Vol. 40, No. 3 Friday, February 21, 2014 Pro-Life advocate issues challenge to crowd to find place in movement LAKE CHARLES – Abby With the ultrasound, ”you miraculously wasn’t a baby.” Johnson, a Louisiana native can actually see what you The abortionist uses a who turned from the direc- are doing. It is safer for the plastic tube called a can- tor of a Planned Parenthood woman. The doctor wanted nula, which is inserted into abortion clinic to a fierce to teach me something, to the woman’s uterus. The tube pro-life advocate and writer, learn a new type technique,” is attached to a suction ma- asked the nearly 600 people Johnson said. “My was to chine and the child is liter- attending the mid-January hold the ultrasound wand on ally ripped, piece-by-piece, Abby Johnson, left, a former Planned Parenthood director in Houston who has become Respect Life Dinner to com- the woman’s abdomen, so the from the womb. a staunch pro-life advocate spoke to a crowd of about 600 at the Respect Life Dinner, mit to do something, to look doctor could “visualize” his “I was trying to reassure sponsored by the Office of Pro-Life of the Diocese. Seated at right during the talk were, for a place for themselves in target.” myself,” Johnson said. “I from, left Dawson, director of the office; his wife, Katharine Anne; and Marjorie the pro-life movement. Ultrasound is used in oth- see the cannula go into the Long, site leader for Rachel’s Vineyard/the Project. “I know that there is a er abortions but it is merely woman’s body. The suction place for every single one done to determine how far is not on yet and I watch it of you in the pro-life move- the woman is along in her go to the side of the little boy. ment,” Johnson said. “This pregnancy. He jumps, beginning to flail (the banquet) is not your pro- “There I was holding the his arms and legs trying to move away from the abortion New study on abortion life activity for the year. It is probe and I look up at screen a good start but it is not even and she is 13 weeks,” John- instrument, but there is no- close to what we should be son continues. “Everything where for him to go. doing to protect the unborn is there, everything we have, “Then they turned on the and their mothers and our a child in the womb has. You suction and people make rate doesn’t tie drop families. You may say ‘I don’t can tell if it is a boy or a girl.” the assumption that what I saw next was the worst part.” know’ but you have to look In this case, it was a little Johnson said. “Seeing a child and find it.” boy. dismembered and torn apart Johnson spoke for nearly “I figured nothing is going in his mothers’ womb, people to new state restrictions an hour about her eight years to shock me, there is noth- think that would be the worst of experiences with Planned ing I hadn’t seen before,” she WASHINGTON (CNS) -- abortions per 1,000 women that had no effect on the de- part, but I knew that was go- Parenthood and about the said. “But I felt anxious, look- Almost two weeks after the ages 15-44 in 2011, totaling cline in abortion rate, Jones ing to happen. The worst part day in September 2009 that ing at the screen it looked national March for Life rally almost 1.1 million abortions said. was that I just stood there changed her life, setting her like a baby but Planned Par- in Washington, the Guttm- that year. The peak was in Jeanne Monahan, presi- and did nothing. I remember onto the pro-life path. It was enthood said that wasn’t so. acher Institute reported a 1981 with nearly 30 abortions dent of the March for Life wanting to yell out – stop, you 13 percent drop in national per 1,000 women, according the day she was asked to as- When I was pregnant with Education and Defense are hurting him. I remember abortion rates from 2008 to to The Associated Press. Fund, said the authors of the sist in an ultrasound-guided my daughter I knew it was a wanting to do that but I just 2011 -- making for the lowest Guttmacher wrote that study “conceded the fact that abortion, a different type of baby but maybe that was be- stood there. I’m a mom. What rate since 1973 when abor- “more effective contracep- there was no data” to confirm abortion procedure than she cause she was wanted. If the tion on demand was legal- tive methods” may have con- a direct link between legis- had seen done before. child wasn’t wanted, maybe it See Pro-life, Page 6 ized in the U.S. tributed to the decline in un- lation and abortion decline, However, “no evidence intended pregnancies, thus implying there was no way to was found” of a correlation causing a decline in abor- trace such evidence. between the declining rate tions. “They have decent data and new abortion restric- “Contraceptive use im- that’s not 100 percent accu- tions set between 2008 and proved during this period, rate, and they say that in the John Souder instituted 2011, said the study released as more women and couples (study),” Monahan told Cath- Feb. 3. were using highly effective olic News Service. Carol Tobias, president long-acting reversible con- Despite this, March for of the National Right to Life traceptive methods,” Rachel Life and other organizations Committee, stated that the Jones, an author of the study, need data from the Guttm- into Ministry of Lector study “shows the long-term told the AP. acher Institute to track mea- efforts of the right-to-life Jones said the recent re- surement, she said, because ROME – John Souder, a Souder, in his first year B. A. as well as a B. S. degree movement,” even though cession may have also con- there are no official govern- seminarian studying for the of theological formation for in Chemical Engineering and Guttmacher gave no credit to tributed to the decline in ment reports that have the priesthood for the Diocese of the priesthood, was one of 59 is originally from Knoxville, groups against abortion. pregnancy rates, as