THE CATHOLIC

PAGE 10 Vietnamese New Year celebration January 31, ommentator2020 Vol. 57, No. 26 2019 LPA GENERAL EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENT thecatholiccommentator.org C RUNNING TOWARD FAITH sophomore year at LSU as he attended Mass with his girlfriend’s family. Conversion “Clyde would come regularly,” said Deacon Dawson. “What I noticed is that he would come up during Com- munion with his arms crossed over his is LSU star’s chest. Even when she (the girlfriend) and the family wouldn’t come he came by himself. Reflecting about what drew him to greatest feat Mass and the Catholic faith, Edwards- Helaire said it was an “escape from ev- eryday life so I could pray.” By Debbie Shelley “When I was at Mass, it was as if the The Catholic Commentator weight of the world was lifted off my shoulders. It eased my burdens and I LSU running-back Clyde Edwards- was able to reflect on my life,” he said. Helaire was considered the “heart and “One day after Mass,” Deacon Daw- soul” of the LSU offense during the Ti- son said “he walked out and I asked, gers’ run to the national championship ‘Clyde, you’re not Catholic?’ He said, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in ‘No sir.’ I said, “ ‘Do you want to be be- New Orleans on Jan. 13. come Catholic?’ ” Edwards-Helaire was a spark in the Edwards-Helaire said he did but Tiger’s 42-25 title victory over Clem- explained that his football practice son, rushing 16 times for 110 yards schedule conflicted with the RCIA and catching five passes for 54 yards. Deacon David Dawson, left, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire at the 2018 Easter Vigil Mass class schedule. He has entered the NFL draft and is at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Baton Rouge, where Edwards-Helaire entered the Deacon Dawson received permis- considered one of its top running back Catholic faith. Photo provided by Deacon David Dawson sion from pastor Father Miles Walsh to prospects. privately instruct Edwards-Helaire in But what Edwards-Helaire consid- in mind. Seminarian Deacon David Church in Baton Rouge. his home. ers his best move is not entering the Dawson helped usher the star running Deacon Dawson was deacon assis- Having graduated from Catholic endzone for a touchdown but entering back in for that victory through the tant at Sacred Heart when he first came High School in Baton Rouge, Edwards- the Catholic faith with a goal of heaven RCIA program at Sacred Heart of Jesus to know Edwards-Helaire during his SEE EDWARDS-HELAIRE PAGE 12 Glow restored to historic church

By Richard Meek floor. Additionally, a platform was constructed The Catholic Commentator to raise the high altar, making it visible for the entire congregation. Previously, the view of the Historic Assumption of the Blessed Vir- high altar was obstructed by the altar facing gin Mary Church in Plattenville is shining a the congregation. bit brighter, courtesy of a recently concluded Hardwood floors were replaced throughout makeover. the church, giving it a fresh, welcoming decor. Bishop Michael G. Duca celebrated Mass on A fresh coat of paint has also given the sanctu- Dec. 15 to commemorate the renovation, bless- ary a much more radiant look. ing the sanctuary and the walls. “The sanctuary is definitely much, much Work included tearing up the gritty old brighter,” said parishioner Cathy Landry of the sanctuary carpet and replacing it with a marble remodeling. “The church and the work they did is beau- Renovations at Assumption of the Most Blessed tiful,” said parochial administrator Father Ed- Virgin Mary Church in Plattenville including re- die Martin, who was appointed to the parish in placing the worn carpet in the sanctuary and early December. replacing hardwood floors throughout the Landry said the work was spearheaded by church. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator SEE PLATTENVILLE PAGE 19 2 The Catholic Commentator January 31, 2020 | DID YOU KNOW Your light must shine By Dina Dow strive for holiness, setting aside self-love for love of other. It is when God and others are The readings for the 4th and 5th Sundays placed before oneself that we present our- in Ordinary Time reveal the importance of selves to God freely and without reservation, presenting ourselves to God, as well as an- embracing faith with trust in the “power of swering the call to holiness while being salt the Holy Spirit and reliance on God’s pow- and light to the world through er and not human wisdom” sacrifice and praise. (1 Cor 2:5). From this time Presented to God Life-Giving forward, we can present our The Gospel of St. Luke de- FAI H children and ourselves to God scribes Mary and Joseph’s lawful vis- each day. Our extended hands it to the temple approximately 40 days of trust are crucial for growth after Jesus’ birth. The Mosaic Law required in holiness and faithfulness to God. How can the first-born son of each Jewish family to be I present myself to the Lord each day? What presented in the Jerusalem temple and con- am I asking of God? How am I offering sac- secrated to God. They also offered a sacrifice, rifices for the glory of God and the sake of in this case a pair of turtle doves, indicating another? their commitment and sheer poverty. Much Salt and light to their surprise while presenting Jesus they Salt and light are two of the fundamental received a message from Simeon, who, filled elements for life. Salt contains sodium which Messiah: priest, with the Holy Spirit, would not die until he supports the function of various systems saw the Christ (Lk 2:26). Immediately tak- and adds flavor to food. Here in south Loui- ing Jesus into his arms, Simeon proclaimed siana, salt is a noted staple. Gumbo without prophet & king the good news, stating this child (Jesus) is “a salt is like ice cream without sugar. Light light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory is a source of heat, necessary for growth of for your people Israel” (Lk 2:32). vegetation and crucial for the movement of The term “messiah” comes from priest, prophet and king. Simeon added that Jesus’ life would not weather patterns. Think for a moment of life the Hebrew word meaning “anoint- The most famous biblical proph- be without strife, and the heart of his mother on earth without salt and light. Tasteless and ed one.” This term was applied to ecies of the future Messiah referred would also experience suffering for the reve- dark. Unimaginable. priests, prophets and kings in the to the kingship aspect of his domin- lation that was to come for the glory of God Jesus uses these two words to describe Old Testament. The people given ion. The Messiah would be like the (Lk 2: 34-35). Affirming the fulfillment was how we are to share his message of salva- these titles were first anointed with once-great King David and would the prophetess, Anna, a devout worshipper tion. We read in the Gospel of St. Mark, water or oil to consecrate them for even descend from his lineage. Both in the temple who also recognized Jesus as “You are the salt of the earth … You are the their specific mission. Sometimes evangelists Matthew (Mt 1:1-17) and the one who will bring “redemption to Jeru- light of the world” (Mk 5:13-14). How are even the Spirit of God anointed Luke (Lk 3:23-38) make a great ef- salem” (Luke 2:38). Imagine for a moment we salt and light of the world in our mis- someone to their role. fort to trace Jesus’ lineage back to what Joseph and Mary might have pondered sion as disciples of Christ? The prophet Isa- According to the Catholic Bi- King David to show that he fulfills as they left the temple that day. iah details how “light shall rise for you in ble Dictionary, kings were most that part of the prophecy. Presenting ourselves to God the darkness” (Is 58:10) as we serve others frequently called “messiahs” or The greatest prophet of the Old As Christians we are called to present our through works of mercy, such as feeding, “anointed ones.” There are several Testament was considered to be Mo- families to God. Upon conception there is clothing and caring for the down trodden. instances throughout the Old Tes- ses. Moses even promised that God gratitude for the gift of new life. This is a per- “Your light must shine before others,that tament where men are anointed as would send a prophet like him one fect time to consecrate the infant to God as they may see your good deeds and glorify kings. These kings are even referred day in the future, and this became he or she grows in the womb. Upon birth the your heavenly father” (Mk 5:16). to as “anointed ones” or “messiahs.” part of the prophecy of Jesus, the family offers their newborn to God in prayer In addition, the “flavor” of life is boosted Prophets were occasionally called great Messiah. Jesus became the and through the sacrament of baptism, when when we decide to turn away from “oppres- “messiahs” or “anointed ones,” “new Moses” in many ways. He gave the entire family and extended faith commu- sion, lies, maliciousness of speech” (Is 58:9) but those are rare. One instance, a new law and brought all people to a nity embrace the child who is set apart for and turn to the origin of the light, Christ Je- though, recounts how Elijah anoints new promised land when he opened God, as all are through our baptismal prom- sus. In other words, in our relationships we Elisha to be a prophet. the gates of heaven. Jesus even gave ises. are to share God’s love and mercy in the same Anointing was a critical aspect us new manna in the form of the Eu- Acknowledgement of the sacrifices which way light impacts the earth: beaming with in the consecration of priests. There charist. accompany the gift of being family (most es- warmth, teeming with growth and inspiring are several instances where the Finally, the Messiah who would pecially while raising the child in faith cen- a journey from darkness to conversion. Our Book of Leviticus refers to “anointed become Jesus was occasional- tered on Jesus) is part of life in Christ as we SEE GOSPEL PAGE 15 priests.” ly called a priest. One noteworthy Hard times fell upon the Israelites example of this is in the Book of after the death of their beloved King Samuel when a prophet foretells of David and his son, Solomon. Their a “faithful priest” to come who will once united nation broke apart into have authority over all the other two kingdoms followed by a stream priests and their descendants. The thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator of invasions. Several other powerful priests in the temple were the ones nations left the Israelites’ temple de- who performed the animal sacrific- Bishop Michael G. Duca Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager stroyed, and their people scattered es to God. Jesus fulfilled this in the Father Tom Ranzino Associate Publisher Bonny Van Staff Writer and in exile. most significant way by sacrificing Richard Meek Editor Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation During this tumultuous time, himself for our sins. Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor Nicole Latiolais Graphic Designer there arose prophecies and a new While there were lesser “messi- hope that God would send one ahs” in the forms of priests, proph- 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, great messiah to deliver them from ets, and kings throughout the Old Baton Rouge, LA 70808; 225-387-0983 or 225-387-0561. Periodical Postage Paid at Baton Rouge, LA. Copy must sin, exile and death. Our Christian Testament, Jesus came to fulfill all reach the above address by Wednesday for use in the next week’s paper. Subscription rate: $14.00 per year. POST- faith teaches us this was fulfilled in the prophecies. He became the true MASTER, send address changes to The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746. the person of Jesus, who is the true Messiah: priest, prophet and king. January 31, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 3 Cafe earns Father Johnson international recognition By Richard Meek also during this process several parish- The Catholic Commentator ioners, because of their love of cooking, approached Father Johnson about es- Perched in the tiny hamlet of St. tablishing a soup kitchen. He agreed, Amant, a meandering bayou lapping at its with the caveat that it be called a dining doorstep, the Full of Grace Café, located room. on the Holy Rosary Church campus, is Even more parishioners began to ap- rapidly gaining international acclaim. proach Father Johnson to offer their own The unique café, which opened at the gifts and talents, including Curtis March- beginning of Advent in 2018, is a sanctu- and, a local hair stylist who has been in ary of sustenance for the less privileged business for more than four decades, pro- and includes a coffee house, food bank, posed offering free haircuts once a week. dining room, a place to receive legal ad- “The people I meet cutting hair in the vice, a hair salon and if necessary even salon here, when they leave with a real take a shower. Best of all, the services haircut, it makes them feel so much bet- come free of charge. Robin Anderson, front, prepares jambalaya to be served later in the evening at the Full of ter,” said Marchand, who is at the café on And only steps away is the quite spa- Grace Café at Holy Rosary Church in St. Amant. Also preparing the meal for the needy in Tuesdays. “But I get the reward, I am the cious and well-stocked gift shop, where the area are Curtis Marchant, rear left, and Cindy Richard. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Com- one who is happiest. The great thing is to the revenue is generated so that café ser- mentator know we are doing it without wanting or vices will remain free. getting anything in return. We receive so In recognition of his role in develop- are closing, this parish is thriving because back of the campus,” Father Johnson said. much.” ing and launching the café, Holy Rosary of the unique ministry we have at the Full “To me, number one is worship of God As word spread, more parishioners pastor Father Josh Johnson was recently of Grace Café.” and number two is service to God. approached Father Johnson offering chosen as one of 12 Catholics worldwide Father Johnson, who has served as “So I wanted to put the poor in the their own gifts, including staffing the by the Christian website Aleteia who will pastor since 2017, said the idea was borne front.” café, establishing a diaper bank and hav- restore faith in humanity. out of the catastrophic flood of 2016 when He also teetered with the idea of add- ing a nurse visit weekly to offer medical Joining Father Johnson are a lineup of many Holy Rosary parishioners lost their ing a coffee shop in the space. But it was see cafe page 15 medical professionals and priests, hailing homes. from such places as India, the Sudan and Residents were able to recover through Africa. the assistance of agencies and people “I give all of the credit to the people throughout the area, and they expressed in the parish,” Father Johnson said. “It’s to Father Johnson a desire to help others not about me; it’s the whole team we have in the same way. here that is bearing all of this great fruit.” So he surveyed the campus and noticed Saying he thought “it was cool when he the flood-damaged rectory and office was saw the other people on the list,” Father not in use. It was then, in early 2018, the Johnson was initially shocked and “not vision was becoming focused. something I expected. What we are doing One of the first moves was to relocate here in St. Amant, other people around the food bank from the rear of the campus the world are taking notice. to the front. “In a day and age where many parishes “I hated that the food bank was in the

