THE CATHOLIC PAGE 7 Our Lady’s Fighting Tigers May 8, 2020ommentator Vol. 58, No. 7 2019 LPA GENERAL EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENT thecatholiccommentator.org C Diocesan officials weighing churches reopening

By Richard Meek must be masked. If Phase One is enacted, weekend Masses could po- The Catholic Commentator Occupancy for those businesses will be limited to tentially be celebrated May 16-17 with certain direc- 25 percent of capacity. tives that are currently being considered by diocesan Bishop Michael G. Duca and diocesan officials As Louisiana prepares for its next phase of reopen- officials, but a return to public liturgical celebrations are planning a return to public Mass celebration in ing, business owners and faith leaders are encouraged will more likely be later than mid-May. response to a gradual loosening of the state’s stay-at- to plan as well, including understanding their build- Louisiana has seen positive, improving trends home orders. ing’s maximum occupancy limits based on state fire statewide in terms of new case growth and new hos- Governor John Bel Edwards has scheduled a press marshal standards. pitalizations in several regions across the state. New conference May 11 and is expected to announce a de- “We’ll pay close attention to the guidelines the cases and hospitalizations continue to increase or to cision regarding implementation of Phase One of the governor announces (May 11),” Bishop Duca said in a plateau, according to data from the Louisiana Depart- reopening of the state. statement. “We have over the past several weeks taken ment of Health. But Edwards noted “we have a little The governor on April 27 extended the stay-at- seriously his recommendations and orders. work to do before we meet the criteria to safely move home order, which was set to expire April 30, to May “There are practical considerations that need to be to the next phase of reopening.” 15. addressed before an even modified return to sacra- The governor added he is hopeful that Phase One When implemented, Phase One will ease restric- mental life in our parishes. Once we have a good idea can be implemented in mid-May and said he is eager tions on houses of worship and restaurants and open of what the health professionals are recommending, to reopen all areas of the state’s economy. other businesses such as barber shops and hair salons. we’ll be better prepared to plan and incrementally On April 3, Bishop Duca extended the suspension All of those businesses, including churches, will implement what will likely be a new normal for our of Masses in addition to other liturgies and devotion- have strict social distancing restrictions and everyone worship gatherings and liturgical celebrations.” als through April 30. LOVE PERSEVERES Couples go on with marriage plans despite restrictions

By Debbie Shelley scheduled to get married had The Catholic Commentator to make the difficult deci- sion of whether to postpone Church pews were mostly the wedding until at least empty as bride and groom met the summer or fall or marry at the altar, but that’s where on their scheduled wedding God’s presence filled any lack date and abide by the require- as they established their life- ments of the Diocese of Baton long relationship, say couples Rouge that the gathering be in the Diocese of Baton Rouge limited to no more than 10 who have married during the people in attendance. coronavirus pandemic. But the smaller, more in- According to Father Jamin timate weddings allowed the David, pastor of St. Margaret couples to concentrate on the Sidney and Michael Batson with Fr. Jamin David Queen of Scotland in Albany, sacrament of marriage and the and Father Michael Alello, Rite of Marriage. And in Louisiana, people emerged from the church, peo- distancing,” said Father David. pastor of St. Thomas More “When you only have a few still find ways to celebrate ple cheered and honked horns. One of the couples he mar- Church in Baton Rouge, as people you can really focus on milestones. “It was a little rambunc- ried was Sidney Guillory and events surrounding the coro- what’s going on,” said Father Father David noted that af- tious, but all in keeping with Michael Batson, who “tied the navirus unfolded, couples Alello. ter one wedding, as the couple the governor’s call for social SEE WEDDINGS PAGE 9 2 The Catholic Commentator May 8, 2020 | DID YOU KNOW Fearless, fruitful and fervent By Dina Dow the disciples scattered into the neighboring as well as distant lands to share the message We continue to celebrate Easter as the res- of Jesus. Philip fearlessly traveled to Samaria urrected Lord remains by our side. The pres- and caught the hope of the people who wit- ent-day quarantine may restrict our commu- nessed his wondrous deeds performed in the nal gatherings yet we, as a church, “step out” name of Jesus. They were filled with joy and creatively and share faith, hope came to believe. Peter and and love we have in our Lord, Je- John joined Philip and to- sus Christ. God is not bound by Life-Giving gether prayed for the com- physical space, and neither are FAI H ing of the Holy Spirit as they we as fearless, fruitful and fervent laid their hands on them. A peo- disciples on a mission. The apostles ple once scattered by exile were and early disciples witnessed such demean- sown with the seeds of hope in Jesus Christ or. The Mass readings for the Fifth and Sixth by the apostles and were filled with the Holy Sundays in Easter take us to incredible mo- Spirit. Fearless. Fruitful. Fervent. Who can I ments in the early church when these fear- share the hope of Jesus with? What “distant less, fruitful and fervent followers of Jesus land” is God calling me to go to? How am I set out to proclaim their joy. sowing the seeds of faith? Community needs Living stones Chapter 6 in Acts of the Apostles begins Peter describes Jesus as “a living stone” (1 with a need because of the preaching of the Pt 2:4-9), the one whom we follow, the cor- apostles, the number of disciples, that is to nerstone of our life. Am I allowing Jesus to say “converts and believers” in Jesus Christ, build me “into a spiritual house,” stone by grew rapidly. At the same time the needs of stone, as to be a sacrifice for others, faithful the larger community were under met. Thus, in the Lord and, at times, rejected by others the apostles were presented seven men filled when we proclaim his goodness in who we with the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom they are and by what we do? Think about this. ordained and tasked them with the mission How am I “a spiritual house” of Jesus? Is my to serve. These are our earliest deacons, or- “structure” fortified by the living stone, Jesus dained to serve the “table” and the works Christ? Do I remain strong and unbreakable Pope Francis. CNS photo of mercy. Their mission was so fruitful that during times of strife? Or do I crumble when even more people converted to the faith, in- adversity tries to break me down? Am I built cluding some least expected, namely, priests of living stone: a person filled with the Holy in the Temple (Acts 6: 7). Spirit; a person of sacrifice for others; a per- In the name Stephen stands out in this moment as “a son of humble prayer and praise for God; a man filled with faith and the Holy Spirit” person who welcomes a community with (Acts 6:5). This early deacon’s fervent works love; a shelter for the lost; a rock of faith; a done in the name of Jesus proved to be pow- proclaimer of truth; a witness of mercy, hope of the Father erfully fruitful. Synagogue officials, dis- and peace? Fearless, Fruitful. Fervent. turbed by his works, falsely accused Stephen How can we know the way? If you’ve ever been a part of a ‘Tau’ is a letter of the Greek alpha- of blasphemy and had him stoned to death In the Gospel of John, Chapter 14, Jesus group prayer, you can always spot bet that is written as a T, and so the at the feet of Saul. Even during the stoning, gives the Twelve Apostles strong assurance the Catholics in the crowd. They early Christians saw in it the sign of Stephen asked God to forgive the accusers as as they partake in their last meal with the are the ones who cross themselves, the cross.” he handed his spirit over to Jesus. Fearless. Lord. The opening verse reveals Jesus’ halt- at the beginning and at the end. So Making the sign of the cross is Fruitful. Fervent. Stephen answered the call, ing compassion and care for his followers. He how did we come to mark ourselves not meant to be an act of supersti- helped the community, shared the message says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You “In the name of the Father, the Son tion but an act of professing faith. of salvation in Jesus and died doing such. have faith in God; have faith also in me” (Jn and the Holy Spirit”? According to the Catechism of the Reflect on this message: What is God calling 1:1). Jesus prepares them for what is about to According to aleteia.org, writ- Catholic Church, “The Christian to me to do for him and for the community? take place, while simultaneously expressing a ings from the third century refer to begins his day, his prayers, and his How am I witnessing faith, hope and love? full reliance on God and him. He tells them of Christians making the sign of the activities with the Sign of the Cross: Who is persecuting me? the dwelling places he will prepare for them cross over their bodies. Early Chris- ‘In the name of the Father and of the Scattered & sown and all who are faithful. Thomas asked, “How tian apologist Tertullian wrote, “We Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.’ After the martyrdom of Stephen, some of SEE GOSPEL PAGE 3 Christians wear out our foreheads The baptized person dedicates the with the sign of the cross,” accord- day to the glory of God and calls on ing to the website. the Savior’s grace which lets him act The tradition of making a mark in the Spirit as a child of the father. on the body can be found in the Old The sign of the cross strengthen Testament in the book of Ezekial in us in temptations and difficulties” thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator a passage that states, “and the Lord (CCC2157). said to him: ‘Pass through the city, With its historical and biblical Bishop Michael G. Duca Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager through the midst of Jerusalem, roots, the sign of the cross is one Father Tom Ranzino Associate Publisher Bonny Van Staff Writer and mark an X on the foreheads of way Catholics can not only recall Richard Meek Editor Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation those who grieve and lament over the sacrifice of Jesus 2,000 years Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor Nicole Latiolais Graphic Designer all the abominations practiced ago but to join with others in our within it’ ” (Ezek 9:4). universal church in recognizing our 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, The website notes that some faith, our similarities and our one Baton Rouge, LA 70808; 225-387-0983 or 225-387-0561. Periodical Postage Paid at Baton Rouge, LA. Copy must translations of that Biblical verse community as we pray together for reach the above address by Wednesday for use in the next week’s paper. Subscription rate: $14.00 per year. POST- use the word “tau” instead of “X.” an end to the current global pan- MASTER, send address changes to The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746. The article goes on to explain, “ demic. May 8, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 3 Grab N Go meals beginning May 11 By Richard Meek years of age and younger regardless of school enroll- serve basis at the following schools in Baton Rouge: Our The Catholic Commentator ment. Lady of Mercy Church, St. Francis Xavier, Redemptorist Drive-thru meals will be provided on Mondays only St. Gerard and St. Jean Vianney. The Diocese of Baton Rouge Child Nutrition Program from 10 a.m.-noon. Nutrition program staff members will be wearing announced it will be offering Grab N Go meal services at Each student will receive a package containing five face masks or face shields when appropriate. Also, the four sites beginning May 11. breakfasts and five lunches. Walk-up service will also be temperature of each staff member will be taken before The program will be offering free breakfast and lunch available but all should maintain proper social distanc- entering the café. curbside pickup service for all students in the Baton ing, according to program officials. They will also be cleaning and sanitizing their work Rouge area. The service is available for all students 18 Packaged meals will be distributed first-come/first areas when on the school campus. Archdiocese of New Orleans files Chapter 11 allow funds to go directly to He also said he believed the ing our financials, increasing victims,” the archbishop wrote. process would allow the archdi- our transparency and creating The archbishop said no par- ocese to renew its “commitment a path forward” in serving its ish funds would be used to re- to the faithful and the New Or- “core mission: bringing Christ solve claims. leans community by restructur- to others.” “Parish funds are separate from archdiocesan accounts and the pastor decides how those are used for parish min- Tree Service istry,” he said. “My daily prayer Mr. D’s is that this independent process ovEr 40 yEars ExpErIEncE The Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France and a statue of An- brings about healing for those Don Decell, owner drew Jackson are seen in New Orleans June 3, 2019. The Archdiocese of who have been harmed as a re- carl BaBin, owner New Orleans filed for Chapter 11 reorganization May 1, 2020. CNS photo sult of abuse by members of the • Economical clergy. The healing of victims • Fully Insured • Quality Work NEW ORLEANS (CNS) – Cit- ory M. Aymond said the “diffi- and survivors is most important CALL TODAY! ing mounting concerns over the cult decision” to file for financial to me and to the church.” 225-292-6756 financial impact of clergy sex reorganization would allow the He wrote the circumstances abuse settlements and the coro- archdiocese to ensure that sex surrounding COVID-19 have navirus pandemic, the Archdi- abuse victims have their claims added more financial hardships ocese of New Orleans filed for resolved in “a fair and timely to an already difficult situation. Chapter 11 reorganization of the manner.” In acknowledging that the finances of its administrative of- “Very importantly, taking bankruptcy court now controls fices May 1 in U.S. Bankruptcy this action will allow us to ad- the process, the archbishop said Court for the Eastern District of dress remaining clergy abuse he hoped the reorganization Louisiana. claims, all of which stem from would be completed “as soon as In a letter to Catholics of the allegations dating back several possible” without any interrup- archdiocese, Archbishop Greg- decades ago, in a way that will tion in ministry.