more same data. Lake Charles, was instituted men to take part in the con- Tenn. He was accepted as a Legislative efforts and women wanted to “avoid or Though pro-life organi- into the Ministry of Lector ferral of the Minsitry of Lec- seminarian of the Diocese pro-life campaigns “should delay pregnancy and child zations see positive signs in on Sunday, Jan. 12, by His tor. He has three additional of Lake Charles for the 2010- not be minimized when dis- bearing” in tough economic Guttmacher’s study, Monah- Excellency Bernard A. Heb- years of theological studies 2011 academic term, study- cussing the decline in abor- times. an said there’s more to do. tion numbers,” Tobias said in The student also showed da, Coadjutor Archbishop of and spiritual formation be- ing at St. Seminary “Obviously, we’re delight- an NRLC news article. a 4 percent drop in the num- Newark, in the Chapel of the fore being ordained. College in Covington. He is ed,” she said of the decline. at Souder graduated from The study reported 16.9 ber of abortion providers, but in his second semester at the “It’s great news for women the Pontifical North Ameri- the University of Notre Dame Pontifical North American and (the) babies ... but the can College. in Indiana in 2009 with both a College. Glad Tidings pre-empted statistic ‘1.1 million’ is still so sad.” Archbishop Hebda, the The Sunday, Feb. 23, airing of Glad Tidings, the television Though the annual March celebrant of the Mass, is a na- program of the Diocese of Lake Charles, will be pre-empted for Life rally on the National tive of Pittsburgh, Pennsylva- due to NBC network coverage of the 2014 Olympics from Mall has come and gone -- it nia, an alumnus of the North Sochi, Russia. The program, beginning at 6 a.m., will be was Jan. 22 -- Monahan en- streamed on the diocesan website at lcdiocese.org. American College who had couraged pro-life supporters served the College as an ad- on the March for Life orga- junct Spiritual Director, was nization’s blog to “make an named Coadjutor Archbish- impact all year-round in our op of Newark in 2013, hav- communities, be it through ing previously served as the Vocation Drawing starting a group, writing an Bishop of Gaylord, Michigan. op-ed, joining a school board As part of the rite, the or health board, or praying in Bishop placed the Lection- front of an abortion clinic.” ary, from which the readings Contest slated Father Frank Pavone, na- used in the celebration of tional director of for LAKE CHARLES – A Voca- eral at the Chancery, 414 Iris Mass are taken, in the hands Life, issued a statement Feb. tion Drawing Contest will be Street, Lake Charles. Win- of each candidate and said, 4 in response to the study and held in the Diocese of Lake ners will be announced by “Take this book of holy Scrip- NRLC’s article. Charles in preparation for fax on March 21. “A decline in abortion, for ture and be faithful in hand- the World Day of Prayer for The first place winner will whatever reason, leads us ing on the word of God, so Vocations. receive $200, second place, closer to our goal of protect- that it may grow strong in the All students in grades 2 $100, and third place, $50. ing children in the womb hearts of his people.” through 12 are invited to The first place winner will by law,” he said. “The fewer The Pontifical North create a drawing depicting have their drawing repro- abortions there are, the more American College serves awareness of the vocation of duced on prayer cards in legislators will consider it as the American seminary the priesthood in Southwest observance of World Day of realistic to change public in Rome. Founded in 1859 Louisiana. The drawing must Prayer to be presented at the policy on the matter, and the by Blessed Pius IX, the col- be on an 8.5 x 11 inch white 9:30 a.m. Mass in the Cathe- more judges will consider lege has formed over 5000 sheet of poster board, with a dral of the Immaculate Con- it prudent to uphold such priests near the heart of the deadline of noon on March ception on Sunday, May 11. changes.” Church for service in dioces- 7. The drawings are to be es around the United States, placed in a large envelope, Canada, and Australia. The unfolded, with the name of Mardi Gras Holiday Hours John Souder, a seminarian of the Diocese of Lake Charles College strengthens the the artist, their age, grade The offices of the Diocese of Lake Charles will be closed studying at the Pontifical North American College, was bonds between Rome and lo- level, church parish attend- on Monday and Tuesday, March 3 and 4, for Mardi Gras. instituted into the Ministry of Lector by Archbishop Bernard cal Churches worldwide, and ing or the city, and the name They will reopen at 8:30 a.m. on Ash Wednesday, March 5. A. Hebda, Coadjutor Archbishop of Newark, New Jersey, it allows its students to study of the school at which they at- Regular office hours will be observed the remainder of the on Jan. 12. Souder was one of 59 seminarians to receive the Church’s rich religious tend/city printed on the back. week. Bishop Glen John Provost will distribute ashes during the ministry. (Photo courtesy: Pontifical North American and cultural heritage at close Submissions must be made to the celebration of the 12:05 p.m. Mass in the Cathedral of College) range. the Office of the Vicar Gen- the Immaculate Conception. 