nothing more than invoke the Very reasonable people had rather intense disagreements about clue. How is it that Mary received Christ death sentence on millions of what they were hearing. (I heard “laurel” and my son heard “yanny.” into her womb? By hearing the word of babies who will fall victim to We simply had to agree to disagree.) God and assenting to it. As then-Cardinal the selfishness of one or more It may seem like a trivial dispute, but like most things that garner Joseph Ratzinger explained, “Mary wel- of their parents and the will- so much cultural attention, something deeper was at work. Yanny comes the Holy Spirit into herself. Having Theology in ingness of a doctor to end that vs. laurel is about how our senses can be tricked by subtle changes in become pure hearing, she receives the baby’s life with the simple acoustic frequencies, but it is also about how we have a strong desire word so totally that it becomes flesh in Technology weaponry of a scalpel. to know what is true. her.” Laws, by their nature, are And we will try to persuade others even though they are incapa- Stephen Beale writes about this as well Brett Robinson mirrors of a country’s con- ble of hearing what we are hearing because of the way they happen and points out that it is the liturgy where science. Certainly that is evi- to process the signal. the fullness of hearing is experienced. We hear God’s word, but we dent in America, where not The same might be said of our faith. The line between belief and also receive him bodily under the species of bread and wine. And it only is abortion legal, so is doubt is often a matter of proper interpretation. Was Christ just a doesn’t stop there. We are transformed by this Communion, attuned capital punishment, another moral teacher who wanted us to be kinder to each other or was he to God’s grace and prepared to exercise our theological senses of form of state sponsored execu- also the son of God, willing to suffer death to atone for our sins? If faith, hope and charity in the world by proclaiming the Gospel. tion. We have become a coun- we believe the latter, how do we come to know it? And why do oth- All of our senses are engaged in the Mass, but hearing is first. The try where death is big business, ers fail to believe it? Our interpretive ability comes from the gift of Liturgy of the Word precedes the Liturgy of the Eucharist because and morality has gotten caught divine grace that shapes our perception and illuminates our under- our hearts must be tuned to God’s frequency before we receive him up in its wake. standing. in the Eucharist. The external senses must give way to something Unfortunately, it now ap- Perception is shaped first by the senses. St. Paul tells us that faith internal – where real conversion takes place. pears Ireland is now headed comes by hearing. Our Lord said, “Whoever has ears ought to hear,” down that same path of moral following the parable of the sower in the Gospel of Matthew. In both ROBINSON is director of communications and Catholic media studies turpitude. cases, hearing is given a special place. at the University of Notre Dame McGrath Institute for Church Life. 18 The Catholic Commentator COMING EVENTS June 8, 2018

Discalced Carmelites – The Secular Order of Dis- include why the church has a pope and the authority of 20, to order lunch. On-site registration is available, calced Carmelites will meet Sunday, June 10, 1:30 p.m., the pope, the Eucharist and Mary. For more informa- but lunch is not guaranteed. For more information call at the Our Lady of Mercy Parish Activity Center in the tion, call 225-665-5359. CCRNO at 504-828-1368 or visit their website. St. Joseph Room, 444 Marquette Avenue. For details, call Ethlyn White at 225-343-3181 or 225-803-3391 or Kid’s Fun Fest – Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hats Off Gala– St. Aubry Ladies’ Auxiliary will email [email protected]. Health will sponsor a Kid’s Healthy Fun Fest Saturday, host its Hats of Gala Sunday, June 24, 3:30 p.m, at the June 23, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., for kids near the Mall of Lou- North Iberville Community Center, 75700 Rosedale Pro-Life Mass – A monthly pro-life Mass will be isiana playland, 6401 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge. Road, Rosedale. There will be entertainment, food and celebrated Tuesday, June 12, 5:30 p.m., at St. Agnes There will be games, giveaways and health informa- door prizes. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased Church, 749 East Blvd., Baton Rouge. All are invited to tion for the entire family. The first 300 children will by calling Daisy Hawkins-Thomas at 225-625-2185, attend. For more information, call 225-383-4127. receive a free T-shirt. Register online at ololchildrens. Thresa Thomas at 225-776-5392 or Trymeka McCoy at org. 225-439-4346. Workplace Series – Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Baton Rouge will sponsor a Success in the Workplace Blue Mass – St. Gerard Majella Church, 5354 Plank Byzantine Icon Workshop – Registration is being series Tuesdays, June 12 & 19, and Thursdays, June 14 & Road, Baton Rouge, will celebrate its annual Blue Mass accepted for a Byzantine icon workshop that will be 21, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. The classes will help people identify for police officers and first responders on Sunday, July held Monday, July 30 – Friday, Aug. 3, 9 a.m. - 4:30 their strengths and talents, write resumes and cover 15, 10 a.m. Lunch will follow at the parish hall. For more p.m., at the Burden Botanic Gardens Conference Cen- letters, develop computer skills and complete and sub- information, call 225-355-2553. ter, 4650 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge. A team of iconog- mit resumes and online job applications. For informa- raphers will provide instructions, which are guided and tion and to register, call Jean Dresley at 225-376-6840. Day of Refreshment – Catholic Charismatic Re- paced, to produce a finished icon of the prophet Elijah. newal of New Orleans (CCRNO) will sponsor a Day of Cost of the workshop is $350 and includes all materials Summer Leisure Learning – Immaculate Concep- Refreshment for Women Saturday, June 23, 10 a.m. – 3 and lunch for five days. Checks should be made payable tion Church, 865 Hatchell Lane, Denham Springs, is p.m., at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help School gym, 531 to Friends of the Gardens and mailed to Kitty Hessburg hosting a Summer Leisure Learning Series Thursdays, Williams Blvd., Kenner. Cost is $30 and includes lunch. Wiemer, 7636 Claret Ave., Baton Rouge. For more infor- 7 p.m., June 14 – Aug. 9, in the small hall. Topics will Register online at ccrno.org by noon Wednesday, June mation, call Wiemer at 225-284-7440.

The Catholic Commentator For help placing your classified ad, PO Box 3316 call 225-387-0983. All classified ads are prepaid. Baton Rouge LA 70821-3316 Classifieds Credit cards are now accepted. Announcements Business service Business service Help WAnted Help WAnted While we at The Catholic Commentator HOUSEKEEPER Allan’s Tree Service Holy Family School is looking for a The Olde Mill in Baton Rouge is seeking do our best to bring reliable advertisers MATURE DEPENDABLE Specializes in large and dangerous tree music teacher. Please send a resume and an experienced sales representative to to our readers, we are not responsible 20 + YEARS EXPERIENCE removal. Licensed and insured. Senior three references to Holy Family School provide quotes, follow-ups and schedule for any claims made by any advertiser. HAVE REFERENCES citizen and law/military discounts. Allan Principal Michael Comeau at mcomeau@ deliveries of our custom wood products. CALL DEBBIE Johnson 225-241-8789. hfspa.com. Other duties include making cold calls, I would like to employ someone with 225-266-7655 working with marketing staff, providing whom I could speak correct conversa- TURNING 65? In sales employment advertisements, Donnie’s Furniture Repair & Upholstery. the advertiser must name the product trade show support and customer ser- tional French. Call 225-755-7055. MEDICARE QUESTIONS? vice. Hours in the office are flexible up to We do refinishing, repairs, caning, WE CAN HELP or service to be sold. Ads must state painting of furniture and upholstery. how wages will be paid (salary, com- 30 a week at an hourly rate, plus commis- JOE GOODSON – 225-572-2275 missions, etc.) if money is mentioned. sion on sales. Send resumes to shawn@ In business 43 years. Pick up and de- JOHNNY STUART – 225-907-3619 or ent livery. 10876 Greenwell Springs Road. The ad must also state if there is an in- oursodesigns.com. Visit our website at F r vestment required. theoldemill.com for more information. 225-272-2577. See our showroom. Dave’s Bicycle Repair and Sales. Free Perkins Rowe – Condo for lease. Fur- pickup and delivery, free estimates, ex- nished. 1 bedroom 1 bath, poolside. Se- LEBLANC’S TREE & STUMP pert economical repair on all brands. cured parking. $1850 per month. Call REMOVAL, INC. Call 225-924-4337 or www.davesbicycle 225-715-6428 Prompt service–Free estimates repair. com. Reach 95,000 readers in the FULLY INSURED E. H. “Eddie” LeBlanc CALL TYRONE Diocese of Baton Rouge Phone 383-7316 “WHEN IT NEEDS FIXING” by placing your ad in For sAle LEAKING SINKS, FAUCETS, TOILETS THOMAS LUNDIN, CPA AND GARBAGE DISPOSALS The Catholic Commentator. Roselawn Memorial Park. Section C, Accounting and taxes for businesses, PLUS OTHER REPAIRS Lot 123, Graveside #7. $1550. Call 225- non-profits and individuals; business, CALL 225-802-4522 OR 225-346-6246 223-7213 computer, financial and management Call 225-387-0983. services. 30 years experience; profes- BROUSSEAU'S Painting Three plots in Greenoaks Memorial sional, prompt and personal attention. Interior and exterior painting. Experi- Credit card accepted. Park. Section 21- Lot 393 Spaces 1 & 2; Call 225-296-0404. enced and reliable. Free estimates. Call Lot 394 Space 1. $3500 each. Call 225- 225-241-8488. 