GOSPEL  the Eucharist, his very body and Jesus’ way is the way of life on From page 2 blood, soul and divinity, food for earth and life everlasting. What the journey, for everlasting life. path do I walk on each day? My can we know the way” to these This is the pinnacle of our faith. way or Jesus’ way? Do I receive places? Jesus simply replies, “I “I am the living bread that came the sacraments instituted by Je- am the way, and the truth and down from heaven; whoever sus for us to encounter his abun- the life” (Jn 14:5-6). He calls eats this bread will live forever; dant gifts of grace and real pres- them and us to follow him and to and the bread that I will give is ence? How have I called upon follow the Ten Commandments. my flesh for the life of the world” the advocate, the Holy Spirit, to And we are not alone, for Jesus (Jn 6:51). guide me on the way, asking for promises to send the advocate Along his way, we keep the an outpouring of the gifts? Am “to be with you always” and “not commandments in the forefront, I a fearless, fruitful and fervent leave us orphans, and I will come as well as the beatitudes. At times disciple of the risen Christ? to you” (Jn 14:16, 16). we stumble, and perhaps even … Loving God, our Father, Jesus’ way leads us to eternal fall face forward into sin. Yet, his strengthen us to become wit- life. The beginnings of eternity way is rich in mercy, hence we re- nesses to the saving grace of your are RIGHT NOW. “Where?” you ceive the sacrament of reconcili- Son, Jesus, our Lord. Amen. (Ex- may ask. The way begins at our ation, are forgiven and are back cerpt of the Disciples Called To baptism, as we become part of on the path of truth. His truth is Witness: Prayer, USCCB.) his mystical body. We contin- revealed in sacred Scripture and ue with a strengthening by the sacred tradition. As we come to Dow is the director of the Of- Holy Spirit, as were the apostles, know Jesus, we come to know fice of Evangelization and Cat- when we receive confirmation. truth and come to know the fa- echesis for the Diocese of Baton We are nourished on his way by ther. Fearless. Fruitful. Fervent. Rouge. 4 The Catholic Commentator NATIONAL | INTERNATIONAL May 8, 2020 Trump meets with Catholic educators; promises aid

By Richard Meek The president also mentioned the pos- ops and Bishop Michael C. Barber of Oak- and opposition to the Johnson Amend- The Catholic Commentator sibility of a Micro Grant, which would land, California, chairman of the bishops’ ment, which prohibits tax exempt orga- provide direct financial assistance to Committee on Catholic Education. nizations, including churches, from sup- Financial relief for parents of Catho- families who normally send their kids to Educators identified as being on the porting or opposing political candidates. lic school students may be on the way in Catholic schools but might not be able to call were Paul Escala and Elias Moo, su- The president’s remarks lasted about terms of tax credits and direct assistance, afford it for the 2020-21 school year be- perintendents of Catholic education in 15 minutes before he fielded questions. President Donald Trump said during a cause of the financial fallout caused by the archdioceses of Los Angeles and Den- The topic of federal support to prop conference call with Catholic educators the coronavirus pandemic. ver, respectively. up Catholic schools was the primary con- and leaders April 26. “It was pointed out that Catholic The Archdiocese of Denver emailed a cern expressed by participants. The need Dr. Melanie Palmisano, superinten- schools do excellent work, charging one- statement from Moo on April 28 in which is particularly acute under the pandemic dent of the Catholic Schools Office for half to one-third of what public schools he said he explained to the president the even though some schools have obtained the Diocese of Baton Rouge, and Rob spend to educate children,” Palmisano ministry of Catholic schools in Colorado forgivable Small Business Administration Tasman, executive director of the Louisi- said. “It is low cost, high quality educa- and the challenges Catholic education loans under the new Paycheck Protection ana Conference of Catholic Bishops, were tion.” faces because of the pandemic. Program. among 600 Catholic leaders who joined Trump also said he would continue “I spoke to the president about the long Catholic school administrators na- in the nearly one-hour long call with the to support issues vital to the Catholic history of Catholic education in our coun- tionwide face major questions as they president. Church, especially abortion, religious try, and how our nation needs schools prepare for the new academic year be- “The point was made that Catholic freedom and school choice. that provide an educational experience cause of the potential loss of tuition schools in the United States save the gov- Crux, an online Catholic news organi- that forms the whole child and values the from families whose wage-earners have ernment $24 billion each year by educat- zation, reported on the call after obtain- primacy of parents and of the soul of the suffered layoffs and the high expense of ing students that the government would ing a recording of the event. human person,” Moo said. converting in-person classes to online otherwise have to educate,” Palmisano Trump repeatedly returned to his sup- He also said it was important for the learning. said in an interview with The Catholic port of efforts to stop abortion and school church “to engage with public officials to Cardinal Dolan was the first partic- Commentator. “President Trump said choice. discuss the issues that are central to our ipant to speak, according to the Crux he did not realize (the amount) was that Among those on the call were Cardinal Catholic faith and mission,” regardless account. He welcomed the support of high. He was surprised.” Timothy M. Dolan of New York, Cardinal of an individual’s “political affiliation or DeVos, Carson and Kellyanne Conway, Palmisano said Trump mentioned the Sean P. O’Malley of Boston, Archbishop preference.” a senior adviser to Trump, calling them possibility of tax credits for parents who Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president As he discussed his support of Cath- “cherished allies in our passion for our pay tuition to Catholic schools. of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bish- olic issues, Trump noted that Secretary beloved schools.” of Education Betsy DeVos and Secretary He stressed to Trump that the out- of Housing and Urban Development Ben look for schools never “looked more Carson also were on the call. bleak, but perhaps never has the outlook Trump repeatedly stressed to the par- looked more promising given the ener- ticipants his commitment to the pro-life getic commitment that your adminis- cause. tration has to our schools. We need you In January, Trump became the first more than ever.” sitting president to address the annual Cardinal O’Malley continued the line March for Life in Washington, which pro- of questioning related to schools, urging tests the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court deci- the president to support tuition assis- sion legalizing abortion. tance for families to enable them to send The president also reiterated his sup- their children to Catholic schools. port for the Mexico City policy, which “We need it now,” he said. “It has to be bars federal funding for nongovernmen- done in a quick way that helps them to pay tal organizations that provide abortion tuition.”

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THECATHOLICCOMMENTATOR.ORG May 8, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 5 Deacon Dunn anticipates “glorious” ordination