Clergy abuse list updated

By Richard Meek the Congregation of the Holy Cross, The Catholic Commentator United States Province of Brothers and Priests, and the Archdiocese of New As part of our ongoing commitment Orleans. to transparency, the following persons All known or suspected sexual or who previously served in the Diocese other abuse of a child or vulnerable of Baton Rouge have been added to its adult should be reported immediately Clergy Abuse List because they have to local law enforcement officials or to been publicly identified on similar the Department of Children and Fami- lists by other dioceses or institutes of ly Services at tel. (855) 452-5437. Alle- consecrated life for acts committed in gations of such abuse involving clergy those other locations: or other representatives of the Church Fr. Richard Archer, O.P., was should also be reported to Amy Cor- reported on the clergy abuse list of the don, the Diocesan Victim Assistance Dominican Friars Province of St. Jo- Coordinator, at tel. (225) 242-0250. seph. The updated list can be accessed Fr. Lawrence Dark, C.S.C. was on the diocesan website at diobr.org/ reported on the clergy abuse lists of about-our-diocese/accused-clergy-list. 4 The Catholic Commentator January 31, 2020 Singing to the Lord through the walls of Angola

By Bonny Van high school band director said his prima- The Catholic Commentator ry instrument was the trombone. Now, he plays the piano for the Masses at Angola, In a corner of Our Lady of Guadalupe something he had to get used to in his new Chapel on the grounds of the Louisiana gig. State Penitentiary at Angola, a half doz- “I seriously started playing the piano en men stand in front of an upright pia- when I got here,” recalled Williams. “I no, belting out hymns before the start of was placed in a position where I really had Mass. This is the Our Lady of Guadalupe’s to step up so that’s what I did. These guys Celestial Men’s Choir, directed by Lester are fantastic. They’re my motivation other Williams. than the Lord himself. They’re nice guys Williams, who began serving a life to work with. We just make a joyful noise sentence in 2009, said not long after he that’s all.” arrived at Angola he was asked by Father From hymns to Christmas carols, the Todd Lloyd to lead the choir, replacing the Celestial Men’s Choir is ready with song. former choir director. Choir practice is typically on Thursday “I’ve been a musician all my life but I nights and Saturdays and choir members never thought I would be allowed to do are only required to attend one weekly the work of the Lord,” said Williams. “My practice session. However, according to career has been that of band director but Williams, the men make most of the prac- Lester Williams, choir director of the Our Lady of Guadalupe’s Celestial Men’s Choir, plays I never thought I’d do this work. I prayed tices and are available for all Masses. the piano for the Mass at the chapel on the campus of the Louisiana State Penitentiary at to do this work after I retired but I nev- “We make ourselves available for all Angola on Nov. 21, 2019. Photo by Bonny Van | The Catholic Commentator er thought I’d be doing it in prison, so we times because we’re not doing this for have to watch what we pray for. Because ourselves, we’re doing this for the Lord engage in the Mass because in the singing “I thought about doing it in church as sometimes when we pray for it, even and for the people,” said Williams. is the word of God.” a ministry but never in prison. So this is though it’s good, be aware, this is what Williams said the vocal group follows Williams said leading the choir has where he has placed me and I’ve accept- you prayed for, this is what you got.” the guidelines set out by the priest cele- also deepened his faith. He said he prayed ed that. It made me realize that he does Williams, a cradle Catholic, was an brating the Mass. He added the choir is God would rely on him during retirement hear prayers. We may not understand but altar server as a young boy. The former there to “motivate and to help the people to do God’s work. that’s what happens,” said Williams.

Now AcceptiNg orders For Bryant relied on Catholic faith the 2020 Baton Rouge CALABASAS, Calif. (CNS) – As the “GiGi,” was the couple’s second oldest Diocese DiRectoRy world mourned the loss of basketball daughter. great Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daugh- One of the darkest periods in his per- Order your copy of the 2020 ter Gianna and seven others killed in a sonal life happened in 2003 – when he tragic helicopter crash Jan. 26, many re- was accused of raping a young woman Baton Rouge Diocese called how Bryant gave much credit to his while he was staying at a mountain resort Directory with all of Catholic faith for seeing him through the hotel in Colorado; he was in the state for the current listings and bad times and strengthening his marriage knee surgery and was staying near Vail information on churches, and family. in Eagle, Colorado. He was arrested on a A shooting guard, Bryant was draft- rape charge. clergy, schools, diocesan ed into the NBA at age 17 and played his He denied he had raped her but ad- departments and personnel, entire 20-season career with the Los mitted that the two had consensual sex. religious, retreat centers, Angeles Lakers. He entered the NBA di- The charges were eventually dropped. In rectly from high school and won five NBA 2004, his accuser filed a civil suit against deaneries, championships. He retired at the end of him and in 2005 Bryant settled with her institutions and organizations. the 2015-2016 season. out of court for an undisclosed sum. News of Bryant’s death quickly prompt- His marriage almost ended over it. In a To place your order, fill out the form ed tributes on social media. On Twitter, GQ interview in 2015, he said he relied on below and mail to The Catholic Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Ange- his Catholic faith to get him through and Commentator, P. O. Box 3316, les said “he was sad to hear the news” and talking to a priest was “the turning point.” Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 with offered prayers for him and his family. “The one thing that really helped me a check or money order for $9.50 for each directory ordered. In Rome for his region’s “ad limina” during that process – I’m Catholic, I visit with Pope Francis, Archbishop Go- grew up Catholic, my kids are Catholic mez told Catholic News Service Jan. 27 – was talking to a priest. It was actually Number of Directories Ordered that Bryant “was a very good Catholic, a kind of funny: He looks at me and says, faithful Catholic.” ‘Did you do it?’ And I say, ‘Of course Name Born in Philadelphia Aug. 23, 1978, not.’ Then he asks, ‘Do you have a good Bryant was raised a Catholic and as a lawyer?’ And I’m like, ‘Uh, yeah, he’s Address youth lived for a while in Italy. He and phenomenal.’ So then he just said, ‘Let his wife, Vanessa, married at St. Edward it go. Move on. God’s not going to give City State Zip Catholic Church in Dana Point, Califor- you anything you can’t handle, and it’s nia, and raised their children Catholic. in his hands now. This is something you Phone including area code Bryant is survived by his wife and three can’t control. So let it go.’ And that was other daughters. Gianna, also known as the turning point.” January 31, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 5 LeDuff building his own legacy at St. Agnes