2 Catholic Calendar Friday, February 21, 2014 Planting the Seed March for Life not hindered by weather Last month I had the honor of accompanying 250 of my fel- doing this, Jesus com- The final commentary on this sad chapter is found on the low Catholics from the Diocese to Washington on the 41st an- mented, “Is it law- steps of the Supreme Court building where the March for Life niversary of the Roe v. Wade decision, January 22. The weath- ful to do good on the ends. There women, who have experienced what some would er was intimidating. It was bitterly cold. The streets were Sabbath rather than Bishop call their “dream,” gather to tell their stories of abortion. blanketed in snow. The sub-zero wind chill cut through warm to do evil, to save life They are courageous. They are, as they describe themselves, clothing. But as inclement as it was, the frigid temperatures rather than to destroy Glen John “silent no more.” Their witness is compelling. Only the cal- it?” (Mark 3:4). A and difficult road conditions didn’t keep over 100,000 from lous could remain unmoved. coming to demonstrate for human life. And five busloads of democratic republic Provost The marchers who braved the cold were witnesses, as Car- men and women from the Diocese of Lake Charles were there. is a marvelous system dinal O’Malley referred to them in his Vigil Mass homily the On the morning of the March, we began, as we should, with of government, but Mass. Our group was large enough to book a church, Holy it crosses a perilous line when it ignores and eventually op- night before the March. Francis sent his blessings and Trinity in Georgetown, the oldest Catholic parish in Wash- poses natural law. We have not only a right but also a moral prayers. The peaceful demonstration of hundreds of thou- ington, established in 1787. Gathering around the historic al- obligation to ask the question if saving life is a value. sands that the Holy Father endorsed was a calm witness, a tar to celebrate the sacred mysteries of our redemption, we Some, including elected leaders, would argue that the Roe peaceful statement. Contrast this to the police canine patrols prayed and sang asking God’s blessing on our endeavor and v. Wade decision articulates a fundamental principle, i.e. that we spotted along the route of the March or the woman well-being, as well as petitioning for a greater respect for hu- “that every woman should be able to make her own choices who spit on one of our Lake Charles people while she knelt to man life in this country. about her body and her health.” They see this as necessary pray the rosary in front of the White House. Let us not forget The readings from Sacred Scripture assigned for that Mass in a country “where everyone deserves the same freedom that the word for witness in New Testament Greek is trans- were extremely appropriate. We began with a passage from and opportunities to fulfill their dreams.” How remarkable! lated “.” the First Book of . It spoke of David defeating Goli- Does the American “dream” now include abortion? For some A remarkable witness of the March for Life is the over- ath. A seemingly helpless youth conquered the hero of the it would appear so. whelming presence of young people below the age of 30. Cyn- In a scientific age, so enlightened by experimentation and Philistines with a stone and a sling. My favorite verse was this ics would say they just want a few days off from school, but one: “All this multitude, too, shall learn that it is not by sword discovery, we have learned that the fetus can feel pain. We only someone who has never been to a March would say that. or spear that the Lord saves. For the battle is the Lord’s…” (I can hear the heartbeat. Ultrasound permits us to view viable The voices and faces of the youth tell a different story. They Samuel 17:47). It is not human strength or “sword or spear” organs developing. Reformed abortionists will describe to us that conquers but the Lord himself. When faced with the Goli- how the fetus appears helplessly to defend itself against the are convinced of their witness. They are there for a reason, ath of public opinion and indifference, it is good to remember surgical instruments that would dismember it in the womb. and they know it is important. I asked someone once why so this. And what of discrimination in a society that prides itself in many youth participated in the March. The unforgettable an- The second Scripture reading was taken from the Gospel equality? The disproportionate number of abortions per- swer was, “Because they are thankful to be alive.” Their par- of St. Mark. Against the indignation of the Pharisees, Jesus formed on minorities and handicapped children speaks for ents told them of the “choice” offered them, and they chose dared to cure a man of a withered hand on the Sabbath. In itself. life—“to save life rather than to destroy it.” Blessed are the losers, at least by worldly standards, pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- on the beatitude: “Blessed onize Blessed John Paul II, The “poor in spirit,” the pure are the poor in spirit, for who began the international and the merciful, whom Jesus theirs is the kingdom of heav- celebrations and will be “the described as “blessed,” are en.” great patron of the World the same people the world has chosen Youth Days.” considers to be “losers,” Pope the beatitudes from the fifth “To be blessed means to Francis told Catholic young chapter of the Gospel of St. be happy,” the pope said. people. Matthew as the themes for “In an age when we are con- But Jesus offers his fol- World Youth Day 2014-2016. stantly being enticed by vain lowers the true path to hap- This year and next, World and empty illusions of happi- piness, and faith in him “will Youth Day will be celebrated ness, we risk settling for less allow you to expose and re- on a local level -- on Palm and ‘thinking small’ when it ject the ‘low-cost’ offers and Sunday at the Vatican -- and comes to the meaning of life. approaches all around you,” in 2016 it will be an interna- “Think big instead,” he the pope said in his message tional gathering in Krakow, told young people. “Open for World Youth Day 2014. Poland. your hearts.” The message, released The pope told young peo- “Young people who choose Feb. 6 at the Vatican, focused ple that in April, he will can- Christ are strong: They are fed by his word and they do not