By Richard Meek Lorrain said. “Until we can celebrate ing renewed with every wedding and or- extra time to continue to form his own The Catholic Commentator public Mass again, his ministry would be dination. It’s a beautiful mixture of tradi- heart. He called it a time of prayer, a time rather limited, and all of that went into tion but also new life coming back in the of trust and a time of uncertainty but said When April’s gentle breezes turned our decision to postpone the ordination.” church, that God continues to call young he has no feelings of anxiety. into May’s early peak of summer’s fur- So the second option, delaying the or- people into the church for religious vo- “It’s been very clear to me the past nace, Deacon Matthew Dunn expected dination until St. Joseph Cathedral could cations, priesthood, diaconate or conse- few weeks I am at the church’s disposal to be a bit busy, orchestrating the final be filled with family, friends and clergy, crated religious life.” and in a way it’s a beautiful thing,” he weeks leading up to was selected. Disruption surrounding graduation said “It’s an opportunity for me to say I his May 23 ordina- “I think (Deacon is nothing new for Deacon Dunn, which am not entitled to anything. (Ordina- tion. Dunn) is disappoint- is allowing him to accept this delay in tion) is a gift the church is giving me.” Guest lists would ed as anybody would stride. Four years ago, as he was complet- He also believes, “without a doubt,” ordi- need to be deter- be, but it passes rath- ing his final semester at St. Joseph Semi- nation, when it does come, will be “much mined, invitations er quickly. As soon nary College in St. Benedict, flood waters sweeter.” mailed, his first as we set a date, the inundated the campus, forcing an evac- “Just think of how much more of a Mass scheduled. excitement will be- uation that lasted more than two weeks celebration and how glorious that day And let’s not forget gin to build again,” and forced graduation to be moved to a is going to be when it finally gets here,” about the food at the Father Lorrain said. site off campus. Deacon Dunn said. “It’s not about me but reception. Deacon Dunn In August of that year, French Settle- it’s about all of us celebrating together. I Today, however, said he briefly ex- ment was impacted by the flood of 2016 don’t see how it could possibly not be a Deacon Dunn sits perienced a twinge and Deacon Dunn responded by return- bigger celebration.” alone in the recto- of disappointment ing to help residents who had lost every- Father Lorrain said the date remains ry at St. Stephen when Bishop Duca thing. uncertain but once it’s safe to gather to- the Martyr Church called with the news, “This is not ideal, this is not how we gether again a date can be selected fair- in Maurepas, near but said he was not imagine things being,” Deacon Dunn ly quickly. Ordinations are not limited French Settlement surprised and those said. “We can’t discount the fact there is to Saturdays and are not required to be where he was raised. feelings quickly fad- real disappointment and real loss experi- celebrated at the cathedral, although, he The day eight years Deacon Matthew Dunn ed. enced in those things. Just trust in God. said it is preferred because of its signifi- in the making has “It’s disappoint- On the other side there is joy.” cance and symbolism of being the moth- been delayed because of the coronavirus ing because I’ve waited for this particu- For now, Deacon Dunn is taking the er church of the diocese. pandemic. lar day for eight years, and it’s not going “I’m no longer a seminarian anymore to be May 23. I’m at peace with it,” Dea- because I’m not in school but I’m not or- con Dunn said. “I know I am going to be dained a priest so I’m kind of in this lim- ordained a priest in God’s time and in bo,” said Deacon Dunn. God’s providence. It’s going to happen. I Father Matt Lorrain, director of the say that with all authenticity and mean it Office of Seminarians, said after consult- very genuinely.” ing with Bishop Michael G. Duca, the de- He said he’s grateful to the bishop for cision was made to the delay because it delay the ordination. allows the opportu- Father Lorrain “Just think of how much nity for those who said two options have supported him were weighed, the more of a celebration during the past eight first being celebrat- years to be present. ing the ordination and how glorious “As far as the cele- Mass on the original bration goes, whether May 23 date with no that day is going to the church is packed more than 10 people or it’s just the bish- in attendance. Some be when it finally gets op, I will walk away dioceses around the a priest,” Deacon country have tak- here. It’s not about me Dunn said. “To have en that route, and the church (full) is in fact five to six but it’s about all of us not something we of Deacon Dunn’s can replace. To have 16 classmates have celebrating together. I the priests and dea- already been or- cons (in attendance) dained. don’t see how it could makes all of the dif- Father Lor- ference in the world. rain said that op- possibly not be a bigger “Ordination is a tion raised its own once in a lifetime unique challenges, celebration.” thing. I think it will specifically what take on a completely would then Father Deacon Matthew Dunn different tone if it was Dunn be able to do crowded.” during these days of Father Lorrain quarantine and stay-at-home orders. concurred, saying celebrating ordination “Even if you saw the wisdom of or- in front of a large congregation is a beau- daining now, could he move into a rec- tiful, visual symbol of the church. tory, move into a residence with another “And the youthfulness of the church,” priest, collaborate with the staff?” Father he added. “The church is constantly be- 6 The Catholic Commentator May 8, 2020 Pope and bishops in China/ Is it too late to pray? I was surprised to read in the of the Catholic bishops in us that the Lord “is patient This year during Holy Week, I Catholic press an article criti- the world’s most popu- with you, not wishing that was particularly troubled by the Qcizing Pope Francis’ agreement lous country are now in any should perish but that Qtraditional teaching that Christ to allow the Communist government communion with Rome, all should come to repen- had to die that painful death to atone for to nominate candidates for bishops in and Catholics will have tance.” our sins. This seems to me to contra- China. So my question is this: Are those more autonomy in the Think of the criminal dict Jesus’ identity as a loving savior. under the pope’s authority allowed to exercise of their beliefs. on the cross who turned to Upon Googling the topic, I came across question publicly such an arrangement The Vatican’s secretary Christ only hours before a column you did several years ago that made by the Holy Father? (Newark, of state, Cardinal Pietro his death and was prom- seemed to give a straightforward and Ohio) Parolin, said at the time ised that, that very day, common sense answer. The answer to your question is that the agreement helps he would be with Jesus in (I also benefited from reading a mag- “Yes,” but first some important to give the church “a paradise. And think, too, azine article by the theologian Elizabeth Abackground. greater freedom” so that of St. Augustine, who lived Johnson, which explained that St. An- The provisional agreement that you it can dedicate itself to a dissolute life as a young selm’s 11th-century “satisfaction theolo- reference was made in September 2018 “the mission of announc- Question Corner man, fathering a child out gy” was a product of the feudal society of after years of careful negotiation. Pre- ing the Gospel.” of wedlock and who, for his time; if you broke a law in those days, vious to that, in a dispute going back for The church’s decision Father Kenneth Doyle years, followed various you had to pay something back to the more than half a century, mainland Chi- to enter the agreement philosophers only to be- feudal lord to restore order to society.) na’s some 12 million Catholics were more was a prudential and pastoral one with come disillusioned with their teachings. Do you have any further thoughts which or less equally divided between an un- which anyone is free to disagree. In fact, When he was in his 30s, Augustine could help comfort me on this issue? derground organization that recognized one of the strongest critics when the was inspired to pick up a Bible and (Murphy, North Carolina) the pope’s authority to name bishops and agreement was being considered was “chanced” upon these words from St. I couldn’t agree more with your a state-supported Patriotic Association Cardinal Joseph Zen, the retired arch- Paul’s Letter to the Romans (13:14): “Put discomfort at the view of St. An- that named its own bishops. bishop of Hong Kong. on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no Aselm. Anselm believed that the Under the 2018 agreement, the provision for the desires of the flesh.” sacrificial death of Jesus was necessary excommunication of seven bishops who I have a question that is person- Soon after, he was baptized by St. Am- to restore humanity’s communion with had been ordained with government al. I haven’t been to church in a brose and became one of our greatest the Father, that the blood of Jesus was approval was lifted, and new bishops are Qwhile; and I don’t usually pray, saints. “payment” to God for human sin. now proposed to the Vatican by the Chi- although recently I have begun to. Will Later, reflecting on his experience, This theory, though, has been chal- nese government after it receives input God accept me still, if I start going to Augustine made this keen observation: lenged by other theologians over the from the Chinese bishops’ conference church at this point in my life? (I want “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, centuries. In fact, one of St. Anselm’s and Catholics from the areas involved. to get close to him and I hope that it’s and our hearts are restless until they rest contemporaries, the scholar Peter Then the pope makes the final decision not too late.) (Anaheim, California) in you.” Thank you for your question, and Abelard, insisted that Christ’s death on as to whom to appoint, essentially giving It is never too late. God’s love for I will pray for you on your journey back the cross had been an act of love, not the pontiff veto power. us is deep and everlasting. The to prayer and Catholic practice. payment. As a result of the new agreement, all ASecond Letter of Peter (3:9) tells see doyle page 7 the Catholic Commentator available at these local outlets:

AMITE Cracker Barrel St. Mary’s Bookstore Frog’s HAMMOND St. Vincent DePaul Store Winn Dixie CVS St. Vincent DePaul Stores Indian Mound Grocery Rouse’s Delmont Garden’s Library St. Vincent DePaul Dining Room Jerry Lees St. Vincent DePaul Store PRAIRIEVILLE BAKER Dixie Maid Drive In Shell Station Oak Point Supermarket Summerfield Senior Living LeBlanc’s Food Store B R Healthcare Express Mart Shopper’s Value Ochsner Medical Winn Dixie Northridge Healthcare Family Dollar Southside Produce Rogers Eye S T. FRANCISVILLE Fresh Pickins Spanish Town Market Romero’s JACKSON Magnuson Hotel BAO T N ROUGE Goodwood Hardware The Fresh Market Sherman/Balhoff LA Vet Home Schneider Pediatric Clinic A ffinity Nursing Home Hi Nabor Supermarket The UPS Store Steve Rabalais Albertson’s Jack’s Seafood Tony’s Seafood Sullivan Hardware NEW ROADS SUGLA HTER Alexander’s Highland Grocery Jefferson Manor Tony’s Washeteria Trey Marino’s Florest S t. Vincent DePaul Store G race Healthcare Facility Ascension Books and Gifts Lake Sherwood Village Vernon’s Hardware Walgreen’s Winn Dixie Anthony’s Deli Mail Bag Walgreen’s Walmart Neighborhood Market VACHERIE B R General Hospital Matherne’s Winn Dixie PAULINA S chexnayder Supermarket Baton Rouge Seafood Mercedarian Sisters (Sr. Dulce) DENHAM SPRINGS Matherne’s WALKER Bergeron”s City Market Municipal Building CENTRAL Lake Primary Care PQULA EMINE OLOL Medical Center Bet-R-Store Old Jefferson Comm Care A+ Cleaners OLOL Childrens Health Pediatrics OLOL Physicians Group Bordelon’s Pharmacy Ollie Steele Manor B-Quick WHITE CASTLE Brookstown Hardware OLOL College Bourg Insurance DONALDSONVILLE POONCHAT ULA Daigle Supermarket Calandro’s OLOL Medical Center Callihan Law LeBlanc’s Food Store Bohning Supermarket Carlin’s Grocery OLOL Physicians Group Central Donuts Rosaryville Community ZACHARY Carpenter House Red River Bank Circle K GONZALES Lane Regional & Nursing Home Catholic Art and Gifts Cracker Barrel G onzales Mental Health Ctr. Reeves PORT ALLEN LeBlanc’s Food Store Central Plumbing CVS LeBlanc’s Food Store Rite Aid Family Medicine Oak Wood Nursing Home Charlie T’s (barber) Demco Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Ctr. Rouse’ s Market Hubbins Zachary Manor Circle K St. Clair Manor Family Food OLOL Ascension Med Plaza St. Elizabeth Hospital Port Allen Court House May 8, 2020 FAITH JOURNEY The Catholic Commentator 7 Our Lady’s Tigers fighting for CTK through prayer