313-7140. Mr. D’s Tree Service THE CATHOLIC 3 Licensed Arborists Anthony's Furniture Specialties. We re- Roselawn Memorial Park. Three plots Free Estimates store hurricane damaged furniture. If it's together including monument space. Fully Insured furniture, we do it all! Refinishing, re-up- ommentator CSERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 Current value $7500. Will sell for $4500. Don Decell owner holstery, pick up and delivery, etc. 2263 Call 504-393-6443. 225-292-6756 Florida Blvd., BR. 225-413-2607. Print Your Ad Here AHAB FRANK ROTC TONE ATMAN ISSO LUGS LEOI I NEAP ASSENT SAVAGERY SETTEES DEO DATES TO RUN: ARCH SUCCOR Circle Category: Announcements—Business Services—Cards of Thanks—For Rent—For Sale—Help Wanted LUST EREI TIARA —Positions Wanted—Legal Notices (other ) AREA DARNS TIDY Mail to: The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 PSALM MODE ENOS Enclosed is $9.50 for the first 15 words + 15¢ for each word thereafter + 25¢ per line for each special effect (all caps, centered PASCAL DIMS line, bold lettering); for a total of $______for each issue. Call for charging on your credit card. DES AIRFARE Advertisements will not NAME OPERETTA NO IDEA be published without ADDRESS AIDE HOSEA DOES full payment in advance. HUGE AL IAR ERSE CITY PHONE USED LEFTY SEED drow.www g moc.scilohtacrofsema June 8, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 19

METANOIA  And the problem is alarming girls are forced to work night and Father Jeff Bayhi, pastor of St. ward, trying to fill up the house From page 1 in Louisiana with Baton Rouge day. John the Baptist Church in Zach- but we’ve got to make sure that ranked at number eight and The pornography industry ary, to give the girls their own we have been successful with the Sister Norma said the four New Orleans at 23 out of the 100 generates a combined $10 billion private space along with new ones we have.” residents under the 24-hour care most populous U.S. cities for annually in profit, according to furnishings, towels and paja- According to Father Bayhi, of the Hospitaller Sisters of Mer- substantive calls about human several outlets. mas, according to Sister Norma. the Vatican said Metanoia Manor cy range in age from 16 to 17. She trafficking made to the National “Just a few yards away from “There’s a reason why,” she should serve as an international said the girls have suffered abuse Trafficking Hotline between here there are activities,” Sister said. “Because they have been model to shelters for human traf- for several years, including one December 2007 and Decem- Norma said. “And, you think it is used many, many times. Now, ficking victims. who, at a young age was intro- ber 2016, according to human just overseas? No. It is right here. they can start something new, to The girls are homeschooled duced to drugs and molested traffickinghotline.org. The four girls that we and therapy ses- daily by her father. She was later According to the most recent have, they are from sions are held at sold to a trafficker. statistics, there are currently right here in Louisi- “I have swum in the deepest of Metanoia Manor as Human trafficking is char- 14,500 to 17,500 people traf- ana.” well as sewing class- acterized as modern slavery ficked into the United States an- Sister Norma re- waters but now I walk along beaches es. But, the sisters with traffickers using violence, nually, with the majority young called how the first need more help, like threats, deception and other females. Human trafficking in resident reacted after with a seashell in my pocket teaching the girls manipulative tactics to force vic- the United States generates an her first night in the table social skills, tims to engage in prostitution, estimated $32 billion in profit house. After a good for every step I take toward including manners pornography or provide labor annually and five times that night’s sleep, she told and the girls want against their will, according to worldwide. the sisters, “I am free my peace.” to play sports, like polarisproject.org. It is big busi- Sister Norma said a human now.” basketball and vol- ness during “high-profile sport- trafficker with four girls under “We can go any- Mentanoia Manor Resident leyball. ing events like the Super Bowl,” his or her control can make up to where, it doesn’t “Alone, we cannot said Sister Norma. $1 million per year, because the matter,” said Sister do this, but together Norma. “But for them, they can- celebrate the decision of starting we can,” Sister Norma said. not do that, someone is follow- a new life.” “So the sisters are there to ing them, someone is controlling Starting anew is not a smooth cure them, to direct them, to be them. If they do certain things, road, however, with the girls bat- with them,” she added. “And, C they are beaten up. And so, for tling issues that come from trau- sometimes they have so many the first time in her life, she slept ma, including depression, addic- questions, which we don’t have HELP WANTED HELP WANTED all night long and nobody both- tion, behavioral, anxiety, mood all the answers. But, knowing ered her, no phone calls, nobody swings issues and fear. For more that there is somebody to be Diocese of Baton Rouge is waking her up, nobody is in- information, visit metanoia-inc. there with them is already good Catholic Schools Office truding her room and when she org. The sisters have also had enough.” comes down for breakfast, (she to teach the girls how to sleep at Before wrapping up her talk, Principal Opening said), ‘Sisters, I’m free.’ So, we the proper time and basic house- Sister Norma read the powerful 2018-19 School Year were hugging her (and saying), hold chores. Rewards come in words of another resident: “I’ve ‘Yes, you are.’ ” the form of outings to fast food never had peace in my life, peace St. Francis Xavier School Another resident was amazed restaurants or area festivals and in my mind, my body and soul, Baton Rouge, LA at having a room and a bathroom the park. but here I’ve found it. St. Francis Xavier Elementary School, founded by the Sisters to herself. Privacy was never “Taking in these girls is a “I have swum in the deepest of the Holy Family in 1920 and currently serving 168 students an option in their past lives but huge learning curve,” said Fa- of waters but now I walk along in Grades K–8, seeks a principal with a commitment to growth, it’s all part of the uniqueness of ther Bayhi. “These children are beaches with a seashell in my collaborative spirit, and strategic vision. With approximately 18 Metanoia Manor, whose design so severely damaged. So, we are pocket for every step I take to- professional staff members, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School was well-thought out by founder in the process of moving for- ward my peace.” strives to create a holistic Catholic environment to encourage students to develop their unique talents and skills to achieve academic excellence.  Van Haute also warned of those abortion sup- The Diocese of Baton Rouge has thirty schools in eight civil parish- IRELAND porters who insist any news laws will be restricted. From page 4 es, with strong Catholic identity the focus in all schools. The district is She recalled how when the Roe v Wade decision le- accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and does not become right simply because a majority galized abortion in the United States in 1973 many standardized test scores are above state and national averages. support it.” pro-abortion supporters cited the alleged restric- Catholic schools in the Diocese of Baton Rouge Insisting that pro-life campaigners will contin- tions.

Evangelize Hearts, Educate Minds, Encourage Talent ue their efforts, McGuirk told Catholic News Ser- “Regardless of restrictions that are in place, and Embrace the Future! vice: “Shortly, legislation will be introduced that once you go down this road, it’s just a matter of Applicants must meet the following criteria: will allow babies to be killed in our country. We time before the restrictions are gone or just be- 1. Practicing Catholic will oppose that legislation. If and when abortion come meaningless,” she said. 2. Master’s Degree, Meeting Louisiana Requirements as clinics are opened in Ireland, because of the inabil- NonPublic Administrator ity of the government to keep their promise about (Catholic Commentator assistant editor Debbie 3. Five Years Minimum Experience in Education, Catholic a (general-practitioner-led health) service, we will Shelley and Catholic News Service contributed to Schools Preferred oppose that as well.” this report.) 4. Demonstrated Leadership Ability, Catholic Education Preferred 5. Must be Available on or before July 1, 2018 Mail resume, copies of all college transcript(s) showing degrees and three letters of recommendation to  Vutera said after dinner each night, the leaders St. Francis Xavier Principal Search BLESSINGS From page 12 will ask the large group where they have seen the Catholic Schools Office “blessings” in the day. P.O. Box 2028 with our hands as well as working on cleansing our The youth will sleep on site at STM on air mat- Baton Rouge, LA 70821-2028 hearts throughout the week. Along with the commu- tresses, sleeping bags or cots, Vutera said. Deadline for application: June 15, 2018 nity service we bring the kids to, we journey along “This brings the experience full circle in getting The schools of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools. with them through their Catholic faith in the eve- to know each other and getting to know their bless- They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of educational pol- icies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs. nings. We offer reconciliation, adoration, anointing ings from the days they spend with each other,” of the sick and evening talks to challenge them.” Vutera said. 20 The Catholic Commentator June 8, 2018

