CHURCH TODAY

Volume XLVII, No. 9 www.diocesealex.org Serving the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana Since 1970 September 19, 2016

O N T H E St. INSIDE

USCCB objects to research on part-human, part-animal embryos

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops objected to a National Institutes of Health pro- posal to authorize federally fund- ed research on part-human, part- animal embryos in comments submitted to the agency Sept. 2. Caring for Read more on page 2. the Poorest Historic flooding leaves line of destruction across of the Poor South Louisiana

The line of destruction caused by historic flooding in southern Louisiana stretches for 25 miles. It is the worst natural di- saster in the United States since Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Turn to pages 14-17 for story and pic- tures.

Fall fairs and festivals offer weekend fun

Expect to find a a church or school fair or festival almost every week in the months “Let us always meet each other of September, October and with a smile, November. For a list of church for a smile is the beginning fairs and state festivals, go to of love. page 19. -- St. Teresa of Kolkata PAGE 2 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 Man confesses to killing two Sisters of Charity in Mississippi

By Dennis Sadowski owner, told The Clarion-Ledger were valiant women. They were Catholic News Service newspaper in Jackson, Missis- dear women who loved the min- sippi, the deaths are “a loss to the istry they were in.” (CNS) -- A man suspected in community. They were loved by In a statement, the leadership the slayings of two nuns found everybody.” team of the U.S. province of the dead in their Mississippi home Authorities have released School Sisters of St. Francis an- confessed to the killings, a sheriff few details about the crime, but nounced its shock and grief over said Aug. 27, in the latest twist to police suspect that robbery was a hearing the news of the deaths. a crime that has horrified people motive. “Sister Margaret has been in the small communities where Bishop R. Kopacz of a member of our community for the women served. Jackson commended the sisters 49 years and lived her ministry Rodney Earl Sanders, 46, of for their years of dedicated ser- caring for and healing the poor,” Kosciusko, Miss., was arrested vice. the leadership team said. “Please and charged in the deaths of Sis- “They absolutely loved the keep Sister Margaret, Sister Paula ter Margaret Held and Sister Pau- people in their community,” he and their families and loved ones la Merrill, Mississippi Depart- said. “We mourn with the people in your prayers.” ment of Public Safety spokesman of Lexington and Durant and we Sister Paula, a native of Mas- Warren Strain said Aug. 26. Both pray for the Sisters of Charity, the sachusetts, moved to rural Mis- women were 68. SLAIN SISTERS. Sister Paula Merril, 69, a member of the Sisters of Char- School Sisters of St. Francis and sissippi in 1981, serving in health Willie March, the sheriff of ity of Nazareth in Kentucky, and Sister Margaret Held, 68, a member of the the families left behind.” care ministry for more than 30 Holmes County where the kill- School Sisters of St. Francis in Milwaukee, are pictured in undated photos. Sister Susan Gatz, presi- years. She joined the Lexington ings occurred, said he had been The two women religious were found stabbed to death Aug. 25 in their Durant, dent of the Sisters of Charity of clinic in 2010. briefed by police from the town Miss. home, police said. (CNS photo/School Sisters of St. Francis and Sisters Nazareth, asked for prayers of “She was from Massachu- where the killings occurred and of Charity of Nazareth) gratitude “for the precious lives setts, that’s a big leap to move Mississippi Bureau of Investi- of Sisters Paula and Margaret” in down south,” noted Sister Susan. gation officials who took part in a statement on the community’s “There was something about the Sanders’ interrogation. ered a car missing from the nuns’ said Franciscan Father Greg Pla- website. “They served the poor people there and the need of the Sanders confessed in the home the evening of Aug. 25 on a ta, sacramental administrator of so well. Because we are Gospel people there that drew her heart.” interrogation to the killings and secluded street about a mile from St. Church in women, please also pray for the Sister Margaret first minis- gave no reason for the crimes, where the women were found Lexington, where the sisters par- perpetrators,” the statement said. tered in Mississippi as a social March said. dead. ticipated in parish life. Sister Susan also asked for worker at a health center in Holly Sister Margaret Held, 68, a Police officers discovered the “They just bring the light of prayers for the women’s fami- Springs in 1975. She relocated member of the School Sisters of women’s bodies after co-workers Christ to this area here. Both were lies, their religious communities, to Omaha, Nebraska, from 1981 St. Francis in Milwaukee, and called asking to check on them af- extremely loved by the people in those who work at the medical to 1983 as a community health Sister Paula Merrill, 68, a member ter they failed to report for work the area,” Father Plata told Cath- clinic, the clinic’s clients and the nurse with the Visiting Nurse As- of the Sisters of Charity of Naza- at the clinic. olic News Service in a telephone community of Durant. sociation before returning to Mis- reth in Kentucky, had worked at “These were two wonder- interview Aug. 26. In an interview on the moth- sissippi that year. the Lexington Medical Clinic in ful, faith-filled women who just “These two sisters wouldn’t erhouse campus Aug. 26, she said: She became a nurse practi- Lexington, about 10 miles from brought so much life to this poor hurt a flea. It’s almost incom- “We know their death was violent tioner in 1994, serving in Tupelo, the house they shared. little section of Mississippi. They prehensible that someone could and they were two extraordinarily Marks and Lexington. She began Warren Strain, spokesman and so many of the sisters who perpetrate such violence against peaceful women. It’s hard to put her service with her religious or- for the Mississippi Department of have come down here throughout them,” the priest added. those things together. ... The loss der as a teacher at St. Joseph High Public Safety, said police discov- the years are the unsung heroes,” Dr. Elias Abboud, the clinic’s to our congregation is huge. They School in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Q & A FORMER SOCIAL SECURITY JUDGE Q. How do I send in news to PETER J. LEMOINE the Church Today? Social Security Disability Law

A. Sending news to the Church Offices in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Cottonport Today is simple. The first step Adjunct Professor (1994-1997), Northwestern State University is write the information in a Mi- MEMBER: Louisiana State Bar Association, American Bar Association, crosoft Word document or in Baton Rouge Bar Association, Avoyelles Parish Bar Association, the text of an email. Don’t worry National Organization of Social Security Claimant Representatives, about HOW it is written, but that Legal Services for Purposes of Disability Committee (Louisiana State all the information is included. Bar Association). Be sure to include pertinent information like the date, time, PUBLISHED ARTICLES: “The Worn-Out Worker Rule Revisited,” “Significant Work-Related Limitations of Function Under 12.05C,” place, cost, and deadlines. “Questionable Retirement and the Small Business Owner,” “Crisis of The last step is to email it to jpe- Confidence: The Inadequacies of Vocational Evidence Presented∲ at [email protected]. There is Social Security Disability Hearings.” no need to call ahead to find out the deadline. Just write it up and send! It’s that easy! 318-876-3174 SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 3 Mother Teresa remembered for her holiness, service to others

KOLKATA, India (CNS) -- rut. It was her first visit in a war A favorite motto of Blessed Te- zone but not her last. resa of Kolkata was: “Do small Meeting with Red Cross offi- things with great love.” cials about relief needs, she asked But the “small things” she what their most serious problem did so captivated the world that was. They took her to a nearby she was showered with honorary mental hospital that had just been degrees and other awards, almost bombed, requiring immediate universally praised by the media evacuation of 37 mentally and and sought out by , presi- physically handicapped children. dents, philanthropists and other “I’ll take them,” she said. figures of wealth and influence. “What stunned everyone Despite calls on her time was her energy and efficiency,” a from all over the globe Mother Red Cross official involved in the Teresa always returned to India evacuation said afterward. “She to be with those she loved most -- saw the problem, fell to her knees the lonely, abandoned, homeless, and prayed for a few seconds, and disease-ravaged, dying, “poorest then she was rattling off a list of of the poor” in Kolkata’s streets. supplies she needed -- nappies On Sept. 4, Francis, (diapers), plastic pants, chamber who has spent this year preaching pots. We didn’t expect a to about mercy, canonized Mother be so efficient.” Teresa, who traveled the world She was an advocate for chil- to deliver a single message: that Missionaries of Charity nuns attend a Mass of thanksgiving for the of St. Teresa of Kolkata in dren and was outspoken against love and caring are the most im- St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Sept. 5. The Mass was celebrated by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of abortion. portant things in the world. state. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) In a 1981 visit to New York, “The biggest disease today,” she proposed a characteristically she once said, “is not leprosy or direct and simple solution to the tuberculosis, but rather the feeling and contemplative sisters today. chastity and obedience. In addi- Union -- countries not generally problem of unwanted pregnancy: of being unwanted, uncared for In addition, there are Missionar- tion, the Missionaries of Charity open to foreign church workers. “If you know anyone who does and deserted by everybody. The ies of Charity Fathers, and ac- -- sisters and brothers -- take a Her combination of serene, not want the child, who is afraid greatest evil is the lack of love tive and contemplative brothers. fourth vow of “wholehearted and simple faith and direct, practical of the child, then tell them to give and charity, the terrible indiffer- In 1969, in response to growing free service to the poorest of the efficiency often amazed those that child to me.” ence toward one’s neighbor who interest of laypeople who wanted poor.” who came in contact with her. When Mother Teresa re- lives at the roadside, assaulted by to be associated with her work, an The tiny, wizened Mother In 1982, when Israeli troops ceived the Nobel Peace Prize in exploitation, corruption, poverty informally structured, ecumenical Teresa in her familiar white and were holding Beirut under siege Oslo, Norway, Dec. 10, 1979, and disease.” International Association of Co- blue sari opened houses for the in an effort to root out the Pal- she accepted it “in the name of Her influence is worldwide. Workers of Mother Teresa was destitute and dying, for those with estine Liberation Organization, the hungry, of the naked, of the The Missionaries of Charity, formed. AIDS, for orphans and for people Mother Teresa visited a commu- homeless, of the blind, of the lep- which Mother Teresa founded in The members of the con- with leprosy. She founded hous- nity of her nuns at Spring School, ers, of all those who feel unwant- 1950, has more than 5,300 active gregation take vows of poverty, es in Cuba and the then-Soviet a home for the aged in East Bei- See ST. TERESA, pg. 4 USCCB objects to research on part-human, part-animal embryos Bishops say Chimera research is grossly unethical and would be funded by our tax dollars