By Debbie Shelley ert Berggreen), and I will ask small for me, I’ve done them quiet atmosphere of the church Missionaries of Charity in India, The Catholic Commentator him to let you stay and take care all,” said LeDuff, who has built as people rotate racks of church visited St. Agnes in July, a stat- of St. Agnes.” concrete walkways, wheelchair announcements and faith liter- ue was unveiled of the order’s As St. Agnes Church in Ba- “When Msgr. Berggreen came ramps to the church, changed ature because LeDuff created founder, St. Teresa of Calcutta. ton Rouge celebrates its Year of he talked with me and said ‘I the priest’s parking garage from shelves along the church walls. The statue now stands outside the Eucharist, long-time facility want you to stay and take care of a twoi to three-door garage, Many kneelers around St. the convent on a concrete plat- manager Eric LeDuff offers the St. Agnes and all of the buildings several projects in the recto- Agnes have also been made by form and is enclosed in a pro- work of hands, espe- ry, which among other LeDuff. tective glass casing designed by cially the beautifully things included the re- When St. Agnes needed more LeDuff as a reminder of the or- remodeled adoration making of a stairway room for its special education, der’s mission to serve the poor. chapel, as prayer in and installing a wall. LeDuff transformed a kitchen The project that LeDuff unison with those He’s also worked on into a PSR room. is most proud of is the resto- who will come to projects for the Mission- And when Sister Mary Pre- ration of the church’s adoration pray. aries of Charity in their ma Pierick MC, superior of the see leduff page 15 There are touches convent. of his creative work When Hurricanes throughout the St. Katrina and Rita se- Agnes campus. verely damaged the St. LeDuff comes Agnes Church roof in Now is the time from a legacy of con- 2005, LeDuff took care tractors and wood- of everything, from working craftsmen securing the grounds, to plan your that built and main- choosing the contractor, tained many church- to selecting the type and es in the Diocese of color of the new roof. 2020 Vacation Baton Rouge. His When St. Agnes in- grandfather, Joseph stalled a new HVAC unit Italy & Sicily Leak Patin, served in 2008, LeDuff worked Presentation: Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. as general contrac- Eric LeDuff, facility manager of St. Agnes Church in Ba- with the engineers and Kathleen Levy with Insight Vacations will discuss tor for the expansion ton Rouge, looks over plans for a walkway and handi- “made sure it fit in with travel and answer questions about Italy and Sicily. of St. Francis Xavi- cap-accessible ramps for the newly renovated chapel the designs and specifi- Special booking incentives. er Church in Baton at St. Agnes. Photos by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator cations needed for the Rouge and other church.” major projects on its Additionally, LeDuff Ireland & Scotland, Italy & Sicily, grounds, including building the so I can do my priest work,’ ” said created a safety and emergency former St. Francis Xavier High LeDuff. disaster plan for the campus. and the American West School. It wasn’t long before Msgr. Parking at the church is im- Presentation: Feb. 5 at 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. LeDuff, 71, who has been Berggreen hired LeDuff full proved with a new parking lot, Kathleen Levy with Insight Vacations will discuss involved in construction work time. He works out of the former which LeDuff played a big role in travel Ireland and Scotland, the treasures of Italy since he was in his building. and Sicily in depth and the American West. teens, started work- Walking to and en- ing at St. Agnes in tering the church is Special booking incentives. the early 1980s when also much easier with his uncle, Leo Patin, walkways and handicap asked for help re- ramps. River and Ocean Cruising modeling work the But the work LeDuff Presentation: Feb. 11 at 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. two-story rectory. revels in most is spiri- Laurie Smith with Viking Cruise Lines will discuss Father Jerry Spriggs tual. and answer questions about cruising CSSP, a Holy Ghost Take a walk on the oceans and rivers. priest from Ireland, memorial garden deck was pastor at the built by LeDuff, which time. is in the form of a ro- Italy and Greek Isle Cruise 2021 Later on, LeDuff’s sary, and one is able to Presentation: Feb. 12 at 6 p.m. uncle became ill meditate on the myster- Nicole Aguirre with Norwegian Cruise Lines and St. Agnes called ies surrounding the life, LeDuff to work on passion and resurrec- will discuss their upcoming projects. tion of Jesus. 7 day Italy and Greek Isle cruise. “I began doing A St. Charbel stat- repairs for Father ue that is used during RSVP 225-926-3752 Spriggs – painting, the St. Charbel healing door repairs, locks, Mass is easily moved opening walls, build- A statue of Mary in the chapel is surrounded by a from a chapel next to Book your New Year Eve’s Cruise ing cabinets. What- semicircular backdrop made by LeDuff from wood the altar to the sanc- on the Breakaway out of New Orleans. ever he needed me to that came from Thailand. tuary because LeDuff do, I did it,” LeDuff made a platform with Special Group Prices said. wheels where it stands. When Father Spriggs became St. Agnes school gym, crafting He’s made holy water fonts, ill and returned to Ireland, he items of practical and spiritual crowns for the Blessed Moth- Pearson’s Travel World told LeDuff, “A new man is com- nature. er and baby Jesus statues. No 7949 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge • 225-926-3752 ing to take my place (Msgr. Rob- “There’s no job too big or too more “squeaks” interrupt the 6 The Catholic Commentator January 31, 2020 End of Christmas season?/ Distributing to extraordinary ministers? At my previous parish, we said the gift of salvation that is born with him Jesus and his baptism show the savior’s receive? that the end of the Christmas ... including the fact that he was born to solidarity with us, the humble immersion As for those who “grab” the host Qseason was the feast of the die for us.” in our human condition that allowed instead of receiving it in their open palm, Epiphany (the three Wise Men). My The baptism of Jesus marks a sharp Christ to understand our weakness and I agree with you that there’s a better way current parish, though, says that the line of demarcation: frailty. Even though Jesus to prevent that. Why not have the priest Christmas season concludes a week Previous to that, he was had no need for baptism explain the proper manner from the later on the feast of the Baptism of the viewed simply as a car- as a sign of repentance, he pulpit occasionally, rather than single out Lord. Which one is right? And if it’s the penter from Nazareth. allowed it to happen. In the any individual for attention? latter, what does the baptism of Jesus But with his baptism, words of Pope Benedict, “He by St. John the Baptist in the Jordan his public life begins as was moved to compassion, A book on lives of the saints River have to do with Christmas? (New he proclaims with his he chose to ‘suffer with’ men which I am reading lists a St. Middletown, Indiana) words and actions the and women, to become a QOlympias in the fourth and Many people do put away their arrival of the reign of penitent with us.” fifth centuries and says that she was Nativity creches and other God; with the baptism a deaconess of the church, “an office AChristmas decorations follow- in the Jordan, the Holy Our new pastor is which existed at that time.” When did ing the Epiphany, leading to a common Spirit begins to lead very focused on the church stop ordaining women as assumption that the Christmas season Jesus in a new way. Qmaking sure that deacons and why? (Dunnsville, Virginia) closes with that feast. But liturgically, The second part of everything at Sunday Mass Clearly there were women in the your current parish is correct. your question, though, is is done strictly according early church who were called The Christmas 2019 website of the a bit more difficult: What Question Corner to the rubrics. For example, A“deaconesses.” What is not clear U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops says does Christ’s baptism when it is time for Commu- is what, exactly, their role was and this: “The liturgical season of Christmas have to do with Christ- Father Kenneth Doyle nion he gives the host to whether their ordination was a sacra- begins with the vigil Masses on Christ- mas? Here, it’s helpful each of the extraordinary mental one. St. Paul in his Letter to the mas Eve and concludes on the feast of the to consider something Pope Benedict ministers of holy Communion, who must Romans (16:1) refers to a certain Phoebe, Baptism of the Lord. During this season, XVI said in a homily on the feast of the stand back from the altar; then the dea- whom he calls (in some translations) “a we celebrate the birth of Christ into our baptism in 2013. con gives the cup to each one. deaconess of the church at Cenchreae.” world and into our hearts, and reflect on He explained that both the nativity of Then the pastor passes out the ciboria And the saint you mention, Olym- one by one, and he and the deacon hand pias, was, according to the New Advent out the cups one by one. No extraor- Catholic Encyclopedia, “consecrated (a) Look for dinary minister is allowed to pick up deaconess” by the bishop of Constan- he aThoLiC ommenTaTor anything off the altar, so there is a lot tinople in the fourth century. She had T C C of walking back and forth. All this, of been widowed at an early age and chose aT your LoCaL ouTLeTs inCLuding: course, takes time; sometimes we are to remain unmarried, dedicating her con- almost finished singing the Communion siderable fortune to helping the poor. ✔ Affinity Nursing Home, Baton Rouge ✔ Oak Wood Nursing Home, Zachary hymn before anyone in the pews has In the early centuries, deaconesses ✔ Anthony's Deli, Baton Rouge ✔ Old Jefferson Community Care, received Communion. Is there some way seem to have played a major role in the ✔ Alexander’s Highland Market, Baton Rouge to speed things up without violating the baptism of women. (Christians then were Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Regional rubrics? baptized naked, many of them as adult ✔ Ascension Books & Gifts, Gonzales Medical Center, Baton Rouge and Also, if people come up to receive converts; since the clergy were male, ✔ Baton Rouge General Hospital, Walker Communion without holding their modesty demanded that deaconesses Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Physician hands in the right way, the pastor stops take women converts into the water.) ✔ Baton Rouge Healthcare, Baker Group, offices with locations and tells them what to do. That can be Catholic scholars have divided opinions ✔ Benedetto’s Market, Addis throughout the Diocese embarrassing; is there a better way to as to whether these ancient deaconesses ✔ Bohning Supermarket, Ponchatoula ✔ Reeve’s Supermarket, Baton Rouge do that? (Richmond, Virginia) were actually ordained to a degree of holy ✔ ✔ Calandro’s Supermarkets, Rouses, Baton Rouge, Gonzales, Actually, your pastor is fol- orders or were simply blessed for service, Baton Rouge Donaldsonville, Hammond, Plaquemine, lowing what is the prescribed like lectors or acolytes today. ✔ Catholic Art and Gifts, Baton Rouge Prairieville and Zachary procedure. The U.S. Conference In 2016, Pope Francis, with the en- ✔ Daigle’s Supermarket, White Castle ✔ St. Elizabeth Hospital, Gonzales A of Catholic Bishops in its liturgy guide couragement of the International Union ✔ ✔ Fran U, Baton Rouge St. Mary’s Books & Gifts, says: “After the priest has concluded his of Superiors General, created a study ✔ Slaughter Baton Rouge Grace Healthcare, own Communion, he distributes Com- commission to examine the matter of ✔ Hi Nabor Supermarkets, Baton Rouge ✔ St. Vincent dePaul Stores throughout munion to the extraordinary ministers, women serving as deacons. Since then, ✔ Hubbins Grocery, Port Allen the diocese assisted by the deacon, and then hands members of that commission have ar- ✔ Lane Regional Hospital, Zachary ✔ Schexnayer Supermarket, Vacherie the sacred vessels to them for distribu- rived at varying points of view. ✔ Louisiana Vet Home, Jackson ✔ Southside Produce, Baton Rouge tion of holy Communion to the people.” Pope Francis spoke about this with ✔ Matherne’s Supermarkets, ✔ Tony’s Seafood, Baton Rouge In a further explanation of that, journalists in May 2019 on the papal Baton Rouge ✔ UPS Store, Coursey Blvd., Baton ✔ Magnuson Hotel, St. Francisville Rouge the guidelines for the Archdiocese of plane returning to Rome from North ✔ North Ridgely Healthcare, Baker ✔ Whole Foods Market, Baton Rouge Washington state that “extraordinary Macedonia. As to whether women in the ✔ Oak Point Supermarket, Central ✔ Winn Dixie in Hammond, New Roads ministers should not take the sacred early centuries of Christianity had been vessels from the altar themselves, but ordained sacramentally, the pope said should be handed them by the priest that the church has yet to give a “defini- as well as your local church parish or deacon.” tive response.” All of this, of course, is to assure that the Eucharist is treated with the utmost FATHER DOYLE is a retired priest in the Di- reverence, and it doesn’t concern me ocese of Albany, New York. Questions that this “takes time.” But why not wait may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle to start the Communion hymn until at [email protected] and 30 the people in the pews have begun to Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, NY 12203. January 31, 2020 FAITH JOURNEY The Catholic Commentator 7

chaplet and reading one of the “You trust.” recent eucharistic miracles. “I was shocked and curious “This year presents for our to know why,” he said. “In my parish an opportunity to medi- mind this guy does not know tate, pray and listen to the Lord I’m a priest. I followed him to and also to preach the Gospel his office.” and evangelize, bringing peo- The priest handed Father ple back to a relationship with Jamhoury brochures regard- the eucharistic Lord,” Father ing eucharistic miracles which Jamhoury said. piqued his interest. A personal encounter while “I started to read more and on pilgrimage a decade ago more about eucharistic mira- in Italy inspired Father Jam- cles,” he said, which has ulti- houry’s thirst for a greater mately led to a special 2020 for knowledge of eucharistic mira- his parishioners. cles. He said while visiting St. “This is (God’s) plan for St. Legontian Church in Lanciano, Agnes: a place where we are the site of the first eucharis- invited to discover our wicked- tic miracle, a priest that was a ness and to confess our illness stranger to Father Jamhoury and wait to be touched by his walked up to him and said, healing hands,” he said.

