THE

PAGE 10 Building a new life February 1,ommentator 2019 Vol. 56, No. 26 SERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 thecatholiccommentator.org C A letter from the Bishop to the Diocese of Baton Rouge

Bishop G. Duca released have felt betrayed and heal tells us that we must “For God who said, ‘Let light shine out the following letter to the Diocese of unsupported by the un- continue to bring ev- of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts Baton Rouge during the weekend of willingness of the Church erything into the light. to bring to light the knowledge of the Jan. 26-27. to publicly admit to the This is not easy. I have glory of God on the face of Christ. crimes of these listened to some vic- But we hold this treasure in earthen Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, and to acknowledge the tims share their stories, vessels, that the surpassing power may In November I spoke of my plans depth of pain and hurt and there are no words be of GOD and not from us” (2Cor. to release the names of the clergy who that was caused by these to express the depth of 4:7). So we release our list this week have been credibly accused of abuse of priests’ abusive actions. sadness and shame that for the Light of Christ is greater than minors. We have completed our review I pray the release of this was experienced in our the Darkness. of the files and I will release the list of list will be a witness to Church and is part of Let us pray that this week’s sad rev- names this Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019. my willingness to listen OUR diocesan history. elation will deepen our concern for This is a difficult decision that I and an encouragement Bishop Michael G. Duca It is hard to publish this the victims of abuse, inspire us all to have made, but I am convinced that for those who have been list for all to see, but real a greater accountability to protect our bringing more of the facts of this trag- victims of abuse in the Church to come renewal and healing cannot take place children, and renew our desire to grow edy into the light will be a help to the forward so we can offer help in their until we acknowledge the truth of our in holiness in the image of Jesus our victims of abuse and the beginning, I healing. past. Yet even though in this moment Savior. hope, of re-establishing trust where it I know that some would prefer we we are rightly brought low, I have not Hope in the Lord, has been lost. I hope that this list will just stop talking about this and move lost hope. For when we are humbled, +Michael be a help to the victims of abuse who on. The fact that this wound will not the words of Scripture give us hope: Bishop of Baton Rouge CELEBRATION Couple’s love is 65 years strong By Richard Meek Roy and Marie Kliebert, The Catholic Commentator longtime parishioners at St. Joseph Church in Paulina, are Their eyes met, yet no words one of several couples sched- were necessary. uled to be honored during the Not after 65 years of mar- annual 25th, 50th, 65th and riage, not after raising five over Diocesan Wedding Anni- children, not after helping versary and celebration one of their children success- hosted by the Office of Mar- fully fight the disease of ad- riage and Family Life of the diction and certainly not after Diocese of Baton Rouge on successfully answering every Feb. 10 at 2 p.m. at St. George challenge that could potential- Church in Baton Rouge. ly derail a relationship. As is often the case, at least They already knew what the in an era before online dating other was thinking, what was sites dictated one’s social life, in their hearts. the Klieberts met through a Roy Kliebert looks lovingly at his wife Marie outside of the home where they’ve lived for 59 years. The “I love this woman more mutual friend. For Roy, the couple has been married 65 years and will be honored at the Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass and every day; I’ve never loved her seeds of love were planted al- celebration at St. George Church in Baton Rouge on Feb. 10. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator more than I do today,” Roy Kli- most immediately and nur- ebert said, emotion pouring tured for the next year. Saturday night, several of his find a date. All of the girls I who said he “knew a girl” that through his every word, a glint The couple met in 1951 friends were going to a restau- knew either had been married might be interested. Little did of a tear trying to form in his when Roy, a Korean War vet- rant/dance hall in Metairie, or were spoken for.” anyone know the introduction 87-year-old eyes. eran, was home on leave. On a and Roy, admittedly, “couldn’t So he turned to a friend, SEE WEDDING PAGE 20 2 The Catholic Commentator February 1, 2019 | PICTURES FROM THE PAST Stand firm on the word of God

By Dina Dow ermen had disembarked and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, the Remarkable events in the life of Jesus re- one belonging to Simon, he asked him to put sound in the Mass Readings of the Fourth and out a short distance from the shore” (Lk 5:1- Fifth Sundays in Ordinary Time. Most signif- 3). Simon (Peter) allowed Jesus to “get into icant is the word of God, of which we are to his boat and put out,” in order for the sound know, live and proclaim. Many are of the word of God to travel hesitant for feelings of unworthi- more effectively over water. ness because of sin. Others pro- Life-Giving Indeed, when Jesus got into claim, yet receive rejection. Fear FAI H Simon’s boat, Simon was about holds many from the mission. How to realize the future vessel to can we understand the call and live out proclaim the word of God was the mission given to us by the word of God? his very own mouth, mind and heart. The call Jesus, the Word Made Flesh, performs the Three people. One call. Over the next two miracle of the fish. Stunned, Simon humbles Sundays, we will hear the sending of two himself before Jesus as he realizes he is sinful great prophets and the call of the apostles. and Jesus is more than an iterant preacher. Each receive the word of God in varying man- Jesus assures Simon and the others to fear ifestations. Jeremiah, Isaiah and Simon Peter not for a greater task is at hand. What did encounter the word of God fully made known they do? They dropped EVERYTHING and and present. followed Jesus. Jeremiah writes, “The word of the Lord Think for a moment of a time where God came to me, saying: Before I formed you in called you to action, a mission or something GIVING PRAISE – Members of the Diocesan Liturgical Dance Troupe give the womb I knew you, before you were born beyond your scope. How did you initially praise to the Lord during the introduction to the Africentric Mass. “We have I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I respond? Did you experience fear, unwor- come because it is time to praise the Lord!” proclaimed Father appointed you” (Jer 1:4-5). What a halting thiness, surprise, inability, humility, awe or Devold in his to the thousands attending the African American Cath- moment for Jeremiah to hear these words. something else? What did it take to trust in olic Homecoming on Aug. 26, 1994 at Southern University’s F. G. Clark Activ- God commissioned Jeremiah to be a proph- God’s word and follow him? How did God ity Center. Photo provided by Archives Department | Diocese of Baton Rouge et before he took his first breath, to proclaim “form” you to be capable of this mission? We the message of repentance. What does Jere- have talked about the many gifts given indi- miah say? “I don’t know how to speak. I am vidually for the good of the entire mystical | DID YOU KNOW too young.” God reassures Jeremiah by telling body. What is God sending you to do for him? him, “I will give you all you need.” God even Are you rooted in the word of God as to be tells the reality of what will come through transformed and made-ready for mission? the trials and tribulations. There is no sugar- Rooted in love Your Valentine? coating this sending. Yet, God will be by his St. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians ex- side. Jeremiah knows this is a daunting task. presses rich practical realities for life-giving Order roses. Check. daughter. St. Valentine placed his Despite his fear, he answers and begins the faith. Chapter 13 is the “The Way of Love.” St. Purchase chocolate. Check. hand on the child’s eye and her vi- journey. Paul, before this passage, explains the spiri- Dinner reservation? Oops, bet- sion was restored. Allegedly, when Isaiah’s call is in a vision, a . tual gifts. Yet, he leads us to a more “excellent ter get on that. he was beheaded on Feb. 14, 269, “I saw the Lord seated on a high and lofty way” (1 Cor 12:31) of life in Christ. The way of The country’s most romantic although other years are also men- throne, with the train of his garment filling love is the way of God. Yes, we strive to grow holiday is nearing, and despite tioned, St. Valentine left a note to the temple. Seraphim were stationed above” in the spiritual gifts given to us. Yet, without what a popular greeting card com- the judge’s daughter signed, “Your (Is 6:1-2). God shares this vision to purify a foundation in love, we are just loud noises in pany might say, Valentine’s Day has Valentine.” and prepare Isaiah for what is to come. Isaiah disharmony. Catholic roots, although confusion So how did the day become so immediately thinks he will die or perhaps be The passage is truly familiar to the faith- remains when it comes to St. Val- widely associated with romance? silenced as he realizes his lack of worthiness ful. “Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jeal- entine. Conventional wisdom in Europe because of sin. Yet God purifies the prophet of ous, (love) is not pompous, it is not inflated, it A third century in the held that during the sin thus enabling him ready for mission. is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, who helped perse- birds chose their partners in the “While the crowd was pressing in on Je- it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood cute Christians during the reign of middle of February. So the day be- sus and listening to the word of God, he was over injury, it does not rejoice over wrong- Claudius II, St. Valentine of Rome came dedicated to love and many standing by the Lake of Gennesaret. He saw doing but rejoices with the truth. It bears all was a Catholic Bishop of Terni who people observed by writing love let- two boats there alongside the lake; the fish- SEE PAGE 19 at one time suffered in Africa and ters and sending small gifts to their was eventually beheaded on Feb. beloved. 14. However, details are spotty and Legend also has St. Valentine there is some speculation that sto- secretly performing marriages for ries of his life might actually involve Roman soldiers because they were two different of the same not allowed to marry. thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator name. The confusion reached such Archaeologists have unearthed a point that the re- a Roman catacomb and an ancient Bishop Michael G. Duca Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager moved St. Valentine from the Gen- church dedicated to St. Valentine. Father Tom Ranzino Associate Publisher Bonny Van Staff Writer eral Roman Calendar, but he is still Gelasius, in 496, declared Richard Meek Editor Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation recognized as a , listing him in Feb. 14 as a celebration intoner of Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor Nicole Latiolais Graphic Designer the Feb. 14 spot of Roman Mythol- the saint’s martyrdom. ogy. Lesser known is that St. Valen- 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, One of the more common sto- tine is also the patron saint of cou- Baton Rouge, LA 70808; 225-387-0983 or 225-387-0561. Periodical Postage Paid at Baton Rouge, LA. Copy must ries is that as Bishop of Terni, ples, bee keepers, engages couples, reach the above address by Wednesday for use in the next week’s paper. Subscription rate: $14.00 per year. POST- he was challenged St. Valentine epilepsy, fainting, happy marriages, MASTER, send address changes to The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746. to restore the sight to the jailer’s plague, travelers and young people. February 1, 2019 The Catholic Commentator 3 St. Vincent de Paul announces chapel plans