Catholic News Service pluripotent cells -- those capable By funding such research, the unique dignity of the human obligations are inevitably con- of giving rise to several different the bishops argued, the NIH person puts limits to what can fused and even contradictory, is (CNS) -- The U.S. Confer- cell types -- into nonhuman pri- would be ignoring laws that pro- morally be done in the field. itself immoral, the statement said. ence of Catholic Bishops objected mate blastocysts, which are cells hibit it. They said such research “Herein lies the key moral NIH should give far more serious to a National Institutes of Health at an early stage of development. “is also grossly unethical.” problem involved in this pro- consideration to this and other proposal to authorize federally NIH has proposed funding scien- On the moral and ethical posal, beyond the already grave moral problems before seeing to funded research on part-human, tists researching such embryos, side of the issue, the statement problem of exploiting human fund human/animal chimera re- part-animal embryos in com- known as chimeras. said the bishops are concerned embryos as cell factories for re- search.” ments submitted to the agency The bishops’ statement said about the destruction of human search. For if one cannot tell to Legally, the bishops added, Sept. 2. that while the plan calls for re- embryos that serve as a source of what extent, if any, the resulting federal funding for such research The bishops made ethical view of some research proposals “raw material” for research. They organism may have human status would violate the Dickey-Wicker and legal arguments in opposing by a NIH steering committee, said the NIH proposal for produc- or characteristics, it will be im- Amendment, which prohibits the the plan, saying that such research “the bottom line is that the federal ing human/animal hybrids raises possible to determine what one’s use of taxpayer dollars to create result in “beings who do not fully government will begin expending “new and troubling questions of moral obligations may be regard- or destroy human embryos for ex- belong to either the human race or taxpayer dollars on the creation its own.” ing that organism,” the bishops periments. the host animal species.” and manipulation of new beings Acknowledging that the said. The statement concludes that Current NIH guidelines for whose very existence blurs the respectful use of animals in re- “We submit that producing the proposal is “seriously flawed” human stem cell research specifi- line between humanity and ani- search can benefit humanity, the new organisms, regarding whom and urged NIH to withdraw it. cally prohibit introducing human mals such as mice and rats.” bishops stressed, however, that our fundamental moral and legal PAGE 4 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016

enough money to finance a center down to get money for the poor. for leprosy victims in the Indian In addition to winning the St. Teresa of Kolkata state of West Bengal. Nobel Peace Prize, Mother Te- Twenty-one years later, when resa was given Pope John XXIII ed, unloved, uncared for through- U.S. President Ronald Reagan Peace Prize in 1971; the Temple- out society.” She also condemned presented her with the presidential ton Prize in 1973; the John F. abortion as the world’s greatest Medal of Freedom at the White Kennedy International Award in destroyer of people. House, he called her a “heroine 1971; the $300,000 Balzan Prize “To me, the nations who of our times” and noted that the for Humanity, Peace and Brother- have legalized abortion are the plaque honoring her described hood in 1979; the Congressional poorest nations,” she said. “They her as the “saint of the gutters.” Gold Medal in 1997; and dozens are afraid of the unborn child, and He also joked that Mother Teresa of other awards and honors, in- the child must die.” might be the first award recipi- cluding one of India’s highest -- Often when criticized about ent to take the plaque and melt it the Padmashri Medal. her approach to social issues, Mother Teresa told of a man who suggested she could do more for the world by teaching people how to fish rather than by giving them fish. “The people I serve are helpless,” she said she told him. “They cannot stand. They cannot WINNSBORO CATHOLICS ATTEND CANONIZATION. Four parishioners hold the rod. I will give them the from St. Mary’s in Winnsboro ran into Father Taylor Reynolds food and then send them to you so at the canonization of St. Teresa in Rome. Pictured are (from left) Shirley and you can teach them how to fish.” Kirk Reed, Carmen Simms, and Amalie, a German exchange student. Mother Teresa was born Ag- nes Ganxhe Bojaxhiu to Albanian parents in Skopje, in what is now she once said. “I wanted to be a chins, the ostracized sick people Macedonia, Aug. 26, 1910. She missionary.” lying prey to rats and other ver- had a sister, Aga, and a brother, At 15, Agnes was inspired min in streets and alleys. Lazar. Her father was a grocer, to work in India by reports sent In 1946, she received a “call but the family’s background was home by Yugoslavian Jesuit mis- within a call,” as she described more peasant than merchant. sionaries in Bengal -- present-day it. “The message was clear. I was Lazar said their mother’s ex- Bangladesh, but then part of In- to leave the convent and help the ample was a determining factor in dia. At 18 she left home to join the poor, while living among them,” Agnes’ vocation. Irish branch of the Institute of the she said. “Already when she was a Blessed Mary, known as Two years later, the Vatican little child she used to assist the the Loreto Sisters. After training gave her permission to leave the poor by taking food to them every at their institutions in Dublin and Loreto Sisters and follow her new day like our mother,” he said. ne in Darjeeling, India, she made her calling under the jurisdiction of did not steal the jam.” first vows as a nun in 1928 and the archbishop of Kolkata. As a student at a public her final vows nine years later. When Blessed Paul VI vis- school in Skopje, she was a mem- While teaching and serving ited Bombay, now Mumbai, In- ber of a Catholic sodality with a as a principal at Loreto House, a dia, in 1964, he presented Mother special interest in foreign mis- fashionable girls’ college in Kol- Teresa with a white ceremonial sions. kata, she was depressed by the Lincoln Continental given to him “At the age of 12, I first knew destitute and dying on the city’s by people in the United States. TOUCHING RELICS. People hand the Sisters of Charity items they wish to I had a vocation to help the poor,” streets, the homeless street ur- She raffled off the car and raised have touch the relics of newly canonized St. Teresa.

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By Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond Archdiocese of New Orleans

In society today we are witnessing national and local political campaigns that have become very negative and in many cases disrepectful to others. We must make sure our voices are heard and call for greater civility in politics. Likewise, we must speak with our children and help them to realize such “name-calling” Donald Trump Hiliary Clinton is not according to Christian principles. lenge of Forming Consciences for do so if elected. Please be re- Despite the negativity sur- Faithful Citizenship.” minded that the Catholic Church rounding political campaigns, This information is meant to does not support a candidate nor it is very important that we help us know the moral teaching can any candidate or their repre- as Catholics participate in the of the Church and to use these sentative speak in our churches or political process and elections. principles in choosing to vote for on parish/school premises. It is our responsibility as dis- a candidate. Information from As Catholics, we believe in ciples of Jesus to look care- the USCCB is the only approved the values handed on to use by Je- fully at the platform of each voter guidance that can be distrib- sus and and our traidtion. Please candidate and compare these uted in our Catholic churches. join me in studying carefully the principles to the teaching of I have heard people say, information from the bishops’ the Church. There are many “I am not going to vote in this conference andd, throug prayer, To order, go to moral issues we must be aware presidential election.” Please be make a responsible decision in www.usccb.org/Forming-Consciences-for- of to form our conscience and reminded that we should not ab- thsi upcoming election. Faithful-Citizenship/7-528.htm to decide how to vote. stain from voting. If no candidate Let us together pray for our In order to assist you, presents the values we believe in, country and for peace in our $4.95 The United States Conference we are called to vote for the can- world. May we form our con- or view online at usccb.org of Catholic Bishops has once didate that most reflects Christian science and be faith-filled citi- again published “The Chal- principles or has the potential to zens.

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Well, it looks as though of thousands of cleaning supplies, of the poor. She was once asked Louisiana made it through one towels, blankets, baby items, and the source of her strong faith of the rainiest months on record, personal care items which in turn and courage and she responded, which resulted in the devastating ONE IN were delivered to shelters in Ba- “From Our Lord Jesus Christ in floods in Baton Rouge, Denham ton Rouge through Lynn Ray and the Eucharist.” Let us follow her Springs, and the Lafayette area. THE LORD the Catholic Student Organiza- example of faith and courage and It was heartbreaking to watch -- tion at LSUA. Thank you to all her strong devotion to the true deja vu Katrina -- as the floodwa- Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog who participated so generously in presence of Christ in the Eucha- ters wreaked havoc on the homes Bishop of the Diocese of Alexandria this effort. rist. and lives of so many people. It Earlier this month, the world May you all enjoy cooler will take years for those areas to watched as canon- temperatures of the upcoming fully recover. Our prayers are whose own homes had flooded page to let people know we were ized Mother Teresa of Kolkata, Fall season and please remember with them. (later dubbed ‘the Cajun Navy’), collecting items to send immedi- a saint. Even to those around to keep me in your prayers as I On the other hand, it was immediately got into their own ate aid to Baton Rouge and Den- the world who are not Catholic, will keep you in mine. heart-warming to see the generos- boats and rushed to aid others ham Springs. Within three days, this tiny little woman was recog- ity of so many people who rushed who were trapped in their homes. generous individuals, our Catho- nized as a person of strong faith to aid those in need. In the middle Here in the Diocese of Al- lic schools and churches man- and courage and admired for her of the devastation, certain people exandria, we used our Facebook aged to collect and deliver tens ministry of caring for the poorest Stop endorsing; start praying for one nation under God