St. Agnes to celebrate invites you to breakfast Saturday, February 15 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Oak Lodge Reception Center, 2834 South Sherwood Forest, Baton Rouge. Our speaker will be public relations coordinator Year of the Eucharist Janice Charbonnet. In 1996 she left her job to serve as a missionary with NET Ministries evangelizing to teenagers. She serves on the By Richard Meek fathers of the church. Jamhoury said. “Jesus is a women’s CCRNO team. Seating is limited and no seats will be The Catholic Commentator “The image became clear- living person, always present sold at the door. Tickets are $22 each and will be sold thru Feb. 12. Please indicate the number of reservations and send er and clearer,” said Father among us.” a check made to BR Magnificat for your reservation with Shock overwhelmed Father Jamhoury, and born out of his Ten monthly evenings are the name of each attendee and mail to Estella Champion, Charbel Jamhoury when he prayers was a declaration of scheduled, with the first held 8825 Wakefield Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70806 or register read a report in September re- 2020 as “Adoremus! The Year in January, that include ad- online at bit.ly/MagBRFebruary2020. vealing that approximately 30- of the Eucharist” at St. Agnes. oration from 5:30-6:30 p.m. 31 percent of Catholics do not “By renewing our focus on, in the church, followed by re- believe the Eucharist is truly and increasing reverence for freshments in the cafeteria. the body and blood of Christ. and devotion to the Holy Eu- Beginning at 7 p.m. and sched- Join His disappointment was un- charist, St. Agnes Church hopes uled to last one hour, a video derstandable, as the Eucharist and prays that its members, of a Dr. Brant Petri lecture will Father Mike Moroney is personal to the St. Agnes friends, visitors and the entire be shown and discussed, with Church in Baton Rouge pastor community will be inspired to each week offering a particu- sailing through the for several reasons, including worship God more reverently lar theme. a random encounter with a fel- by actively and purposefully Some of the topics include Panama Canal low priest in Italy in 2010. So allowing Jesus in the holy Eu- introducing the Eucharist, the Father Jamhoury went to the charist to speak intimately and Garden of Eden and sacrifice, on the Norwegian Joy pulpit over the course of sever- personally to each in our own the sacrifice of Isaac and the al weeks in late September and hearts,” he said. “I think the Passover Lamb. October 9–24, 2020 October to deliver powerful Eucharist will only help us to No presentations are 15 days sailing from Los Angles and ending in Miami messages regarding the Eucha- understand our true identity scheduled in March and April rist. as consecrated people called to because of Lent. Attend a special presentation by Nicole Aguirre, His bulletin messages consecrate in holiness and love “My intention is to gather during that time also focused the people of God especially our parish community, one with Norwegian Cruise Line on the body and blood of Christ (in) our daily prayers.” heart and body, and read and February 13 being present during the Mass, Father Jamhoury outlined hear about the Eucharist from and that theme spilled over into several goals for the year, in- Dr. Petri,” Father Jamhoury 9:30 a.m. or 6:30 p.m. Advent. cluding studying Scripture said. St. Francis Room Wanting to go “deeper and and papal documents through Additionally, an hour of ad- at St. Alphonsus Church deeper,” Father Jamhoury de- prayer; asking Mary and saints oration specificially dedicated 14040 Greenwell Springs Rd., Greenwell Springs cided to focus this year’s Lent- to instruct parishioners for ac- to praying for vocations, espe- $50.00 per person will hold your cabin. en reflections on eucharistic tive participation in the Mass; cially in the Diocese of Baton miracles. meditating on the intimate Rouge, is scheduled on the But Bishop Michael G. Duca link between the Eucharist and first Saturday of every month encouraged Father Jamhoury the cross; receiving Jesus in from 9-10 a.m. For additional information, to go even further, advising Communion with great desire; Lenten reflections are call Tootie or Cindy at him not to go straight to the and adoring Jesus in the most scheduled each Wednesday of eucharistic miracles but first Blessed Sacrament. Lent after the 5:30 p.m. Mass. Pearson’s Travel World develop the concept of the Eu- “Jesus is not an idea or a Included in the reflections 7949 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge • 225-926-3752 charist from the Bible, and the feeling or a memory,” Father are praying the Divine Mercy 8 The Catholic Commentator January 31, 2020

THE CATHOLIC COMMENTATOR Next Issue Deadline ... FEBRUARY 5 CCDBR to expand early childhood program

LEARN By Richard Meek During a news conference The program is designed Sterling said that 94 percent ROSARY MAKING The Catholic Commentator Jan. 22 at St. Augustine Church so that home visitors deliver a of parents reported that they in New Roads, CCDBR officials 30-week curriculum of school are reading more to their chil- A Catholic Tradition Grants totaling a combined announced grants from the readiness activities to the dren. Contact us for $350,000 will allow Catholic Blue Cross and Blue Shield home. The parents are then in- “We believe what makes this a catalog and Charities of the Diocese of Baton Foundation and from grant is the invest- introductory offer. Rouge to offer an early child edu- the Huey and Ange- ment in (CCDBR),” LEWIS & COMPANY cation program for the first time lina Wilson Founda- said David Beach of Dedicated to Rosary Making! in St. Helena Civil Parish and tion. the Huey and Angelina rosaryparts.com expand the existing program in The Home Instruc- Wilson Foundation. (800) 342 - 2400 Pointe Coupee Civil Parish. tion for Parents of “There is a need to Preschool Youngsters reach children early, (HIPPY) is designed to educate them and to to improve school help them reach their readiness by using full potential.” Tree Service age specific curricula He said the part- Mr. D’s through home visits nership with CCDBR ovEr 35 yEars ExpErIEncE and by increasing pa- is ideal because the Don Decell, owner rental involvement in foundation is often carl BaBin, owner their children’s edu- looking to offer assis- • Economical cation. HIPPY, which tance in the rural ar- • Fully Insured • Quality Work CCDBR first rolled eas but organizations CALL TODAY! out in Pointe Coupee serving those can be Parish in 2016, has difficult to locate. 225-292-6756 been internationally “We can’t do it recognized and prov- alone; we need the lo- en to improve school cal support to be suc- readiness. cessful,” he said. The grants will “CCDBR has shown RESTHAVEN offer the HIPPY pro- that this program is GARDENS OF MEMORY & FUNERAL HOME gram in St. Helena especially effective in for children up to serving high-needs ® five years old, and in families in rural areas We make it personal. Pointe Coupee adding Stephanie Sterling where resources are for a better farewell children zero to one- scarce. Through this 11817 Jefferson Highway year -old. Previously, the pro- structed to review the lessons grant we believe we can sup- 225-753-1440 gram was open to children two with their children daily. port more parents as they pre- www.resthavenbatonrouge.com to five years old. Monthly meetings further pare their children to be suc- “(HIPPY) helps parents to developing the child’s academic cessful in school,” said Michael be their children’s first teach- skills and family engagement Tipton, president of the Blue 2x2” Rest.small.honor.those.cc’16 er, to encourage them, to be are also scheduled. Cross Blue Shield Foundation. an advocate for them,” said Results have been impres- “(The foundation) is excited to Stephanie Sterling, director of sive, Sterling said. She said that fund a program that not only CCDBR’s Maternity, Adoption in this past year 100 percent helps individual children but & Behavioral Health supports families by Department. “Now showing parents how with funding from “We believe what makes to engage in their chil- these foundations, we dren’s learning beyond can grow the program this grant is the investment the preschool years.” to prepare families to Emily Oliver, a mem- be more resilient and in (CCDBR). There is a need ber of the HIPPY advi- prepare more chil- sory board, recalled a dren to enter school to reach children early, to story of one parent who ready to learn.” enrolled her four chil- Joe Skibinski, Agent David Aguillard, educate them and to help dren in the program. CCDBR executive di- Not only did the four rector, said the agen- them reach their children graduate from cy serves a large and college, she also earned geographically di- full potential.” her college degree. verse area. He not- “Working with their ed that occasionally David Beach children does a lot for there arises difficulty Huey and Angelina Wilson Foundation parents,” she said. identifying organiza- With a grant from tions willing to reach the Wilson Foundation certain areas, especially in the of children enrolled in HIP- and Capital Area United Way, rural community. PY improved on their school CCDBR began offering HIP- “Thankfully, (the founda- readiness scores. Additionally, PY in Pointe Coupee Parish in tions) understand our mission it was reported that 100 per- 2016 after the Pointe Coupee of serving those in hard to cent of parents began to engage School Board lost its funding reach areas,” he said. more with their children. for the program. January 31, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 9

Notre Dame Hospice full page ad.indd 1 10/9/19 9:14 AM 10 The Catholic Commentator | January 31, 2020 January 31, 2020 | The Catholic Commentator 11

CHÚC Mừng Năm Mới Happy New Year

St. Anthony of Padua and Le Van Phung Church in Baton Rouge stunning and inspiring rendition of Vietnamese music. The out- celebrated the Vietnamese New Year with a Mass and a festival door festival included musical performances by youth groups that followed in the parish yard. Bishop Michael G. Duca cele- as well as an adult group. Much to the delight of Bishop Duca, brated the Mass, assisted by pastor Father Tan Viet Nguyen the traditional Vietnamese dragon dancers energized the ICM. During the Mass, Bishop Duca wished the standing-room- crowd. The aromatic smell of Vietnamese filled the area, with only crowd a Happy New Year and urged them “to hand on smoke from the stoves and pots floating against the backdrop your faith to the younger generation. Let the joy of the Gospel of a sparkling blue sky. The afternoon was filled with friends shine through your heart.” The St. Anthony choir, renowned in reuniting and families sharing the day together. Photos by Richard the community for their immense talent, delivered its usual Meek | The Catholic Commentator 12 The Catholic Commentator January 31, 2020

EDWARDS-HELAIRE faith is extremely important in From page 1 your life. Usually, when you get into (that level of outward success) your Helaire had a better knowledge of faith gets put on the back burner the faith than many “pew Catho- ... I know God had great plans for lics,” according to Deacon Dawson. you,’ ” Deacon Dawson said. “I asked, ‘Do you know what the But even as Edwards-Helaire, seven sacraments are?’ and he said, who is described as a player short ‘Yes, sir,’ and he named them all,” in stature but plays like a giant, Deacon Dawson said. eyes the likelihood of more leaping He and Edwards-Helaire had up and spinning over the goal line many good theological discussions, in the NFL, he believes his faith some at LSU baseball games. Ed- will keep his feet on solid ground. wards-Helaire picked Jared Small, Edwards-Helaire, who visited who was his teammate at CHS and CHS to speak to the Fellowship of LSU, as his RCIA sponsor. Christian Athletes, is vocal about Deacon Dawson keeps in touch his faith. with Edwards-Helaire and brims He called his faith the gateway PATRIOTIC ESSAY CONTEST – After Mass on Jan. 22, representatives of the Bishop Stanely J. Ott with pride about him as an athlete to comfort in his life. Knights of Columbus announced three students from St. Jude School in Baton Rouge won the and Christian. “I realized through my faith that top spots in the KOC Patriotic Essay Contest. There were more than 200 essays submitted from “I said ‘Look man, everywhere football is not the center of my life, six different schools and 10 total essays were chosen as winners. Pictured, from left, are Frank you go, people are going to be look- my faith is … I know that football Zaeringer, Patriotic Chair; Henry Hargrave, first place winner; Taylor Van, second place winner; ing at you, not only in football, but will not last for the rest of my life, Erin Sullivan, third place winner; Kelly Mestayer, English teacher; and Dave Goldsmith, KOC. Pho- as a faith leader. And I am so proud but my faith will,” Edwards-Helaire to provided by Starr Driesse | St. Jude School of you right now, how much your said.