By Richard Meek of the Diocese of focuses on what we son a place to pray, reflect and The Catholic Commentator Baton Rouge re- do.” ask for God’s strength. sulted in several “We’ve had “I have been on the line with Tucked away in a mid-city recommendations many volunteers people that have witnessed that neighborhood dotted by home- to incorporate into say they would love and I can tell you it shakes you lessness, low-income properties the design of the a place to pray and up,” Acaldo said. and occasional spats of violence, chapel, which will a place to reflect,” “(Volunteers) know that God the Society of St. Vincent de Paul be circular. With he added. is present because of good things has been an oasis of refuge for those recommen- Acaldo said it’s that happen here wouldn’t hap- those in need for 150 years. dations in hand, not uncommon for pen without God, but there’s not St. Vincent CEO Michael Acaldo said the fo- a volunteer work- a place that is God’s place, God’s Acaldo is also hoping to make it cus has returned ing on the serving space and that’s all we do there,” an oasis of spirituality. to fundraising, and line at the home- he added. “And I think that’s St. Vincent de Paul has once the campaign less shelter to see what this chapel is all about.” launched a $350,000 fundrais- nears its goal, an- one of their former The chapel will also feature ing campaign to build a 50-per- other meeting will classmates coming a large cross sculpted by Frank son chapel on the sprawling be set up with the through who has Hayden that currently hangs in complex that currently houses liturgy board. fallen upon hard the St. Vincent boardroom. the men’s homeless shelter, the “We loved their times or is suffer- Funding will determine the A rendering of a new chapel planned for St. Vincent Bishop Ott Sweet Dreams Shel- comments,” Acaldo ing from an addic- construction timetable but Acal- de Paul in Baton Rouge. Artwork provided by Robert L. Lunsford, architect ter and the pharmacy. said. tion. He said that do is hoping to break ground “We believe every inch of St. He added that can be difficult for by early 2020. For more infor- Vincent de Paul is God’s place, with the blessing of Bishop Mi- He said families often come a volunteer to handle, but the mation on how to donate, visit but we do not have a place that’s chael G. Duca, the chapel will together to serve the home- chapel would provide that per- svdpbr.org or call 225-383-7837. a place of appropriate prayer, be named in honor of St. Lou- less and added “what a power- reflection,” Acaldo said. “Giving ise de Marillac, who worked ful thing” it would be to have a our guests a place for that is a closely with St. Vincent de Paul place that “mom or dad says to very powerful opportunity. It’s during her lifetime and is also the child ‘let’s go say a prayer equally important for our volun- the founder of the Daughters of about what we just did or say a RESTHAVEN teers.” Charity and considered the pa- prayer before what we do.’ That GARDENS OF MEMORY & FUNERAL HOME Acaldo said the chapel has tron saint of social workers. is a great opportunity and that’s ® been in the planning stages for Acaldo said he and others how we strengthen the faith one We make it personal. the past five years, originally looked at several designs for prayer at a time with the oppor- for a better farewell surfacing during a long-range small chapels and concluded the tunity to be in God’s presence.” strategic planning meeting. He circular design would work best. Additionally, Acaldo men- 11817 Jefferson Highway said several projects tioned the possibility 225-753-1440 www.resthavenbatonrouge.com were discussed but the of celebrating Mass on chapel repeatedly came special occasions, such up for discussion. as the feast day of St. 2x2” Rest.small.honor.those.cc’16 “It’s magnificent to Vincent de Paul or St. see people that really Louise de Mariliac. Tree Service do have strong faith,” He said the chapel, Mr. D’s Acaldo said. “Some of which would be su- ovEr 35 yEars ExpErIEncE our guests may be Cath- pervised when open, Don Decell, owner olic, or they may not be would fall “under the carl BaBin, owner Catholic but they have a jurisdiction of St. Jo- • Economical strong faith in God. Even seph Cathedral and • Fully Insured • Quality Work those who are non-Cath- (pastor) Father Paul CALL TODAY! olic just want to feel the Counce.” presence of our Lord.” “So everything we 225-292-6756 The project was do we would make jumpstarted by a sub- sure we had (Father stantial gift from Baton Counce’s) blessing,” Rouge resident Kathy Acaldo said. Bishop and a C.B. Pen- He said the chapel nington Family Founda- will be an opportunity tion grant. Acaldo said for spiritual growth for $210,000 has already volunteers, St. Vincent invites you to breakfast Saturday, Feb. 16 from 9 a.m. to been raised. de Paul Society mem- 12 noon at Oak Lodge Reception Center, 2834 South Sherwood Forest, A rendering of the floor plan of the new chapel “(The two donations) bers and the guests be- Baton Rouge. Our speaker will be Fr. Robert Joel-Cruz, a Catholic, planned for St. Vincent de Paul in Baton Rouge. really set the stage, along ing served. a priest, a missionary, a pilgrim, a healing minister, a believer. with other gifts (of vary- “When you look at By the mercy, love and generosity of the Father, he is ing amounts),” Acaldo said. “So The will be in the middle what we do as part of the Catho- gifted with a healing ministry. Seating is limited and no we’ve got a lot of people out there of the chapel and surrounded lic Church, we’re a ministry, and seats will be sold at the door. Tickets are $22 each and that quietly have supported this by pews. The chapel would be we’re ministering to those who will be sold thru Feb. 13. Please indicate the number of and now it’s time to make this a open during luncheon hours for need a helping up and minister- reservations and send a check made to BR Magnificat reality. “ guests and volunteers to use, ing to those that want to grow in for your reservation with the name of each attendee and A meeting recently held with and perhaps a similar window their spiritual life,” Acaldo said. mail to Kathy Simoneaux, 9650 Victory Lane, Denham the Liturgy, and Music Board during the dinner service. “And so those are the two main Springs, LA 70726. 4 The Catholic Commentator February 1, 2019

Diocese of Baton Rouge Seminary Scholarship Funds State What is a Seminary Scholarship fund? Who do I contact to establish or contribute to a fund? A seminary scholarship fund is an invested sum of To create a fund or to make a contribution to an money, the interest of which is used in perpetuity to existing fund, please send it to the Vocations and pro-life help fund the education of men studying for the Seminarians Department, P. O. Box 2028, Baton priesthood. Rouge, LA 70821-2028. How does someone establish a fund? For information, call 225-336-8778. It is simple. A fund may be established and named for This is only a partial list of all Seminary Scholarship leaders anyone you choose – Friend, family, bishop, priest, Funds. religious, etc. Anyone can name or establish a fund. Visit our website at www.diobr.org/vocations for a complete list of Seminary Scholarship Funds. applaud Scholarship Fund Contributions November & December

Kay M. Acosta and Infant Annmarie Mildred Stgermain $20.00 decision In Memory of: Derek “D.J.” Comeaux John Boyce $50.00 By: M/M Thomas W. Acosta, Jr. $100.00 $4,138.62 Leonard/Ruby Breaux $50.00 From staff reports Thomas J. Allain Robert Allen Laurent $20.00 The Cathiolic Commentator By: Daniel G. Hotard $100.00 $23,737.39 Edgar/Brenda Vavasseur $40.00 Father Michael “Mike” John Collins Father Henry Vavasseur’s Estate $1,000.00 Late last year, the Unit- By: CDA Court Regina Coeli #2063 $30.00 $2,315.00 Daniel G. Hotard $100.00 ed States Court of Appeals Father Maynard “Tippy” Hurst James/Ramona Wilk $100.00 for the Fifth Circuit upheld In Memory of: Ruth Cannon James/Beverly Shaw $100.00 the Louisiana law requiring Camille Smith Lenora T. LeBlanc 100.00 abortion physicians to have Ann Boudreaux Joe Landry $10.00 admitting privileges at a local John Chemin M/M Monte R. Bonin $20.00 hospital. That law, the 2014 Jean Dugas Evelyn Coleman Brown $100.00 $23,288.17 Act 620 authored by Rep. Ka- Mrs. R. J. Phillips Father Clarence Waguespack Jr. trina Jackson, will soon go Michael Jacob By: CDA Notre Dame De La Paix Court 2316 into effect because, in anoth- Charles Devillier $100.00 $19,546.00 er pro-life victory, the abor- David White Francis A. Waguespack Jr. tion industry’s attempt to Bernadette Geogre By: Daniel G. Hotard $100.00 $5,905.00 have the full court rehear the Floyd Stadeker case failed by a vote of 9-6. Melinda Robinson Additional Scholarship Funds The abortion industry’s only Ardean Howard recourse is to ask for Supreme Rita Strate Father Wilfred Knobloch $20,000.00 Court review. Aline Well Mr. & Mrs. Albert J. Koppel $20,000.00 Jackson, who heard the Ann Perise Father John Koppel $20,115.00 news while in Washington, Russel Dietrich Knights of Columbus Council 9016 $75,000.00 D.C. speaking at the annual John Brister Monsignor Paul Landsman $20,000.00 March for Life relaly, said, Henry Sauce Gerald T. Leblanc $20,475.00 “The 5th Circuit has spoken Norbert Prejean Edith Louise Leonard $10,000.00 today, providing its final word Clara Hindrichs Chapel $15,711.12 on Act 620 that protects the Vivian Huber Monsignor Louis E. Marionneaux $20,000.00 health and safety of women in Ann Perise Monsignor Louis E. Marionneaux #2 $20,000.00 Louisiana. I look forward to Jennie Guzzardo Fathers Martens & Perino $24,095.00 this law, which was supported Mary Lee Carney Thomas Beatty Mary $18,483.63 by a overwhelming bipartisan Mary Ann Colelough Dr. McCaa and Monsignor Marionneaux $20,000.00 majority of my colleagues, go- Pan Lewis Father Charles McConville $20,000.00 ing into effect.” Willian Gilbert John McGinnis $6,238.46 Benjamin Clapper, exec- By: Court St. #1915, Barbara Schmitt, Father Joseph E. McLaughlin $20,424.06 utive director of Louisiana Patricia Ryan, Margaret Blackwell, Lyn Deville, Pat Pavlovich, Gay Deceased Members of KC Council #3298 $6,721.39 Right to Life, said, “We com- Montealegre, Margaret Mannino, Patricia Schmit, Kaycee Auxiliary Deceased Members St. Alphonsus KC Council #3331 $20,000.00 mend Rep. Katrina Jackson, #9016, Teenie Bajon, Geraldine Garafola, Roberta Farrell, Linda Deceased Members of KC Council #4030 $20,000.00 Attorney General Jeff Landry, LeBlanc $815.00 $16,160.00 Deceased Members of Pierre Part KC Council #5352 $1500.00 and Gov. John Bel Edwards Tomorrows Priest Deceased Members of St. Gabriel Ladies Altar Society $3,800.00 for their support of the law By: Anonymous $10.00 Father Patrick Miller $20,000.00 and its defense. Louisiana is a Ethel C. Guedry $400.00 Mary Catherine Muench $1,675.00 model for the nation of bipar- Anita/Debra Bonfanti $50.00 Murphy and Wallace Families $1,656.42 tisan pro-life leadership.” In Memory of: Louis Bonfanti Monsignor Charles J. T. Murphy $20,000.00 Dorinda Bordlee of Bio- By: James R. Holden $4,000.00 $72,462.43 Mr. & Mrs. C. J. T. Murphy $20,000.00 ethics Defense Fund added, Father David A. Vavasseur and Father Henry C. Vavasseur Fathered Nacol $15,862.30 “Abortion exploits vulnerable By: M/M Leonard Aguillard $150.00 Monsignor John Naughton $20,000.00 women and children. It is a Dr./M Salvador Lusco $100.00 Father Aubry Osborn $11,614.35 huge victory for the Louisiana Ronald N. Read $100.00 Bishop Stanley J. Ott $28,444.50 law to be upheld even though Max/Elaine Null $50.00 The Ott and Berthelot Families $20,000.00 a similar Texas law was struck Cherly Ann Meyer $10.00 Pioneering Fathers of Grosse Tete Ridge $19,499.44 down. Louisiana is once again a leader for life-affirming laws.” February 1, 2019 The Catholic Commentator 5 Catholics called to evangelization