need to ‘stuff them- Before the beginning of last year’s Rite of Election ceremony, Father Keith Pellerin, pastor of Did you know... selves’” with money, posses- St. Martin de Porres speaks to catechumens and candidates from his parish sions and fleeting pleasure, alongside the central aisle of the Cathedral. The most recent year of 14 that saw three men serve as the the pope said. Successor of St. Peter was 1978. That year Pope Paul VI “Have the courage to swim died on August 6, closing out 15 years and 46 days as against the tide. Have the Pope. Twenty-two days later his successor – Pope John courage to be truly happy,” Paul I (Cardinal Albino Luciani) began what would be he said. a 33-day reign, dying on September 28. Eighteen days Explaining how true hap- following the death of Pope John Paul I, Cardinal Karol piness includes being “poor Wojtyla was elected Pope, the first Polish pope and the Rite of Election Sunday, in spirit,” the pope said he first non-Italian pope in 455 years. He took the name knew it seemed strange to John Paul II. His reign as Supreme Pontiff lasted 26 link happiness and poverty. years, 168 days – the third longest after Pope Pius IX But, he said, in the Bible and St. Peter. ? being poor isn’t just about Even though three in the same year is unusual, do March 9, in Cathedral having few material posses- you know the year in which four men led the Roman Catholic Church? Find out in our next Catholic Calen- sions. “It suggests lowliness, LAKE CHARLES – The This year there will be that these catechumens are dar – March 21. a sense of one’s limitations Rite of Election, the rec- more than 200 catechumens ready for baptism. and existential poverty. ognition of God’s choice to and candidates. The inscription is made call catechumens for im- Two elements are key in the Book of the Elect. mediate initiation into the to the Rite of Election: the The names recorded there Church, will be held at 2:30 inscription of the names of are the names by which the p.m. Sunday, March 9, the the Elect, and the testimo- Elect will be baptized. After First Sunday of Lent, in the ny of godparents and cat- the enrollment, the Bishop Cathedral of the Immacu- echists. Testimony occurs announces that the cat- late Conception. The Most in the form of affirmation by echumens are members of Reverend Glen John Pro- the godparents and the as- the Elect. All offer prayers vost will preside and meet sembly. After the catechu- on their behalf. the catechumens and can- mens are presented, the Baptized candidates, didates. Bishop asks the godparents preparing for full commu- The rite closes the pe- if they consider the candi- nion with the Church, are riod of the catechumenate, dates worthy for initiation. asked to participate in the and begins the preparation This question and answer rite of calling the candi- for baptism at Easter. Cat- presumes that some de- dates to continuing conver- echumens who undergo this liberation has taken place sion. The candidates along rite are called the “Elect” prior to this moment. The with their sponsors are during the period of purifi- Rite of Election brings to a presented to the Bishop for cation and enlightenment. ritual moment the decision recognition.

Young Catholics from 11 parishes of the Diocese of Lake Charles attended a weekend Confirmation retreat, sponsored by the Offices of Religious Education and Youth and Young Adult Ministry, at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Oakdale. Pictured here, speaking to the retreatants, is Steve Angrisano, a veteran musician, composer and youth minister who has been featured at sux World Youth Days, several National Catholic Youth Conferences and many diocesan youth conventions/conferences including a number of appearances at events in the local church in Southwest Louisiana. Mass isn’t a tourist activity; it’s God’s time VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- he said, according to a report sion or even “a prayer meet- An invitation to attend Pope by Vatican Radio. ing. It’s something else. In the Francis’ early morning Mass Addressing those gathered liturgy, God is present.” is a hot ticket in Rome, but for the Mass Feb. 10, he said, The Mass is not a re-enact- the pope said the Mass -- in “All of you come here, all of his residence or anywhere us gather here to enter into a ment of the Last Supper, he else -- isn’t an event, but a mystery, which is the liturgy. said. “It is the Last Supper. time for entering into the It is God’s time, it is God’s It is living again the passion mystery of God. space, it is God’s cloud that and redeeming death of the “Maybe someone would envelops us all.” Lord. It is a theophany: the say, ‘Oh, I must get to Mass at The Mass is one of those Brian Butler and Greg Boudreaux with Dumb Ox Ministries led the annual eighth grade retreat for Sanctae Marthae because the occasions when the Lord is Lord is present on the altar Catholic schools in the Diocese of Lake Charles in Founders Hall of Immaculate Heart of Mary pope’s morning Mass is on present, Pope Francis said. to be offered to the Father for Catholic Church. The Office ofR eligious Education of the Diocese sponsors the all day event, which the Rome tourist itinerary,’” The Mass isn’t a social occa- the salvation of the world.” is aided by St. Louis Catholic High School students. Catholic Calendar Friday, February 21, 2014 3 Pilgrimage to March for Life in Washington, DC