In 2007, during the Presi- portant election, with a clear con- Business News. dential elections of the United science, I am honoring my com- Pastor Bates and I have States, I endorsed my last candi- Guest Editorial mitment to God to spend more something in common; he took date, Governor Sam Brownback. by Alveda King time in prayer, rather than endors- his daughter to her first pro- When he left the campaign, I was Niece of Dr. Martin Luther King ing any candidates. test, my daddy Rev. A. D. King about to endorse another candi- Some are texting and post- took me to mine; The Children’s date, Governor Mike Huckabee. ing that this is lack of courage. March in Birmingham, Alabama. Just as I was about to press and 1980’s, I understood the Messages like the sanctity Believe me, it takes quite a bit of I have been peacefully protesting the “send” button on the release, I importance of political endorse- of life, reconciliation of the one courage to stand up to the pres- every since. was impressed to read my Bible. ments. I still do. blood, the one human race; the sure of not endorsing, even to the I pledge allegiance to the During those moments, it was as So, for many years, espe- sanctity of procreative monoga- point of being called a coward. Kingdom of God, with a burning if God was speaking to my heart. cially since the time that God im- mous; social economic justice; However, I still love everyone, desire to be that city/nation on a “Stop endorsing, and start pray- pressed me to pray for all candi- equal education rights; constitu- and I still love America. hill, shining light to the world. I ing.” dates, and vote for the platforms tional rights, and so much more I encourage you to view the sing our National Anthem with Having been elected to of- that are closest to my heart and continues to resonate in my heart video of Pastor Will Bates of Liv- gratitude, believing for that day fice in the Georgia House of Rep- His Word, I have been voting pro- as I prepare to vote. ing Faith Christian Church in Ba- when we can truly be one nation resentatives during the 1970’s life and pro-America. This year, during this im- ton Rouge, and my video at Fox under God. May God bless us all!

VIRTUS CHURCH TODAY • Thursday, Sept. 22 -- 6 p.m., Sa- Volume XLVII, No. 9 • September 19, 2016 cred Heart Church (Hall), Moreauville • Tuesday, Sept. 27 -- 6 p.m., MB P. O. Box 7417 • Alexandria, LA 71303 of the (Hall), [email protected] 318-445-6424 Natchitoches • Thursday, Sept. 29 -- 6 p.m., St. Publisher: Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog, Bishop of Alexandria Joseph Catholic Center, Alexandria Editor: Jeannie Petrus, ext. 255; [email protected] Advertising: Joan Ferguson, ext. 264; [email protected] To register, go to www.virtus.org. Circulation: Sandi Tarver, ext. 209; [email protected] Every adult who works/volunteers with children/youth in the Diocese THE CHURCH TODAY (USPS 393-240) is published by the Catholic of Alexandria’s churches/schools Diocese of Alexandria, once a month, free of charge to members of must attend the VIRTUS™ Protect- the parishes in the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana. Out of diocese ing God’s Children for Adults sexual subscriptions are $20 a year. abuse awareness training. In addi- tion to the 2-3 hour Virtus program, The office is located at 4400 Coliseum Blvd., Alexandria, LA 71303. “ongoing-training” is also part of the Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, LA. POSTMASTER: Send ad- training component. dress changes to The CHURCH TODAY, P. O. Box 7417, Alexandria, LA 71306 For more information, call Pam Delrie, The CHURCH TODAY is a member of the Catholic Press Association. Safe Environment Coordinator at Website: www.diocesealex.org 318-445-6424 x 213. To receive a free subscription, call 318-445-6424, ext 255 or e-mail [email protected] SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 7 Pray the Rosary during October: the Month of the Holy Rosary Meditating on the Mysteries can deepen your relationship with God

October 7 is the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary and the month of October is traditionally celebrated as the month of the Rosary. We celebrate the Feast of the Holy Rosary on Oct. 7 in memory of the glorious and triumphant victory at the Battle of Lepanto. That battle in 1571 was the most convincing military victory that proved without a doubt the great power of the Rosary. The month of October is a good time to commit to praying the Rosary everyday. The Rosary will bring great peace and holi- ness to your life and is a powerful instrument for conversion. It protects the Church from false teachings and keeps her safe from the attacks from the Enemy. Here are some ways to cel- ebrate the month of the Holy Ro- sary: • Pray the Rosary everyday this month. Pray it especially for priests. They need your constant prayers. • Make rosaries, have them blessed and give them away. You can teach a group of children to make rosaries of their own. They will really be excited about pray- ing with a rosary they made them- selves. Give the rosaries to the el- derly in nursing homes, take them to Catholic schools or religious education classes at your parish, or mail them to prisons. Have them blessed by a priest first. • Print some Rosary booklets (many online) and hand them out to a CCD class, or your neighbors and friends. • Attend Mass on Oct. 7 the feast of Our Lady of the Holy Ro- sary and on Oct. 13 the day of the final visit of Mary to Fatima. Source: www.how-to-pray- the-rosary-everyday.com

Receive the Louis Lowrey, M.A.

Licensed Professional Counselor Church Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Today 2914 N. Bolton Ave. • Alexandria, LA Offices located at 207 Church Street, Natchitoches FREE (318) 332-8422 • [email protected] Call 318-445-6424 442-2325 Mail: 109 Royal Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457 ext 209 PAGE 8 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016

Seminarian Burses

July Donations Father Peter Kuligowski ...... $25.00 Father Peter Kuligowski Burse Knights of Columbus Council 9217 ...... $25.00 Father Adrian L. Molenschot Burse Mrs. Joy Broussard...... $50.00 Monsignor Milburn Broussard Burse INSTALLATION OF FATHER BINO PALLIPPARAMBIL. Bishop Ronald Herzog installed Father Bino Pallipparambil Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Schupbach ...... $100.00 as pastor of Sts. Francis & Anne in Kolin Aug. 21 during the 10:30 a.m. Mass. Afterwards, the parish celebrated with a Msgr. Steve Testa Burse covered dish meal in the parish hall. Also pictured is Father Dale Meade and Deacon Gred LeBlanc. Memory of John & Mary Thiels ...... $100.00 Father Chad Partain Burse Memory of John Michael & Mary Thiels ...... $100.00 Red Mass Deacon Willian Travis Burse D i o c e s e of A l e x a n d r i a Bayou Chateau Nursing Center...... $100.00 Floyd J. LaCour, Sr. Burse Friday, Sept. 23 • 9:30 a.m. Tri-Community Nursing Center...... $100.00 St. Cathedral Floyd J. LaCour, Sr. Burse The annual Red Mass will be celebrated Friday, Sept. 23 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Ca- Mr. and Mrs. Robert Miller ...... $200.00 thedral in Alexandria. Father Bruce Miller will be the homilist. The Red Mass is open to the public. Father Daniel Corkery Burse The Red Mass is celebrated annually in the Catholic Church for judges, attorneys, law school professors, students, and government officials. The Mass requests guidance from the Holy Spirit Mrs. Elizabeth S. Arthur ...... $1,000.00 for all who seek justice, and offers the opportunity to reflect on what Catholics believe is the God- Sadie Stroud Burse given power and responsibility of all in the legal profession.

Total...... $1,800.00

White Mass August Donations D i o c e s e of A l e x a n d r i a Father Peter Kuligowski ...... $25.00 Father Peter Kuligowski Burse Saturday, Oct. 22 • 9:30 a.m. Knights of Columbus Council 9217 ...... $25.0 St. Francis Xavier Cathedral Father Adrian L. Molenschot Burse

The annual White Mass will be celebrated Saturday, Oct. 22 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Mrs. Joy Broussard...... $50.00 Cathedral in Alexandria. The White Mass is celebrated annually in the Catholic Church for all Monsignor Milburn Broussard Burse healthcare professionals. The Mass requests guidance from the Holy Spirit for all who provide com- Ms. Mary Broussard...... $50.00 fort and healing to the sick. Medical professionals are asked to wear their scrubs or other medical clothing to the Mass. The public is also invited. Father Scott Chemino Burse Ms. Mary Broussard...... $50.00 Father Louis Sklar Burse Bayou Chateau Nursing Center...... $100.00 Floyd J. LaCour, Sr. Burse Sept. 29: Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Landreneau...... $150.00 Feast of the -- Michael, , & Edna Rabalais Burse Oct. 2: Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Landreneau...... $600.00 Monsignor Henry Beckers Burse Feast of the Guardian Angels