By Debbie Shelley ily Catholic countries, the higher birth “But a simple definition of evangeliza- He added, “You have your own story The Catholic Commentator rate of children being born into Catholic tion is one beggar telling another beggar of what God and Jesus has done for you families and a people entering Catholic where to find bread.” and your life.” Dr. Allen Hunt often pictures brown Church through their marriage to a Cath- This means sharing one’s life story, Once Catholics realize God loves pelicans when he thinks about evangeli- olic spouse. such as, “I lost my wife 10 years ago and them it changes them from the inside zation. In a talk before a standing room “I’m afraid that as Catholics in Ameri- I know you’re struggling because you out, Hunt emphasized. only crowd at Christ the King Church and ca in the last 100 years we’ve forgot how to just lost your wife. Can I share with you “It’s a joy you can’t contain. It’s not a Catholic Center in Baton Rouge on Jan. fish,” said Hunt. how my faith helped me through that?” passive feeling. You’re so happy to share 17, he drew comparisons between the sea- He said St. John Paul II highlighted “You’re still fighting cancer, let me share it with everyone,” said Hunt. birds’ plight to the challenges facing the this issue when he talked about “the new with you a little bit about how my faith is He stressed if people want more of Catholic faith. evangelization.” helping me stay strong in my own battle;” something they have to give it a way. Hunt was a manag- The Catholic Church “I know your child has multiple sclerosis “If you want more love in your life you er of a Wall Street con- “didn’t really know what and my child has multiple sclerosis. Can have to give love away,” said Hunt. “If sulting firm before he evangelization is,” Allen I tell you how my faith is helping me find you want forgiveness, you have to give felt the call to minis- said, so it studied it and the blessings in this?” “Your dad’s alco- forgiveness away.” try, first as a pastor of a researched it, but were holism caused havoc in your family and Even in today’s digital world, evan- mega church before he still puzzled about its my dad’s alcoholism caused havoc in my gelization can mean giving something stepped down to convert meaning. family. Can I share with how our faith tangible, such as a CD or book, or asking to Catholicism and later “We overthink it. We helped us deal with that?” someone how they are doing and inviting become vice-president overcomplicate it and “As Catholics we have a great sto- them to go to Mass. of Dynamic Catholic In- become intimidated by ry to tell, the problem is we let other In this dark, broken, hungry culture stitute. it,” said Hunt. people (the culture) tell it,” said Hunt. the best thing Catholics can give is love During Hunt’s con- In Dynamic Catho- “Sometimes they get a couple of facts and hospitality, noted Hunt. sulting years, the Cham- lic’s research study on right. Occasionally they get all the facts Issuing a Lenten challenge, Hunt ber of Commerce of Catholicism in Amer- right. Most of the time it’s misinforma- urged attendees to pray for someone who Monterey, California ica, it estimated that tion, half-truths and fabrication and lies creates difficulty in their lives, as well contacted him because Dr. Allen Hunt only seven percent of about Catholicism.” as invite someone to attend Mass with the brown pelicans, its Catholics are actively en- The story, Hunt said, that isn’t told is them. main tourism draw, were dying off. gaged in their . In researching the Catholic church is “a group of people “I can’t guarantee that at the end of 40 The team studying the problem called ways to help churches evangelize, the that feed, house, educate and heal more days what that person will do, but I guar- in a pelicanologist, who said when the institute did one-on-one interviews with people than any organization on earth.” antee you will have changed,” said Hunt. fishing industry was robust, the pelicans 2,978 Catholics who were identified by poached fish off the boats. Because of their pastors as highly engaged in their overfishing, the fishing industry shrunk, parish. One of the questions the Catho- and with fewer boats coming in, the peli- lics were asked was, “Are you an evange- can population dwindled. list?” Subscribe Today! “The pelicans poached so much they A majority said, ‘Oh, no, thank you. forgot how to fish,” said Allen. I’m Catholic, we do not do that,” Hunt Receive The Catholic One solution was to introduce a healthy said wryly. Commentator in your population of pelicans from other areas to Many Catholics, according to Hunt, teach the local ones how to fish. think evangelization means “standing mailbox every other Similarly, the American Catholic outside an LSU ballgame and yelling at week—all year long. churches struggle as the “boats they en- people with a megaphone and handing joyed feasting from” during the past 100 out tracts. years have declined, such as the larger “We tend to think of it as intimidat- numbers of immigrants from primar- ing, off-putting and invasive,” said Hunt. THE CATHOLIC Commentator SPECIAL BLESSING – ENCLOSED  Check  Money order for $14 per person per year. Bishop Michael G.  I’d like to give a subscription for an additional $14 per year. Duca is shown with Fa- ther Tom Clark SJ at To pay by credit card, call The Catholic Commentator at 225-387-0983. Immaculate Concep- SEND MY SUBSCRIPTION TO: tion in Scotlandville on Jan. 27. The bishop cel- NAME ______ebrated Mass in the ADDRESS ______parish’s activity center, then blessed the reno- CITY ______STATE ______vation project going on in the church. Reno- ZIP ______vations are expected —AND PLEASE SEND GIFT SUBSCRIPTION TO— to be completed in Oc- tober. Photo provided by Dea- NAME ______con Dan Borné ADDRESS ______CITY ______STATE ______ZIP ______GIVEN BY ______

MAIL TO: THE CATHOLIC COMMENTATOR, P. O. BOX 3316, BATON ROUGE, LA 70821-3316 6 The Catholic Commentator February 1, 2019 Holy days of obligation/Disposing of

Here in Columbus, the solemnity South Pacific. Included in the mailing was a third First class are parts of a saint’s body; of Mary (Jan. 1) is a holy day of With the solemnity of Mary the Moth- class . I do not need to have a second class would be a piece of the Qobligation. I have sisters, though, er of God (Jan. 1), the solemnity of the third class relic of an unfamiliar saint saint’s clothing or something used by who live in Charlotte, North Carolina, Assumption (Aug. 15) or the solemnity in my house. the saint; and third class is an object and in Los Angeles, and Jan. 1 is not a of All Saints (Nov. 1), the I suppose that I should that has been touched to a first-class holy day of obligation in either place. obligation of Mass atten- have mailed it back to relic. Why would it not be the same every- dance is lifted when the the charity immediately, Relics of the saints should be treated where? date occurs on a Saturday but I no longer have that with the same respect that Canon It seems this is such a serious matter or a Monday. information. I have not 1171 awards to other blessed or sacred (a mortal sin if missed) that it should (I suspect that what discussed this with my objects: They should be treated rever- not be left up to local bishops to decide. prompts your question is parish, but I doubt that ently, and the basic rule for the disposi- Certainly, I would think, it ought to be that you happened to be they want to collect un- tion has been to burn or to bury them. the same in all parts of the U.S., if not ev- speaking to your sisters in solicited third class relics The website of the Diocese of , erywhere in the world. (Columbus, Ohio) one of those years). any more than I do. How Wisconsin, clarifies that “it is not a sin Jan. 1 is a holy day of obligation There is wisdom, I do I dispose of this item to throw away blessed items, but out of across the continental United would think, in leaving the respectfully? (Roanoke, proper respect, one should dispose of AStates. In 1991, the U.S. Con- determination of holy days Virginia) them in this way.” ference of Bishops decreed that there to the bishops of a par- Veneration of I agree with you that an organization would be six such days in this country, ticular nation, since they Question Corner relics of the saints should not mail out relics unsolicit- including the solemnity of Mary the would likely be more in A has a long history ed; to do so risks casual or irreverent Mother of God. touch with the history and Father Kenneth Doyle in the church. The Acts treatment, and it doesn’t seem fair to To my knowledge, the only place spirituality of their own of the Apostles (19:11-12) burden the recipient with the obligation where this differs is in the state of Ha- people. In Ireland, for example, Mass notes that “so extraordinary were the to dispose of them properly. waii; with an indult (permission) from attendance is required on St. Patrick’s mighty deeds God accomplished at the the Vatican, the Diocese of Honolulu Day, as it is in Mexico on the feast of Our hands of Paul that when face cloths FATHER DOYLE is a retired priest in the determined in 1992 that there would be Lady of Guadalupe. or aprons that touched his skin were Diocese of Albany, New York. Ques- only two days of obligation there: Dec. 8 applied to the sick, their diseases left tions may be sent to Father Kenneth (the ) and Dec. I received in the mail an unsolic- them and the evil spirits came out of Doyle at [email protected] 25. That was done to bring Hawaii into ited request for donations from a them.” and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, conformity with the other islands in the QCatholic charitable organization. There are three classes of relics. NY 12203. Look for The CaThoLiC CommenTaTor aT your LoCaL ouTLeTs inCLuding:

✔ Affinity Nursing Home, Baton Rouge ✔ Oak Wood Nursing Home, Zachary ✔ Anthony's Deli, Baton Rouge ✔ Old Jefferson Community Care, ✔ Alexander’s Highland Market, Baton Rouge Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Regional ✔ Ascension Books & Gifts, Gonzales Medical Center, Baton Rouge and ✔ Baton Rouge General Hospital, Walker Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Physician ✔ Baton Rouge Healthcare, Baker Group, offices with locations ✔ Benedetto’s Market, Addis throughout the Diocese ✔ Bohning Supermarket, Ponchatoula ✔ Reeve’s Supermarket, Baton Rouge arrives at ’s Rommel Fernandez Stadium Jan. 27, 2019. CNS photo ✔ Calandro’s Supermarkets, ✔ Rouses, Baton Rouge, Gonzales, Baton Rouge Donaldsonville, Hammond, Plaquemine, ✔ and Gifts, Baton Rouge Prairieville and Zachary ✔ ✔ 2019 Daigle’s Supermarket, White Castle St. Elizabeth Hospital, Gonzales ✔ ✔ Fran U, Baton Rouge St. Mary’s Books & Gifts, PANAMA CITY (CNS) – Just before Day showed it was possible to renounce ✔ Slaughter Baton Rouge Grace Healthcare, leaving the physical and human warmth one’s interests in favor of others, the pope ✔ Hi Nabor Supermarkets, Baton Rouge ✔ St. Vincent dePaul Stores throughout of Panama Jan. 27, Pope Francis stopped said. ✔ Hubbins Grocery, Port Allen the diocese to thank the thousands of official volun- in Panama ✔ Lane Regional Hospital, Zachary ✔ Schexnayer Supermarket, Vacherie teers, young and old, gathered at the cap- may not have been the largest, in terms ✔ Louisiana Vet Home, Jackson ✔ Southside Produce, Baton Rouge ital city’s Rommel Fernandez Stadium to of attendance. Event officials say some ✔ Matherne’s Supermarkets, ✔ Tony’s Seafood, Baton Rouge tell them that they had just participated 113,000 registered as pilgrims to attend Baton Rouge ✔ UPS Store, Coursey Blvd., Baton ✔ Magnuson Hotel, St. Francisville Rouge in an event similar to one that took place various events – though it was obvious ✔ North Ridgely Healthcare, Baker ✔ Whole Foods Market, Baton Rouge early in Christianity. that many more who did not register filled ✔ Oak Point Supermarket, Central ✔ Winn Dixie in Hammond, New Roads In their case, they didn’t just multiply up the venues. food, he said. One of the gifts of Panama’s World “You could have easily chosen to do Youth Day, El Paso Bishop Mark J. Seitz as well as your local church parish other things, but you wanted to be in- told CNS, is that at a time when some in volved, to give your best to making pos- the world are embracing nationalism, the sible the miracle of the multiplication, not international Catholic festival for youth, only of loaves, but also hope,” he said, tell- in which 156 countries participated, deliv- ing the volunteers to go out into the world ered the opposite message. “World Youth and make that attitude contagious. Day says, ‘We’re one family of humanity,’” Volunteers at Panama’s World Youth Bishop Seitz said. February 1, 2019 faith journey The Catholic Commentator 7 Youth speak up for the unborn at march

By Debbie Shelley “I did not know there are ac- The Catholic Commentator tual survivors of abortion and that there is actually something Nearly 480 youth from the called after birth abortion,” said Diocese of Baton Rouge trekked Dupre. “I hope to try and start 24 hours by bus to Washington, a pro-life club here at school. I D.C., then went through a flur- want the others who weren’t ry of activities that still allowed able to go to learn these facts time for occasional snowball and to be apart of the pro-life fights. But they were singularly generation too.” focused on their mission as they The opportunity to connect rallied with hundreds of thou- with his faith, particularly eu- sands of people to call for the charistic adoration at the camp end of abortion during the an- where the youth stayed, was also nual March for Life on Jan. 18. a highlight for Jared Romero, “The highlight of my trip was a member of Most Blessed Sac- the day of the march because I rament Church in Baton Rouge feel as though we were an in- and St. Michael High School in spiration for those watching us Baton Rouge student who also march for our own beliefs,” said made his first trip to the march. Catherine Villa, a senior at As- “Adoration lasted two hours cension Catholic High School in with the option to stay even lon- Donaldsonville and member of ger; many people ended up stay- Youth from the Diocese of Baton Rouge carry a banner as they participate in March for Life in Washington, Ascension of Our Lord Church, ing till 12 a.m. I was stunned by D.C. on January 18. Photo by by Racheal Bourgoyne. also in Donaldsonville. the number of teenagers staying In addition to kindling her to pray in front of Jesus,” said Martin. cies go through, as they may feel “Every morning, when you desire to support life at all stag- Romero. “It gave me hope in the Her understanding of what trapped in their situations. open your eyes, place yourself in es, she also received informa- future of the pro-life movement it means to be pro-life also ex- Which returns her back to God’s presence and you will find tion to help her articulate her and the Catholic Church.” panded. the importance of conveying to so much gratitude for your own pro-life beliefs. Romero’s time in prayer “I used to think that being mothers the joy of life itself. life,” said Brandenburg. “Something that I learned helped him to have compas- pro-life was just being an- about pro-life on this trip was sion for women who have been ti-abortion. I learned that be- that I got more of an intake on through abortions. ing pro-life is being for life, not contraceptives, and we should “Before going on this trip, I just those being aborted, but Plan Now to get not just use the pill as a bandage. never knew about the amount of for all life. It is not just about We should actually try to fix the detriment put on mothers after marching one day out of the problem for the sake of our own they undergo abortions,” said year, but marching each day Best Rates! health and bodies,” said Villa. Romero. “The babies are not the in your own community,” said Holland America Cruise Line She plans to use her trip ex- only victim. Mothers are often Martin. “If we say we are pro- periences “for my future person- stuck with the guilt for years to life, we must show that we are Seabourn Cruise Line ally and to help anyone I know come. On the march I was able pro-life not only through our Andrew Davis, DSM to do the right thing about any to see the faces and hear the sto- words but through our ac- situation that we were taught.” ries of women who aborted their tions.” February 5, 2:00 & 6:30 p.m. “Also, I plan to inspire ev- babies.” Gabriella Brandenburg, who Alaska and Europe Cruises eryone younger to come on this Romero said his awareness of is home schooled through Re- trip as well because it is such this human tragedy makes him gina Caeli Academy and attends Globus Tours and CIE Tours an eye-opening experience that more determined to fight for the Most Blessed Sacrament, elo- Patrick Ludvigsen, DSM Dan Dorn, DSM nobody will regret,” said Villa. life of the unborn. quently summed up the mission “It was not only an experience “After going on this trip, I of the pilgrimage as one of joy. February 9, 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. about marching against abor- plan to continue to march ev- “The entire atmosphere of the Special Presentation at 10:00 a.m. tions, but also growing a closer eryday for the babies who can’t trip was so joyful,” said Bran- Globus Italian Sampler relationship with God and the speak up,” said Romero. “I cur- denburg. You can see it in their people around you.” rently plan to march again in faces. They are so passionate Viking River Cruises Haley Dupre, a junior at As- Life March South and take up and reflected the face of Christ.” cension Catholic High School an initiative to fight for human She noted that the joy comes Laurie Smith, DSM and a member of St. Jules rights.” from being in the presence of February 11, 2:00 & 6:30 p.m. Church in Belle Rose and St. The opportunity to experi- Christ, particularly at eucha- Elizabeth in Paincourtville, was ence the march with her peers is ristic adoration during a youth Silversea Cruise Lines taken by the and atmo- what made Emily Martin, a stu- rally the night before the March. Betsy Burk, DSM sphere of holiness at the dent at St. Michael High School, “There were 9,000 people at of the National Shrine of the Im- return for a second year. the rally. But the entire stadi- February 12, 2:00 p.m. maculate Conception in Wash- “There were many inspiring um was silent in the presence of ington, D.C. The basilica is said moments throughout the whole the Eucharist. There’s no reason AMA Waterways to be the largest pilgrimage, but one that stood that 9,000 people will become Sheila Bielich, DSM Church in the United States and out was the impact it had on my silent except for Christ,” she one of the 10 biggest churches in fellow classmates. I heard and said. February 13, 2:00 p.m. the world. saw people fall more in love with And being in presence of Dupre was shocked by some God and with the pro-life move- Christ also helps her under- Pearson’s Travel World of the things she learned about ment. It was truly a beautiful stand the plight that women 7949 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge • 225-926-3752 abortion. and humbling experience,” said who experience crisis pregnan- 8 The Catholic Commentator February 1, 2019 Father Mascarella remembered