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More than 240 pilgrims – youth, young adults, clergy, adult staff, and chaperones – filled five charter buses from theD iocese of Lake Charles attended the National March for Life Rally in Washington, DC. The group left the Diocese on Saturday, Jan. 18 and returned on the evening of Thursday, Jan. 23. In preparing for the journey (1) Milissa Thibodeaux, director of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, and Carrie Cubbage, right, a longtime adult volunteer to the diocesan office and a parishioner of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church in Sulphur cut scarves from bolts of heavy purple and orange felt used by the pilgrims for warmth and ready identification in the crowds that attend- ed the event; (2) Father Nathan Long celebrated Mass for the pilgrims before the departure in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception; (3) pilgrims checked in with diocesan staff after the departure Mass to determine on which of the five buses they would be traveling to the na- tion’s capital; (4) the buses were loaded with luggage and other assort- ed necessities (such as food and water for the pilgrims) for the journey; (5) Bishop Glen John Provost celebrated Mass for the pilgrims at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Georgetown, the oldest Catholic church in continuous operation in the District of Columbia; (6) some of the pil- grims from the Diocese during the celebration of the Liturgy at Holy Trinity; (7) some of the more than half million pilgrims await the begin- ning of the cold and snowy march that led past the Capitol and the U.S. 7 Supreme Court, where abortion was legalized on Jan. 22, 1973 with the Court’s decision on Roe v Wade. Pope clears way for of Korean

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope for the martyrs’ on a clared Paul Yun and his companions On Feb. 7, the pope also approved Francis recognized the martyrdom of date yet to be announced. A miracle “servants of God” in 2003. He already three other decrees, recognizing the 124 Catholics who were killed during is required before any blessed may had canonized Father Andrew Kim Mexican founder of a religious or- widespread persecution in Korea in be canonized. and 102 other during the 18th through 19th centuries. The Korean cause, referred to as a trip to South Korea in 1984. der, an Italian Franciscan and He also approved a decree recog- the cause of Paul Yun Ji-Chung and While no date has been set for be- a Spanish nun for having lived the nizing the martyrdom of Conventual 123 companions, recognizes the sac- atification of Yun and his compan- Christian virtues in a heroic way and Franciscan Father Francesco Zirano, rifices of those killed for their faith ions, the Vatican has said it is study- declaring them “venerable.” Recog- an Italian priest killed in Algeria in between 1791 and 1888. More than ing the possibility of Pope Francis nition of a miracle attributed to each 1603. 10,000 Catholics in Korea were killed visiting South Korea, perhaps in mid- The pope’s approval of the martyr- during that period, starting in 1785. August to coincide with the celebra- candidate’s intercession is needed dom decrees Feb. 7 opened the way Blessed Pope John Paul II de- tion of Asian Youth Day in Daejeon. before beatification. Pope Francis 4 Catholic Calendar Friday, February 21, 2014 Lent: the chance to regain our footing Observant Catholics sometimes experience frustration other than abandon slave trade, or same-sex marriage, to name a few, and hold to with various elements of our society that tend to grow ever morality altogether. Rev. the faith of the Church. more distant from the values that shape Christian - The truth of the moral Decisive pastoral leadership is duty bound to demonstrate ship. Raising children, after all, is difficult enough without life is pushed to the Edward that authentic faith and moral truth cannot be opposed to having to deal with the widespread promotion of lifestyles side and a distorted one another. Who could take seriously the suggestion that a that clash with the pursuit of holiness. Lent gives us a chance notion of faith steps Richard, person’s immoral acts are inconsequential to faith when the to regain our footing in the moral battle. in. Faith has come to highest expression of the Church’s charter for living, Jesus’ We face a problematic situation that results from the lack mean being saved in M.S. of a coherent way of morally evaluating human behavior in spite of one’s moral Sermon on the Mount, contains a litany of actions that lead our cultural environment. The question about values is an im- life. Could there ever one to hell? Surely, it cannot be said that our Savior was just portant one because some time during the last century, on the be such a thing a having faith without moral values? Can trying to scare us into being good. whole, the thing we call American society made the transition one’s faith save without choosing to live within a certain mor- Faith in God, as Jesus shows us, confronts us with clear into a state of moral mayhem. This affects Catholics and other al framework? Put more explicitly, “Can one have true living moral choices having eternal consequences. During Lent, we Christians as much as anyone. faith if his or her moral life is just a reflection of an allegedly return to the example of the Lord Jesus who rejects the de- The case of so-called same-sex marriage is an example of value-free culture?” ception of the devil and false hope. Those who repent and cultural confusion that is confounding many Christians. Ac- The problem for Catholics who live by this false notion of turn to the Lord Jesus, relying on his grace, will be saved. cording to a rational understanding of the human person, faith, one having no authentic moral framework, is that the Father Edward Richard, M.S., a native of DeQuincy, a priest marriage is contracted by a male and a female. The intelli- Church has a very clear one. In fact, some aspects of the moral of the Missionaries of Our Lady of LaSalette, and Pastor of Our gent understanding of the meaning of the human body pro- life have been so defined that should one disavow these de- Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church in