By Debbie Shelley speaker Kevin McCall’s message The Catholic Commentator about the value of taking a fresh look at one’s prayer life rather Intercessory prayer is like the than always doing things “the heart pumping blood to the rest same way.” of the body of Christ, the Cath- Kenney said she finds the olic Church, so it can carry out approach especially helpful in its Gospel mission, according to praying for CTK and the extend- Father Andrew Merrick, pastor ed LSU community during the of Christ the King Church and pandemic. Student Center at LSU. She appreciates the mes- Attendees of an Our Lady Fighting Tiger’s meeting in early March pray the rosary. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Our Lady’s Fighting Tigers sages of hope that come along Catholic Commentator provides such a lifeline of prayer with the prayer intentions in the support for CTK’s ministry. emails. good things. We have this time in the way the Lord wants us to cultivating the soil so that it’s

In 2016, the Lord placed on “This time has brought ev- to affect a beautiful change in serve. It’s an essential aspect fertile ground for the Gospel to Lisa Flood’s heart the need for eryone to their knees,” said Ken- the atmosphere of LSU’s cam- of our ministry breaking down be planted in. It’s a pure gift to an intercessory prayer group ney, who believes people can use pus, to claim it for Christ, to walls where there are walls and us,” Father Merrick said. for the CTK student ministry. their time during the lockdown take back ground lost to an un- She and Ali Dazzio, CTK parish to focus on reaching out to oth- godly culture. The labor of our administrator and development ers through prayer rather than prayers will do much to culti- director, approached Father themselves only. vate a lively Catholic presence Merrick and the OLFT ministry Since Kenney reunited with affecting all future generations. was born. Its members include some people she had not seen Our Lady wants this, Jesus family, friends and alumni of in some time at the March wants this, and we want what Christ the King. meeting, she looks forward to they want.” “Moms, dads, grandparents, the time when OLFT will meet The CTK leadership and staff aunts, uncles and godparents again. said the prayers of OLFT have a Retirement Living at Its Best! came out to pray for the min- Virginia Provosty, who grad- ripple effect on their outreach istry,” said Flood. “But as time uated from LSU, as did her son, efforts. Studio/1 Bedroom Apartments Available went on it was clear that God said there was not the dynamic “Prayer is essential to the Daily Activities Medical Transport was calling all of us to be deeper Catholic presence during the work and ministry of our cam- in our love, deeper in our faith, times they attended college as pus, to the churches throughout 26635 LA Hwy 16, Denham Springs, LA 70726 deeper in letting him love us so there is now. She enjoys praying the diocese and the universal (225)667-1484 www.laplantationds.com that we can pray (that the stu- for needs of Christ the King and church,” said Dazzio. dents) will become who God is the extended campus. She described OLFT’s mis- Facebook.com/LaPlantationRetirementCommunity calling them to be. It’s a call in “I am reminded that God sion as focusing on the salvation conversion for all of us.” lives beyond time. Our prayers of souls. In addition to praying over affect present situations and “You have to have people email requests, Our Lady’s bring about healing and whole- praying at the foot of the cross Fighting Tigers gather for fel- ness from past events. Scrip- for others,” Dazzio said. lowship, prayer, a speaker pre- ture says (God’s) gifts are irre- Father Merrick said interces - sentation, eucharistic adoration vocable, thus my prayers and sory prayer is at the heart of the and Mass. actions in witnessing to others church’s mission. Kay Kenney attended an have eternal consequences,” “Our Lady’s Fighting Tigers OLFT meeting in early March, Provosty said. is a group of people the Lord is before Gov. John Bel Edwards She added, “We are given the raising up in the body of Christ to issued a stay-at-home order authority through our baptism be the heart pumping his blood because of the coronavirus to call upon our father in heav- into our hands and feet, our eyes pandemic, and connected with en who loves to give his children and our mouth so we can serve

Joe Skibinski, Agent  Theologians in our own day attempt to blend the divine DOYLE have also found difficulty with and human legal systems From page 6 Anselm’s view. can “make the image of God And even 700 years before In the article you mention, appear in a sinister light.” And that, St. Augustine had indicat- Elizabeth Johnson speaks so thankfully none of us is ed his reservations about such persuasively; she reminds us compelled to believe that God a theory; St. Augustine asked, that, in the biblical story of deliberately willed the suffer- in his “De Trinitate,” “Is it nec- the prodigal son, the father ing of his Son. essary to think that being God, wouldn’t even let his son the Father was angry with apologize, saying instead, “It FATHER DOYLE is a retired priest us, saw his son die for us and doesn’t matter now. You’re in the Diocese of Albany, New thus abated his anger against home. Let’s have a party.” York. Questions may be sent us?” St. Thomas Aquinas, too, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, to Father Kenneth Doyle at criticized St. Anselm’s theory, the future Pope Benedict XVI, [email protected] saying that it took away God’s wrote in his “Introduction to and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., freedom to be merciful. Christianity” that Anselm’s Albany, NY 12203. 8 The Catholic Commentator May 8, 2020 CCDBR provides $90,000 of relief services during pandemic

By Richard Meek of financial assistance, including $21,000 ing out to so many immigrants, noting Also changing is the way donations are The Catholic Commentator in emergency housing and $10,000 worth that half of the cases pertaining strictly to arriving. Typically during a natural di- of gas cards for low-income health care COVID-19 are 50 percent Hispanic. saster, such as the flood of 2016, the im- Responding to natural disasters or hu- workers. “This jump right now in the Hispanic pacted area is finite and donations quickly man crisis with transcendent proficiency Additionally grocery/gift cards were community is re- flow in from around has been the standard for Catholic Chari- provided to residents, many distributed flective of the im- the country. ties of the Diocese of Baton Rouge. through Society of St. Vincent de Paul portance of our im- But no section But the coronavirus pandemic has councils at local church parishes. migration services BY THE NUMBERS of the country has presented a unique gauntlet even for an “We are getting assistance into the front to the immigrant CCDBR’S COVID-19 RESPONSE been spared by the agency that has handled crises from Hur- lines, into the hands of the priests and community and re- pandemic, so money ricane Katrina to the flood of 2016 to im- parish administrations, which is where flective of how im- 415 Cases opened that would perhaps migrant and refugee resettlements. people show up first,” Aguillard said. migrants tend to be be donated from “It’s not the kind of crisis where you can All told, the agency provided an esti- hourly workers with 1,000 Units of service elsewhere is staying rebuild somebody’s house, or cut trees, mated $90,000 worth of direct services low paying jobs,” Gas cards on the local levels. and the work is done,” CCDBR executive during the first several weeks of response. Aguillard said. “That $10,000 Aguillard did director David Aguillard said. “We are “What is striking to me is the footprint labor force is usually distributed praise the local deprived of that by the very nature of this of our services is spread even a little bit the first to suffer in $21,000 Emergency foundations, saying crisis. beyond diocesan boundaries,” Aguillard an economic down- they have been “un- “The need is greater than anything we said. turn.” housing distributed expectedly generous have ever encountered.” He said because of the growing im- “What we are deal- $50,000 Financial because you know Despite the unprecedented challenges, migration population and the agency’s ing with is an eco- assistance provided they are hurting. CCDBR quickly mobilized and, despite immigration legal services department, nomic crisis brought Their investments being in the middle of a transition in tech- which is one of the largest along the Gulf about by COVID,” $90,000 Value of are hurting.” nology, has become the leader in offering Coast from Tampa to Texas, CCDBR has he added. “Ninety services provided He said the agen- relief to the most needy in the diocese. provided COVID services from Vermil- percent of people we cy has received The numbers are telling. Since the lion Bay to Cutoff to Covington and even are assisting have a $160,000 Total of six grants totaling threat first appeared in Louisiana, CCD- to Lake Charles. financial crisis be- grants received $160,000, adding BR has opened 415 new cases, provided He said the burgeoning radius is reflec- cause of a loss of that during a typi- 1,000 units of service and $50,000 worth tive of the agency’s commitment to reach- employment, loss of cal national disas- wages, reduction of ter, usually within a hours, or someone in the household be- couple of weeks of the event, at least “five coming unemployed. times that amount has come in from all “Ten percent are due to a need of finan- around the country, if not 10 times that 2020 cial assistance because of illness.” amount.” Financial assistance has been distrib- “This is all local foundations but they uted in the forms of assisting with rent are putting out as much money into the Diocesan or utilities, providing emergency hous- community as they possibly can,” he add- ing or distributing grocery/gift cards. ed. “They realize now is not the time to Directory He recalled one mother who was living sit on assets; now is the time to assist the 0 2 0 2 Y R O T C E R I D E G U O R N O T A B F O E S E C O I D with her three young children in their car. community.” Aguillard said it was ultimately deter- CCDBR officials are staying in touch 2020 D I R E C T O R Y is Here D I O C E S E O F B A T O N R O U G E mined the most logical solution was for with local and state officials tracking the family to join relatives in Denver, so any additional federal funding, posi- The new directory has all of the CCDBR provided gas and gift cards for tioning the agency to distribute those current listings and information on their travel expense and “put them on new funds into the community as rap- churches, clergy, schools, diocesan their way.” idly as possible. “These kinds of issues are arising be- Currently, the agency has dedicated five departments and personnel of cause most shelters are not taking new full-time employees to strictly working the diocese, religious, retreat residents,” Aguillard said, counting CCD- on COVID-19 relief and another five part- centers, deaneries, institutions and BR’s Sanctuary for Life and Family First time employees. Aguillard said he is also organizations and more! shelters among those numbers. “Our pri- working full-time on the response. mary responsibility is to keep our current “What it shows is that when there clients safe and to protect our staff, but we is a need in the community, Catholic To place your order, fill out the form below and mail to The Catholic are helping people find (alternative means Charities has a mission-driven pur- Commentator, P. O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 with of) housing.” pose to pivot immediately to address a check or money order for $9.50 for each directory ordered. The Aguillard said all of the money distrib- those needs in the most thorough way directory will be mailed to you. uted has come through donations, and all we can,” he said. “What it means to me of the contributions are dollar for dollar is it’s a reflection on the meaning of the “going out the door” because the current incarnation that we are supposed to be crisis is so urgent and traumatized people in this world and working through this Number of Diocesan Directories Ordered need assistance as quickly as possible world to show and bring compassion while waiting for federal dollars to arrive. and mercy of God’s love. Name Although the vast majority of the “That means we avail ourselves to tech- $50,000 of financial assistance went to nology, new ways of serving our custom- Address new clients, Aguillard emphasized there ers, engage in funding streams that come has been no reduction in the traditional from public sources because it then puts City State services provided by CCDBR. us in a position where we can fulfill that “We are filling the gap in such a sudden Gospel mandate that ‘whatever you do to Zip Phone with area code and drastic shutdown of our way of life, the least of these you are doing it to Jesus.’ our daily activities,” he said. That is what motivates us.” May 8, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 9