Total...... $1,050.00 SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 9 St. Joseph Seminary enrollment more than doubles in 6 years St. Joseph Seminary College, as well as unprecedented growth, mester. While some classroom compared to the bigger picture. Jesus, that keeps us humble and in Covington, La., welcomed a Fr. Gregory Boquet, O.S.B, Presi- and dorm rooms have yet to come “It seems to me that God One with Him. I see this in the record 153 seminarians this year dent-Rector of the Seminary Col- back online, modular units were doesn’t take away our brokenness Flood of 2016—which had no ef- for the Fall 2016 semester, more lege, was determined to ensure brought onto campus over the or burdens—He consoles us by fect on our historical enrollment than double the enrollment from that not only would the seminar- summer. taking them on Himself with us, at the seminary. And I think our just six years ago, when 75 semi- ians finish the Spring semester on According to one seminar- which is way better. Consequent- community and fraternity of good narians enrolled. time, but that the campus would ian, the inconveniences of a cam- ly, our constant struggle becomes men shows how the Church only St. Joseph Seminary Col- be ready for their return this se- pus still recovering are minute the very thing that calls down flourishes in her weakness.” lege is a community of faith and learning in the liberal arts rooted in the Benedictine tradition that promotes the development of the whole person. The Seminary College also supports preparation for service in lay ministries and makes available its educational and other resources to the local community. As part of the strategic plan to accommodate an expected surge in enrollment over the next several years, Seminary College leaders broke ground on a new library on Feb. 27, which would free up the current library to be used as a residence hall. Just 13 days later those plans changed ST. JOSEPH SEMINARY COLLEGE welcomed 153 seminarians this fall, which is more than doubled the enrollment six years ago. There are currently three when the entire campus was seminarians from the Diocese of Alexandria -- Thomas Kennedy, Andrew Flynn, and Cass -- who are attending St. Joseph Seminary. Seminarians also devastated by flooding from the come from Atlanta, Ga.; Galveston-Houston, Texas; Mobile Ala.; New Orleans; Austin, Texas; Baton Rouge, La.; Beaumont, Texas; Biloxi, Miss.; Corpus Christi, Bogue Falaya River. Texas; Dallas, Texas; Fort Worth, Texas; Houma-Thibodaux, La.; Jackson, Miss.; Lafayette, La.; Lake Charles, La.; Memphis, Tenn.; Shreveport, La.; St. Au- In the midst of the disaster gustine, Fla.; Victoria, Texas; and Brownsville and Nashville, Tenn. Vincentians offer assistance to the needy in Natchitoches A small group of Catholics contact Green at 318-652-4999. in Natchitoches are doing what Anyone who wishes to do- they can to help those in need in nate items, should visit the stor- the area -- even if they do work age unit on the third Saturday of out of a storage unit. They call the month and drop them off. themselves the Vincentians and “We are always happy to they make up the Society of St. accept donations of household Vincent de Paul, St. John II Con- items, such as dishes, cookware, ference. linens and small appliances. We “We are not a store at all,” also accept furniture as space al- said Carol Green, president of the lows and may even be able to society. “We have a storage unit pick up those larger items. At where we collect and distribute this time, we are unable to accept donations to the needy in Natchi- anymore clothing donations,” she toches Parish.” added. Every third Saturday of the The Society is also open to month is a work day for its mem- new members, who meet on the bers and is frequently open to the first Tuesday of each month at the general public that day. Items, MB of the Immaculate Concep- such as clothing, household tion in the parish hall/gift shop at goods and furniture, are available 6:30 p.m. for monetary donations. The conference, organized “Our mission is to distribute in March 2014, is the only offi- clothing and household items to cial conference in the Diocese of the needy,” said Green. “We can Alexandria. It has 12 Vincentians also help with utilities, rent, food, including Carol Green, president; medications and some transporta- John Vercher, vice president; tion for medical reasons.” These SERVING THE NEEDY IN NATCHITOCHES. St. Vincent de Paul Society distributes clothing and household items JoAnn St. Clair, treasurer; Kathy requests, however, require a to the needy in Natchitoches, in addition to assisting clients with financial needs. The Knights of Columbus, Council Meric, secretary; and home visit from two of the soci- 1357, recently donated funds to purchase four shelving units for their storage building. The shelves are being used Bouchie, spiritual advisor. ety members. to organize items that will make it easier to serve the clients of SVDP. The Vincentians meet on the third Saturday of For more information con- Anyone who needs any of every month at the storage unit to process donations and serve their clients. Pictured are Carol Green, president of tact Green at 318-652-4999 or these items or services, should SVDP, and Mike Menou, from the Knights. check out their Facebook page. PAGE 10 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 Fire destroys home of St. Frances Cabrini School family On Friday, Aug. 26, while the “It’s overwhelming,” said Jes- five Thompson kids were in class sica. “That people who don’t know at St. Frances Cabrini School in us or anything about us, would be Alexandria, little did they know so generous and caring toward our that they would not have a home to family.” go to that evening. The Thompson kids went Their home was completely back to school on Monday and Jes- destroyed by fire, believed to have sica and her husband went back to been started by faulty electrical work. They said their goal is to try wiring. to find a sense of normalcy for the “I opened my daughter’s bed- family. room door and smoke was every- “The response from the com- where,” said Jessica Thompson, munity has been overwhelming,” mother of the Thompson children. said Liz Hines, director of Devel- The house was completely de- opment at Cabrini. “We had more stroyed with almost nothing sal- than 60,000 hits on our Facebook vageable. page within 24 hours of it being The school faculty and staff, posted.” parents, and students were sad- Hines said the family has re- dened by the news of their fellow ceived lots of clothes and house- school family members and de- hold items. Gift cards and cash cided to do something. donations are still being accepted Throughout the weekend, for the family, but the school is no donations were accepted in the longer collecting material items. school gym. By Sunday evening, CABRINI SCHOOL FAMILY LOSES HOME TO FIRE. The home of Kevin and Jessica Thompson and their five Donations can be mailed or the gym was filled with clothing, children was destroyed by fire Aug. 26. Thanks to the community and the St. Frances Cabrini School and Church, the dropped off at the school at 2215 toys, household items, and person- Thompsons have received donations of clothing and household items to help them get back on their feet. E. Texas Ave., Alexandria, LA al care products. 71301. OLPS students Body of missing collect $3,300 for Natchitoches woman Thompson family found in Grand Canyon The students and faculty Family members confirmed at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Aug. 18 that the remains of a School in Alexandria recently woman found in the Grand Can- donated $3,300 to the Thompson yon are those of 22-year-old Di- family who lost their home in a ana Zacarias of Natchitoches. fire. The family asked for privacy After hearing about the fire at this time. Funeral services were that destroyed the home of five the following week at the Minor children who attended St. Frances Basilica of the Immaculate Con- Cabrini School in Alexandria, the ception in Natchitoches. students at OLPS wanted to do Park rangers discovered the something to let them know they body of a woman below Pima had another Catholic family not Point at the Grand Canyon July far down the road who loved them 30. and wanted to help. According to officials with Principal Jo Tassin said the the National Park Service, evi- students were asked to make a dence found at the scene indi- donation to the Thompson Family cated the remains were probably Fire Fund. Students who donated those of Zacarias. She had been received an out of uniform pass. missing for approximately four months. The remains were sent to the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office for positive identification. They believe Zacarias fell to her death shortly after her last • Behavior Modification • In home, Individual, and contact with family in Natchi- • Obedience and Therapy Group Sessions Available toches. Pet Training • Phone Consultations Please keep Diana and her • 30-day Money Back Guarantee and Phone Assessments family in your prayers. 985.226.6458 • www.felinecaninecoach.com SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 11 Suicide prevention walk organized by family with personal loss

By Jeannie Petrus CT editor

Seventeen-year-old Dixon was an altar server, played soccer, baseball, and the trom- bone, loved to run cross country, hunt, and eat crawfish, and had his own successful lawn service. His parents and five siblings were so proud of the fact that he had just been accepted to attend Louisiana Tech. On May 16, 2014, Adam Dixon died from a self-inflicted Saturday, Oct. 8 gunshot wound. Marksville Courthouse For his parents, Angie and Registration starts at 8 a.m.; 5K Run/Walk starts at 9 a.m. Andy Dixon, the shock of it all was unbearable. “We didn’t see it coming,” For more information, call: said Angie. “We had no idea that Adam had suffered for years from 337-519-1888 severe depression.” Married for 26 years, Angie and Andy Dixon tried to raise act with others. Examples include IN MEMORY OF ADAM. Angie and Andy Dixon, parents of Adam Dixon, who We want kids to know that it is their family under the Father Pey- took his own life in 2014, are hoping the Out of the Darkness Community Walk becoming extremely irritable and OK to not be OK,’ but to talk to ton McGivney law: the family to Prevent Suicide will help educate others about the signs of depression and easily angered, cutting off close someone you trust about the way that prays together, stays together. its significant role in the fight to prevent suicide. ties and friendships or becoming you feel.” The family attended Mass more isolated. The 5K (3 miles) Run/Walk regularly at Immaculate Concep- “Now that we know more on Oct. 8 will start at the Marks- tion in Dupont, where Adam was and they don’t understand why. He received his GED in the about depression, we see the ville Courthouse with registration an altar server and played the role Most times, they are ashamed Spring, made a 25 on his ACT, symptoms in Adam,” said Angie. at 8 a.m. and the event at 9 a.m. of Jesus in the church’s annual to admit they are unhappy, and and received a letter of accep- “If only we knew the symptoms, Throughout the morning, there Passion Play. He attended Steu- usually do a good of hiding it tance from Louisiana Tech. He we would have recognized his will be vendors with free infor- benville and SALT retreats. from others.” planned to attend community mental illness and sought help for mation, speakers, lots of great “We did things together as At home, Adam began show- college for a year and then go to him.” door prizes and a balloon launch. a family -- trailriding, camp- ing signs of intense outbursts of Tech. After an excitement-filled “If only we knew” is the rea- There is no cost to participate but ing, hunting, sports -- because anger. Angie and Andy thought week of shopping for things for son Angie and Andy are helping any donations accepted will go to we wanted our kids to value the maybe it was typical adolescent starting college and after an over- to organize an Out of the Dark- the American Foundation of Sui- strength that comes from family,” behavior that had gotten out of night camping trip with friends, ness community walk to raise cide Prevention. said Andy. hand and decided to send him to Adam ended his life. awareness of depression, mental For more info, call Angie at As the family participated in five months in the Youth Chal- illness, and suicide prevention. 337-519-1888, or Jackie Borde- school activities, sports and fam- lenge Program to help him cope. Adam’s story is typical of “If we can help one par- lon at 318-419-0620 or visit the ily outings, no one knew Adam He returned home after the pro- someone who suffers from de- ent out there, or one child who American Foundation for Suicide was struggling with depression. gram, happy and eager to con- pression. Days of feeling “not is suffering from depression, we Prevention at www.afsp.org. “That’s what makes it so tinue his life. Even the counselors okay” are hard to rationalize and feel this walk will be a success,” To register for the walk go hard for someone suffering from at the YCP had no concerns about most often result in isolation. said Andy. “We want parents to to http://afsp.donordrive.com/in- depression,” said Andy. “Even Adam and even made him a coun- Relational warning signs of know the signs of depression so dex.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive. with a loving home, they are sad, selor. depression include how we inter- they can get help for their child. event&eventID=4270. PAGE 12 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016

OUR LADY OF PROMPT SUCCOR WILD KIDS TRIATHLON. Students in grades PK -6 from Our Lady of Prompt Succor participated in the second annual Wild Kidz Triathlon Aug. 20 at Louisiana State Univer- sity at Alexandria. Students biked, ran, and swam to raise money for the school’s technology fund. Pictured below is Father Dan O’Connor, pastor; Jackie DeWorth, assistant principal; and Jo Tassin, principal.