Sulphur, is a nation- vides a way to define human married love. The elimination of fined teachings that person has abandoned the faith of the that system of valuing human action has resulted in a vacuum Church. It could take a bit of thoughtful work to determine ally recognized expert in the field of medical ethics, as well as that is being filled by political and social action. Authentic whether one has indeed left, but the Church can, does, and a highly published commentator on moral issues. Ordained in Christianity is replaced with what passes as social progress. must make such judgments for the sake of the faith, in gen- 1990, he holds a Doctorate in Moral Theology, a Juris Doctor, a Amidst all the confusion, even among those who teach oth- eral, and for the well-being of the faithful, today. One cannot Masters of Divinity, a B.S. from McNeese State University and ers, many people have had little chance of doing anything do everything possible to promote actions such as genocide, studied at the Aquinas Institute of Theology. Deacon Cormier Lenten takes Holy Land Regulations Pilgrimage Every Catholic, even children and older adults, should participate in some way in the spiritual disciplines and JERUSALEM – Deacon Matthew Cormier, a seminarian for penitential practices of Lent in order to go up to Jerusa- the Diocese of Lake Charles studying at Notre Dame Seminary lem with Jesus. These are the regulations for the Church in New Orleans, recently spent a week in the Holy Land along in the United States. with six other deacons and staff from the Seminary. • Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fast and “In the last few years, Notre Dame has offered the chance abstinence. This means that we do not eat meat and for fourth year deacons to go on pilgrimage to the Holy Land we have only one full meal. Concerning the Good Fri- in preparation for priestly ,” Deacon Cormier, a pa- day fast, the Second Vatican Council teaches: “let the rishioner of Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church in Sulphur, Easter fast be kept sacred. Let it be celebrated every- said. “We were there from January 4-11, spending two days in where on Good Friday and, where possible, prolonged Galilee and the rest of the trip in and around Jerusalem.” throughout Holy Saturday, so that the joys of the Sun- Others on the journey were Deacons John Paul Crispin, day of the Resurrection may be attained with a clear Franciscan Missionaries of Hope; Matthew Johnston, Charles and uplifted mind.” Doussoy, Ian Bozant, and Tim Hedrick, all of the Archdiocese • The other Fridays of the season of Lent are also days of New Orleans; Joshua Johnson, Diocese of Baton Rouge; and of abstinence from meat. The obligation to abstain Father Paul Gross of Baton Rouge, chaplain. Deacon Cormier prays at the rock at which Jesus prayed from meat binds Catholics 14 years of age and older. The group sailed on the Sea of Galilee; prayed at the Rock in the Garden of Gethsemane, located in the Church of The obligation to fast, limiting oneself to one full of Gethsemane, in the “Church of All Nations;” touched the All Nations. Jesus prayed in the garden of Gethsemane, meal and two lighter meals In the course of the day, Rock of the Holy Sepulchre, where the Cross of Christ stood, near the foot of the Mount of Olives, the night before he binds Catholics from the age of 18 to 59. Those who underneath the main altar on Calvary; had a view of Jerusa- was taken into custody. are younger or older may freely embrace these disci- lem from the Church of “Dominus Flevit”, where the Lord plines. But Lenten disciplines should never endanger wept over the city; served at Mass in the Holy Sepulchre itself; your health. and visited the Western “Wailing” Wall. • The Fridays of the year outside of Lent are also days Ordination to the priesthood for Deacon Cormier is sched- of penance. Abstaining from meat is the traditional uled on June 7 in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. way of observing these days of penance. However, each person is free to replace the traditional absti- nence from meat with some other practice of volun- tary self-denial or personal penance. It is obvious that abstaining from meat is meaningless for vegetarians, Theresians Women’s who must choose some other form of abstinence. It is equally obvious that replacing meat with a gour- met seafood meal is not in keeping with the spirit of Day of Reflection Lent. Abstaining from meat may be replaced on Fri- days during the year with abstaining from some other food. It may also be replaced with time spent reading and studying the Scriptures, special prayers, such as set March 8 the rosary or visits to the Blessed Sacrament acts of thoughtfulness and charity to those In need, or acts of LAKE CHARLES – A Women’s Day of Reflection – Clay in personal witness to ones faith, such as teaching a re- the hand of the Potter – hosted by the Fleur de Lis Theresians ligion class or speaking out on the sinfulness of abor- of Southwest Louisiana will be held Saturday, March 8, in the tion, euthanasia, racism, and other social evils. Our Lady Queen of Heaven Family Life Center from 8:30 a.m. • While the season of Lent is the primary period of to 2:30 p.m. Catholic penitential practices, these regulations are Father Scott DesOrmeaux, Denise Donahoe and Larry Ea- not intended to limit the occasions for Christian pen- gle will serve as presenters. Early registration with lunch by ance. The practice of spiritual discipline is always ap- March 1 is $25 and registration after March 1 is $30. propriate during periods of special need for the indi- Check in begins at 8:30 a.m. with a Welcome Prayer Service vidual and the larger community. at 9 a.m. and the first talk is by Father DesOrmeaux - From His The Catholic faithful should be reminded of the teach- Hands - at 9:30 a.m. From 