 married and be together and get The couple plans a celebra- WEDDINGS through this together,” Michael tion with extended family and From page 1 said. friends in August. knot” on April 25 at St. Marga- Sidney said she struggled with Michael Willis said he and Me- ret. The couple originally met the thought of no wedding re- gan Voda met through friends at at a New Year’s Eve party and hearsal, reception, a couchon LSU and “the stars aligned.” He had a “Cajun courtship” for five de lait with family and friends proposed to Voda at a waterfront years. and other social gatherings that park in her hometown of Miami As events surrounding the usually surround that happy day. and the two married on April 17 coronavirus evolved, the couple But she expresses a deeper joy at St. John the Baptist Church in discussed their wedding date. that she and Michael are hus- Brusly. “Each day was different,” said band and wife. Father Allelo, Willis’ long-time Sidney. “We can postpone the party friend, married them. The cou- But they came back to the point aspect, but we were ready to ple drove through the neighbor- where they wanted to marry on start our marriage,” Sidney said. hood on a golf cart to celebrate the day they had planned. Batson said, “I’m excited to the special day. “We decided we would get start our new life together.” Willis believed going forward as planned with the wedding was a “precious gift.” “What I thought would be a disaster was a blessing,” he said. “It was the best day of my life.” “It was beautiful because she and I were in front of the Lord,” he added, pointing out there Megan and Michael Willis were no distractions or worries about “who was there or who social distancing in mind, and our behalf and it was a beautiful. wasn’t.” people stopped by to congratu- We were satisfied,” she said. Because of their schedules, late the newlyweds. Although the honeymoon the Willis’ had already planned Irene said with a smile that plans were canceled, the ro- a honeymoon trip in the fall to without anyone asking her, her mance wasn’t, said Irene. Colorado. They will also have a sister Helen, 12, cleaned outside The Lilly’s both like the movie larger celebration with family and weeded the garden so the “It’s a Wonderful Life” so when and friends before leaving. yard would look nice. they arrived at their home, they Newlyweds Irene and Chris- Likewise, her sister Emily had felt a connection with main char- topher Lilly were married in taken a cake decorating class as acters George and Mary Bailey, March, also at St. Margaret by a young child and was happy to who had their own “staycation Father David. finally use those skills to bake a honeymoon.” Irene said the stay-at-home cake. “Chris told me to put on a order was issued shortly before “We also had so many mes- pretty dress, and he cooked a their wedding. sages and calls from family and (candlelight) Italian dinner,” The Lilly’s went through plans friends to say congratulations,” said Irene, noting that their hon- “A, B and C” when the reception said Irene, who said people eymoon plans included dinner at was cancelled at the St. Marga- prayed for her and Chris and an Italian restaurant. ret parish hall. They ended up they prayed for each other. “I said, ‘I don’t think George having a wedding “open house” “We were blessed to see how and Mary had it this good,’ ” Irene and Christopher Lilly at Irene’s mother’s house with God brought things together on Irene said.

UNIQUE GRADUATION – Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University in Baton Rouge staged a drive-thru diploma pick up for students graduating a month early on April 27 in the Student Services building parking lot. Students received their diplomas, transcripts, clinical pins and a new pair of tennis shoes, left, courtesy of BREAC through its Frontline Soles program. A total of 48 nursing and respiratory therapy students graduated early. “We wanted to do something spe- cial for the students; they put in double- and triple-overtime to get out and serve,” said FranU president Tina Holland, who clapped and cheered for students as they passed by, above. She said the students deserved “some type of recognition.” Photos by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator 10 The Catholic Commentator May 8, 2020 St. Theresa drive-by briefly unites students, teachers

By Bonny Van lot,” said fifth-grade teacher Megan John- The Catholic Commentator son. “(There’s been) a lot of adjusting … sad way to end the school year.” With pom-poms, posters, lawn chairs One boisterous family honked their and even a bubble machine, teachers from horn and threw candy from their pick-up St. Theresa of Avila School in Gonzales truck as they drove through, delighting lined up their cars, trucks and SUVs in an the teachers as they scrambled to pick it empty parking lot across from the school up – reminiscent of a favorite Louisiana for a special drive-by to wave at parents holiday, Mardi Gras. and students, whom they hadn’t seen As teachers held up signs, waved and face-to-face in more than a month. greeted students, some students held up “It’s been emotional, especially the last their own homemade signs, showing their week, learning we would have to spend support and love for their teachers. the rest of the year without them,” said “You don’t realize how much you miss fifth-grade teacher Sabrina Luke. “Prior each other … and they made signs and we to that we had a lot of hope that we would made signs,” said Johnson. Teachers and administrators of St. Theresa of Avila School in Gonzales and St. John Pri- go back.” “I didn’t expect them to make signs,” mary School in Prairieville lined up to wave and hold up signs of encouragement as they One by one, from 6 to 7 p.m. on April said Luke with a smile. greeted students in a drive-by in front of their schools on April 22. Teachers said they 22, vehicles filled with family members Lizette Leader and her children Claire, missed their students and were sad to learn they would not see them again as the 2019- and sometimes even the family dog, who is in fifth grade, and Kade, an eighth- 2020 school year came to a close because of the coronavirus pandemic. Photo by Bonny Van | The drove slowly through the makeshift pa- grader, were among the parade of families Catholic Commentator rade ground. Happy sounds of laughter who came to see their teachers. Leader, and greetings filled the air. Some curious who works from home, said her husband been difficult. But she credits teachers teracting with these children, getting to drivers passing by rolled down their win- is considered an essential worker and and school administrators with being a know these children, it is a really big void dows to ask what was happening. trying to find the right balance between big part of making the transition easier. in your life at the moment.” “It’s been really hard, we miss them a school work, job duties and home life has “Anytime a parent has a question, any Kim Naquin, principal of St. John Pri- time a student has a question, they im- mary in Prairieville, agreed. With stu- mediately get back to us and they’ve dents ranging from prekindergarten to been very available to our students,” said third grade, Naquin said there was a “ma- Leader. “They offered to provide training jor learning curve” for teachers, students for the parents as well as the students, so and parents when the governor issued the everybody has made this the best situa- stay-at-home order in mid March. She tion possible in a very unfortunate time said up to that point students had com- Class of 2020 for us.” puter class once a week and had worked Leader’s son had been very involved on iPads but not one-to-one. with extracurricular activities during his “I’m really proud of my teachers for how final year at St. Theresa, including stu- quickly they adjusted and how positive dent council, Beta Club and playing on the they were about doing this and I think A Special Section of basketball and baseball teams. His class that stems from how much they care will still be able to hold its graduation about these kids and how much they care The Catholic Commentator ceremony albeit sometime this summer. about their education,” said Naquin. “And Still, he was happy to see friendly faces, so, they were willing to jump out of their A keepsake special section is designed to honor even if just for a few minutes. comfort zones and learn how to do this graduates from the Diocese of Baton Rouge “I’ve been missing my teachers,” said technology.” naming each graduate from the Catholic high Kade Leader. “I’ve seen a couple of my She said parents also had to jump on friends so far, so even though we can’t in- board because “a first-grader can’t sit schools and university in the diocese with pictures teract with them because we have to prac- down at the family computer and just fig- of the valedictorians and salutatorians. tice social distancing, it still is nice to see ure it out.” So, the first couple of weeks This is a great opportunity to say them.” dealt with a lot of technology issues but, St. Theresa principal Chris Musso said she said, the hard work has paid off. congratulations to the graduates and promote the idea for the drive-by visit came after “These kids have learned so much your school’s accomplishments, or promote your a school staff member shared on social technology in the last several weeks and business to these young future leaders and their media a similar event for her birthday, that is definitely the silver lining for me, parents. with friends driving by her house holding both the students and the teachers have signs and wishing her a happy birthday. learned a lot of technology and I’m really Issue date: May 22 Musso added that teaching through tech- excited about it,” said Naquin. nology has been “surreal.” She noted that As for seeing the kids and parents again Advertising deadline: May 12 seeing students through various online for the drive-by event, Naquin said ev- platforms is not the same as seeing them eryone was excited, from teachers to par- face-to-face and connecting with them on ents and students. Even anticipation of a personal level. connecting with the students made for THE CATHOLIC Contact Wanda Koch “The teachers are as affected as the stu- some happy moments in a world that has [email protected] phone 225-387-0983 dents are in missing one another,” said changed so much so quickly. fax 225-336-8710 Musso. “It’s natural that kids miss their “I don’t think I’ve smiled this much C SERVIN G TH E D IO CES E O F BATO N R O U G E S I N C E 19 6 2 friends and so forth, but we as teachers since we’ve started working from home,” are so used to seeing these children, in- said Naquin. May 8, 2020 PAGINA EN ESPAÑOL The Catholic Commentator 11