February 26

The Lenten Guide is Coming 90 DAYS IN 90th YEAR – Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Baton Rouge celebrated the 90th day of school during its 90th year on Jan. 9 with students and faculty dressed in 90s-themed clothing and competed in a 90s trivia contest. The celebration included lessons in dial-up Internet and the Oregon February 14 Trail. Pictured dressed as 90s characters “Wayne” and “Garth” are kindergarten teacher Brandi Clay We are looking for: and fourth-grader Luke Partin dressed as Wayne, while kindergartner Jordy Partin and art teacher Rayma Farlow dressed as Garth. Photo provided by Lisa Cosse | Sacred Heart School ✞ RECIPES for Lenten meals ✞ Ash Wednesday Services ✞ Spiritual Opportunities throughout the diocese ✞ Reconciliation ✞ Fundraisers and more for our annual Lent Section.

Deadline is February 4.

Send us your EVENTS and RECIPES to: THE CATHOLIC

CSERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1962 P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821 or email [email protected]. January 31, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 13

SWEATER WEATHER – Stu- dents at Holy Family School in Port Allen par- ticipated in “Ugly Christ- mas Sweater Day” and raised more than $1,000 for Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital in Ba- ton Rouge. Photo provided by Annette Fitzgerald | Holy Family School

SPREADING CHEER – Students in the Beta Club at Mater Dolorosa School in Indepen- dence visits residents of the Amite Nursing Home on Dec. 14. The students sang a variety of Christmas songs, distributed gifts and shared homemade Christmas cards with each resident. Photo provided by Erin Mendez | Mater Dolorosa School

CARING CUBS – Students at St. Elizabeth School in Paincourtville are recognized for their kindness with an award as Caring Cubs. Caring Cubs for the month of November are Aubrey Mabile, pre-K 3; Avery Hahn, pre-K-4; Fisher Daigle, kinder- garten; Lylah Ory, first grade; Liam Dupré, second grade; Easton Chiasson, third Subscribe Today! grade; Naomi Naquin, fourth grade; Ella Hahn, fifth grade; Isabella George, sixth grade; Renee Ryland, seventh grade; and, Luke Viator, eighth grade. Photo provided by Receive The Catholic Sister Maria Alphonse CMC | St. Elizabeth School Commentator in your mailbox every other week—all year long.

THE CATHOLIC Commentator ENCLOSED  Check  Money order for $14 per person per year.  I’d like to give a subscription for an additional $14 per year. To pay by credit card, call The Catholic Commentator at 225-387-0983.

SEND MY SUBSCRIPTION TO: NAME ______ADDRESS ______CITY ______STATE ______ZIP ______—AND PLEASE SEND GIFT SUBSCRIPTION TO— NAME ______ADDRESS ______GIVING BACK – The National Junior Honor Society at Holy Ghost School in Ham- mond purchased toys to donate to Louisiana’s toy drive for children in foster CITY ______STATE ______homes. Pictured, front row from left, are Aubrey Dufrene, Therese Adams, Katelyn ZIP ______GIVEN BY ______Hemel, Reese Fitzhugh and, back row, Charles Ragan, Noah Slaton and Jude De- latte. Photo provided by Cindy Wager | Holy Ghost School MAIL TO: THE CATHOLIC COMMENTATOR, P. O. BOX 3316, BATON ROUGE, LA 70821-3316 14 The Catholic Commentator ENTERTAINMENT January 31, 2020

Motion Picture Association of America in the Hitler Youth, at least until a teenage his script collaborator Andrew Lanham MOVIE ratings: Jewish girl (Thomasin McKenzie) hidden avoid caricature, showing that even some G – General audiences; all ages admitted by his mother (Scarlett Johansson) be- of their most misguided characters are PG – Parental guidance suggested; some gins to challenge his blind nationalism. capable of conversion. As a humane and REVIEWS material may not be suitable for children USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting Waititi shows, often in a deadpan way, winning study of a subject with immense PG-13 – Parents are strongly cautioned to classifications: the deadly consequences of surrender- real-world significance, it’s possibly ac- give special guidance for attendance of A-I – General patronage ing to ideologies that marginalize entire ceptable for older adolescents. Mature children under 13; some material may be A-II – Adults and adolescents categories of humanity and the singular themes, a disturbing scene of execution, inappropriate for young children A-III – Adults evil of inculcating children with hateful offscreen nudity in a strip search, a cou- R – Restricted; under 17 requires accom- A-IV – Adults, with reservations panying parent or adult guardian beliefs. Viewers interested in challeng- ple of mild oaths, a few crude and crass L – Limited adult audience NC-17 – No one under 17 admitted ing, thoughtful fare will be left with much terms. A-III; PG-13 O – Morally offensive to consider. Mature themes, images of the aftermath of executions, anti-Semitic Dolittle 1917 values and the triumph of faith, broadly dialogue, a single rough term, fleeting Universal Universal considered, over cynicism. Much combat crude language. A-III; PG-13 Chaotic comic adventure, loosely based Gripping historical drama, set in the violence with gore, numerous gruesome on Hugh Lofting’s “Doctor Dolittle” books midst of World War I, in which two Brit- sights, slightly irreverent humor, a fleet- Marriage Story for children, about a physician-turned- ish soldiers (George MacKay and Dean- ing sexual reference, about a half-dozen Netflix veterinarian (Robert Downey Jr.) who Charles Chapman) are dispatched across uses of profanity, several rough terms, Engrossing study of the divorce pro- has acquired the ability to communicate enemy territory to call off an attack by an occasional crude and crass language. A- cess as an avant-garde New York theater with the critters he treats. Having be- officer (Benedict Cumberbatch) whose III; R director (Adam Driver) and his actress come a recluse after the death of his wife, men are about to fall into a German trap, wife (Scarlett Johansson) split, their he’s drawn out of seclusion when an at- a mission made more urgent by the fact Jojo Rabbit initial shared impulse to behave de- tendant from Buckingham Palace (Carm- that the brother (Richard Madden) of Fox Searchlight cently toward each other and to shield el Laniado) brings news that Queen Vic- Chapman’s character is among those Writer-director Taika Waititi’s thor- their young son (Azhy Robertson) being toria (Jessie Buckley) is gravely ill. Since facing slaughter if they fail. By turns oughly offbeat satire, adapted from swiftly undermined by the legal system the monarch’s death would mean the loss harrowing and lyrically beautiful, and Christine Leunens’ 2004 novel “Caging and by the aggressive stance of some of of the animal sanctuary she granted him deeply humane throughout, director and Skies,” pretty much exemplifies the ex- the attorneys involved (Laura Dern and for her lifetime, he hurries off to London, co-writer Sam Mendes’ film displays both pression “not to all tastes” since it sees Ray Liotta). Writer-director Noah Baum- then sets off on a quest to find the mysti- the horrors of trench combat and the en- Waititi also playing a young German bach’s hard-hitting drama, which also cal tree whose fruit is the only antidote durance of fundamental decency and boy’s vision of Adolf Hitler as his imagi- features Alan Alda as a more sympathetic to the poison the sovereign has surrep- spiritual striving. Unsparing in its por- nary friend during the final year of World lawyer, covers a broad range of emotions, titiously been given. He’s accompanied trayal of misery and desperation, it’s also War II. Roman Griffin Davis is Jojo, a from gentle affection to blind rage, each by the good-hearted lad (Harry Collett) luminous in its affirmation of civilized 10-year-old seduced by what he’s learned mood carefully calibrated by the script who’s out to become his apprentice and and skillfully evoked in remarkably fine by his chief adviser, a wise parrot (voice performances. Viewers guided by Gospel of Emma Thompson) who doubles as the values will find an implicit but unmistak- story’s narrator. Director and co-writer able affirmation of marriage since the Stephen Gaghan’s adaptation is an ami- loss of the bond between the principals able mess well-intentioned, but silly and is limned in starkly tragic hues. Though disorganized. Some potentially frighten- the dialogue is steadily studded with ing interludes and a bit of grown-up jok- terms that would normally preclude en- ing aside, though, worrisome elements dorsement for any but grown-ups, some are minimal. Stylized action and physical parents may consider that the underlying violence, characters in peril, a couple of value of the picture overrides such con- mild oaths, brief scatological and ana- siderations where older teens are con- tomical humor. A-II; PG cerned. Mature references, including to adultery and sexual acts, brief irreverent Richard Jewell talk, about a half-dozen uses of profanity, Warner Bros. a couple of milder oaths, frequent rough Director Clint Eastwood’s sympathetic and much crude language. A; R profile of the titular security guard (Paul Walter Hauser) who quickly went from Just Mercy hero to villain in the public mind when Warner Bros. he was accused of planting the three pipe A Harvard educated lawyer (Michael B. bombs that he himself first discovered, Jordan) strives, with the help of a local and helped to save people from, during activist (Brie Larson), to save the life of the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. an Alabama death-row prisoner (Jamie Dogged by an FBI agent (Jon Hamm) con- Foxx) convicted on feeble evidence of the vinced of his guilt and a relentless mob of murder of an 18-year-old white woman. journalists led by a newspaper reporter As the attorney tries to convince the key (Olivia Wilde) who’s out for a sensational witness in the case (Tim Blake Nelson) story at any cost, he turns for help to his to admit he perjured himself, the pros- former boss, a maverick attorney (char- ecutor (Rafe Spall) stands by the origi- ismatic Sam Rockwell). The canny, hard- nal verdict and the community backlash bitten lawyer and his naive client make turns ugly. Director and co-writer Des- for an interesting odd couple and Kathy tin Daniel Cretton’s adaptation of a 2014 Bates is in fine form as Jewell’s doting memoir by Bryan Stevenson reaches mother. But a seamy subplot and other back to events in the 1980s but also viv- factors make Eastwood’s fairly gripping idly demonstrates the on-going dangers film, which draws on both a book and an posed by the application of capital pun- article, best for grown-ups. An implied ishment in a society still burdened by nonmarital encounter, brief violence, widespread racism. Yet this is much more about a dozen uses of profanity, frequent than a message movie since Cretton and rough and crude language. A-III; R January 31, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 15

sion is to be salt of the earth and light of the 1234 56789 11120 131 GOSPEL  world.” This people is “a most sure seed of unity, From page 2 hope and salvation for the whole human race.” 41 51 61 May we grow in holiness as we live out our mis- 71 81 91 actions are like salt, inspiring others with delight- sion, being light and salt to all we meet, and share ful goodness and accompaniment on this pilgrim the hope of salvation with unity and joy. Amen. 210 2 22 journey. 243 252 The Catechism of the Catholic Church, in para- Dow is the director of the Office of Evangeli- 2728296 2 03 321 333 graph 782, describes the characteristics of the zation and Catechesis for the Diocese of Baton mission of the people of God. We read, “Its mis- Rouge. 43 53 63