10:30 to 11 a.m., there will be private ing of Pope Paul VI concerning the seriousness of being reflection and a break. faithful to Lenten disciplines. He said that the obligation Denise Donahoe’s presentation - Called to be His Vessel - is to follow these disciplines in solidarity with the Church at 11 a.m. with lunch to follow. Deacon Cormier served Mass in the Holy Sepulchre. The is a serious one. However, Catholics should not become The final talk of the day - We are the Clay - by Larry Eagle, site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem scrupulous in this regard. Failure to observe individual opens at 1 p.m. and the closing prayer and song start at 2:15 is identified as the place both of the crucifixion and days of penance is not considered a serious matter. How- p.m. the tomb of Jesus. It has long been a major pilgrimage ever, the faithful should look for ways to do more rather Theresians, Women in Support of Women-Reaching Out center for Christians all around the world. than less. Fast and abstinence on the days prescribed, with Gospel Values, is an international organization of women and works of religion and charity on the Fridays outside of faith who meet in small Christian communities to pray, to be Lent, should be considered a minimal response to the enlightened and challenged, and to support one another. In- call of Jesus to go up to Jerusalem with Him in order that terested women are invited to visit the Outreach Table at the we might experience true Christian conversion in our Day of Reflection for more information and to visit the many lives. pages of the website –www.theresians.org. Registration information can be obtained by writing Car- ole Thompson, 315 Dan Thompson Road, Ragley, LA 70657 or by sending a check payable to Fleur De Lis Theresians along with the name, address, telephone and e-mail address to the Cathedral Altar Society same address. Spring bus trip planned Catholic Charities Jazz LAKE CHARLES -- The Altar Society of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception will host a bus trip to Natchi- toches on Tuesday, March 18. Brunch slated May 18 Mass will be celebrated at 6:30 a.m. on the morning of the trip in the Cathedral with departure at 7 a.m. A tour of the Ba- LAKE CHARLES -- The annual Jazz Brunch, this year fea- silica of the Immaculate Conception in Natchitoches (built in turing Chester and Jarvis Daigle along with entertainment by 1850 and one of only two minor basilicas in Louisiana) is at 10 Diocesan Clergy, benefitting the ministries of Catholic Chari- a.m. and followed at 10:30 a.m. by a walking tour of the historic ties of Southwest Louisiana, will be from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. National Landmark District of Natchitoches. on Sunday, May 18, at the Lake Charles Country Club. Tickets Lunch is set for 12:15 p.m. at The Landing. At 1:30 p.m., the are $75 each and a table for eight is available for $700. Doors walking tour of the downtown shopping district continues fol- open at 11 a.m. lowed at 2:30 p.m. by a visit to the Louisiana Sports Hall of Sister Mary Vianney Walsh, R.S.M., the director of Catholic Fame and Northwest History Museum. The bus departs at 3:15 Charities of Southwest Louisiana, will deliver a welcoming ad- p.m. with a stop at Melrose Plantation on the way back to Lake dress. Charles. Arrival back at the Cathedral is planned for about 8 Two special sponsorship levels are available: Disciple - p.m. $1,500.00 and includes a table for eight and recognition at the Cost is $100 per person and includes meals, tours, fees, etc. event; Friend - $1,000 and includes a table for eight and recog- Deacon Cormier reaches out to touch the Western A $50 non-refundable deposit is required. A check for that nition at the banquet. Wall, the Wailing Wall, located on the western side of deposit can be written, payable to “ICC Altar Society,” and For more information and to purchase tickets contact Cath- the temple mount in the heart of old Jerusalem. It is mailed to Karen Fills, 1513 Anita Street, Sulphur, LA 70663. olic Charities of Southwest Louisiana, 1225 Second Street, a remnant of Herod’s grand temple, and is the most Call Ms. Fills at 337-625-8436 or e-mail [email protected] Lake Charles, LA 70601 or call 337-439-7436. holiest site for Jews. for more information. Catholic Calendar Friday, February 21, 2014 5 March events slated at Charles Center MOSS BLUFF -- A Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat will begin Call 337-855-1232 to register or go to stcharlescenter.com. Sug- next weekend at Tabor Retreat House of Saint Charles Center, gested donation is $20.00 per person and the deadline is Fri- running from Friday, Feb. 28, through Sunday, March 2. day, March 7. The Retreat for Healing After Abortion will be facilitated The Lenten Mini-Mission, 2014 - “To Know Scripture Is To by Fr. Nathan Long, Margie Long and the Diocesan Team. The Know Jesus” - with Mike VanVranken is Tuesday and Wednes- weekend will combine discussions, spiritual exercises, the day, March 18-19 from 6 to 9 p.m. each day. Van Vranken, a Sacrament of Reconciliation, a Memorial Service and a Mass lifelong Catholic, is a teacher, writer and retreat leader. He of Entrustment. Participation is strictly confidential. The cost brings forty years of business experience and a Master’s De- is $210.00 for meals, private room with private bath and all gree in Theological Studies from the University of Dallas to retreat materials. If you have a financial burden, assistance is every presentation he delivers. Call 337-855-1232 to register available. For more information or registration contact: Ra- or visit stcharlescenter.com. Suggested donation is $20.00 per chel’s Vineyard of Southwest Louisiana at 337-439-7400, Ext. person per evening with a registration deadline of Friday, 317 or e-mail [email protected]. March 