WINNERS OF THE ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL PAGEANT held Aug. 28 are (top left photo) Most Photogenic Winners: (top right photo) Queens: People’s Choice, Tiny Miss St. Anthony, ; Little Miss St. Anthony, ; Junior Miss St. Anthony, ; and Miss St. An- thony, .

ST. MARY’S (Natchitoches) TEDDY BEAR TUESDAY. St. Mary’s Pre K3 program had fun on a Teddy Bear Tuesday. Activities included making bear snacks, bear art, teddy bear awards and they even went on a bear hunt!! (He was found hiding in the cafeteria). Pre K3 students are

SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 13

SACRED HEART FLAG RAISING CEREMONY. On August 26, Sacred Heart School History of the American Flag.” The 4th Grade recited what it means to be “An American”. held its Annual Flag Raising Ceremony and Flag Bearer Commissioning Service. r and lead the student body in Patriotic Songs. Commisisoned were Fr. Jose Pallipurath gave a beautiful invocation after school Mass. The 3rd Grade lead the student body in “The Pledge of Allegiance”, and Ms. Ethel Baudin (Social Studies teacher) read “The

ST. JULIANA JUNIOR KNIGHTS ASSIST IN COMMUNITY CLEAN ST.UP. JULIANA An- JUNIOR KNIGHTS COLLECT FOOD FOR FOOD BANK. The Junior Knights at St. Juliana Church thony Deshautelle and his son Deputy Jr. Knight in Alexandria boxed and delivered a total of 264 lbs of non-perishable food items to the Central Louisiana Food Bank and Deputy Grand Knight Winston Bell participated in recently. Pictured are (front row) Knight , Jr. Deputy Grand Knights the Acadiana Village Concerned Citizens Community Clean-Up on July 23. and Knights . Back row: Knight Anthony Gillard Sr. and There was a good turnout in the community and a lot was accomplished. Deputy Grand Knight Winston Bell. (Photo by Gary Davis, assistant Junior Knights Commander) PAGE 14 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 2016 South Louisiana Flood: when good rises from destruction Stories of disaster overshadowed by stories of faith, courage, compassion

By Catholic News Service had just opened Aug. 5. In such a short time, “we’d BATON ROUGE, La. (CNS) experienced growth as a family, -- The line of destruction caused with the students, with the facul- by historic flooding in southern ty,” said Jim Llorens, the school’s Louisiana stretches for 25 miles, president, who called the flooding and according to Red Cross of- “heartbreaking.” The brand-new ficials, it is the worst natural di- school building is closed while saster in the United States since school officials assess the dam- Superstorm Sandy in 2012. age and find another location to “As we all know the severe hold classes. flooding in many areas of our “It was really beginning to diocese has dramatically affected come together as a true Cristo the well-being and livelihood of Rey family, so we have to regroup countless people,” said Baton ... and make sure we don’t lose Rouge Bishop Robert W. Muench that,” Llorens said in an interview in a videotaped message posted with the diocese’s CatholicLife to the diocese’s website, www. Television apostolate and The diobr.org. Catholic Commentator, the dioc- “To those so impacted I ex- esan newspaper. press genuine empathy, heartfelt The newspaper and the TV solidarity and commitment to outlet have produced a series of help as best as we can,” he said, six videos on the flood and its af- adding his thanks “to those who A STATUE OF MARY is seen partially submerged in flood water in Sorrento, La., Aug. 20. (CNS photo/Jonathan termath. Titled “When the Waters have so impressively and sacrifi- Bachman, Reuters) Rose,” the series can be viewed cially reached out to serve.” He at www.catholiclifetv.org in the called the “outpouring of con- site’s “Programming” section. cern” extraordinary in “our area the U.S. to take a second collec- entity of East Baton Rouge Parish damaged houses at 110,000. The In another of the videos a and beyond.” On Aug. 14, Bishop tion on or around Sept. 18. Arch- was the hardest hit of parishes in Red Cross put the overall cost of mom and her children, all mem- Muench visited three evacuation bishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louis- the region by the heavy rains that recovery at $30 million. bers of St. Margaret Parish, were shelters to comfort evacuees. ville, Kentucky, encouraged U. S. fell Aug. 11-14. In some areas, as “Thousands of people in helping flood victims -- even In his video message, the Catholics “to respond generously. much as 2 feet of rain fell in 48 Louisiana have lost everything though the family had their own bishop also pointed out that the Our prayer and material support hours; in another, more than 31 they own and need our help now,” losses, including their house and diocesan website has a how-to for is urgently needed to help rebuild inches of rain fell in 15 hours. Brad Kieserman, the Red Cross’ three vehicles. people who want to donate mon- lives.” Civil authorities reported vice president of disaster servic- “We are fortunate we have ey or items to flood victims. Donations, he said, will go to that at least 13 people died in es operations and logistics, told each other and that’s a blessing. In a statement released Aug. support the humanitarian efforts the floods and that about 60,000 CNN. We have a lot of friends in the 24, the president of the U.S. of Catholic Charities USA, the homes were damaged, although Four feet of water inundated same situation,” the mom told a Conference of Catholic Bishops church’s domestic relief agency. a Baton Rouge economic devel- the new Cristo Rey Baton Rouge called on Catholic parishes across News reports said the civil opment group put the number of Franciscan High School, which See FLOOD, pg. 15 SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 15 2016 South Louisiana Flood Continued from page 14 up of parishioners preparing and directly to: taking meals to residences where • Diocese of Baton Rouge reporter. “We’re just very thank- families have absorbed other Disaster Assistance Fund at www. ful we’re able to give back ... and family members and friends left diobr.org. people have blessed us very much homeless, the priest explained. • Catholic Charities USA at in clothes and water and such. Finally the God’s Gutters https://catholiccharitiesusa.org. We’re just doing a little bitty bit demolition crew will go into (Donations can be sent by mail of what we can do (for others).” damaged houses to clear out with a check payable to Catholic In his statement, Archbishop water-soaked carpet, drywall and Charities USA, Catholic Chari- Kurtz urged all Catholics to join furniture and anything else that is ties USA, P.O. Box 17066 Bal- the church “in being a visible wit- damaged. timore, MD, 21297-1066; or by ness to the healing presence of Je- Father Gyan added that the phone with a credit card, (800) sus alive in the world” by helping parish intends to have second col- 919-9338. flood victims. He acknowledged lection to raise funds to buy gift • Knights of Columbus at that not all U.S. parishes may be cards to Lowe’s, Home Depot and www.kofc.org/flood. (Donations able to have a second collection other stores to help people repair via check or money order can be and encouraged individuals to their homes and replace what they sent to: K of C Louisiana Flood, donate directly to Catholic Chari- have lost. Knights of Columbus Charities, ties USA at https://catholicchari- Editor’s Note: Donations to P.O. Box 1966, New Haven, CT, tiesusa.org. help flood victims can be made 06509-1966.) Whether your donation is large or small, let us also be sure those suffering feel the power of our prayer to sustain them in the difficult days ahead. The Knights of Columbus, based in New Haven, Connecti- cut, said in an Aug. 23 new re- lease statement its members have volunteered to help flood victims by preparing and distributing pal- lets of food and water, and pro- viding bleach and other cleaning THE CAJUN NAVY, who are just neighbors helping neighbors, left their own materials. Local Knights’ coun- flooded homes and used their own aluminum fishing boats to go out and res- cils are running soup kitchens to cue people from their homes immediately after the flooding began. An esti- feed thousands of people each mated 20,000 people were rescued from their homes. day. The Knights as an organiza- tion has given a $200,000 dona- bed linens and other items mud- TONS OF DEBRIS line the streets in neighborhoods in Baton Rouge. An tion to the Baton Rouge Diocese affected by the flooding so they died by the rising waters, launder estimated 70,000 homes were damaged in the flood. and sent $30,000 to the Knights’ have found creative ways to help them and “get them back the next Louisiana State Council. those who have been, said Father day,” Father Gyan said. In a week’s time the Knights Eric Gyan, pastor. Next parishioners are run- of Columbus also raised more In an Aug. 19 video interview ning St. Theresa’s Taxi service to than $250,000 for flood relief, the for the diocese’s “When the Wa- Brigitte Paul Kelso Insurance, LLC provide transportation for those release said. ters Rose” series, he outlined four without any way now to get to the Brigitte Kelso “We have seen incredible ways they are reaching out. First, store, doctors’ appointments and Owner/Agent generosity from our members,” there’s the Laundry Brigade, the like. Cooks for Christ is made said Supreme Knight Carl An- which offers to pick up clothes, 2918 S. MacArthur Dr. derson in a statement. “The funds Alexandria, La. 71301 we raise will go directly to help those affected by this tragedy, and SAVE up to 40% with Phone: 318.448.2226 working closely with the Catholic Fax: 318.448.2280 Church and our Knights in Loui- [email protected] siana, we will continue to make a real difference in the lives of the people of the Baton Rouge area.” In Gonzales, members of St. Daniel Lacombe Theresa of Avila Parish were little Alexandria Business Machines Floor Finishing Copiers • Printers • Printer Supplies 404 Bordelon Rd., Hessmer, LA 71341 Faxes • Office Supplies Specializing in installation Pray the Cost Management for your Business • Floor Finishing • Ceramic Tile Floors Rosary 318-443-0435 • Hardwood Floors • Reseal Tile Floors 5527 Coliseum Blvd. Ph: (318) 563-4753 • Cell (318) 305-0241 Daily Alexandria, LA 71303-3708 PAGE 16 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016

2016 South Louisiana Flood The Resue Volunteers rescue a horse. A little boy sleeps on the roof of his house while waiting to be rescued. A statue of Our Blessed Mother serves as an inspiration to the rescuers.