From staff reports pastor of St. Isidore the Farmer Church faith-based classes, retreat leadership The Catholic Commentator in Baker; Immaculate Conception of the and increased liturgical participation. Blessed Mary Church in Denham Father Mascarella lost his eyesight Blind and fiercely committed to his Springs; and, Christ the King Church and to multiple eye conditions that likely be- priesthood, Father Patrick J. Mascarel- Catholic Center in Baton Rouge. He also gan when he was a young boy. When he la had more than a heightened sense of served as parochial vicar for St. Charles retired in 2009 at the age of 68, he was touch that helped him orientate himself Borromeo in Baton Rouge; St. Theresa an inspiration to many simply by his daily in his physical surroundings, he knew of Avila in Gonzales; Our Lady of Mercy walk and trust in God’s will, according to how to touch other’s lives Church in Baton Rouge; those who knew him. by offering Christ’s healing Christ the King Church and Always seen with Father Mascarella in their brokenness. Catholic Center in Baton on those walks, as well as at Masses and Father Mascarella Rouge; St. Joseph Church anywhere he went, was his faithful com- passed away late Wednes- in Paulina; Most Sacred panion and guide dog, Pace. Father Mas- day, Jan. 23 at Our Lady Heart of Jesus Church in carella described Pace as a “compassion- of the Lake Regional Med- Gramercy; and, St. Michael ate dog who is especially attuned to the Father Mascarella poses for a portrait with ical Center in Baton Rouge, Church in Convent. feelings of others.” He said Pace’s favorite his service dog Pace. where he was recovering He was director of place to visit was LSU because he would from recent heart surgery. Continuing Formation of take Pace’s harness off, meaning he was He was 77-years-old. Priests from 1984 – 2007 off duty, and the students enjoyed playing where to place the body of Christ during Father Mascarella was and was a member of the with him. Pace received the Service Ani- Communion or having them guide his born on April 12, 1941 in College of Consultors from mal of the Year Award by the Governor’s hands to their head when he gave them Baton Rouge. He attended 1970-1973. Office of Disability Affairs on Dec. 13, absolution during confession. St. Joseph Seminary in St. Father Mascarella, who 2011. Pace is currently living with family “Today we celebrate – his life; his love Father Patrick Mascarella Benedict and Notre Dame celebrated his golden jubi- members of Father Mascarella. of family; love of friends; his love of peo- Seminary in New Orleans, lee in 2016, introduced key Family, friends and priests throughout ple,” said Father Alello. where he graduated in 1963. He was or- programs on stewardship on the church the Diocese of Baton Rouge and beyond Other priests of the Diocese of Baton dained a priest on Dec. 17, 1966, by Bishop parish level, directing continuing forma- gathered to celebrate Father Mascarella’s Rouge also spoke of the powerful influ- Robert E. Tracy, at St. Aloysius Church in tion for priests and helping to create and life at a funeral at St. Aloysius Church in ence Father Mascarella had on their lives. Baton Rouge. Father Mascarella served as adopt new ways of evangelization through Baton Rouge on Jan. 28. Concelebrating “He and I might not have agreed on ev- the Mass was Father Mascarella’s great erything theologically but we always got nephew and main celebrant Rev. Rusty along,” said Father Jamin David, pastor of Vincent, Bishop Michael G. Duca, Bish- St. Margaret Queen of Scotland in Alba- NOW op Emeritus Robert W. Muench and the ny and a co-member of a clergy support priests of the diocese. group with Father Mascarella. In his homily, Father Michael Alello, “He was accepting of everybody, and AVAILABLE! pastor of St. Church in Ba- made people feel welcome,” added Father ton Rouge, who was mentored by Father David, who helped Father Mascarrella Mascarella, noted Father Mascarella did plan his funeral. not select a typical Gospel passage for “He was able to listen to people and ap- The 2018–19 a funeral, but chose the passage in the ply the Gospel to their circumstances. He where Jesus was dining always responded with charity, just the Diocese of at the house of a Pharisee named Simon way the Gospel says.” and a sinful woman comes to Jesus. She Baton Rouge brought an alabaster jar of perfume, ouge and as she stood behind him at his feet aton R Directory... weeping, she began to wet his feet with B her tears. Then she wiped them with her ... a must have for easy access to the most current hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. Because of her faith, Jesus forgives listings and information on churches, clergy, religious, her sins. schools, diocesan departments and personnel, retreat “When we are broken it is there that God’s love for us can be found. He loves centers, deaneries, institutions and organizations – us into a deeper communion with him,” right at your fingertips. Order yours today! said Father Alello. “(Father) Pat spent his life trying to live it. And received it. And To place your order, fill out the form below and mail to: The I’m convinced that that’s what made him Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821- the priest he was.” 3316 with a check or money order for $9.50 for each directory And because of his brokenness, he ordered. Or call to place on your credit card, 225-387-0983. stood up for the broken, testifying at the State Capitol on behalf of the disabled. He was literally “in touch” with the Number of Directories Ordered people, either by having them touch his hands with theirs so he would know Name Address Father Mascarella’s service dog Pace lies near the coffin of his master before the City State Zip start of the funeral at St. Aloysius Church in Phone including area code Baton Rouge on Jan. 28. Photo by Bonny Van | The Catholic Commentator February 1, 2019 The Catholic Commentator 9

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OFFICER INSTALLATION – On Jan. 13 Knights of Peter Claver Louisiana State Conference President Reginald Berry administered the oath of office to Wilfred B. Ricard Council/Court #116 officers. The ceremony was held at Immacu- late Conception Church and pastor Father Thomas Clark SJ, blessed the occasion. On the front row from left are Berry; L. Claudia Griffin, Vice Grand Lady; L. Yvonne Jackson, Grand Lady; Charles Duplechain, Grand Knight; Law- rence R. Williams Sr., Deputy Grand Knight; and Father Clark. Photo submitted by Lawrence Williams TO SUBSCRIBE, CALL 225-387-0983.

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Brother Ray Hebert SC of Catholic High School in Baton Rouge, joined by CHS stu- Gabby Wicks, pictured far right, and her youngest son show dents and CHS alumnus Warrick Dunn, blessed the house before new owner Gabby their excitement as Warrick Dunn points out all of the features Wicks, picture far left, and her two sons took their first tour of their newly com- and furnishings of their new home. Dunn founded Home for Gabby Wicks holds up the keys to her new pleted home. Photos by Bonny Van | The Catholic Commentator the Holidays charity in memory of his mother, a Baton Rouge police officer who was killed in the line of duty. The charity home after signing the closing documents with works with Habitat for Humanity to help provide homes for those living on low income. George Pierson, closing attorney for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Baton Rouge.

home sweet

By Bonny Van lice officer who was killed and, a new computer and office supplies. The 3 bedroom, 1 ½ bath house was completely furnished and The Catholic Commentator in the line of duty. home “The home is worth $76,000, with four new appli- ready for the family to move in. Pictured in the right column and “I think it’s important ances,” said Lynn Clark, executive director of Habitat above are scenes from the bedrooms, dining area and living When Gabby Wicks and her two sons arrived at the that I help people that are for Humanity of Greater Baton Rouge. “We sell it at 0% room. home she had been working on through Habitat for Hu- trying to help themselves, mortgage, so every month, she’ll pay her mortgage pay- manity of Greater Baton Rouge at 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 15, who have a similar passion ment to Habitat which is her principal, her insurance, she thought she was attending a dedication ceremony. that my mom had to be a Andrew Gunnels, who spent her property taxes and it’ll be about $400 month – a 20- Instead, the family was greeted by a swarm of people homeowner,” said Dunn. 16 hours working on the house and is signed up to help year mortgage and then she’ll own the home after that.” representing Habitat for Humanity; Warrick Dunn “So, it makes it easier to come out and help indi- build another one. “It’s really cool. It was actually really “I’m so nervous – so excited,” Wicks said smiling. “It’s Charities’ Home for the Holidays; Aaron’s; and Catholic viduals who are trying to help themselves. I am delight- awesome to see so many different people all coming to- a dream come true.” High School in Baton Rouge. ed to be in a position to help.” gether and everyone doing a little job to make something Wicks, who has worked as a medical assistant at Our At a loss for words, but not a loss of tears or grateful- This is the third home that CHS has built with Habi- big happen.” Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton ness, Wicks gushed with thanks and enthusiasm as she tat for Humanity, with the student body providing the “It’s really special to see how much of an impact this Rouge for the past the two years, said she and her family wiped away tears in front of her new home. There she funds for the initial costs then helping with the con- makes on the homeowner and her family and I think it’s lived on a busy street in Plaquemine and she has wanted stood with her sons, overwhelmed by the attention but struction itself. a great thing that Catholic High does,” said student An- to own her own home for a very long time. especially overwhelmed by the place she will now refer “It’s one of the best things that we do because it’s drew Shea. “They’ve put in sweat equity and they also She worked alongside students, faculty and staff of to as “home.” such a community experience,” explained principal Lisa built the house along with us, so it’s like they’re joining Catholic High raising the walls of her future home; put- “Thank you! Thank you all of you!” Wicks said to the Harvey. “So, we raise the money one year and then we the Catholic High family, so it’s cool.” ting on siding; decking the roof; painting; and, land- Catholic High students and other volunteers who helped start building the next school year. So, all the kids are After Wicks was presented a $5,000 check from War- scaping the home. build the house. “You’re a part of our family and come involved and we get to be a part of this (presentation), so rick Dunn Charities for her down payment, Ray “The process was awesome. I met a whole lot of peo- see us!” it’s just a great event for all the kids.” Hebert of CHS blessed the house. Then the family was ple, awesome people,” Wicks said, who was able to close Warrick Dunn, a 1993 alumnus of CHS and former “I painted a lot of walls, I painted a lot of inside closets able to tour their new 3 bedroom, 1 ½ bath home that on the house and move in that evening. “I learned a lot NFL running back, founded “Home for the Holidays” 21 and I did a lot of caulking and I painted a lot of shelves was completely furnished and stocked with food; clean- of things, like how to build a house from the ground up. years ago in memory of his mother, a Baton Rouge po- that are throughout the house,” said CHS student ing supplies; linens; kitchen utensils and dinnerware; So, it was an awesome experience.” 12 The Catholic Commentator February 1, 2019