1234 56789 11120 131 ¿Cómo encontraremos al 41 51 61 71 81 91 Cristo resucitado? 02 12 22 243 2 265 2 n las últimas semanas, tuve la opor- entre nosotros en este tiempo de pandemia es 72 2289 tunidad de hablar con algunos de ustedes entre Jesucristo y San Tomás, el episodio de Esobre las dificultades de quedarse en casa. nuestro Evangelio para este domingo (Juan 20: 310 323 343 3 365 3 Sé que las familias están luchando con pregun- 19-31). Tomás no creía en el testimonio de los 73 83 93 tas difíciles: ¿Cómo pagaremos las facturas? otros apóstoles, pero quería ver y tocar las heri- ¿Cómo puedo ayudar a mis hijos a completar das de Cristo. Solo cuando puede ver las marcas 40 14 24 sus tareas escolares? ¿Cuándo de la crucifixión en el cuerpo de 443 4 54 volverá la vida a la normalidad? Jesucristo, Tomás cree y proclama En tiempos de dificultad, estamos a Jesús como “Señor y Dios”. 64 487 494 acostumbrados a llevar nuestras Del encuentro de Tomás con 510 5 25 543 5 preocupaciones y esperanzas con Cristo, descubrimos que adoramos 55 576 5 85 nosotros a la iglesia. Allí, podemos a un Señor herido. La Resurrección acompañarnos en oración y no borró las heridas que eran un 95 06 16 unirnos alrededor del altar. Nos signo de humillación y fracaso. En 26 36 46 encontramos con Jesucristo en la cambio, revelan que la gracia y la Eucaristía, escuchamos sus Bue- gloria de Dios pueden vencer a los moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www nas Nuevas, le ofrecemos nuestras mayores poderes de este mundo. ACROSS DOWN oraciones y visitamos a nuestros Descubrimos que la Resurrec- 1 Saint of Domremy 1 An apostle amigos y vecinos. Pero hoy, no ción “hace nuevas todas las cosas” 5 Pertaining to warships 2 Musical instruments tenemos esta oportunidad de donde la vida está rota o herida. 10 Jesus turned water into wine here 3 Island inhabited by Circe 14 Comply 4 Greek goddess of night reunirnos. Como una persona me Entonces, ¿cómo encontra- 15 americangreetings.com product 5 Lot, to Abraham dijo: “Padre, ver la iglesia cerrada Apostolado remos al Cristo resucitado? Si 16 Soon 6 Landed me hace sentir como si estuviera miramos con los ojos de la fe, 17 Hoodwink 7 Futile 18 Gets in someone else’s business 8 “___ you crazy?” fuera de mi propia casa”. Hispano lo encontraremos caminando 19 Shane of “Shane” 9 Joseph Smith’s denom. Quedarse en casa es de hecho junto a nosotros, compartiendo 20 Born 10 Seaport in France un gran sacrificio, pero es uno que nuestras ansiedades y bendicien- 21 At what time 11 Part of the Eucharistic Prayer Father Kevin Zubel 22 Only apostle whose death is re- 12 Protuberance ofrecemos por amor a nuestros do nuestros sacrificios. Aunque no corded in Acts 13 No ifs, ___, or buts vecinos. Estamos haciendo esto todos podemos recibirlo sacra- 23 Holy 21 Enclose in paper para ayudar a toda nuestra comunidad a sobre- mentalmente en la Eucaristía, todavía lo encon- 25 Paul said he would travel here after 22 Judge who had thirty sons who rode vivir este momento, especialmente aquellos que traremos presente en nuestros hogares cuando leaving Rome thirty donkeys 27 The ___ of Moses 24 Dressed son vulnerables. Amar a Dios y a nuestro prójimo oremos, compartiremos nuestras comidas alre- 28 Gets up 25 The devil es el mayor mandamiento, por lo que confiamos dedor de la mesa familiar y ayudaremos genero- 30 Inexpensive 26 Hunted animal en que nuestros esfuerzos por quedarnos en casa samente a nuestros vecinos necesitados. Cristo 33 Unit of length 29 Omission and commission 35 “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes 30 This was established under Prime sean bendecidos y aprobados por Dios. Tam- no calla; No está ausente. Podemos ver las he- away the ___ of the world.” (Jn 1:29) Minister King (abbr.) bién sabemos que Jesucristo está presente entre ridas en nuestro mundo: las vemos en quienes 37 Insure 31 Monk’s cowl nosotros incluso ahora, porque nos prometió sufren el virus, las vemos en la ansiedad de 38 “Do not store up for yourselves 32 Rapt treasures on earth, where moth and 33 Sloppy que permanecería con nosotros siempre (Mateo quienes luchan por pagar sus cuentas y alimen- ___ destroy” (Mt 6:19) 34 Name of the Rose author 28:20). Sin embargo, en estos días puede sentir tar a sus familias. ¿Pero también podemos ver 39 Number of choirs of angels 36 Fascist leader? que el Señor está ausente, o tal vez en silencio. viva la gloria de Dios en este momento? Vemos 40 Gear tooth 38 “Cheer, cheer for ole Notre ___…” Queremos escucharlo hablarnos nuevamente. vivo el amor de Dios en el coraje de aquellos que 41 Legendary Greek hero 39 Collars 42 Cowboy’s rope 41 Fine Queremos claridad y certeza. Queremos encon- arriesgan sus vidas para cuidar a los enfermos. 43 Joseph interpreted these 42 Promised ___ trarnos con Él nuevamente. ¿Cómo encontrare- Vemos la obra del Espíritu Santo en las formas 45 Nahum follower (abbr.) 44 Goes in mos al Cristo resucitado? creativas en que las personas ofrecen apoyo y 46 Best way to sing 45 Catholic female lead of “Everybody 47 Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethle- Loves Raymond” Esta temporada de Pascua, escuchamos acer- aliento. Vemos que el Evangelio cobra vida en hem to be counted in this 47 Perfume the altar ca de los primeros encuentros entre los discípu- la generosidad y amabilidad que las personas 50 Aesthetic preference 48 Pope (II) who called for the Crusades los y el Cristo resucitado. María Magdalena vio a muestran a los vecinos necesitados. 52 David asked Saul if he pursued a “___ 49 St. Edith’s surname Cristo resucitado pero no lo reconoció hasta que Podemos ver las heridas de la pandemia. Pero dog” (1 Sam 24:15) 50 Small dabbling duck 53 HTML text replacement 51 Edison’s middle name la llamó por su nombre (Juan 20:16). Los dis- con la luz de la Resurrección, también veremos 55 Otherwise 52 Pertaining to the skin (comb.) cípulos en el camino a Emaús no reconocieron al la gloria de Dios creando nueva vida. Si busca a 56 Used up 54 Classic street liners Cristo resucitado hasta que lo vieron “partiendo Cristo resucitado en su hogar, entre su familia, 58 Eve’s second 56 Pen 59 Affirm with confidence 57 The Fall of the House of Usher writer el pan” (Lucas 24:31). Pero el encuentro que creo pronto descubrirá que él ya está allí. De hecho, te 60 Trunk of the human body 58 Pierre’s pal que nos ayuda a reconocer la presencia de Cristo ha estado buscando. 61 Disfigure 62 Youths 63 Republic in Arabia 64 Taverns Solution on page 14 Hot-off the Press & Delivered to You. For only $14 per year, receive The Catholic Commentator at your home or office.

To subscribe, call 225-387-0983. 12 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT May 8, 2020 Things learned in isolation

y datebook says I have the life of Jesus, born the truly the Word and the Word was what St. Paul calls the “body present to all of us and reveals been in isolation for human son of Mary in Bethle- with God, and the Word was of Christ,” that is, the Chris- himself in many ways to those | Mmore than a month. I hem and raised by her and her God ... All things came to be tian community. “As a body is who look for his presence in editorial am retired, and there is no one husband, Joseph, in Nazareth. through him, and without him one though it has many parts, their lives. As this coronavirus else in my house besides me, Although Jesus nothing came and all the parts of the body, pandemic has shown us, one so it has been a lot of isola- who becomes a to be.” Through though many, are one body, so unescapable way of finding tion. My retired clergy jobs rabbi and preaches his life, death also Christ. For in one Spirit that presence is suffering. supply help in parishes, prison a God of mercy, and resurrec- we were all baptized into one Toward the end of his book, ministry, foreign mission trips forgiveness and tion Jesus was body” (1 Cor 12:12-13). This Father Rohr writes, “My as- all canceled. Fortunately, I love, seems to shown to be the universal presence of Christ sumption is that Jesus’ totally always email my columns to know that he has a Christ, the Mes- extends to what we Catholics counterintuitive message of The Catholic Commentator, so deeper identity or siah, the savior call sacraments, especially the ‘cross’ had to be sent to I spend a lot more time than nature or relation- promised by the the Eucharist, the presence of earth as a dramatic and divine usual at my desk computer ship to God who is Old Testament Christ’s body and blood, soul zinger, because God knew we checking articles from Catholic uniquely his father, Scriptures. St. and divinity under the appear- would do everything we could publications that might be use- it isn’t until he dies John the Evange- ances of bread and wine. It is to deny it, avoid it, soften it or ful or in my office easy chair and is raised from list concludes his interesting that St. Paul, who make it into a theory.” Jesus reading books I promised the dead that his prologue saying, never saw the earthly Jesus, promised his disciples that myself to get to. closest disciples “And the Word usually refers to him as Christ they would be with him in his I just finished one entitled understand that Another became flesh and or the Lord when speaking of resurrected state (what we call “The Universal Christ” by he truly is both made his dwell- him after his resurrection. For heaven). But if Christ is Jesus Father Richard Rohr, a Fran- man and God. Perspective ing among us, Father Rohr, to be loved by in his resurrected state, we can ciscan priest whom I know is “My Lord and my and we saw his Jesus who shared our human- only get there beside him by popular with many Catholics God” exclaims Father John Carville glory, the glory of ity and suffered and died for following the same path Jesus in our diocese. I have read St. Thomas the the Father’s only us enlarges our heart capac- took. Father Rohr concludes several of his books, which Apostle upon see- son, full of grace ity. To be loved by the risen that it is not insignificant that are always interesting, even ing the risen Christ. and truth ... No one has ever Christ who calls us to share his we display crosses as our main though I sometimes get lost in However, as the fourth Gos- seen God. The only Son, God, eternal life enlarges our men- Christian symbol. “At least his use of psychology and its pel written by St. John states who is at the Father’s side, tal capacity (our vision, way unconsciously, we recognized application to contemplative in its beginning verses, this has revealed him.” Christ, as of seeing everything). Father that Jesus talked a lot about prayer. However, this book is same Jesus was from all eter- Father Rohr says, is not Jesus’ Rohr says we need both. “A ‘losing your life,’ ” he wrote. not about psychology or prayer. nity God. And through him, last name, it is an identifi- truly transformative God for Another Rohr-ism is that God It is about God, particularly as through a divine design or cation of Jesus’ role in the both the individual and history allows suffering to draw us God incarnate in Christ. blueprint, everything created creation and redemption of all needs to be experienced as into a closer union with him- From the Gospels of Mark, in the universe came into exis- that is in the universe. The both personal and universal.” self, a union which will become Matthew and Luke we know tence. “In the beginning was Christ is the risen Lord sus- The risen Christ whom we eternal as brothers and sisters taining, redeeming and loving worship is in everyone and of the universal, eternal Christ. all of creation. everything, and yet transcends “God loves things by becom- everyone and everything. FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest L etters to the Editor ing them.” This is a key prin- Because he wants our love, in the Diocese of Baton Rouge ciple of Father Rohr’s which we can reject him. Unfortu- and writes on current topics for Letters to the Editor should be typed and limited he finds first in the creation nately, either by deed (sin) or The Catholic Commentator. He to 350 words and should contain the name and of the universe, then in the by decision (atheism), many can be reached at johnny person of Jesus, and finally in do. But God truly wants to be [email protected]. address of the writer, though the address will not be printed. We reserve the right to edit all | letters. Send to: Letters to the Editor, The Catholic Pray for those who pray for us Commentator, P. O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA Please pray for the priests, deacons and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese. 70821-3316, or to [email protected]. May 14 Rev. Joseph M. Camilleri May 21 Rev. Peter Ai Dang Dcn. Daniel S. Borné Dcn. Samuel C. Collura Br. Roger LeMoyne SC Sr. Anija Jacob CMC May 15 Rev. John Carville May 22 Rev. Jamin S. David Dcn. Claude H. Bourgeois Jr. Dcn. William Corbett Sr. Mary Anne Hebert CSJ Br. Vuong Dinh Nguyen ICM Mission Statement May 16 Rev. Edward Chiffriller SSJ May 23 Rev. Al M. Davidson Dcn. Jerry W. Braud Dcn. David L. Dawson III The mission of The Catholic Commentator is to Br. Malcolm Melcher SC Sr. M. Jesusla MC provide news, information and commentary to the May 17 Rev. Thomas F. Clark SJ May 24 Rev. Christopher J. Decker Dcn. Stephen Brunet Dcn. Guy E. Decker people of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Catholics Sr. Anne Hoang ICM Br. Marcus Turcotte SC and their neighbors alike. In doing so, The Catholic May 18 Rev. Paul D. Counce May 25 Rev. Bradley A. Doyle Commentator strives to further the wider mission Dcn. Barry G. Campeaux Dcn. Benjamin J. Dunbar Jr. Br. Michael Migacz SC Sr. M. John Janet MC of the Church: to evangelize, to communicate, to May 19 Rev. Randy M. Cuevas May 26 Rev. Vincent J. Dufresne educate and to give the Catholic viewpoint on Dcn. Michael T. Chiappetta Dcn. Matthew Dunn Sr. Esther Hulin CSJ Br. Edward Violet SM important issues of the present day. May 20 Rev. Gregory J. Daigle May 27 Rev. Thomas J. Duhé Dcn. Randall A. Clement Dcn. Kirk Duplantis Br. Paul Montero SC Sr. Julie Kraemer CSJ May 8, 2020 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 13 God and the principle of non-contradiction