Bishop Robert Meunch, of Baton Rouge, visits one of the shelters.

The Clean-Up

(At left) Baton Rouge residents begin the clean-up process.

THE DIOCESE OF ALEXANDRIA collected tens of thousands of cleaning supplies, blan- kets, pillows, diapers and baby supplies, and personal care items from individuals, schools, and churches throughout the diocese who bought them and dropped them off at the center. Since most of the stores were flooded in Baton Rouge, cleaning supplies and personal care items were almost impossible to purchase. A team of LSU-A students from the Catholic Stu- dent Organization transported the items to shelters in Baton Rouge. SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 17

ST. MARY’S SCHOOL, Natchitoches. Northwest- ern State University’s National Pan-Hellenic Council collected donation items from NSU’s student body. Making the donation on behalf of NPHC is President Angel Greer. Mrs. Peggy Gardner’s 5th grade reli- gion class accepted the donation items. A 15-foot U-Haul transported the items to St. Thomas Moore Church for distribution.

A HEART OF GOLD. St. Mary’s 5th grader, , celebrated her birthday earlier this month. In lieu of gifts, asked her guests to bring gift cards for the flood victims in South Louisiana. presented the gift cards to Principal Jacque Horton, during morning prayer. The gift cards were sent to St. Joseph’s Academy, an all girl Catholic high school in Baton Rouge. is the daughter of Jim and Beth Cole of Natchitoches. Help Arrives

Tim Bordelon and the KCs from Sa- cred Heart Church in Moreauville and the KCs from St. Mary’s Assumption in Cottonport joined forces Aug. 20 when they rolled into the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Baton Rouge with 12 volunteers. They worked primarily in the Lake Iris subdivision clearing debris from homes, carrying it out to the curb, cleaning out a warehouse, and offering manpower to anyone who needed help. Everyone they as- sisted were extremely appreciative.

LSUA STUDENTS FROM THE CATHOLIC STUDENT ORGANIZATION arrived in Baton Rouge a week LSUA CATHOLIC STUDENTS brought supplies and manpower to help a single mom clean after the flood with trucks and trailers full of cleaning supplies and other other essential household and up her home. The lady lost everything she owned in the flood. personal items collected by people from the Diocese of Alexandria. The group assisted several families in the clean-up process in their homes. Pictured are Lyn Ray, Claire Lemoine, Paul Hicks and some of the students from the LSUA Catholic Student Organization. PAGE 18 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016

Keep your Catholic Faith alive! Sign up today for Religious Education Classes First Communion Classes First Communion classes prepare a child spiritually to understand the significance of becoming one with the presence of Christ through the Holy Eucharist. First Communion classes also include instruction for preparing oneself to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. First Communion candidates must be in the second grade or 8 years old, and a baptized Christian. To sign up for First Communion class, call your nearest Catholic Church. Confirmation Classes The sacrament of Confirmation is conferred on baptized individuals who have the desire to deepen and strengthen the union between God and their soul through the powers of the Holy Spirit. The celebration is a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit as was once granted to the Apostles on the day of Pentecost. Generally, Confirmation classes begin for students who are entering the 10th grade; however, adults of any age are invited to enroll as well. To sign up for Confirmation class, call your nearest Catholic Church. Catechism (CCD) Classes Catechism class (or CCD: Confraternity of Christian Doctrine) is a parish-based religious education program for Catholic children (grades K-12) attend- ing public schools. Catechism class attendance is considered by Vatican officials to be vital to children’s development as Catholics. These classes not only educate children about Jesus and the Catholic faith, but prepare children to receive the sacraments. To sign up for Catechism (or CCD) classes, call you nearest Catholic Church. RCIA Instruction The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process through which interested adults are gradually introduced to the Roman Catholic faith and way of life. The RCIA process involves a number of stages punctuated by liturgical rites to aid and assist the potential convert toward the final rite at the Easter Vigil at which time they will become full members of the Roman Catholic Church. The entire process takes several months, but participants are invited to proceed at a pace that suits them individually. To sign up for RCIA classes, call your nearest Catholic Church. Volunteer to help! At most churches, CCD, First Communion, Confirmation and RCIA education is provided by both members of the clergy and lay staff. Parishes are almost always in need of qualified persons to teach these classes. To volunteer, you must be a practicing Catholic with a strong background in the Catholic faith. All volunteers in the Diocese of Alexandria MUST be certified in the VIRTUS Child Protection Training Program. Resource materials are provided for volunteers as well. To volunteer, call your nearest Catholic Church. SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 19

Sept. 23-25 October 8 October 15-16 St. Church Fair, Echo Our Lady of Prompt Succor School, Alexandria Sacred Heart School Fall Fair

Fair activities begin at 5 p.m. with a $5 per person Join us on the OLPS playground on Saturday, Oct. The fair starts Saturday with a 5K Run/Fun Walk. general admission fee. Children 12 and under FREE. Pork 8 from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. for the 2016 OLPS Fall Fes- Registration is at 7 a.m.; race at 8 a.m. Entry fee of $20 in- and sausage jambalaya is $5 per serving. Entertainment tival. Lots of food, games and entertainment all day, plus cludes a t-shirt on race day. Contact Michelle Daigrepont begins at 6:30 p.m. featuring Rousseau’s Taekwondo, The a Silent Auction. We’ll close the festival with an outdoor at 337-344-3218 or [email protected] . Dance Factory, and Lagniappe Theatre. Dance to the mu- Mass at 4 p.m. This year’s 5K Run and Fun Walk will be in mem- sic of the Chris Trahan Band at 8 p.m. On Saturday, the fair ory of Isabela Ducote, a Sacred Heart student who died begins at 5 p.m. and will include gumbo at 5 p.m. ($6 all October 8-9 this summer in a car accident. She had just made her First you can eat), food, bingo, and a trainride for kids. On Sun- St. Joseph School Fair, Plaucheville Communion this past Spring. day, a pork/chicken dinner will be served from 11 a.m. - 1 A Blood Drive will be held from 1-4 p.m. in Lacour p.m. for $8 a plate in advance, or $9 at the door. For more Join us Oct. 8-9 in Plaucheville for the annual St. Jo- Hall. Also at 1 p.m., registration for the Motorcycle Poker info, call Ronald Lacombe at 318-308-3277. seph School Fair that starts Saturday after the 4:30 p.m. Run starts; the Run starts at 2 p.m. Entry Fee is $20 per bike; Extra Hand: $10. Call Kim 318-306-3457. Sept. 30 - Oct. 2 Mass and ends Sunday evening. We will have silent and live auctions, games, face painting, lots of delicious food Mass starts at 4 p.m., followed by fair game booths Holy Ghost Church/St. Richard’s Chapel Fall Fair, (we are known for our egg rolls!) live music by Lee’s Last and food booths opening at 5 p.m., fried catfish dinner for Marksville Stand and bingo. On Sunday a Cochon de Lait dinner will $8, and live music at 7 p.m. be served after the 9:30 a.m. Mass for $9 a plate. On Sunday, a Cochon de Lait dinner for $9, will be Holy Ghost /St.Richard’s Chapel will hold its annual served after 9 a.m. Mass with all booths continuing. For Fall Fair Sept. 30-Oct. 2 at Holy Ghost Church in Marks- October 14-16 more information, call Karen Moreau at 985-2772 or 359- ville. St. Augustine Fair, Isle Brevelle 1943 or [email protected] The fair begins on Friday with the County Store open- October 22 ing from 7 a.m. to noon. On Saturday, registration for the The fair starts on Friday, Oct. 14 at 6 p.m. with a fish 2nd Annual 5k Run/1mile Walk is from 7 a.m. - 7:45 a.m. dinner, $9 a plate, and music by DJ Bootsie Wootsie. At 8 Cabrini Fest, Alexandria and the race begins at 8 a.m. An entry fee of $25 is due by p.m., there will be a concert by TRIO Lacour. On Satur- Sept. 17 (includes a t-shirt on race day). After this date, day, Oct. 15, starting at 9 a.m., there will be games, prizes, This day of fun we call Cabrini Fest at St. Frances the entry fee is $30 and t-shirt is not guaranteed. bingo, silent and live auctions, music by Doc Couty, and Cabrini School starts at 9 a.m. with a Character Breakfast On Sunday, the fair continues with a dinner served delicious homemade Creole cuisine all day. At 8 p.m., in the Activities Building. Then join us from 10 a.m. – 8 from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. The menu consists of a pork/ there will be dancing. On Sunday, Oct. 16, the fair contin- p.m. for a day of games and great food. chicken combo dinner with dirty rice , green beans, sweet ues from 11:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. potatoes and a roll for $9 per plate. The Special Bingo October 29 games will begin at 3 p.m. followed by the church raffle October 14-16 St. Rita Mini Fall Festival, Alexandria drawing. For more information, call the church office at Fall Pilgrimage/Tour of Homes, Natchitoches 253-7131. What better way to celebrate Halloween early than at- October 1 The 62nd Annual Fall Tour of Homes gives you the tending the St. Rita Mini Fall Festval Oct. 29 from 4 p.m. opportunity to explore the most beautiful historic town - 8:30 p.m. at the church in Alexandria. Our famous “St. Characters and Customs from the Crypt Tour Rita” Chicken & Sausage Gumbo will be served begin- (Cemetery Tour) homes and plantations in Natchitoches. Choose from: • Candlelight Tour: homes TBA ning at 4 p.m.,-- $6 a bowl. A costume contest for children • Town Tour: homes TBA will be held at 5 p.m. and the carnival and Bingo will be Join us on Saturday, Oct. 1 at the American Cemetery, • Cane River Country Tour: homes TBA held from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.. Trunk or Treat will be spon- 140 Second Street in Natchitoches, from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. for Tickets are $25 per person for a single tour; $40 per sored by St. Rita Youth! Donations are being accepted for the annual Characters and Customs from the Crypt Tour. person for a double tour; and $50 per person for a triple the Country Store and the Sweet Shop ONLY!!! Call 445- Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students, and FREE tour. Tickets for kids ages 6-12 are $5 per tour per child; 7141 ext 214 for further information. for children 12 and younger accompanied by a parent. For children under 6 are free. Tickets are available at each more information call 1-800-259-1714. or go to http://www. home or buy online: http://www.melroseplantation.org/ historicfoundation.org fall-tour-destinations Advertising in the Church Today