73 83 93

04 14 24 cafe  From page 3 34 44 54 476 4 consultation, for which the per- 49408 5 521 5354555 son is charged a small fee. “Yes (the café) was the fruit 65 587 5 95 of my prayer, but it’s the body 06 16 26 of Christ at Holy Rosary who are sustaining it,” he said. “They 36 46 56 are the ones who are there early moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www in the morning, during the day, ACROSS DOWN and we even have families serv- 1 Number of the commandment that 1 This was offered to the risen Jesus ing the poor.” forbids killing (Lk 24:42) 5 Roman goddess of the hearth 2 “___, Sing America” “All we have to do is say yes 10 “None of us lives to himself, and 3 Outlet and give God the space,” Father none of us ___ to himself.” (Rom 14:7) 4 Scottish Gaelic Johnson added. “God has done The coffee shop at the Full of Grace Café at Holy Rosary Church in St. 14 Road to the Colosseum 5 The oldest astronomical research Amant is a gathering place where people can not only enjoy a free 15 Given name of Mother Teresa institute is here something radical and turned 16 Periods of history 6 Exit it into something we could have cup of java but also receive, at no charge, a haircut, legal advice, ad- 17 Ishmael and Isaac, to Abraham 7 Nasal grunt never imagined. The fruit has vice on writing resumes and finding a job and even take a shower if 18 Fidelity 8 9th letter of the Hebrew alphabet needed. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator 19 Category 9 ___ Wednesday been supernatural.” 20 Helmsley, for one 10 Cul-___ On Tuesdays and Thursdays, 22 Marriage announcement 11 Tiger’s choice up to 300 people, including ties, all in an effort to make the ceses from around the country 23 Deliriously happy 12 Make 26 Hungarian national dance 13 Former JFK arrivals some of the neediest in the area, diners feel special. inquiring how something sim- 30 Popular Catholic TV sitcom actor 21 Flat shelf drop in for a free meal. Also on “It’s phenomenal,” said pa- ilar could be established. He Newhart 22 Front part of an apron Thursdays, volunteers deliver rishioner Robin Anderson, as also noted the café has given 31 Have a bite at night 24 Father, in the Bible 34 Yield 25 OT historical book free meals to those who are she prepared a pot of jamba- St. Amant a sense of commu- 35 Truth-in-advertising agcy. 26 Gross homebound. laya to be served for dinner nity and has been a source of 36 Fred Flintstone’s dog 27 Some dressings On Tuesdays, a local human that night. “We all flooded, and renewal and even evangeliza- 37 “…who lived in a ___” 28 Gray 38 Hawaiian acacia 29 Public disturbance resource specialist offers advice we feel like we are giving back tion. 39 Language that includes Swahili 31 Commandment place on writing resumes, completing to the community that helped “Because of the presence of 40 “Let it stand” 32 Undo the knot job applications and job hunt- rebuild our homes. It’s very re- the café and the work we do, a 41 “…there is nothing ___ under the 33 Does a sommelier’s job sun.” (Eccl 1:9) 35 According to Paul, at the name of ing. Free mental counseling is warding. I definitely feel like I’m lot of people who have left the 42 Hair of an Angora goat Jesus every knee should do this also available. living the Gospel message.” church have come back, which 43 Thesaurus wd. 36 Author of Charlie and the Chocolate Once a month, a Widow of “You don’t want to be prideful has been beautiful,” Father 44 Whimsical Factory 45 Lace mats 38 Symbol on the papal flag Grace meal is presented. Fa- but you take pride in the work Johnson said. “It’s been a bea- 46 “That’s it in a ___” 39 One of the 10 plagues ther Johnson noted the dinner we do here,” she said. “It’s been con of light and a great bridge 48 Santiago de Compostela is found in 41 “…the kingdom of heaven is like a is “done in Ruth’s Chris (Steak a blessing for me.” to draw people back to Jesus this country ___” (Mt 13:47) 51 ___ Creed 42 Saint Damien’s island House) style,” with a menu and Father Johnson has received which was the point of it all.” 56 Suspend 44 Amusement volunteer servers dressed in phone calls from other dioc- A bridge now spanning inter- 57 He and Deborah defeated the army 45 Leave white button shirts and black esan parishes as well as dio- national waters. of Sisera (Judg 4:8–16) 46 “Silent ___” 59 Gap 47 Marx with a horn 60 Nat’l song 48 Doolittle’s creator 61 Catholic director of “It’s a Wonderful 49 One of the divisions of a window Life” 50 Aardvark meal  62 Tasmanian peak 52 “Blessed art ___ among women” leduff do” list is build a sidewalk path and wheelchair 63 Direction from the Jordan to 53 Forfeiture From page 5 ramps to make the chapel handicapped acces- Bethlehem 54 It may follow something sible. 64 Loincloth worn by Hindu men 55 The Dead and the Red 65 Employs 57 Alphabet string chapel. He repainted the walls, put in new carpet- LeDuff considers his “behind the scenes” work 58 Sound of amazement ing, lighting, ceiling crown molding and trim. his way to enhance people’s experiences at St. Ag- Solution on page 18 The altar and the tabernacle containing the nes. monstrance were also built by McDuff. The top “I take pride in my work,” said LeDuff, “just like of the tabernacle contains a glass pane so the my grandfather and father did. I don’t consider light can shine through onto the Blessed Sacra- myself a handyman. I consider myself a skilled ment. craftsman.” LeDuff also took two pieces of wood that came The true work for LeDuff, who has a file full of from Thailand and created a semi-circular wood commendations from engineering firms, insur- backdrop for a statue of Mary that stands near the ance agencies, St. Agnes staff, the Diocese of Ba- tabernacle. ton Rouge and the local Missionaries of Charity, “When I stood back and looked at it (the chapel) begins with developing a plan. I felt good at what my hands had done,” LeDuff “I design it first in my head and then I build it said. with these two hands,” said LeDuff with his palms Related to the chapel, LeDuff’s ever-growing “to up. 16 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT January 31, 2020 Do we see Christ in the poor, or even see the poor?

ost of us are familiar with However, the apparent wealth of the homeless. His kingdom, which men, women and children are active in Jesus’ words in the judgement South Louisiana can blind us to the will last for eternity in heaven, begins our diocese. Some Catholics devote Mscene of the 25th chapter needs of the poor right around us. As through our efforts here on earth. their retirement years to this ministry. of St. Matthew’s Gospel: “Come, you Jesus said, “The poor you will always What we contribute to that earthly St. Teresa’s nuns run a soup kitchen who are blessed by my Father. Inherit have with you.” Since Christmas I kingdom will be part of our final judg- and shelter for women and children in the kingdom prepared for you from have been reminded ment. St. Agnes Church in downtown Baton the foundation of the world. For I of this in a well- In my 57 years of Rouge. An Italian order of sisters in was hungry and you gave me food, I known way. I do priesthood in our Diocese Zachary care for women seeking to es- was thirsty and you gave me drink, a most of my grocery of Baton Rouge I have cape human trafficking. What expres- stranger and you welcomed me, naked shopping at Alb- experienced some very sions of the kingdom of God are being and you clothed me, ill and you cared ertson’s on College fine examples of continu- built in our communities and church for me, in prison and you visited me ... Drive. About twice ing Jesus’ ministry to the parishes! whatever you did for one of these least a week during and poor. On a diocesan level Ministry to the poor is not only a brothers of mine, you did for me” (Mt since the Christmas we have grown Catholic wonderful imitation of Jesus, but it 34-40). For us who live in Louisiana holidays I have been Charities of the Diocese also can change our whole perspec- there are many opportunities to care stopped in the park- of Baton Rouge from a tive on life and our common human- for Jesus in the persons of the poor. ing lot of the store by small, three-person office ity. Serving as a campus minister at Louisiana is at or near the bottom of persons in real need. to an entire building of LSU, I found a ministry already begun every sociological and economic sur- One time it was a professionally trained to homeless men in the St. Vincent de vey of personal wealth and well-being young man from social workers. At times Paul shelters. Together with some of taken in our nation. Yet, as one letter Colorado who needed of crisis from storms and the students and a few adult parish- to the editor in The Advocate recently enough money to get floods, or large influx of ioners at Christ the King Church and asked, “With all the natural resources his clothes cleaned immigrants, as well as Catholic Center on campus, we would the state has and with our cancer alley so that he could cases requiring profes- cook an evening meal for an entire booming, why is the state so poor?” I continue his travels. sional counseling, person- shelter of men. We always insisted too, and I imagine also you, have asked What he was wear- nel with a high degree of that the students and adult ministers the same question for a long time. ing was visible proof. training are needed to would serve and then eat with the men If one travels along I-10 from our Another was one of our own citizens assist those with meager resources. At in the shelter. The stories shared by state’s western border to Baton Rouge who at 3 p.m. said he had not eaten a recent program for prison ministers, those homeless men were amazing. and continues on I-12 to Slidell at our that day and was just hungry. When there were around 40 priests and dea- Many had once been quite successful eastern border, or turns south at Baton you are emptying a cart full of grocer- cons and spouses in attendance at the and married. Tragedy of one kind or Rouge to follow I-10 as it parallels ies into your trunk, how can you refuse required training session. Many lay another had befallen them. But, with the Mississippi River down to New that plea? persons also help in prison ministry. God’s help and support from people Orleans, the state of Louisiana would And, after all, it wasn’t the econom- A layman, Jay Jackson, is retir- like us, they were trying to recover. appear very prosperous with its sugar ics of our state or any other state that ing this March as Catholic chaplain That is what God’s kingdom here below cane and rice fields interrupted quite concerned Jesus. It was our attitude at Louisiana State Penitentiary in is all about. frequently by oil refineries and petrol- and our personal response to the poor Angola. A married man soon to be chemical plants. Many of us who live that Jesus addressed. He wanted us to ordained a deacon, Billy Messenger, FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest in communities along these corridors recognize our human bond with them will replace him. in the Diocese of Baton Rouge and benefit from well-paying jobs that are and recognize them as persons loved The St. Vincent de Paul Society, a writes on current topics for The the envy of many other states. The top by him. Jesus made us Christians the ministry to the poor, is in many of our Catholic Commentator. He can be half of our state must be poor indeed, continuation of his ministry to the parishes. Their thrift stores, pharma- reached at johnnycarville@gmail. if the national rankings are accurate. hungry, the ill, the imprisoned and cies, soup kitchens and shelters for com.