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Erin Ory Harelson is surrounded by her great grandchildren who are students of St. George School in Baton Super Bowl Party Trays Rouge. Every year, since 1960, Harelson has had a child, grandchild or great-grandchild attend the school. Photo provided by Catherine Harelson Legacy continues at St. George School

By Bonny Van from St. Joseph’s Academy in 1887, according to Anthony ’s Italian Deli The Catholic Commentator records. St. George’s Blessed Child of Mary School 5575 GOVERNMENT ST., JUST WEST OF JEFFERSON HWY. is listed only a few times in records from 1890 – PHONE ORDERS WELCOME! 225-272-6817 OPEN MON.-SAT. 9:30 - 6:00 PM Gathered around the kitchen table in the High- 1913. Meanwhile, St. George Church was estab- Baton Rouge’s only TRUE ITALIAN DELI Since 1978 land Road home in Baton Rouge where they grew lished in 1908. up, sisters Margie Harelson Windham, Janice As the city of Baton Rouge grew, so did the area Harelson Troxclair, Dottie Harelson Territo and around the church. But, it would take another half Catherine Harelson Palermo talked about their century for the school to be established, which years at St. George School in Baton Rouge. happened in 1960 thanks to the efforts of Father “The school started in 1960,” said Windham, James Finnegan, then pastor of St. George. who was in the sixth grade that year. “We had to “When I went to St. George (school), it was grav- go to St. Joseph Cathedral (in Baton Rouge) for el; there weren’t even paved roads,” said Windham, second and third grades; St. Aloysius (in Baton who rode the bus to school. Rouge) for fourth and fifth grades; and, I went to Erin Harelson and her late husband, William, St. George for sixth, seventh and eighth grades.” raised their family, which included eight girls and Windham was in the first graduating class at St. two boys, on several acres on Highland Road in an George, which added more grades each year. And, area that was once considered rural. As St. George each year, another member of the Harelson house- School added more grades, more of the Harelson hold, which included 10 children, would be added children became students. to the student roll, something that continues even “When my youngest sister was in eighth grade, Joe Skibinski, Agent today. In a nearby recliner, their mother, 97-year- the oldest granddaughter started school there,” old Erin Ory Harelson, listened and added her own said Palermo. “So, we haven’t had a skip. Some- memories. body has always been there since it opened.” “I never went to any other (church) parish, it’s Father Finnegan, who was pastor of St. George my home,” said Erin Ory Harelson. “I’m the old- for 15 years, also became a close friend of the fam- est one over there (at the church) that was here ily, with Harelson even doing some of his grocery the whole time, since 1921. My (maternal) grand- shopping. Father Finnegan, known for carrying mother (Leontine Cannon Daigle) was one of the peppermints, would sometimes drive to the Harel- first teachers when it was just boxed walls. They son home just to shower the children with candy. called it a hall.” “Father Finnegan used to come by, and he had Sacramental records from the Archives Depart- this old car, and there was no traffic, and he’d stop ment at the Diocese of Baton Rouge indicate a long at the road and throw candy to us in the yard,” history of the Harelson and Ory families in the St. chuckled Windham. “He wouldn’t come in. He’d George parish area. St. George was a mission cha- just throw it out the car and he’d keep going.” pel of St. Joseph Cathedral and included a school, In all, there were 10 Harelson children, nine where Leontine Cannon taught after graduating SEE HARELSON PAGE 19 February 1, 2019 The Catholic Commentator 13

100 AND COUNTING! – Kinder- gartners at St. Jean Vianney School in Baton Rouge dressed as centenarians to celebrate the 100th day of school. Photo provided by Abby King | St. Jean Vianney

AWARD WINNING – Justin Rivet, a senior at St. John School in GOOD SAMARITANS – Students at Holy Ghost School in Hammond were recognized for their commit- Plaquemine, received the Warrick Dunn Award for his perfor- ment to living out Catholic values with the Good Samaritan Award. Pictured, front row, from left, are mance this football season. Dunn, a graduate of Catholic High Brody Jones, Cody Bates, Cale Carlisle, Jade Thiel, Brennan Bankston; and, back row, Caroline Durnin, School in Baton Rouge, played in the NFL for several years. Rivet Claire Chauvin, Charles Ragan, Bryce Simoneaux, Cross Carlisle, and Kyle Miller. Also receiving the received his plaque at the annual banquet on Jan. 15. Photo provided award was Alisha Taylor. Photo provided by Cindy Wagner | Holy Ghost School by April Hedges | St. John School

March 6

As the Lent approaches, we are preparing Our Annual Lenten Guide. This guide will include: ✞ RECIPES for Lenten meals ✞ Ash Wednesday services ✞ Spiritual opportunities throughout the diocese ✞ Reconciliation ✞ Fundraisers and more

Send us your EVENTS and RECIPES to: THE CATHOLIC RESEARCH AND RESULTS – Mary Elizabeth Cavalier, an eighth- grader at St. Jude the Apostle School in Baton Rouge, stands by her project at the Science and Social Studies Fair on Jan. 17. Photo CSERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1962 provided by Starr Driesse | St. Jude P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821 or email [email protected]. 14 The Catholic Commentator ENTERTAINMENT February 1, 2019

Motion Picture Association of America ships recorded by history were actually malan’s thriller reunites characters from MOVIE ratings: passionate lesbian romances, the film two of his previous films, 2000’s “Un- G – General audiences; all ages admitted ramps up the sex, vulgarity and schem- breakable” and “Split” from 2016, for a PG – Parental guidance suggested; some ing in a perverse spin on the 1950 classic prolonged meditation on the possible REVIEWS material may not be suitable for children USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting “All About Eve” as Sarah, a veritable pup- real-life existence of superheroes. Firmly PG-13 – Parents are strongly cautioned to classifications: peteer telling the sovereign what to say opposed to the idea is a therapist (Sarah give special guidance for attendance of A-I – General patronage and do, is challenged by Abigail, a devious Paulson) who claims to specialize in treat- children under 13; some material may be A-II – Adults and adolescents woman who has fallen on hard times and ing those with delusions of DC or Marvel- inappropriate for young children A-III – Adults whose veneer of innocence masks her de- style grandeur. She gets the opportunity R – Restricted; under 17 requires accom- A-IV – Adults, with reservations panying parent or adult guardian termination to restore her station in soci- to try to convince a security expert who L – Limited adult audience NC-17 – No one under 17 admitted ety, whatever the cost. Strong sexual con- moonlights as a vigilante (Bruce Willis) O – Morally offensive tent, including homosexual activity, full and a schizophrenic murderer (James nudity and masturbation, adult themes, McAvoy) that they are merely human Escape Room rise that put this out of reach for kids and occasional profane and rough language. when they join a former comic-book gal- Columbia may that be distasteful for many grown- O; R lery owner, rare disease victim and true Routine thriller in which, lured by a ups. Brief but sometimes harsh violence believer in extraordinary capabilities $10,000 reward, a seemingly random with little gore, occasional sexual jokes The Upside (Samuel L. Jackson) under confinement at group of people (most prominently trou- and references, frequent profanities, a STX the asylum where she works. Many of the bled slacker Logan Miller and shy col- milder oath, at least one rough term, per- Odd-couple mix of comedy and drama grown-ups will find the debate on which it lege student Taylor Russell) participate in vasive crude and crass language. A-III; in which Kevin Hart is a recent parolee hinges pointless. Much violence with con- what purports to be an immersive game PG-13 for various crimes who desperately needs siderable gore, including an off-screen act but turns out to be a deadly struggle for employment to avoid returning to prison of cannibalism, a few gruesome images, survival. Though the victims of the de- The Favourite and Bryan Cranston is an uber-wealthy a couple of uses of profanity, occasional ception generally bond and Bragi Schut Fox Searchlight quadriplegic who requires a caregiver. crude language, an obscene gesture. A- and Maria Melnik’s script attempts, half- This costume comedy-drama, directed Director Neil Burger and screenwriter III; PG-13 heartedly, to weigh the consequences of by Yorgos Lanthimos, purports to tell the Jon Hartmere have remade a popular selfishness against the fruits of altruism, true story of a royal love triangle involv- 2011 French film “Les Intouchables,” it- If Beale Street Could Talk director Adam Robitel’s film is ultimately ing 18th-century British monarch Queen self taken from Philippe Pozzo di Borgo’s Annapurna little more than a less disturbing take on Anne (Olivia Colman) and two of the 2001 book, “Le Second Souffle” (The Sec- Faithful, evocative and reverent adapta- the “Saw” franchise. Since the mayhem women in her life: Lady Sarah Churchill, ond Wind), based on a real-life relation- tion of James Baldwin’s 1974 novel about is mostly nongraphic and everyone on duchess of Marlborough (Rachel Weisz), ship. But there’s more than a whiff of the a struggling young African-American screen is too preoccupied to think about and Sarah’s ambitious cousin, Abigail Hill “white savior” formula to the stereotyped couple (KiKi Layne and Stephan James), romance, much less lust, it’s mainly the (Emma Stone). Playing fast and loose with proceedings, which also trade in such with many of the attendant weaknesses exclamations to which their panic gives the facts, and assuming the close friend- dubious humor as that surrounding the such careful film realizations can bring changing of a catheter. Benignly viewed with them. Much of the dialogue, scripted marijuana use, sexual humor and refer- by director Barry Jenkins, is wooden and ences, fleeting rough and crude language. stilted, and it’s a bit of a slog to sit through. A-III; PG-13 But the enduring love and strong family ties survive all manner of hardships, in- A Dog’s Way Home cluding James’ character being framed by Columbia a racist police officer (Ed Skrein) on a rape Canine cuteness abounds in this quest- charge (the victim played by Emily Rios). based adventure, adapted by director Two nonmarital sexual encounters, brief Charles Martin Smith from the novel by upper female nudity, momentary domes- W. Bruce Cameron (who co-wrote the tic abuse, a few racial slurs, fleeting rough screenplay with his wife, Cathryn Mi- language. A-III; R chon). But various elements make the film unsuitable for the youngsters at whom it’s The Kid Who Would Be King partially aimed. Adopted by an affection- Fox ate Denver-based medical student (Jo- The Arthurian legend gets an inven- nah Hauer-King) and his psychologically tive updating in this thrilling adventure scarred veteran mom (Ashley Judd), a that casts schoolchildren as latter-day stray Pitbull-mix puppy (voice of Bryce Knights of the Round Table, destined to Dallas Howard) settles into a happy do- save the world. A 12-year-old boy (Louis mesticated life. But a local animal con- Ashbourne Serkis) finds a sword stuck in trol officer (John Cassini) has it in for the a pile of rubble and pulls it out, unaware pooch, and she is sent away to prevent her that the mythical Excalibur is now in being impounded and euthanized. Not re- his grasp, making him the new “king.” alizing the arrangement is temporary, she The fabled wizard Merlin, a shapeshifter resolves to make her own way back home. (Angus Imrie in one guise, Patrick Stew- Along the grueling 400-mile journey, she art in another), promptly appears and faces various dangers. Grown-ups with a warns that an army must be raised since soft spot for cuddly creatures will take all the lad’s success with the storied weapon this in stride, though there’s little on offer has brought about the resurrection of the here beyond a lovable face, a waggly tail evil Morgana le Fay (Rebecca Ferguson). and some droll dog’s-eye-view commen- Three schoolmates (Dean Chaumoo, Tom tary on human behavior. Considerable Taylor, Rhianna Dorris) agree to join the peril, a benignly viewed homosexual rela- quest. Writer-director Joe Cornish serves tionship. A-III; PG up that treasured Hollywood rarity: an entertaining, family-friendly film that Glass skillfully blends in strong messages, in Universal this case about truth, justice and caring Long on eerie atmosphere but wanting for others. Potentially scary fantasy vio- in coherence, director M. Night Shya- lence, two mild oaths. A-II; PG February 1, 2019 The Catholic Commentator 15