Starting at $10

Call 318-445-6424 ext 264 PAGE 20 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 Year of Mercy ends Nov. 20: Are you just getting started? Fr. Gaitley’s new book 33 Days to Merciful Love is great do-it-yourself retreat

The Year of Mercy end Nov, ity, and how it connects with Di- vine Mercy. 20. Are you just getting started? BOOK Those who truly want to do Therese made a consecration what Pope Francis has asked us to Divine Mercy which she calls to do, say we need another year her Offering to Merciful Love, REVIEW (at least) to really break open which is really the culmination an understanding of mercy and of her whole spiritual teaching on her Little Way. Fr. Gaitley thinks how to live it out. Mercy is such sight that the Heart of Jesus is full this is the most powerful form of a rich concept that seeps into all of mercy, and he longs to pour out consecration to Divine Mercy, aspects of life. It’s not too late to that Merciful Love on we sinners. and understandably so, since it go deeper. Therese realized that sinners of- made her such a great saint in What mercy looks like in ten close their hearts to the Lord’s such a short time (24 yrs.). our own lives? Have you taken great mercy, and their rejection Her Offering to Merciful time to contemplate that? Have actually causes Jesus deep suffer- Love is based on her profound in- you had the desire to join one the ing. small groups in your parish or to So for the purpose of consol- attend one of those one-day semi- ciful Love. stirring sequel to the international ing the Heart of Jesus, Therese nars on Divine Mercy, but just It’s easy to get started. sensation, 33 Days to Morning asked the Lord to pour into her never found the time to do it? 1. Gather your group Glory. soul all the mercy rejected by Father Michael Gaitley, au- 2. Pick your starting date (From Using the same 33-day prep- others - and He did. That experi- thor of 33 Days to Morning Glo- Oct 12-18) aration format, 33 Days to Merci- ence set her on fire with Merciful ry, Consoling the Heart of Jesus, 3. Order the materials ful Love journeys with one of the Love, so that everything she did, and The Second Greatest Story (Order by Oct. 1 and get 25 per- most beloved of modern no matter how small, was done Every Told, understands. cent off of all materials.) times, St. Therese of Lisieux, and for love of Jesus. That’s why he is offering two 4. Start the retreat concludes with a consecration to So whether you want to deep- Do-It-Yourself Retreats in prepa- 5. Consecrate with Father Jo- Divine Mercy. en your love of Divine Mercy or ration for Conseration to Divine seph, MIC on Nov. 20 -- the end St. Therese was declared a have a devotion to St. Therese, 33 Mercy. of the year of Mercy. by St. John Days to Merciful Love is the book Paul II, because she had devel- to transform you in this “Year of Small group retreat Do-It-Yourself Retreat oped a specific spirituality that is Mercy”. The first is a new small group Live the Jubilee Year of recognized as something new and Order any of these books retreat based on Father Gaitley’s Mercy to the full! Get your copy important for the Church. This from Marian Press at www.mar- best sellig book, 33 Days to Mer- of 33 Days to Merciful Love, the books hones in on that spiritual- ian.org

IMMEDIATE JOB OPENING

Administrative Manager Manna House

The job of Administrative Manager has become available at the Manna House in Alexandria. This position requires the overseeing the daily operations of a seven-day a week noon meals program. The Administrative Manager provides direction and management of both employees and volunteers. A plus for applicants would be any experience in the running of a commercial kitchen, or similar administrative experience. The applicant should also have a heart for the ministry of feeding the poor and needy. Interested persons should contact either Brenda or Bill Holmes at (318) 445-9053 for more information. SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 21 Apparition Hill in theatres now for a limited time -- Oct. 7-13 Documentary follows journey of first time pilgrims to Medjugorje

Millions of people from all over the world have traveled to this small Eastern European vil- MOVIE lage in search of answers to life’s biggest questions. REVIEW It all started in 1981, when six children claimed to see a mys- terious lady on a hillside near trips to Medjugorje. The unlikely their village, Medjugorje.1981. group of pilgrims investigated the Identifying herself as the truth of the world’s greatest mys- Queen of Peace, the lady contin- tery captured on film and what ues to appear to the six “visionar- they found. ies” today, giving them messages Independent filmmaker and for the world and entrusting them author Sean Bloomfield is best with prophetic secrets that con- known for the documentaries The cern the future of mankind. Triumph and If Only We Had Lis- When the visionaries experi- tened, both of which explore the ence these apparitions, they are modern phenomena of miracles, momentarily enraptured in a state apparitions, and spirituality. His of ecstasy. Similar events have work has been featured on The happened throughout history, but History Channel, ABC, Oprah’s none to such an intense degree as OWN, Fox, PBS, EWTN, and in Medjugorje. across the globe on international When the apparitions first television and cinema screens. began, Medjugorje was located Published works include a APPARITION HILL. One June 24, 1981, more than 35 years ago, the Blessed Virgin Mary allegedly began appearing in communist Yugoslavia. The novel, The Sound of Many Wa- to seven children at the top of what is known as a “Apparition Hill” in Medjugorje (formerly Yugoslavia). Although the visionaries endured intense per- ters, and a new work for kids ti- Catholic Church has made no decision on the authenticity of the apparitions since the visionaries claim they still have secution by the communist gov- tled Dear Children. A former fish- the visions, numerous miracles and miraculous conversions have been reported. The documentary Apparition Hill ernment, but the children never ing guide and avid scuba diver, explores these miracles. changed their stories.3 Bloomfield studied Writing and Communism is over now and Communication at The Univer- peace has returned to the Medju- on the visionaries, and all of them and many seem to find whatever ducted an investigation of sorts to sity of Tampa, where his prose gorje region, but the apparitions have concluded that all six are kind of healing they went there find out what’s really going on in won the coveted Quilt Literary continue. According to the vision- completely healthy and are not seeking.wayne-weible-medjugor- Medjugorje. Magazine contest two consecu- aries, the “ten secrets” about the lying. In fact, the studies reveal je-the-last-apparition-mary-earth The group was completely tive years. world’s future will happen within that the children’s brain activ- Is it mass hysteria, or is immersed in all the wonders of His work has taken him all their lifetimes, and many signs in- ity during the “apparition” shows something truly happening in the place, and the result is a film over the world, including Rwan- dicate that the time is near. that they are seeing something Medjugorje? That’s what we called APPARITION HILL. da, Bosnia-Herzegovina, New “beautiful.” want to find out. The movie is the journey Zealand, and South America. A But is it all a hoax? Furthermore, the vast major- By bringing people who have of two atheists, two terminally native Floridian, Sean and his Some of the world’s top doc- ity of visitors to Medjugorje de- never been there before and doc- ill patients, an addict, police of- wife reside in the Sunshine State tors and scientists have done tests scribe a sense of unearthly peace, umenting their journey, we con- ficer and widower who won free with their three children. Mirjana’s first book My Heart will Triumph is #1 bestseller OUTDOOR Mirjana Soldo was only 16 munist government and Mirjana ILLUMINATED years old when she and five other was deemed “an enemy of the children saw a mysterious young state.” They persecuted her, but BOOK ROSARY woman on a remote hillside in the she never denied what she saw. village of Medjugorje, then part Amazingly, the apparitions prayed every Thursday of Yugoslavia. The woman—who have continued for over 35 years. REVIEW possessed a beauty and grace that Millions of people travel to Med- Join St. Joseph Church in Marksville seemed to come from beyond— jugorje every year in search of an- every Thursday, at 7:15 p.m. (time identified herself as the Virgin swers to life’s biggest questions. the time to share her story with changed to 7:15 in Sept and Oct.) Mary. The messages given by Mary the world through her auto-biog- to pray the Rosary before an illumi- The apparitions that began are a call for mankind to return to raphy, MY HEART WILL TRI- nated Rosary located outside on the on the afternoon of June 24, 1981 God. And, according to Mirjana, UMPH. Each book sold benefits grounds of the parish hall. In case would dramatically change Mir- the Virgin entrusted her with ten Mary’s Meals, a charity that feeds of inclement weather, the Rosary is jana’s life and the lives of count- secrets that foretell the future of over a million children every day. prayed in the church. The last Illumi- less people around the world. Her the world—secrets that she will To order, go to www.catholic- nated Rosary will be on Thursday, claims, however, contradicted the reveal within her lifetime. shop.com. 380 pages,-- $19.99. Oct. 27. atheistic ideologies of the Com- Mirjana believes that now is PAGE 22 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2016