| Pray for those who pray for us Letters to the Editor Please pray for the priests, deacons and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese. Letters to the Editor should be typed and limited to 350 words and Feb. 6 Rev. Bradley A. Doyle Feb. 13 Rev. Michael French SJ should contain the name and address of the writer, though the Dcn. Ricky P. Oubre Dcn. Danny Roussel address will not be printed. We reserve the right to edit all letters. Br. Marcus Turcotte Sr. Theresa Pitruzzello CSJ Feb. 7 Rev. Vincent J. Dufresne Feb. 14 Rev. Michael Galea Send to: Letters to the Editor, The Catholic Commentator, P. O. Box Dcn. Stephen Paul Ourso Dcn. Mauricio Salazar 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316, or to [email protected]. Sr. Cielo Pesigan DM Br. Robert Croteau SC Feb. 8 Rev. Thomas P. Duhé Feb. 15 Rev. Henry W. Gautreau Jr. Dcn. Ricky A. Patterson Dcn. Eliazar Salinas Jr. Br. Edward Violet SM Sr. Christine Pologa CSJ Feb. 9 Rev. Matthew C. Dupré Feb. 16 Rev. Matthew J. Graham Mission Statement Dcn. Minos J. Ponville Jr. Dcn. Mario (Sam) Sammartino Sr. My-Dung Pham ICM Br. Ramon Daunis SC The mission of The Catholic Commentator is to provide news, in- Feb. 10 Rev. Reuben C. Dykes Feb. 17 Rev. Timothy Grimes formation and commentary to the people of the Diocese of Baton Dcn. Curles P. Reeson Jr. Dcn. Joseph M. Scimeca Br. James Burns SC Sr. Penny Prophit FMOL Rouge, Catholics and their neighbors alike. In doing so, The Catholic Feb. 11 Rev. Denis O. Ekwugha Feb. 18 Rev. Paul A. Gros Commentator strives to further the wider mission of the Church: to Dcn. Alfred J. Ricard Dcn. Rudolph W. Stahl evangelize, to communicate, to educate and to give the Catholic Sr. Tuyet Anh Pham ICM Br. Alan Drain SC Feb. 12 Rev. Carl Evans Feb. 19 Rev. Eric V. Gyan viewpoint on important issues of the present day. Dcn. Thomas M. Robinson Dcn. Michael F. Thompson Br. William Cawley SC Sr. Anne Michelle Ramagos CSJ January 31, 2020 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 17 The little way

ost of us have heard of humble chores and be nice to through us so that in doing deeper level. Just as Jesus did to notice that what was true in St. Therese of Lisieux, each other in the name of Jesus what we’re doing we’re draw- not save us through sensational her life wasn’t true of most oth- Ma French mystic who but there are deeper dimen- ing others to God and not to miracles and headline-making ers. Their smiles and tears went died at age 24 in 1897 and who sions to it. Her “little way” is a ourselves. deeds but through selfless obe- mostly unnoticed and were is perhaps the most popular path to sanctity based on three As well, our littleness makes dience to his father and quiet not honored. Her “little way” saint of the past two centuries. things: littleness, anonym- us aware that, for the most martyrdom, our deeds too can is therefore predicated on this She’s famous for many things, ity and a particular motivation. part, we cannot do the big remain unknown so that our particular motivation. In her not least for a spirituality she Littleness: For St. Therese things that shape world history. deaths and the spirit we leave own words: called her “little way.” What’s “littleness” does not refer first But we can change the world behind can become our real “One Sunday, looking at her “little way?” of all to the more humbly, by sowing a fruitfulness. a picture of our Lord on the Popular thought littleness of the hidden seed, by being a hidden Particular motivation: Final- cross, I was struck by the blood has often encrust- act that we are antibiotic of health inside the ly, her “little way” is predicated flowing from one of his divine ed both St. Therese doing, like the soul of humanity, and by split- on a particular motivation. We hands. I felt a pang of great and her “little humble tasks ting the atom of love inside our are invited to act out of our lit- sorrow when thinking this way” within a of doing the own selves. And yes, too, the tleness and anonymity and do blood was falling on the ground simple piety which laundry, peel- “little way” is about doing little, small acts of love and service to without anyone’s hastening to doesn’t do justice ing potatoes or humble, hidden things. others for a particular reason, gather it up. I was resolved to to the depth of giving a simple Anonymity: St. Therese’s that is, to metaphorically wipe remain in spirit at the foot of her person or her smile to someone “little way” refers to what’s hid- the face of the suffering Christ. the cross and to receive its dew spirituality. Too who’s unpleasant. den, to what’s done in secret, so How so? … Oh, I don’t want this precious often her “little It refers to our that what the father sees in se- St. Therese of Lisieux was blood to be lost. I shall spend way” is understood own littleness, to cret will be rewarded in secret. an extremely blessed and gifted my life gathering it up for the simply to mean our own radical And what’s hidden is not our person. Despite a lot of tragedy good of souls. … To live from that we do little, poverty before act of charity, but we, ourselves, in her early life, she was (by her love is to dry your face.” hidden, humble In Exile God. Before God, who are doing the act. In St. own admission and testimony To live her “little way” is to acts of charity for we are little. Therese’s “little way” our little of others) loved in a way that notice and honor the unnoticed others in the name Father Ron Rolheiser To accept and acts of charity will go mostly was so pure, so deep and so tears falling from the suffering of Jesus, without act out of that unnoticed, will seemingly have wonderfully affectionate that faces of others. expecting anything in return. constitutes humility. We move no real impact on world history, it leaves most people in envy. In this popular interpretation towards God and others in her and won’t bring us any recog- She was also a very attractive Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, we do the laundry, peel pota- “little way” when we do small nition. They’ll remain hidden child and was bathed in love theologian, teacher and award- toes and smile at unpleasant acts of charity for others, not and unnoticed; but inside the and security inside an extended winning author, is president of people to please Jesus. In some out of our strength and the body of Christ what’s hidden, family within which her every the Oblate School of Theology in ways, of course, this is true; virtue we feel at that moment, selfless, unnoticed, self-effacing smile and tear were noticed, San Antonio, Texas. He can however her “little way” merits but rather out of a poverty, and seemingly insignificant honored and often photo- be contacted through his web- a deeper understanding. powerlessness and emptiness and unimportant is the most graphed. But as she grew in site ronrolheiser.com and Yes, it does ask us to do that allows God’s grace to work vital vehicle of all for grace at a maturity it didn’t take her long facebook.com/ronrolheiser. World Day of the Sick 2020

n 1993, St. John Paul II received his clusion of a holy year ularly crucial considering the church. More than mere objects of Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. One focused on the theme of how illness and disability pity, the sick and dying can build up Iyear later, he did something for the redemption. can isolate people. Caring the holiness of the church, strengthen- church and the world that he saw as Pope Francis recently for the sick and disabled ing her against the world, the flesh and necessary: he instituted the World Day released his message for means being present in a the devil. Without the work of uniting of the Sick. the 28th World Day of way that inconveniences their sufferings to Christ for the sake of The late pope intended for this the Sick to be observed us, that makes us uncom- the church and the world, the church’s annual observance to be “a special Feb. 11. As did Pope fortable and recognizes mission of evangelization cannot be occasion for growth, with an attitude Benedict XVI before what needs of body and effective. of listening, reflection and effective him, Pope Francis con- soul are present. The sick and dying have an integral commitment in the face of the great tinues the work of St. Caring for the sick also role to play in the life and mission of mystery of pain and illness.” This day John Paul II by reflect- means recognizing the the church through voluntarily ac- would be celebrated every year on ing upon the “great mys- limits of medicine in the cepting their sufferings to make up the commemoration of Our Lady of tery of pain and illness” face of serious illness, what is lacking in the body of Christ, Lourdes, Feb. 11. and what we are to do in Guest disability and death. The the church. In our age, we are acutely The theme of suffering, likely borne the face of it. mystery of pain and suf- aware of how much the church needs of the pope’s experience of his own In this message, the Columnist fering invites recognition growth in holiness. Through uniting suffering and the suffering of others, holy father notes that of the transcendent di- their sufferings in faith to Christ cruci- was, in a way, central to the entire while there is so much Barry Schoedel mension of every human fied, the sick and dying can strengthen pontificate of St. John Paul II. This was emphasis on “curing” person. The human per- the church in her mission as the sacra- reflected in his consistent defense of the sick and disabled, we must not ne- son is made for communion with God, ment of salvation to the world. the most vulnerable. Earlier in his pa- glect the need for “caring.” In the face and this need is never more apparent pacy, he wrote a letter on the Christian of suffering, the appropriate response than in the face of suffering. Schoedel is associate director of meaning of suffering, titled “Salvifici is loving compassion that touches the The sick and disabled have a par- Evangelization & Catechesis for the Doloris.” This letter marked the con- heart and soul of the other. It is partic- ticular call to sacrifice and pray for Diocese of Baton Rouge. 18 The Catholic Commentator COMING EVENTS January 31, 2020 Taize Service – Rosaryville Spirit Life Center, 39003 at St. Agnes Church, 749 East Blvd., Baton Rouge. For Men of the Immaculata Conference – The Men of Rosaryville Road, Ponchatoula, will host a candlelight more information, call Karen Mollere at 225-272-5915. the Immaculata Men’s Conference, “What is Truth?” Taize prayer service Mondays, Feb. 3 and March 2, 7 p.m. will take place Saturday, Feb. 29, 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., at For more information, visit catholicretreatcenter.org or Discalced Carmelites – The Secular Order of Dis- St. George Church, 7808 St. George Dr., Baton Rouge. call 225-294-5039. calced Carmelites will meet Sunday, Feb. 9, 1:30 p.m., at Speakers include EWTN host Father Wade Menezes, the Our Lady of Mercy Parish Activity Center in the St. biblical scholar Jeff Cavins and Father Mark Beard, pas- Afternoon of Prayer – Father Simeon Gallagher, di- Gabriel Room, 445 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge. For tor of St. Helena Church in Amite. Bishop Michael G. rector of the Preaching Ministry Office of the Mid-Amer- details, call Ethlyn White at 225-803-3391 or email Duca will celebrate the Mass. For tickets, visit menofthe ica Province of the Capuchin Order, will present “Grow- [email protected]. immaculata.com. For information, email Mark Hermann ing in Faith: Becoming an Adult Believer” Wednesday, at [email protected] or call 985-377-9323. Feb. 5, 1–3 p.m., at the Our Lady of Mercy Church Parish Taste and See Fair and Auction – St. Frances Cabrini Activity Center, 445 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge. The Church in Livonia and St. Catherine of Siena Mission in Marriage Help – A Retrouvaille weekend for couples event, sponsored by the Archdiocese of New Orleans Fordoche will present its Taste and See Fair and Auction with a troubled marriage will be held in Baton Rouge Fri- Retreat Center, is open to men and women. Cost is $30. Saturday, Feb. 15, 5:30 p.m., at the Livonia Community day, March 6 – Sunday, March 8. For information or to To register, visit neworleansretreats.com/retreats or call Center, 3611 Lions Club Dr., Livonia. For more informa- register, call 985-232-5963, email retrouvibrcomcoor@ Susan Halligan at 1-866-937-9170. tion and to purchase tickets, call the TriParishes Pastoral gmail.com or visit helpourmarriage.com. Center at 225-625-2438. Post Abortion Healing – The Office of Marriage and Jeff Cavins Seminar – Biblical scholar Jeff Cavins will Family Life of the Diocese of Baton Rouge is sponsoring Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Celebration – Bish- present a seminar, “The DNA of Sin” Saturday, March 7 “Entering Canaan: Women’s Day of Prayer and Heal- op Michael G. Duca will celebrate a Mass honoring cou- at the Cypress Springs Mercedarian Prayer Center, 17560 ing” Saturday, Feb. 8, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more informa- ples celebrating their 25th , 50th, 65th or above anniver- George O’Neal Road, Baton Rouge. Registration is from tion or to register, call 225-325-3459 or email Entering sary Sunday, Feb. 23, 2 p.m., at St. Thomas More Church, 7 a.m. – 7:45 a.m., Mass will be at 8 a.m. at the Chapel of [email protected]. All inquiries are kept confidential. 11441 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge. Families of the Divine Providence and the seminar will be from 9 a.m. honored couples are also invited to attend the Mass and – 3 p.m. Cost is $60 and includes continental breakfast Third Order of Mary – The St. Agnes Confraternity of following reception in the STM Activity Center. Contact and lunch. To register, visit csmpc.org or call 225-752- the Third Order of Mary will meet Sunday, Feb. 9, 3 p.m., your parish office for more information. 8480.