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Covington high school 41 51 61

71 81 91 incident: Investigation begins, 210 2 22 243 252 discussion continues 2728296 2 03 321 333 43 53 63 WASHINGTON (CNS) – Days after the now-famous exchange 73 83 93 took place between Covington 04 14 24 Catholic High School students 34 44 54 and a Native American tribal leader in Washington, the Dio- 476 4 cese of Covington, Kentucky, an- 49408 5 521 5354555 nounced it would begin a third- party investigation into what 65 587 5 95 happened at the foot of the Lin- 06 16 26 coln Memorial following the an- nual March for Life on Jan. 18. 36 46 56

“This is a very serious matter moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www that has already permanently ACROSS 2 It was written in three languages altered the lives of many people. 1 “…he suffered, ___ and was buried.” (abbr.) It is important for us to gather Nick Sandmann, a junior at Covington Catholic High School in Park 5 “___ Noster” 3 He’s the Red the facts that will allow us to de- Hills, Kentucky, and others students from the school stand in front of 10 Saint of Lima 4 School spot 14 Memo phrase 5 Surname of Pius XII termine what corrective actions, Native American Vietnam veteran Nathan Phillips Jan. 18 near the Lin- 15 Make ___ in 6 ___ Fidelis if any, are appropriate,” the dio- coln Memorial in Washington in this still image from video. An ex- 16 Ancient Roman day 7 Tantalize cese said in a Jan. 22 statement. change between the students and Phillips Jan. 18 was vilified on so- 17 Greek goddess of strife 8 Abstract being It also mentioned that Cov- 18 Discontinue 9 AAA suggestion cial media the following day, but the immediate accusations the 19 Justice, for one (abbr.) 10 Insurance add-on ington High School, Covington students showed racist behavior were stepped back as more details 20 Kierkegaard’s The ___ Unto Death 11 Stadiums Latin School and Covington’s of the entire situation emerged. CNS photo 22 “Dying you destroyed our ___…” 12 Birth month of Mary (abbr.) diocesan offices were closed that 23 Intentionally kept concealed 13 OT book about a Jewish heroine day due to threats of violence The Israelites were there to pired and who has pledged an 26 Roman Catholic Native American 21 “The ___ Professor” leader 22 Heroic St. Bernard animal and would reopen when it was share their own beliefs that Af- independent investigation of the 30 OT prophetic book 24 Ostrich-like bird safe to do so. A few dozen people rican-Americans are God’s cho- situation.” 31 WWII president 25 Start of the Christian era took part in a protest vigil at the sen people and the true Hebrew “Whatever the investigation 34 Island that is part of the Archdiocese 26 Stub of Papeete 27 Relaxed diocese’s headquarters Jan. 21. descendants. reveals, I hope that we can use 35 Pentecost color 28 Hindu deity “We pray that we may come to Members of this group, as this as a teachable moment, 36 Noxious weed 29 Make weary the truth and that this unfortu- shown in video footage, taunt- learn from any mistakes on the 37 Exorbitant rate of interest 31 Tehran tongue nate situation may be resolved ed the students and some re- part of anyone involved and be- 38 “…___ thousand times…” 32 Legal right 39 Paroxysm 33 Witherspoon of “Legally Blonde” peacefully and amicably and ask sponded back. Phillips, a Native gin the process of healing,” he 40 Lake or pond 35 First NT epistle others to join us in this prayer,” American, walked over to the added. 41 Abbr. for two NT epistles 36 The others the diocese said, adding that it students and the group, which Nick Sandmann, a junior at 42 Essay 38 Diocese on the French Riviera will “have no further statements he has described to reporters as Covington Catholic High School 43 Hand-held computer, briefly 39 Number of days Jonah spent in the 44 Christmas month (abbr.) belly of a large fish (Jon 1:17) until the investigation is com- an intervention and was singing who was most prominent in the 45 Wood eater 41 Hesburgh of Notre Dame, to friends plete.” and beating a song of prayer. footage for standing directly in 46 Formulate again 42 Form of bowling On Jan. 19, the day a viral Joseph E. Kurtz front of Phillips, issued his own 48 Certain mount 44 “Agnus ___” video showed the students who of Louisville, Kentucky, a neigh- statement Jan. 20 saying he 51 Desire for food 45 First word of Tiny Tim’s theme song 56 Tigger’s pal 46 She saved Joshua’s spies appeared to be mocking or dis- boring diocese, wrote in his Jan. would cooperate in any investi- 57 Query found in Matthew 47 “___ of Our Fathers” respecting Nathan Phillips, 22 blog that he has received gation church leaders planned 59 NT epistle 48 Vacation sites tribal elder for the Omaha Tribe, “many calls and email messages to do. He said he had received 60 Trac II successor 49 Very small quantity 61 Founder of the American Sisters of 50 Mrs. Nick Charles Covington High School and the from people with many differ- insults and death threats since Charity 52 Ordinary ___ Diocese of Covington issued a ent viewpoints and seemingly the incident. 62 “Kissing disease,” for short 53 Sacred image joint statement condemning the opposite messages about the In an interview shown Jan. 23 63 Car maker 54 You can set one students’ actions, apologizing to incidences involving Covington with “Today” show host Savan- 64 Burned palm product 55 Greek god of love 65 Hydrocarbon suffixes 57 OT prophetic book Phillips and noting that the in- Catholic High School students nah Guthrie, Sandmann said, 58 Parisian possessive cident was “being investigated at the March for Life. Many of “In hindsight, I wish we could’ve DOWN and we will take appropriate ac- these calls and messages have walked away and avoided the 1 “___ Irae” tion, up to and including expul- revealed the regrettable polar- whole thing.” Solution on page 18 sion.” ization in our church and in our He said he was not disrespect- But more of the story unfolded society.” ful to Phillips, but chose to just the next day when the students He said many people have stand still in front of him as a issued statements about what pointed out how he initially way to show he would not be ag- happened and longer videos joined Covington Bishop Roger gressive. shown online revealed that an- J. Foys in a blog post condemn- When asked if he heard stu- other group at the foot of the ing the alleged actions, which he dents say anything insulting or Lincoln Memorial that after- has now taken down. racist in response to the taunts noon included members of the The archbishop said he has they received, Sandmann said: Hebrew Israelites, who with sought to “act in solidarity with “We’re a , it’s not Phillips and others were at- the bishop of Covington, who tolerated. They don’t tolerate tending an Indigenous People’s is in a position to have the best racism and none of my class- March. information about what trans- mates are racist people.” 16 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT February 1, 2019 | editorial Does any wedding need 600 bottles of wine? Social wo weeks ago I was preparing a His Gospel calls miracles “signs” because grace unanswered. sermon on the marriage feast at they not only surprised everyone by being The key words in the Cana Gospel pas- media fallout TCana in St. John’s Gospel. It was supernatural, something they didn’t think sage are “his disciples began to believe in difficult, because a quick scan of several could ever happen, but the miracles also him.” From the beginning of his ministry, A confrontation that went viral commentaries produced many differ- revealed who Jesus was and Jesus always said and did cast an unfortunate pall over ent possible meanings of the story – the what God, his father, sent things that invited faith the recent March for Life rally in beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, a him to do. These “signs” in himself, and through Washington, D.C. symbol of the Eucharist he would give us showed God working him belief in his heavenly Although conflicting reports at the end of his ministry, a rare shift in through Jesus, who later father. But he never forced continue to surface, once again the Johnnine theology, which often stresses would say that he came anyone. He invited and warts of social medial were clearly Jesus’ divinity, to a human Jesus who so that his disciples “may challenged his disciples and exposed, as well as the harmful hesitates to do anything about the scar- have life and have it more us to accept his invitation effects of rushing to judgment. city of wine, a symbol of often abundantly.” You might by following him. We fol- In the immediate aftermath pictured in the Bible by an abundance say that 600 liter bottles of low Jesus by prayers and by of the incident, students from of wine, a revelation of God’s presence wine was rather abundant. deeds. As St. James says in Covington Catholic High School in manifested in Jesus’ action and on and (That was how much those his epistle, words of faith Covington, Kentucky were demon- on. I found this interesting, a perfect six stone water jars held.) mean nothing if they are ized, even by some Catholic lead- example of the “ever-enigmatic Jesus” We don’t know who the not accompanied by Christ- ers. Social media portrayed the in the words of one of the commentators, bride was. She was never like deeds of love. students, especially Nick Sandma- Sister Mary McGlone CSJ. mentioned. The groom Another God sends many people nn, as heinous racists, and posts Think back on the sermon you heard had no name. He was into our lives who need us were filled with hatred and vitriol. two weeks ago on the Second Sunday in simply the one who was Perspective to be Jesus to them. We Some even appeared threatening. Ordinary Time. All of these are possible told by the head waiter may not be able to change In modern parlance, various interpretations of the marriage feast at that he had saved the best Father John Carville water into wine, but we sites “blew up” with people so Cana. Which did your priest homilist wine for last. The main can relieve others of their eager to judge with hate in their choose? And these are not all of the pos- characters in the story were Jesus and embarrassment and pain from hunger and heart before the facts were even sible interpretations. Maybe you have his mother. Often we tend to forget that thirst, lack of housing, employment and accurately portrayed. In that there made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Jesus was truly human just like us. He education. We must try to be the wine of is great harm. have seen the size of those stone jars. The had a mother, and she sometimes told him happiness and relief for those whom God Social media has certainly memory would have made that homily what to do. Here she pushed him to begin sends our way. It is the change that will changed the way the world is more interesting to you. What I add below his public ministry with the first of his occur in them, and in us, that will be the viewed. Tragically, some young is a collage of some of these meanings, my miracles. In St. Mark’s Gospel, a Syrian real miracle, and both of us may truly people have even committed own take on this surprising Gospel story. woman will pull Jesus into extending that ”begin to believe in him.” suicide after continuous bullying I was taught in a Catholic high school ministry to non-Jews by curing her little St. Augustine once said, “I never have through posts. that the wedding at Cana showed Jesus’ daughter. She was willing to accept the any difficulty believing in miracles, for I There is no denying social me- blessing of marriage. That is true. He and left-overs from his table of miracles. God experienced the miracle of change in my dia is firmly entrenched in modern his disciples, who were guests, obviously often uses the needs of other to draw acts own heart.” ​ culture. The question now is how shared the Jewish belief that marriage of love from us. We may ignore, but we do individuals act responsibly, so was important and blessed by God. They cannot evade the presence of God around FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest in the incidents such as what happened were attending a Jewish religious cer- us. In the Jesus of John’s Gospel, God Diocese of Baton Rouge and writes on at the March for Life are not blown emony. However, St. John used this story was becoming more and more knowable current topics for The Catholic Com- out of proportion and young lives to teach us much more than that. He says through Jesus, but as happens still today, mentator. He can be reached at johnny ruined. that this was the first of Jesus’ “signs.” God would often go unrecognized and his [email protected]. | Letters to the Editor Pray for those who pray for us Please pray for the priests, and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese. Letters to the Editor should be typed and limited to 350 words and should contain the name and address Feb. 7 Rev. Anthony J. Russo Feb. 14 Rev. Frank M. Uter of the writer, though the address will not be printed. Dcn. Tim Grimes Dcn. Robert J. Kusch We reserve the right to edit all letters. Send to: Letters Br. Dwight Kenney SC Sr. Joan Hartlaub CSJ to the Editor, The Catholic Commentator, P. O. Box 3316, Feb. 8 Rev. Amal Raj Savarimuthu IMS Feb. 15 Rev. Do Minh Vu ICM Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316, or to [email protected]. Dcn. Ronald J. Hebert Dcn. Ronald D. LeGrange Sr. Dulce Maria Flores HMSS Br. Malcolm Melcher SC Feb. 9 Rev. Michael J. Schatzle Feb. 16 Rev. Joseph H. Vu Dcn. Clayton A. Hollier Dcn. Albert Levy III Br. Clifford King SC Sr. Mary Ann Hebert CSJ Feb. 10 Rev. Alexander J. Sheldon Feb. 17 Rev. Miles D. Walsh Mission Statement Dcn. William H. Holtman Dcn. James A. Little The mission of The Catholic Commentator is to provide Sr. Janet Franklin CSJ Br. Paul Montero SC Feb. 11 Rev. Philip F. Spano Feb. 18 Rev. Ju Hyung (Paul) Yi news, information and commentary to the people of the Dcn. George Hooper Dcn. Robert McDonner Diocese of Baton Rouge, Catholics and their neighbors Br. Noel Lemmon SC Sr. Anna Hoang ICM alike. In doing so, The Catholic Commentator strives to Feb. 12 Rev. Robert F. Stine Feb. 19 Rev. Gerard F. Young further the wider mission of the Church: to evangelize, Dcn. Micheal J. (Shelley) Joseph Dcn. John L. McGinnis Jr. to communicate, to educate and to give the Catholic Sr. Carol Gonsoulin CSJ Br. Marcus Turcotte SC Feb. 13 Rev. Martin N. Thanh ICM Feb. 20 + Bishop Robert E. Tracy viewpoint on important issues of the present day. Dcn. John A. Jung Jr. Dcn. Larry J. Melancon Br. Roger LeMoyne SC Sr. Esther Hulin CSJ February 1, 2019 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 17 Snake-bitten