CALLING  belong there.” From page 1 An introverted personality added an- other layer of complexity. He even admit- a journey that seem preordained but also ted that during the first year he was “pretty strewn with spiritual potholes. much anti-social” and besides the events he After graduating from LSU with a de- was required to attend “you would not see gree in biological science, he recognized me around.” the crossroad he faced in his life. He had The second major obstacle confronting already been accepted into LSU Medical Deacon Vu was “embracing celibacy and not School but the call to priesthood was still being able to have a family or be a biological beckoning. Deacon Vu also understood that father.” if he started medical school he would never Calling it the natural desire for every hu- likely pursue the priesthood. man being, he said he faced one of his most PROJECT BRANT – Callie Broussard Polozola, chairman of Project Books Readily Paradoxically, he also recognized that if difficult moments when serving a summer Available to all in Need of Teaching (BRANT) for the Diocesan Council of Catho- he entered the seminary and it did not work at St. Margaret Queen of Scotland Church lic Women (DCCW), distributed books to students at Glen Oaks Park Elementa- out, there would be little chance of him en- in Albany with pastor Father Jamin David. ry School in Baton Rouge to take home with them as they prepared for summer tering medical school. Deacon Vu said watching the families inter- break on May 16. Looking on are Glen Oaks librarian Connie Corrill, left, and “So I thought I would give it a try to see act with each other during Mass and other executive secretary Kashi Sherman. Project BRANT promotes literacy in the if the Lord is calling me to serve him in a events rekindled his paternal yearning. home as well as school. Polozola said with the support of the diocese, a dona- different way,” Deacon Vu said. “The thing But a life changing talk with his spiritual tion from Carmel Mask and other generous Catholic families, DCCW provided with following God’s call – it’s not always director opened Deacon Vu’s heart to his 635 books for the students at the Title 1 school. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Com- easy to do it completely. vocation. During the conversation, he asked mentator “There’s a reluctance to following God’s his spiritual director how does anyone call and the devil is always pushing you the know for certain if the priesthood is where other way. Even though I had the feeling (of they are called to be. being called to the priesthood) I pushed it “He told me that the way I was I would off throughout high school and college be- be a good father biologically or spiritually,” cause I always felt a strong desire to be a Deacon Vu said. “For me that helped tre- biological father, to have a family. I always mendously, knowing that I had the option thought the priesthood is not suited for me; to be a biological father or spiritual father, that I would not have that kind of family.” and it was up to my choice along with God’s Once he committed to entering the semi- will. nary, the immediate challenge was timing, “That was a very freeing moment for me.” since by that time it was mid-July with At that point, he cast aside all doubt and school scheduled to start less than a month became engaged in the seminary life, to later. the point where this past semester at Notre “So I thought there was a zero chance I Dame he was involved in numerous activi- would get in,” he admitted, adding that he ties, to the surprise of his classmates, sev- enlisted the aid of his brother Father Joseph eral who later admitted they did not know Vu, who is administrator at St. Philomena him except by name. Church in Labadieville, Assumption of the “It’s very beautiful how I have seen my- Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Plattenville self transformed in seminary and how God and St. Anne Church in Napoleonville. has changed me from being very much anti- Deacon Vu acknowledged that it was social to becoming very open,” he said. “Just only through God’s will he was accepted on seeing the change in me is a very beautiful such a tight timeline. thing.” But those early days as a seminarian Deacon Vu is looking forward to his fi- were not easy as he confronted two signifi- nal year of formation, eager to soak up the cant obstacles. The first was a sense of be- knowledge he will gain by working with LAST DAY OF SCHOOL – Students from Catholic schools through the Diocese of longing, and for the first 18 months doubt Father Uter, learning the daily routine of a Baton Rouge celebrated the last day of school with Mass, awards, pictures and was his daily partner, wondering if he was priest. But he is even more eager for a year good-byes for the summer break. Most schools dismissed during the week of meant to be there because “I was just look- from now, to begin his role as a father, just May 21. Principal Michael Comeau of Holy Family School in Port Allen visited ing around at the people and thinking these not the father he anticipated. with students, parents and posed for photos as he closed out the 2017-18 school people are so holy. And like so many callings, it all started year. Photo by Bonny Van | The Catholic Commentator “They pray 24/7. I was thinking I don’t with a simple prayer.

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Become an Angel today! Help someone in need feel the spirit of giving by becoming an Action Angel for the poor and homeless. Volunteer by signing up online at svdpbr.org or calling us today at (225) 383-7837, ext. 0. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul – Serving our Community Since 1865