The Catholic Commentator For help placing your classified ad, PO Box 3316 call 225-387-0983. All classified ads are prepaid. Baton Rouge LA 70821-3316 Classifieds Credit cards are now accepted. announcementS BuSineSS Service BuSineSS Service For Sale Help Wanted While we at The Catholic Com- CALL TYRONE Retired LEO Does Lawn Care and Roselawn Memorial Park. Five shady mentator do our best to bring re- “WHEN IT NEEDS FIXING” pressure washing. Dependable. Senior plots. Lot 80. Section K. $2700 each or LEAKING SINKS, FAUCETS, PIPES citizen discount. Call Tommy Guidry 225- best offer. Call (225) 928-1007. NEED A JOB? liable advertisers to our readers, UNCLOG DRAINS AND TOILETS 276-8236. we are not responsible for any REPAIRS OR REPLACE GARBAGE Provide a service or claims made by any advertiser. DISPOSALS TURNING 65? Resthaven Cemetery. Two mausole- want to tutor? PLUS OTHER REPAIRS MEDICARE QUESTIONS? um spaces for sale. $6500 for both. Call SUCH AS SMALL ENGINES AND WE CAN HELP (225) 252-3737. It all starts with the HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES, ETC. JOE GOODSON – 225-572-2275 CALL 225-802-4522 OR 225-346-6246 JOHNNY STUART – 225-907-3619 Greenoaks Memorial Park. Dogwood Classifieds. Mr. D’s Tree Service section. Single plot with vault. $2500. BuSineSS Service Charlotte’s Custom Designs 3 Licensed Arborists Call (225) 588-8103 or (225) 413-5324. Drapery, Roman Shades, Bedding, Free Estimates LEBLANC’S TREE & STUMP Fabrics, Upholstery, Shutters and Blinds. Fully Insured REMOVAL, INC. 225-936-8649 Don Decell owner Prompt service–Free estimates 225-292-6756 FULLY INSURED FINAL EXPENSE INSURANCE legal noticeS E. H. “Eddie” LeBlanc Guaranteed Level Premium Whole Life 225 PAINTING Phone 383-7316 Insurance Residential / Commercial Anyone with knowledge of the where- Rates Available Up to Age 85 30 years in business abouts of Lynn Ann Huff is asked to con- Guaranteed Issue Available 225Painting.com tact the Diocesan Tribunal at 225-336- HOUSEKEEPER Call Anita Parsons King, Agent (225) 205-1027 8755. MATURE DEPENDABLE Serving My Clients Since 1983 20 + YEARS EXPERIENCE Phone: 225-383-6669 BROUSSEAU'S Painting HAVE REFERENCES Interior and exterior painting. Experi- Anyone with knowledge of the where- CALL DEBBIE enced and reliable. Free estimates. Call abouts of Christina Ann Bodenheimer is For information on how 225-266-7655 THOMAS LUNDIN, CPA 225-241-8488. asked to contact the Diocesan Tribunal to advertise in Accounting and taxes for businesses, at 225-336-8755. Allan’s Tree Service non-profits and individuals; business, Dave’s Bicycle Repair and Sales. Free The Catholic Specializes in large and dangerous tree computer, financial and management pickup and delivery, free estimates, ex- Anyone with knowledge of the where- Commentator, call removal. Licensed and insured. Senior services. 30 years experience; profes- pert economical repair on all brands. abouts of Alicia Silvestre Maria is asked citizen and law/military discounts. Allan sional, prompt and personal attention. Call 225-924-4337 or www.davesbicycle to contact the Diocesan Tribunal at 225- Johnson 225-241-8789. Call 225-296-0404. repair. com. 336-8755. 225-387-0983.

Print Your Ad Here FIVE VESTA DIES ITER AGNES ERAS SONS TROTH SORT HOTELIER BANNS ECSTAT IC DATES TO RUN: CZARDAS BOB SUP Check Category: ❑ Announcements ❑ Business Services ❑ Cards of Thanks ❑ For Rent ❑ For Sale ❑ Help Wanted RESIGN BBB DINO ❑ Positions Wanted ❑ Legal Notices ❑ Other ASHOE KOA BANTU Mail to: The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 STET NEW MOHA IR Enclosed is $9.50 for the first 15 words + 15¢ for each word thereafter + 25¢ per line for each special effect (all caps, centered SYN FEY DO ILIES line, bold lettering); for a total of $______for each issue. Call for charging on your credit card. NUTSHELL NAME Advertisements will not SPAIN A POSTLES be published without ADDRESS HANG BARAK HOLE full payment in advance. ANTH CAPRA OSSA CITY PHONE WE ST DHOT I USES moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www January 31, 2020 The Catholic Commentator 19

PLATTENVILLE  April 24, 1793, four days after the destroyed by fire, although the Vin- From page 1 parish registers were opened. Three centians remained until 1858. years later a bishop visited the church Two previous major renovations parishioners who said they saw the for the first time. were undertaken at the church, in- renovations as a great need and want- In 1817 the wardens of the church cluding one during the 1960s under ed to contribute their time and money voted to build a larger church and the administration of Father Henry to the project. Early in on Dec. 20, 1819 the Vavasseur, which brought the place 2019 a committee was building was formally of worship in accordance with the formed and through Assumption dedicated. But flood- dictates of the Second Vatican Coun- benefactors the work was waters from Bayou La- cil. completed shortly after is the oldest fourche would destroy Assumption also made history Advent began. that structure, paving in November 1984, when the parish “It was an ugly car- parish on Bayou the way for the current was clustered with St. Anne Church pet,” Landry said with a church to be built. in Napoleonville, marking the inau- grin. “The parish really Lafourche. The bricks used for gural clustering of parishes in the rallied around the proj- the church were made in Diocese of Baton Rouge. St. Philo- ect.” Plattenville. Hurricane mena Church in Labadieville is now Originally founded in 1793, As- Betsy heavily damaged the structure also part of the cluster. sumption is the oldest parish on Bay- in 1965 but workers were able to save ou Lafourche and the 11th oldest par- the building. A platform was constructed to raise the ish in Louisiana. The original church, The original seminary for the high altar during renovations at As- which historic records describe as Archdiocese of New Orleans was built sumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary “little more than a shack,” was locat- on the parish grounds in 1835 and Church in Plattenville. The high altar is ed at the current site of the church. staffed by the Vincentian Fathers. now visible to the entire congregation. The first baptism was recorded Twenty years later the seminary was Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator

The Catholic Commentator For help placing your classified ad, PO Box 3316 call 225-387-0983. All classified ads are prepaid. Baton Rouge LA 70821-3316 Classifieds Credit cards are now accepted. Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted In sales employment advertisements, the advertiser must name the product or service to be sold. Ads must state how wages will be paid (salary, commissions, etc.) if money is mentioned. The ad must also state if there is an investment required. Special Education Program Diocese of Baton Rouge Administrator Catholic Schools Seeking educational leader for Administrative Openings Blessed Margaret of Castello REACH Program for 2020-21 school year Since 1962, the Diocese of Baton Rouge has served families through the Special Education Department, which has expanded programming across the diocese to provide specific classes for The Diocese of Baton Rouge has thirty schools in eight civil parishes with strong Catholic identity autism and intellectual/other exceptionalities as well as resource and dyslexia lab services. as the focus in all schools. The district is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and The Special Education Administrator is responsible for the Schools, and standardized test scores are above state and national averages. leadership of the program, working with families, teachers, staff, host school personnel, community stakeholders, and the Evangelize Hearts, Educate Minds, Encourage Talent and Embrace the Future Catholic Schools Office. Additional information at www.csobr. org. Applicants must meet the following criteria: Catholic High School of Pointe Coupee • Practicing Catholic (Required) New Roads, LA • Master’s Degree, Preferably in Special Education (Required) • Minimum of Five Years of Experience in Special Education Holy Family School (Preferred) Port Allen, LA • Demonstrated Leadership Skills (Required)

St. Thomas Aquinas High School Submit letter of interest, resumé with references, and copies of Hammond, LA transcripts to Special Education Department Administrator Search For more information: www.csobr.org • 225-336-8735 Catholic Schools Office P.O. Box 2028 The schools of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all Baton Rouge, LA 70821-2028 rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, admissions Applications considered upon receipt. policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs. The schools of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of educational PLACE YOUR AD HERE. CALL 225-387-0983. Credit cards accepted. policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs. 20 The Catholic Commentator January 31, 2020

LA LIFE MARCH – Bishop Michael C. Duca spoke with many young people during Louisiana Life March South Jan. 25. Photos by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator

Hundreds of people gathered to speak out for the life of the unborn during Louisiana Life March South in Baton Rouge on Jan. 25. Participants walked from the State Capitol to Galvez Plaza, where a pro-life rally program followed.

Join Bishop Michael Duca and Chef John Folse at the 25th Annual Count Your Blessings Supper Friday, March 6, 2020 at 7:00 PM - Our Lady of Mercy Parish Activity Center

Bishop Michael Duca, Chef John Folse, Father Cleo Milano and John Pastorek are ready to Stir it Up! Come and Count Your Blessings with us. Join us for a simple Lenten supper of soup and bread – a meal that will nourish you physically and spiritually.

This year’s Count Your Blessings Supper is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 6th, at Our Lady of Mercy’s Parish Activity Center. Order your tickets today online at svdpbr.org or by using the order form below or give us a call at (225) 383-7837, extension O. If you are unable to attend, please consider making a Count Your Blessings gift to St. Vincent de Paul to help in our work with God’s poor. Financial gifts can be mailed to: Count Your Blessings, P. O. Box 127, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0127, or made online at www.svdpbr.org. Ticket Order Form ------Clip and send in------Yes, my family and I want to attend the Count Your Blessings Supper. We would like ______tickets at $10.00 per person. We are enclosing a check for $______. Name:______Address:______City: ______State: ______Zip: ______Make checks payable and mail to: Society of St. Vincent de Paul, P.O. Box 127, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0127.