verything is of one piece. along with herself in an act of reacted in a similar way. What willful or not, is dangerous. We of myself. You take care of Whenever we don’t take mysterious vengeance. We can did he have to worry about are inextricably tied to each yourself!” This will come back Ethat seriously, we pay a be sure that whoever sneers in the face of a tiny trap? The other and to everything in the to snake-bite us. price. at her name, as if she were an chicken also announced that it world. We can protest to the We will eventually pay the The renowned theologian, ornament of a bourgeois past, had no fear of this gadget. “It’s contrary but reality will hold price for our blindness and Hans Urs Von Balthasar gives whether he admits it or not, your concern. No worry for its ground. And so, we cannot non-concern and we will pay an example of this. Beauty, can no longer pray and soon me!” it told the mice. truly value one thing while we that price politically, socially he submits, is not some little will no longer be able to love.” But all things are intercon- disdain something else. We and economically. But we “extra” that we can value or Here’s a simpler expression nected and that soon became cannot really love one person will even pay a higher price denigrate according to per- of that. There’s a delightful evident. The mistress set the while we hate someone else. personally. What that snake- sonal taste and little African tale mousetrap and, on the very And we cannot give ourselves bite will do is captured in Von temperament, that highlights the first night, heard it snap. Get- an exemption in one moral Balthasar’s warning: Whoever like some luxury interconnected- ting out of her bed to look what area and hope to be morally ignores or denigrates beauty that we say we ness of everything it had caught, she saw that it healthy as a whole. Everything will, he asserts, eventually cannot afford. and illustrates had trapped a snake by its tail. is of one piece. There are no be unable to pray or to love. Like truth and how, if we sepa- In trying to free the snake she exceptions. When we ignore That’s true too in all cases goodness, it’s rate a thing from was bitten and the poison soon that truth we are eventually when we ignore our intercon- one of the prop- its sisters, we soon had her feeling sick and run- snake-bitten by it. nectedness with others. By erties of God and pay a price. The ning a fever. She went to the I emphasize this because ignoring the needs of others thus demands to tale goes this way: doctor who gave her medicines today, virtually everywhere, a we eventually corrupt our own be taken seri- Once upon a to combat the poison and ad- dangerous tribalism is setting wholeness so that we are no ously as good- time, when ani- vised her: “What you need now in. Everywhere, not unlike longer able to treat ourselves ness and truth. mals still talked, to get better is chicken broth.” the animals in that African with respect and empathy If we neglect or the mice on a farm (You can guess where the rest tale, we see families, com- and, when that happens, we denigrate beauty, called a summit of this is going.) They slaugh- munities, churches and whole lose respect and empathy he says, we will In Exile of all the other tered the chicken, but her fever countries focusing more or for life itself – and for God – soon enough animals. They lingered. Relatives and neigh- less exclusively on their own because whenever reality isn’t begin to neglect Father Ron Rolheiser were worried, they bors came to visit. More food needs without concern for respected it bites back with other areas of lamented, because was needed. They slaughtered other families, communities, a mysterious vengeance. our lives. Here are his words: they had seen the mistress of the pig. Eventually the poison churches and countries. Other “Our situation today shows the house buy a mousetrap. killed her. A huge funeral en- people’s problems, we believe, Father Ron Rolheiser, that beauty demands for They were now in danger. But sued. A lot of food was needed. are not our concern. From the theologian, teacher and award- itself at least as much cour- the other animals scoffed at They slaughtered the cow. narrowness in our churches, to winning author, is president of age and decision as do truth their anxiety. The cow said The moral of the story is identity politics, to whole na- the Oblate School of Theology in and goodness, and she will not that she had nothing to worry clear. Everything is intercon- tions setting their own needs San Antonio, Texas. He can allow herself to be separated about. A tiny little contraption nected and our failure to see first, we hear echoes of the be contacted through his web- and banned from her two couldn’t harm her. She could that leaves us in peril. Blind- cow, pig and chicken saying: site ronrolheiser.com and sisters without taking them crush it with her foot. The pig ness to our interdependence, “Not my concern! I’ll take care facebook.com/ronrolheiser. Major and minor addictions

few years ago, I wrote a column on the topic of serious addictions. Pot is known to be an entry level and trapped. Then one day out of the blue, my father the “Cell Phone Addiction.” Today I’m expand- drug leading to the use of deadly illegal drugs. There’s who had grown weary of nagging me said, ‘Son I give Aing my focus to include addictions of every no magic bullet that can make addic- up, don’t change ... I love you just as you kind. It’s a well-known fact that minor addictions can tions go away, especially when they are. Deal with this as best you can. I’m disrupt your life, but major addictions can destroy become major addictions. The opioid turning it all over to the Lord.’ I suddenly your life. epidemic alone takes many thousands felt free and less guilty. I still wanted People are glued to their iPods, cell phones, iPads of lives every year. Add to that, deaths to be free of drugs, but now I began to and computers. They text messages all day long, and from heroin, cocaine, ecstasy and realize that I was the only one who could in the process lose their ability to engage in the art of methamphetamine. Taken all together, make it happen. When I realized that my conversation, while never developing the art of writing. you have more deaths in one year from father would continue to love me whether Fewer and fewer people, young and old write letters drug use than the total death toll of the I changed or not, something happened any more. This is sad but not fatal. entire Vietnamese War, which lasted inside of me. And believe it or not, I went Parents are out of their wits trying to get their about eight years. on to become drug-free.” children’s attention. If you investigate the problem of Rather than dwell on these sad Everyone is unique. Some remedies cell phone addiction, you’ll be amazed to learn that statistics, I’d prefer to close with a may work for one person and not another, many nations are way ahead of the U.S. in dealing with positive story from Anthony de Mello’s but it’s always wise to bring the Lord into it. For instance, South Korea is the most wired country book, “The Song of the Bird.” I’ve the picture, and the sooner the better. in the world. They have internet-counseling centers paraphrased it slightly. A young boy Spirituality Trying to help someone free themselves where youngsters are taught to combat computer com- addicted to drugs opens the story from an addiction is not something you pulsion by keeping themselves engaged with exercises, with these words, “Everyone kept For Today should try on your own. Get help, both and group activities. Many other countries have done after me to change, and I resented it. from neighbors and from God. It’s always the same thing. Kids need all the help they can get. And yet I agreed with them in a way Father John Catoir good to know that you can put your trust Over 50,000 people, young and old in America, are I wanted to be free of the constant in the Lord, and get results. Believe dying of drug-related causes every year. Minor ad- pressure to clean up my act, but I simply couldn’t kick deeply and do not fear, for Jesus said, “Fear is useless, dictions like pot can create a predisposition to more the habit. No matter how hard I tried I felt powerless what you need is trust.” 18 The Catholic Commentator COMING EVENTS February 1, 2019

Come to the Well – A free mini-retreat with testimo- fast of Magnificat, a ministry for Catholic women, on Joseph’s Academy, 3015 Broussard St., Baton Rouge. Fee ny and prayer, “Come to the Well: Encounter Jesus,” will Saturday, Feb. 19, 9 a.m. – noon, at Oak Lodge Re- is $40. To register and for more information, call 225- take place Saturday, Feb. 9, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., at the Our ception Center, 2834 Sherwood Forest Blvd., Baton 383-3349. Lady of Mercy Parish Activity Center, 445 Marquette Dr., Rouge. Tickets are $22 each and will be sold through Baton Rouge. For more information, call 225-773-8936. Wednesday, Feb. 13 and can be purchased by mailing a Day of Reflection– Dr. Susan Caldwell, medical check written to BR Magnificat, with the name of each director of Hope Woman’s Clinic in New Orleans, will Discalced – The Secular Order of Dis- attendee, to Kathy Simoneaux, 9650 Victory Lane, speak at a Day of Reflection for Women, “Hope in the calced Carmelites will meet on Sunday, Feb. 10, Denham Springs, LA 70726. Struggle,” Saturday, Feb. 2, beginning with Mass at 8 1:30 p.m., at the Our Lady of Mercy Parish Activ- a.m. – noon, at St. Jules Church, 7165 Highway 1, Belle ity Center in the St. Gabriel Room, 444 Marquette Busy Lives Presentation – “Balance in Our Busy Rose. To rsvp, email [email protected]. Ave., Baton Rouge. For details, call Ethlyn White at Lives” is the Day of Prayer theme Sister Janet Franklin 225-343-3181 or 225-803-3391 or email robert CSJ will present Tuesday, Feb. 19 at the Archdiocese of MAT Course Registration – The Office of Evange- [email protected]. New Orleans Retreat Center, 5500 St. Mary St., Metai- lization and Catechesis is holding registration for its rie. Cost is $35. To register, call 504-267-9604. Spring 2019 Ministry and Theology Program. Cost is Divorce Recovery – A nine-week program for the $15 per course. For more information and to register, separated and divorced, “Recovery from Divorce,” will Marriage Help – Married Couples who are struggling visit learn.evangcatbr.org/shop/ or call 225-336-8760. begin on Thursday, Feb. 14, 6:30 – 8 p.m., in the St. Fran- in their relationship are invited to attend a Retrouvaille cis Room of the St. John the Evangelist Parish Activity weekend Friday, March 8 – Saturday, March 9. For con- Charismatic Conference – The Regional Confer- Center, 15208 Hwy. 73, Prairieville. For more informa- fidential information or to register for the weekend call ence of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, “The Spirit tion, call Deacon Randy Clement at 225-673-8307 or 225-993-2443, email [email protected] or of Truth: Signs, Wonders and Miracles,” will be held email [email protected]. visit helpourmarriage.com. Friday, March 29 – Sunday, March 31 at the Copeland Tower Suites and Conference Center, 2601 Severn Magnificat Breakfast– Father Robert Joel Cruz, Retreat on Aging – Dana Territo will present a re- Ave., Bldg. B, Metairie. To register and for more infor- pastor of St. Andrew Church in Amelia, pilgrim, mis- treat, “The Spiritual Graces of Aging,” on Saturday, mation, visit ccrno.org, email [email protected] or call sionary and healing minister, will speak at the break- March 9, 9 a.m. – noon, at the Mother Alice Hall of St. 504-828-1368.