t is funny where the lessons of our ers there are small containers holding important. anity names Satan the Prince of Lies and classrooms are sometimes understood. metal twisters you use to tie up the top That God is one (and not divided) is teaches that lying is at the root of the I I studied philosophy when I was of your bag. One day, I picked up some the very foundation for all rationality unforgivable sin against the Holy Spirit. still a bit too young for it, a 19-year-old fruit, put it into a bag, but all the contain- and sanity. That God is undivided and When facts are no longer facts, then our studying the metaphysics of Aristotle and ers containing the twisters were empty, consistent within assures you that two very sanity is under siege because lying St. Thomas Aquinas. But something from every one of them. As I checked out plus two will always be four and that you corrupts the basis for rationality. a metaphysics course remains indel- my groceries, suspecting that possibly can anchor your sanity on that. That God God is one! That means that there is ibly stamped in my mind. someone had taken them as is undivided assures you that if you saw no internal contradiction within God We learned that there a prank, I mentioned to the package twisters in a store and that assures us that are four “transcendental” cashier that all the twist- for 12 years, they were there is no internal con- properties to God: Scho- ers were gone. Her answer there … and you are not “The single tradiction possible within lastic metaphysics tells us took me aback: “But, sir, insane. That God is one is the structure of reality and that God is one, true, good we have never had them in the basis for our sanity. It most dangerous within a sane mind. What and beautiful. My young this store!” Thinking she undergirds the Principle has happened, has forever mind then had some grasp might be new on the job, I of Non-contradiction: thing in the happened, and cannot be of what is meant by “true, said, “I’ve been coming here Something is or it is not, denied. Two plus two will good and beautiful” since for more than 10 years and it cannot be both; and whole world forever be four and because we have some common you’ve always had them! You two plus two can never be of that we can remain sane sense notions of what these can even see their containers five and that allows us to is lying, and trust reality enough to are; but what is “oneness?” from here!” With an assur- live rational, sane lives. live coherent lives. What is divine about being ance that comes from abso- Because God is undivided, dishonesty, The single most danger- undivided? In Exile lute certitude, she replied, we can trust our sanity. ous thing in the whole world The answer to that didn’t “I’ve been working here for a The truth of this was denying facts.” is lying, dishonesty, deny- come to me in a classroom Father Ron Rolheiser long time, and I can assure never jeopardized by the ing facts. To deny a fact is or in an academic discus- you we’ve never had them!” great epistemological debates in history. not only to play fast and loose with your sion, even though I have often tried to I pushed things no further but, walk- Doubts about rationality and sanity do own sanity and the very foundations of explain its meaning to students in a ing out of the store I thought this to not come from Descartes, Kant, Hegel, rationality; it is also to play fast and loose classroom. It came to me in a grocery myself: “If she’s right, then I’m certifiably Locke, Hume, Wittgenstein or Jacques with God whose consistency undergirds store. insane! If she’s right then I’m completely Derrida; these philosophers merely all sanity and all meaning. God is one, I had been buying groceries in the out of touch with reality, have been for argued about the structure of rational- undivided, consistent. same store for 12 years when a trivial a long time, and I have no idea what ity, never about its existence. What incident helped explain God’s oneness sanity is!” I was certain that I had seen jeopardizes our sanity (and is, no doubt, Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, theologian, and its importance to me. The store, a the twisters for 10 years! Well, they had the greatest moral threat in our world teacher and award-winning author, is large supermarket, has a fruit aisle where reappeared by the next time I entered today) is lying, the denial of facts, the president of the Oblate School of Theol- you pick up apples, oranges, grapefruits, the store and they are there today, but changing of facts and the creation of ogy in San Antonio, Texas. He can bananas and the like and then bag them that little episodic challenge to my sanity fake facts. Nothing, absolutely nothing, be contacted through his website yourself in plastic bags the store sup- taught me something. I now know what it is as dangerous and pernicious as lying, ronrolheiser.com and facebook.com/ plies. Alongside the plastic bag dispens- means that “God is one” and why that is dishonesty. It is no accident that Christi- ronrolheiser. In times of crisis, become godlike

y son was having trouble graphing an equa- also reaching a peak of sorts. ing that is both universal in scope and extremely tion for his algebra class so Everything from public policy to stock specific in its attention to the particularities of each Mhe had to ask me for help. prices to the individual behaviors of mil- human person. We are not made in the image of sta- Poor kid. As I struggled to remem- lions of people seems to follow the move- tistics and demographics, rather, we are made in the ber my eighth-grade algebra, he ment of mathematical models. When image of God. wondered aloud when he would ever virus cases are down, perhaps restric- To put this theological truth in today’s mathemati- use this stuff in “real life.” tions are eased, investors gain confidence cal language, suppose you tried to “graph” our “mod- At that moment, I couldn’t help and people feel safer going to the grocery el” Jesus Christ. His passion, death and resurrection but think of the dozens of graphs I store. would be “V-shaped.” A descent into the depths of have seen dotting news articles and If the line breaks the other way, the op- suffering and hell itself before a literal rising from social media feeds over the past sev- posite occurs. This is certainly a prudent the dead, ascension into heaven and life eternal. The eral weeks. use of our scientific abilities, but it only V-shape stands for victory over death. Coronavirus case counts, death provides a fleeting sense of control in the If there is a model we should follow as we navigate rates, regional breakdowns, de- midst of so much chaos. this uncertain time, it is derived from one simple mographic breakdowns. It seems The belief that someone (or some com- equation: “The Son of God became man so that everyone is an epidemiologist now as puter) is crunching vast amounts of data we might become God” (Catechism of the Catholic they interpret red and purple lines Theology in to discern the behavior of a microscopic Church, No. 460). Take heart in the things that math- that seem to be always ascending and virus gives us a certain sense of security. ematical models fail to capture – the unseen acts of never descending. When’s the peak It provides a small layer of cognitive sacrifice, mercy and compassion, even in the face of going to hit? How is my state doing? Technology protection between us and the reality that grave danger, that make us human and make us all As we near the frightening apex Brett Robinson nature cannot be fully captured by graphs like unto God. of the pandemic curve, the models and algorithms. and graphs that have dominated the Creation is an act of the divine Logos, ROBINSON is director of communications and Catholic national discussion reveal another feature of this not artificial intelligence. As such, God’s loving plan media studies at the University of Notre Dame Mc- unsettling moment: the age of algorithmic thinking is unfolds with a reasoning beyond human understand- Grath Institute for Church Life. 14 The Catholic Commentator May 8, 2020 Faith stronger during virus WASHINGTON (CNS) – Two sepa- gious person and this hasn’t changed.” said they had been helped somewhat, rate polls show that Americans are A poll by Fordham University re- while 34% said they had not been relying more on their faith to help per- leased April 28 showed that Ameri- helped. severe through the coronavirus pan- cans are being helped by their religious In the Fordham poll, 62% of Catho- demic. or spiritual faith during the pandemic, lics said they had been helped at least The Pew Research Center, in a sur- and the more often they go to church, somewhat by their faith. By compari- vey released April 30, showed that the more they feel it has helped. son, 95% of evangelicals reported they nearly one-fourth of all Americans say For those who go to church regu- had been helped at least somewhat, their faith has grown stronger during larly, 68% said they have been “helped and just over three-fourths of main- the pandemic, while only 2% said it a lot,” and another 22% said they have line Protestants reported the same. had grown weaker. been “helped somewhat.” For those Pew’s numbers found that African Catholics, according to Pew, are who say they go the church frequently, Americans reported the biggest in- very much in line with the overall sur- 41% said they were helped a lot, with crease in faith at 41%, compared to vey results. Among Catholic respon- 45% reporting they had been helped 40% for Hispanics and 20% for whites. dents, 27% said their faith had grown somewhat. Even a majority of those Older Americans likewise found their St. Jude Food drive – Teachers and faculty at St. stronger with 2% saying it had gotten who say they rarely go to church said faith increasing, as nearly 30% of all Jude the Apostle School in Baton Rouge hosted weaker. In addition, 63% said their faith has helped – 23% a lot and 32% Americans ages 50-up reported in- a drive-through canned food drive on April 25, faith had not changed much at all, and somewhat. creased faith. Women’s numbers were collecting 1,653 pounds of food for the Greater another 7% said the question was not Among all respondents, 35% said nearly twice as big as men’s, 30% com- Baton Rouge Food Bank. Photo provided by Emily Davis applicable because “I am not a reli- they have been helped a lot and 29% pared to 18%.