Sept. 23: Red Mass & to register, contact Pam Richard, (504) 460-9360 or (985) 809-0773; email address: [email protected] or DIOCESAN Melanie Baglow, (504) 710-6458; email address: mkba- The annual Red Mass will be celebrated Friday, Sept. [email protected]. This retreat is strictly confidential. 23 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Alexan- dria. BRIEFS Join us as the priests of the diocese celebrate this Oct. 15: Marriage Enrichment Mass. Father Bruce Miller will be the homilist. The Red Mass is open to the public. Oct. 2: Cenla Life Chain Please join us Saturday, Oct. 15 at 10 a.m. for a mar- The Red Mass is celebrated annually in the Catholic riage enrichment talk. Leland and Emily Ann McCullough Church for judges, attorneys, law school professors, stu- The Louisiana Right to Life Federation will sponsor will speak on “Mercy in Marriage” in the Madonna Room dents, and government officials. The Mass requests guid- a Cenla Life Chain on Sunday, Oct. 2 from 2 - 3:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Prompt Succor in Alexandria. Childcare ance from the Holy Spirit for all who seek justice, and of- at the foot of the Jackson Street Bridge in Alexandria. (In will be provided, free of charge, for all ages in the church fers the opportunity to reflect on what Catholics believe is case of rain, it will be held at the Alexandria Riverfront nursery. For more information, contact Leah Pelto at the God-given power and responsibility of all in the legal Center.) Join us while we hold pro-life signs and witness to 318.640.8678 or [email protected]. profession. the sanctity of life. Signs are available. For more informa- tion, call Donna Domzalski at 318-445-7525. Oct. 15: Magnificat Brunch Sept. 24: Pre Cana for Engaged Couples Oct. 8: Out of the Darkness Suicide CENLA Magnificat will host a women’s brunch on A Pre Cana for Engaged Couples will be held Satur- Prevention Awareness 5K Run/Walk Saturday, Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Merci Beau- day, Sept. 24 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St Frances Cabrini coup Restaurant on Church Street in Natchitoches. The Church in Alexandria. This event will feature a panel dis- An “Out of the Darkness” Suicide Prevention Aware- speaker will be Casey Sprehe, a stay-at-home wife and cussion, Q and A and talks on the theology of marriage, ness 5K Run/Walk will be held Saturday, Oct. 8 starting mother with three young children. Casey spends her extra prayer and communication, finances and family planning. at the Marksville Courthouse. Registration begins at 8 time as a Catholic speaker and evangelist. She has an MA The cost is $25 per person or $50 a couple. Lunch will a.m. and the Run/Walk starts at 9. Anyone who has known in Theology from the Augustine Institute and a member of be provided. For more information or to register please someone or lost someone to suicide is encouraged to form the NSC for the Charismatic Renewal. contact Michelle at 318 445-4588. a team in his/her name and participate to draw awareness For information and/or reservations: cenlamagnifi- to the prevention of suicide. In addition to the 5K run/walk, [email protected] or Mary at 318-359-7735. Tickets are $18 (breakfast included). Reservations must be made by Oct. Sept. 28-Nov. 6: Forty Days for Life there will also be vendors, a balloon launch, and speak- ers throughout the morning including Dr. L. J. Mayeaux, 11, 2016. Marksville coroner; and Toby Dixon, suicide attempt sur- 40 Days for Life is a powerful campaign of prayer and vivor. For more information, contact Angie Dixon at 337- Oct. 16-18: St. Louis de Montfort Mission fasting, peaceful vigil and community outreach in an ef- 519-1888 or email [email protected]. fort to end abortion. More than 700,000 people participate Deacon Cody Miller from Lafayette will present a in 36 countires. Since it was started 9 years ago (2007) mission Oct. 16-18 on the topic of St. Louis de Montfort’s in College Station, Texas, 11,796 lives have been saved, Oct. 14-15: Marrigage Encounter Weekend True Devotion to Mary. The mission will be held from 133 abortion workers quit, and 73 abortion centers have 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at St. Margaret Mary Chapel in Gorum. closed! There are several ways to participate: sponsor a Rekindle your love for another on a get-away week- Deacon Miller will also deliver the homily at the follow- campaign in your area, attend a campaign in another city, end. What better way to celebrate the gift of your unique ing Masses: or pray and fast with a group at church or at home pri- love than to make time to focus on each other and your Saturday, Oct. 15, 4 p.m. Mass at St. Margaret Church vately, with the intentions of ending abortion. For more marriage? Consider attending a Worldwide Marriage En- in Boyce information, go to 40daysforlife.com. counter Weekend to renew those feelings you had during your first few years together. The next weekend is Oct. 14- Sunday, Oct. 16, 9 a.m. Mass at St. Margaret Church in Boyce Oct. 1: Catholic Charismatic Conference 15 at the Bishop Robert E. Tracy Center in Baton Rouge. You can get more information or register online at LAMS- Sunday, Oct. 16, 11 a.m. Mass at St. Margaret Mary wwme.org or by calling 470-297-8560. Chapel in Gorum Cenla Magnificat will host a one-day Catholic Charis- The public is invited to attend. matic Conference on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Oct. 14-16: Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat at Maryhill Renewal Center in Pineville. It is open to men Oct. 22: White Mass and women. The cost is $60 for singles and $100 for mar- ried couples and includes breakfast and lunch. Speakers The Rachel’s Vineyard ministry for healing after All healthcare personnel in the diocese are invited to include Deacon Larry Oney from the Archdiocese of New abortion is having a retreat the weekend of Oct. 14 – 17, celebrate the White Mass with the Central Louisiana Phy- Orleans and president of Hope and Purpose Ministries, at the Archdiocese of New Orleans Retreat Center, 5500 sicians Guild of the Catholic Medical Association on Sat- and his wife, Andi Oney. To register call Diane Ardoin at St. Mary St., Metairie, LA 70006. Cost: $170; financial urday, Oct. 22 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Frances Xavier Cathedral 318-419-1547 or go to [email protected]. assistance available, if necessary. This Catholic healing retreat is open to everyone whose life has been touched in Alexandria. The public is also invited to attend. by abortion. All faiths welcome. For more information

Receive the

Church P.O. Box 5624 Alexandria, LA 71307

Today 3306 Giamanco Street FREE Donald J. Baker, ACF/RF/CF Phone: (318) 473-8751 Fax: (318) 473-4045 CONSULTING FORESTER Call 318-445-6424 ext 209 EMail: [email protected] Licensed Urban Tree Consultant SEPTEMBER 19, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 23 September - October

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

VIRTUS Training 6:00 p.m. 19 20 21Sacred Heart 22 23 24 25 Church, Moreauville The Red Mass Pre-Cana Day for Illuminated Rosary 9:30 a.m. Engaged Couples 7:15 p.m. St. Joseph St. Francis Xavier 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Church, Marksville Cathedral, Alexandria St. Frances Cabrini Church, Alexandria WRC Celebration of Life 6:30 p.m. Natchitoches Events Center St. Francis de Sales Church Fair -- Echo PRAY FOR FR. J. WILTSE PRAY FOR FR. J. XAVIER PRAY FOR FR. K. ZACHARIAH PRAY FOR FR. A. AELAVANTHARA PRAY FOR FR. W. AJAERO PRAY FOR FR. T. ALLEN PRAY FOR FR. J. ANTONY

VIRTUS Training OCTOBER 6:00 p.m. 26 27 28St. Joseph Catholic 29 30 Catholic Charismatic 1 2 Center, Alexandria Conference VIRTUS Training 40 Days for Life begins 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cenla Life Chain (40daysforlife.com) 6:00 p.m. Illuminated Rosary Maryhill Renewal Center, 2 - 3:30 p.m. Minor Basilica of the 7:15 p.m. St. Joseph Pineville Foot of Jackson St Bridge Immaculate Conception, Church, Marksville Alexandria Natchitoches Life Fest Pro-Life Novena for Unborn 10:00 a.m. Babies begins Tracy Center, Baton Rouge FIRST SATURDAY PRAY FOR FR. S. BRANDOW PRAY FOR FR. D. BRAQUET PRAY FOR FR. J. BROCATO PRAY FOR FR. S. CHEMINO PRAY FOR FR. D. COOK PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG PRAY FOR FR. D. CORKERY

Fall Fest 3 4 5 6 7 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.8 9 Illuminated Rosary Our Lady of Prompt 7:15 p.m. Succor, Alexandria St. Joseph Church, Out of the Darkness Marksville Suicide Prevention Awareness 5K Run/Walk 9:00 a.m. Marksville Courthouse

FIRST FRIDAY St. Joseph School Fair -- Plaucheville PRAY FOR FR. J. CUNNINGHAM PRAY FOR FR. W. DECOSTE PRAY FOR FR. D. DEJESUS PRAY FOR FR. B. DESHAUTELLE PRAY FOR FR. J. DESIMONE PRAY FOR FR. P. FAULK PRAY FOR FR. J. FERGUSON Magnificat Breakfast 10 11 12 13 14Merci Beaucoup, 15 16 Natchitoches Bishop’s Golf Tournament Illuminated Rosary 12:00 noon 7:15 p.m. Marriage Enrichment Oak Wing Golf Course St. Joseph Church, 10:00 a.m. Marksville Our Lady of Prompt Succor Madonna Room, Mission: St. Louis de Montfort Alexandria -- St. Mary’s Chapel, Gorum St. Augustine Church Fair -- Isle Brevelle COLUMBUS DAY Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat -- Metairie PRAY FOR FR. T. FEY PRAY FOR FR. R. GARRIONE PRAY FOR FR. W. GEARHEARD PRAY FOR FR. J. GOOTEE PRAY FOR FR. R. GREMILLION PRAY FOR FR. J. HASIEBER PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG

17 18 19 20 21White Mass 22 23 Illuminated Rosary 9:30 a.m. 7:15 p.m. St. Francis Xavier St. Joseph Church, Cathedral, Alexandria Marksville CabriniFest 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. St. Frances Cabrini Mission: St. Louis de Montfort -- St. Mary’s Chapel, Gorum School, Alexandria PRAY FOR MSGR. R. HOPPE PRAY FOR FR. R. HUMPHRIES PRAY FOR FR. B. IBE PRAY FOR FR. H. IMAMSHAH PRAY FOR FR. K. ISHMAEL PRAY FOR FR. G. KROSFIELD PRAY FOR FR. P. KULIGOWSKI