The Catholic Commentator For help placing your classi ed ad, PO Box 3316 call 225-387-0983. All classi ed ads are prepaid. Baton Rouge LA 70821-3316 C Credit cards are now accepted. ANNOUNCEMENTS BUSINESS SERVICE BUSINESS SERVICE HELP WANTED HELP WANTED While we at The Catholic Commentator LEBLANC’S TREE & STUMP CALL TYRONE do our best to bring reliable advertisers REMOVAL, INC. “WHEN IT NEEDS FIXING” to our readers, we are not responsible Prompt service–Free estimates LEAKING SINKS, FAUCETS, TOILETS Nativity of the Blessed for any claims made by any advertiser. FULLY INSURED AND GARBAGE DISPOSALS Virgin Mary Catholic School E. H. “Eddie” LeBlanc PLUS OTHER REPAIRS (Grades Pre-K3 through 6) Phone 383-7316 CALL 225-802-4522 EGAL OTICES OR 225-346-6246 Biloxi, Mississippi L N THOMAS LUNDIN, CPA is now accepting Anyone with knowledge of the where- Accounting and taxes for businesses, TURNING 65? APPLICATIONS FOR PRINCIPAL abouts of Sandra Elaine Rowinsky (nee non-pro ts and individuals; business, MEDICARE QUESTIONS? Harper), is asked to contact the Dioce- computer, nancial and management WE CAN HELP FOR THE 2019-2020 SCHOOL YEAR san Tribunal at 225-336-8755. services. 30 years experience; profes- JOE GOODSON 2255722275 Masters Degree in Educational Administration/Leadership sional, prompt and personal attention. JOHNNY STUART 2259073619 486 Administrative Certification or Ability to Obtain Certification Anyone with knowledge of the where- Call 225-296-0404. abouts of Cherish Nicole Boudreaux (nee Active Member of the Catholic Faith HOUSEKEEPER Anthony's Furniture Specialties. We Phipps) is asked to contact the Diocesan restore hurricane damaged furniture. Complete application at www.biloxidiocese.org Tribunal at 225-336-8755. MATURE DEPENDABLE 20 + YEARS EXPERIENCE If it's furniture, we do it all! Re nishing, Forward with resume and license to HAVE REFERENCES re-upholstery, pick up and delivery, etc. Dr. Rhonda Clark Anyone with knowledge of the where- 2263 Florida Blvd., BR. 225-413-2607. abouts of Jason Dennis Williams is asked CALL DEBBIE Superintendent of Education to contact the Diocesan Tribunal at 225- 225-266-7655 [email protected] 336-8755. Mr. D’s Tree Service 1790 Popps Ferry Road Dave’s Bicycle Repair and Sales. Free 3 Licensed Arborists pickup and delivery, free estimates, ex- Free Estimates Biloxi, MS 39532 pert economical repair on all brands. Fully Insured 228-702-2130 BUSINESS SERVICE Call 225-924-4337 or www.davesbicycle Don Decell owner Applications accepted through March 22, 2019 repair. com. 225-292-6756 Allan’s Tree Service Specializes in large and dangerous tree BROUSSEAU'S Painting removal. Licensed and insured. Senior Interior and exterior painting. Experi- Reach some 95,000 readers by placing Credit cards accepted. citizen and law/military discounts. Allan enced and reliable. Free estimates. Call your ad in The Catholic Commentator! YOUR AD HERE. Johnson 225-241-8789. 225-241-8488. 225-387-0983

Print Your Ad Here DIED PATER ROSE INRE ADENT IDES ER IS CEASE DEPT SICKNESS DEATH ULTERIOR DATES TO RUN: SEATTLE HAG FDR Check Category: ❑ Announcements ❑ Business Services ❑ Cards of Thanks ❑ For Rent ❑ For Sale ❑ Help Wanted TAHITI RED TARE ❑ Positions Wanted ❑ Legal Notices ❑ Other USURY NOA THROE Mail to: The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 MERE TIM THES IS Enclosed is $9.50 for the rst 15 words + 15¢ for each word thereafter + 25¢ per line for each special e ect (all caps, centered PDA DEC TERM ITE line, bold lettering); for a total of $______for each issue. Call for charging on your credit card. REDEFINE Advertisements will not NAME SINA I APPETITE be published without ADDRESS POOH ISITI ICOR full payment in advance. ATRA SETON MONO CITY PHONE SAAB ASHES ENES moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www February 1, 2019 The Catholic Commentator 19

HARELSON  George grow into one of the larg- From page 12 est churches and schools in the diocese. grandchildren and eight great “It’s just like night and day,” grandchildren. Currently, five said Windham of the school great grandchildren are stu- now, compared to when she dents in grades pre-K through was a student. “They’re so eighth: Kate Palermo, Ashlynn much more active there – the Troxclair, Avery Troxclair, Jor- computers, everything is so dan Territo and Brendan Levins. modern now. It’s so much big- With so many students in her ger now. It’s huge!” family, Harelson has been to And, that’s great news – be- lots of school functions includ- cause it looks like more Harel- ing ballgames, plays, concerts, son great grandchildren, and school Masses and, of course, descendants of the school’s first Grandparents’ Day. teacher, are on the way. “I’ve been to quite a few, quite “When my son who lives in a few,” Harelson recalled. Prairieville called me and said Changes in the city’s land- my grandchild was going to go scape also meant changes for to school at St. George (in Baton the church parish and school. Rouge), I thought, ‘Yes!’ ” smiled Better roads and easier modes Catherine Harelson Palermo as Margie Harelson Windham shared pictures from her time at St. George School, beginning when the school of transportation have helped St. she pumped her fist.​ opened in 1960. Photo by Margie Windham

GOSPEL  Third, love provides protec- of God, stand firm upon it, From page 1 tion against adversity. proclaim the message through Fourth, love truly leads to love, with love, in love. Know believes all things, hopes all happiness, since eternal bless- God is with us every step of things, endures all things” (1 edness is promised only to the way as we preach so oth- Cor 13:4-7). It continues to those who have charity.” (From ers will come to believe that verse 13 and is well worth deep- a conference by St. Thomas Jesus Christ, whom, “The Lord er reflection. Aquinas Opuscula, In duo sent me to bring glad tidings ATTORNEYS AT LAW Some suggest as a prayer to praecenta ... Ed. J.P. Torrel, in to the poor, to proclaim liberty 270 S. Sharp Road • Baton Rouge, LA 70815 • (225) 924-7597 replace the word “love” in the Revue des Sc. Phil. Et Théol., to captives” (Lk 4:18). Thus, by passage with “God, Jesus or the 69, 1985, pp. 26-29. ) faith we believe, with hope we JAMES R. COXE, III and ASSOCIATES Personal Injury General Practice Holy Spirit.” A penance given St. Paul testifies of the grace look forward and in love we are AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS WILLS and SUCCESSIONS to me was to replace the word from God, which enabled him rooted. “So faith, hope, love WRONGFUL DEATH CORPORATIONS PRODUCT LIABILITY SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY “love” with my name. I actu- to preach in order for others to remain, these three; but the SEAMAN/HARBOR WORKERS CLAIMS REAL ESTATES ally prayed the passage using receive and believe the proc- greatest of these is love” (1 Cor MEDICAL MALPRACTICE CRIMINAL DEFENSE all five: love, God, Jesus, Holy lamation of salvation: “Christ 13:13). Family Law Personal Bankruptcy Spirit, and my name. It was an died, rose and appeared, for Notary in Office TELEPHONE (225) 924-7597 awakening. Rooted in the way the salvation of all who hear” (1 Dow is the director of the “In Home Consultations on Request” of love clinches the definition Cor 15:1-11). What a powerful Evangelization and Cateche- of love as an action. example for us as missionary sis for the Diocese of Baton St. states, disciples to receive the word Rouge. “To love is to will the good of another.” (St. Thomas Aquinas, STh I-II, 26 4, corp. art.) He de- scribes four accomplishments of love. First, love is the cause Hospice is About Living of one’s spiritual life. “Whoever remains in love remains in God and God in him.” • We rely upon the intercession of our Blessed Mother to assist us in imitating the healing Second, love leads to the Christ as we care for terminally ill patients and their families. observance of the divine com- •We call forth the compassion and kindness of our staff, who serve in this health care ministry, to respond to mandments. the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of our patients and their families.

•We believe in the sacredness of life from conception to natural death, and we devote ourselves to supporting patients and families through the dying process at the end of life’s journey on this earth and new life in eternity.

Next issue, Feb. 15 The right people, doing the right thing DEADLINE for the right reason. SERVING PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS FEB. 6 www.NotreDameHospice-NO.org • (225) 243-7358 Notre Dame Hospice does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability or age in admission, treatment, ability to pay, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. 20 The Catholic Commentator February 1, 2019

WEDDING a young man. tending daily Mass at St. Joseph, From page 1 On Aug. 1, 1945, the couple a practice they continue today. was married, one year after “We needed to be together. would last a lifetime. dancing the night away on their “I think in our religion we be- Roy was smitten and imme- first date. gan to understand the power of diately asked Marie to a movie The couple would have five a higher power, as we call it in the following night. It was while children – three sons and twin Al-Anon.” the couple was watching “Moulin daughters – which Marie calls Marie and Roy have been ac- Rouge” at a theatre in Reserve her “full house. Three kings and tive at St. Joseph throughout that Roy told himself, “I’m going two queens.” their marriage. Roy has served a to marry this lady.” Life was not always easy, es- combined 40 years on the parish “I felt the love, I felt the pow- pecially as Roy commuted to council and is still a member. er of love,” Roy recalled with a New Orleans to manage rental Marie was the first woman to smile, those memories seeming- property for his uncle’s real es- be elected as chairperson dur- ly as fresh as they were 66 years tate firm. And he would later ing her time on the council. They ago. open a drive-in restaurant that were also involved in other min- Later that night he even went he would keep for 13 years before istries, including Roy teaching home and told his mother he selling it to his daughter. high school religion classes at found the “girl I’m gong to mar- Perhaps the most challeng- his home. ry.” ing time of their marriage came He also started a Men in the By Christmas, Roy had given during the teen years of their group at St. Joseph Marie a cedar chest, which in children, which included a son and is a Fourth Knight in the those times was tantamount to struggling with drug addiction. Knights of Columbus. announcing one’s engagement. Those lessons learned guided During the past several In April, Roy asked Marie’s fa- Marie and Roy to founding the years, Roy has endured several ther, a staunch Catholic who first Al-Anon group in Lutcher health setbacks, but even then made annual retreats to Man- and they remained active for their love has strengthened. resa Retreat House in nearby several years assisting and even While in the hospital, includ- Convent, for his daughter’s hand counseling other families facing ing a recent stay, Marie stayed in marriage. similar circumstances. by her husband’s side, not even “He said fine but first I had to “Yes, it was tough times, but leaving at night. make a retreat to Manresa,” said we drew closer and closer in our “My life was my family, my Roy and Mary Kliebert tend to their plants at their home in Lutcher. The Roy, who by his own admission, relationship,” Marie said, adding home, my husband,” she said. couple has been married for 65 years. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Com- was not particularly religious as that in 1979 the couple began at- “I always knew my vocation was mentator family.” So what is the secret to nur- portant. The Kliebert family al- the family. turing and maintaining a strong ways ate breakfast and dinner “I think for me as a lady, Mary marriage, especially during dif- together during the week, and played a big, important role in “Just a warm bed ficulties most couples never en- that included lunch on the week- my life,” Marie said.” I know dure? They both agree couples ends. what a broken heart is; I know and my blankey!” must present a unified front, And no TV or phone calls what Mary went through. She especially involving parental is- were allowed during that family was a big factor for me when I sues. time. was really crying for help.” A child doesn’t need much: a warm bed, their Spending as much time as Most important, they agreed, “Without God, we would not favorite blanket and the security of their possible as a family is also im- is God has to be at the center of have survived,” Roy said. mother’s arms. With your help, we provide more than just a bed. We are a safe haven for homeless parents and their children. Homelessness is terrifying for a parent, but a homeless child loses everything in an instant. It’s heartbreaking to see a young child with nothing left to cling to except his parents and his favorite blanket.

As you read this, chances are that somewhere in our community, a single mother, single father or parents with young children are praying for a miracle. The miracle is simple – a place to call home tonight. They dream of a better life, and that is exactly what the Bishop Ott Sweet Dreams Shelter provides.

Since opening in 2001, we have provided a home for thousands of families. Our work is made PROCLAMATION SIGNED – Gonzales Mayor Barney Arceneaux signed a proclamation designating possible because of people who pray, volunteer the week of Jan. 27 – Feb. 2, 2019, as Catholic Schools Week in Gonzales. St. John Primary/St. Theresa and provide financial support for our important Middle School students pictured are, from left, front row, Tramayne Bourgeois, Louis Currie, Hayes community work. Please get involved. Visit us at Vance and Ava Nguyen; middle row, Abigail Stevens, Logan Herndon, Arceneaux and Kooper Rome; and back row, Audrey Lanoux, Avery Landry and Evan Pickering. A proclamation was also signed by svdpbr.org for more information. Ascension Civil Parish President Kenny Matassa. Photo provide by St. John Primary/St. Theresa Middle