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AVER TORSO MA IM CITY PHONE LADS YEMEN INNS moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www May 8, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 15 St. Margaret donates meals to health workers By Richard Meek Church in Albany to provide the The Catholic Commentator meals. “The meals are definitely en- For a few precious, albeit rare, couraging and lift our spirits a moments, 100 health care work- lot,” said Alexis Dominguez, a ers at North Oaks Hospital in nurse practitioner at North Oaks Hammond had a glance back to Family Medicine. “It actually the days before the coronavirus brings us into normalcy in the pandemic changed the world. clinic when we are able to have Ditching their normal PB&J food outside of the peanut butter sandwiches on April 29, these be- and jelly sandwiches we bring for hind-the-scenes health care work- ourselves. ers that included lab techs and “We get to have a meal that clinical workers were able to savor is not only delicious but comes a delectable meatloaf lunch with from somebody’s heart.” all of the trimmings provided by Pastor Father Jamin David Father Jamin David, second from right, is pictured with health care workers from North Oaks Hospital in The SteaKhouse in Hammond. said reaching out to others in Hammond on April 29. St. Margaret Queen of Scotland Church in Albany, where Father David is pastor, Restaurant owners Blake and need is part of St. Margaret’s partnered with the SteaKhouse in Hammond to provide 100 meatloaf lunches to the workers. Photo by Richard Megan Kinchen partnered with social outreach legacy but the Meek | The Catholic Commentator St. Margaret Queen of Scotland stay-at-home order has forced the parish to reinvent how to serve others. He recalled how The Catholic Commentator For help placing your classi ed ad, St. Margaret answered the call PO Box 3316 call 225-387-0983. All classi ed ads are during the flood of 2016 when Baton Rouge LA 70821-3316  prepaid. Credit cards are now accepted. the church opened its doors to C hundreds of motorists trapped HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HELP WANTED on Interstate 12. “Serving a hot meal to first re- Diocese of Baton Rouge sponders seemed like a logical, Catholic Schools Office tactile way that we could reach St. Michael out to others in our community,” Principal Opening Father David said. “It brings joy to our hearts and smiles to our St. Elizabeth Catholic School High School faces to see medical profession- Paincourtville, LA is now accepting applications for als feel the incarnational love of the position of God through our small acts of St. Elizabeth Catholic School was founded in 1876 and currently Public Relations Coordinator. kindness and charity.” serves approximately 210 students in Grades PK3 – 8. With 15 pro- Mike Arnold, laboratory fessional staff members, the school operates as a Catholic Chris- Working with the President and the operations manager for North tian family devoted to spiritual growth and academic excellence in Advancement office Oaks, said he was touched be- a caring and safe environment. The school recently completed the cause donations such as meals self-study process for district reaccreditation. the Public Relations Coordinator will: St. Elizabeth Catholic School is part of the Diocese of Baton • Coordinate with the President's Office show that he and his colleagues Rouge, which has thirty schools in eight civil parishes. There is a • Develop and implement public relations are making a difference in the strong Catholic identity focus in all schools. The district is accredited community. by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (AdvancED). strategies for St. Michael High School. “It shows we are helping All schools work together to • Work closely with Advancement Office on in a positive way trying to get Evangelize Hearts, Educate Minds, special events, such as Auction, Warrior Fund through these trying times,” Encourage Talent, and Embrace the Future Golf Tournament, Annual Fund Arnold said. “And the amount of support we received from or- Applicants who meet the following criteria will be considered: • Collaborate with the Alumni Director to plan ganizations is overwhelming to • Practicing Catholic events or meetings with alumni and prospective • Minimum of 5 years of experience in education, me.” preferably in Catholic schools donors. According to Melanie Zaf- • Demonstrated Leadership Ability, preferably in • Attend school functions to establish relationships futo, public relations coordina- Catholic schools and photograph school events, presentations and tor for North Oaks, community • Qualifications to meet the Non-public Certification publications to share with the community. support has been overwhelm- Requirements for Louisiana ing. She said the hospital has Mail resume, copies of all college transcript(s) • Should have experience managing website, social received more than 200 dona- showing degrees, and three letters of recommendation to media content, photography and publishing tions in the form of meals (that St. Elizabeth Catholic School Principal Search have fed every employee at some Catholic Schools Office quarterly magazine. P.O. Box 2028 point), snacks, PPE supplies in- Baton Rouge, LA 70821-2028 Send your letter of interest and resume to cluding masks, cards and post- or email same to [email protected] ers. [email protected] “Every single one of those Deadline is May 15, 2020 donations is very special to us,” The schools of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, admit students Zaffuto said. “It comes from the of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, pro- grams, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its Need a job, provide a service or want to heart and people who are giv- schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and tutor, it all starts with the Classifieds. ing support. It really makes us ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, admissions policies, feel and know we are all in this scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered together, that spirit of commu- programs. Call 225-387-0983. nity.” 16 The Catholic Commentator May 8, 2020

Hot Rod Vinnie says: Tips for seniors during pandemic

By Debbie Shelley “Get the blood pumping,” said but was so appreciated we have The Catholic Commentator Gaudin. spread it to all,” said Father Uter. ICC pastor Father Frank Uter “Our staff has divided up a print- Keeping the body, mind, and also suggested the elderly could ed copy of all the households and soul engaged is an important do the things they have been sav- has been calling each household step for the elderly to reduce ing for “a rainy day” that could to see how they are doing. their vulnerability to the coro- possibly be done from home. “Some really good things have navirus, said clergy and parish “I find myself busy at a relaxed come from this. Perhaps some health nurses in the Diocese of pace, but at the same time taking of the elderly may have someone Baton Rouge. care of things I never had time to they haven’t been in touch with Senior citizens still living at take care of,” said Father Uter. for a while.” home should heed the advice of Keeping their mind going also Technology can be a friend in Spring Cleaning! staying home as much as pos- helps seniors to take their focus keeping in touch with and watch- sible, according to Stephanie off their worries. ing after seniors at this time, said Make Room in Your Garage or Gaudin, parish nurse at Im- “If they like to do puzzles, Gaudin. Yard by Donating That Old Car! maculate Conception Church in encourage them to do puzzles, For those with loved ones in Denham Springs. Before they go anything that keeps the mind ac- nursing homes or assisted living It’s springtime, and we can help with your to the grocery store or run other tive,” said Gaudin. facilities, maintaining contact spring cleaning. If you have been thinking errands, senior citizens should She added it’s important for with the facilities and arranging about getting rid of your old car, now make lists so they can complete seniors to keep their routines and to visit with loved ones through would be a great time to donate it to a great their tasks as quickly as possible. enjoy their hobbies as much as social media is helpful. But staying at home doesn’t possible. Seniors who like to cook Parents can encourage their charity – St. Vincent de Paul. mean one has to stay motionless, should be encouraged to prepare children to make cards for nurs- The Society of St. Vincent de Paul not only said Gaudin, who advised seniors healthy meals so they will get the ing home residents to let them needs car donations, but also boats, campers to “move.” nutrition they need. know someone is thinking of and motor-homes. Proceeds benefit the “I encourage them to go out- One of the best ways to look them. side. If they stay inside all the after the health and welfare of The practices developed to as- poor and homeless served by the Bishop Ott time they are likely to get de- the elderly is to call and see if sure the safety and quality of life Shelter Program, St. Vincent de Paul Dining pressed. Go outside and get some they need anything or simply for seniors during the pandemic Room, and our Community Pharmacy. fresh air,” said Gaudin. talk with them. can be built upon once it is over,

Make your car donation online at She said any form of move- “One thing our parish is doing Gaudin emphasized. ment, even if it is getting up and for the elderly and all is calling “This is a good time to say, ‘I svdpbr.org or call (225) 383-7837, ext. O. walking around the house, is parishioners. It started out as a need to take better care of my- Free Towing!!! helpful. project for those 70 years or older self,’ ” she said.

Spring Cleaning! Clothing, Household and Furniture Needed

St. Vincent de Paul Stores are leaders in distributing clothing and furniture to the needy at no charge, and we need your help. Last year, we assisted over 10,000 people (free of charge) with their clothing needs. You may remember six-year-old Anna who was a guest at our Bishop Ott Sweet Dreams Shelter. She and her mother desperately needed clothing and other items, and we were able to help them in their time of need.

Help us give a hand-up to people in need. We accept clothing, household items, furnishings and appliances in good condition.

We have resumed pick-ups on a limited basis. Schedule your pick-up by calling us at (225)267-5447 on weekdays between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm.

Starting May 4th, we will open our Stores for drop offs of donations only Monday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm. If you drop off a donation, we ask that you follow the social distancing safety procedures that our stores have in place.

Help us by making your donation today!