14. Father Whitney Miller and Father Don Piraro will lead Father Whitney Miller will lead “Lenten Reflections with “Our Call to Lenten Grace,” an Ash Wednesday Evening of Re- Thomas Merton” from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, March 25. This flection on Wednesday, March 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. The program Evening of Reflection will focus upon a random sampling of will consist of Holy Mass and the Distribution of Ashes, a sim- his work through the years, particularly, those having to do ple supper and a presentation on Lenten spirituality. There with themes from the Lenten scripture readings. Call 337- will be no cost for the evening, but a free will offering will be 855-1232 to register or visit stcharlescenter.com. Registration accepted. Funds will benefit the Long Term Maintenance Ac- deadline is Friday, March 21. Suggested donation is $20.00 per count for the Center. Call 337-855-1232 to register. person. On Tuesday, March 11, Sr. Diane Depwe will present “Si- Lenten Private Directed Retreats, either three or five days mon Peter’s Continued Conversion Story” from 6 to 9 p.m. This is an invitation to journey along with Jesus through the eyes in length, will be available from Monday, March 31 to Sunday, and mind of Simon Peter. Call 337-855-1232 to register or go to April 6, led by Fr. Miller, Fr. Piraro, Judy Savoie and Gloria stcharlescenter.com. Suggested donation is $20.00 per person Villegas. A directed retreat is a form of silent retreat based and the deadline is Friday, March 7. on the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola focusing The Spiritual Book Club, led by Father Don Piraro, is 6 to on the personal prayer of the individual. There are no group 9 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11. The spring selection is “Gate- activities or conferences other than the daily Eucharist and way to Hope: An Exploration of Failure” by Maria Boulding, an individual daily meeting with the director. The retreatant O.S.B. Sister Maria was a British Benedictine and a member spends about four hours in contemplative prayer each day of Stanbrook Abbey. She died in 2009. “Gateway to Hope” was of the retreat. The retreatant may choose to do three or five originally published in 1985 and is considered to be a modern days. For more information or to register, those interested classic in the spiritual life. It deals with the failure that many must call 337-855-1232. There is no online registration fore men and women of God have faced from to , from these retreats. Suggested donation is $265.00 for three days, Peter to Jesus. It explores the mystery of our Redemption and $440.00 for five days. Scholarship information is available and, as such, is appropriate reading for the season of Lent. upon request for those in need of assistance. Pope says relativistic ideas of marriage lead to divorce VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- of the “new challenges” the they do not feel excluded bishops, the pope called for Pope Francis said contem- church faces in their society, from the mercy of God, the better pastoral preparation porary ideas of marriage as including the “idea of liberty fraternal love of other Chris- of couples engaged to be mar- an arrangement defined by without limits, tolerance hos- tians and the church’s solici- ried, to highlight the “beauty personal needs promote a tile to or wary of the truth, or tude for their salvation,” and of this union that, when well mentality of divorce, and he resentment of the church’s help such persons keep the founded on love and respon- called for better preparation justified opposition to the “faith and raise their chil- of engaged couples as well as prevailing relativism.” dren in the fullness of the sibility, can overcome trials, ministry to Catholics whose “Marriage today is often Christian experience.” difficulties (and) selfishness marriages have failed. considered a form of emo- The pope has said church with mutual forgiveness, re- The pope’s remarks ap- tional satisfaction that can law regarding marriage, di- pairing what might be ruined peared in a message distrib- be constructed in any way vorce and separation is a and not falling into the trap of uted to Polish bishops mak- or modified at will,” he said. topic that exemplifies a gen- a throwaway mentality.” ing “ad limina” visits to Rome “Unfortunately this vision eral need for mercy in the ¬The pope said pastors to report on the state of their also influences the mentality church today, and that it will should serve as “authentic fa- dioceses. Pope Francis met of Christians, causing them to be a subject of discussion at thers and spiritual guides” to with the group but, as he fre- resort easily to divorce or de this October’s extraordinary married couples, protecting quently does, dispensed with facto separation.” Synod of Bishops on the “pas- reading out his prepared Pope Francis said pas- toral challenges of the family them from the “threat of neg- text. tors should search for ways in the context of evangeliza- ative ideologies” and helping In his message, the pope to minister to divorced and tion.” them to “become strong in warned the bishops of some separated Catholics, “so that In his message to the Polish God and his love.” Archbishop warns against

The small chapel in the Katharine Drexel Conference Center at Saint Charles Center is now home to a ‘cooperating with evil’ beautiful stained glass window, which represents Saint Katharine Drexel. The window, designed and created by By Peter Finney Jr. ed by the abortions that will be performed at the proposed Frank Thompson, was given in commemoration of the NEW ORLEANS – Faced with the looming construction of a Planned Parenthood facility,” Archbishop Aymond wrote. retirement of Father Don Piraro, the founding Executive multimillion-dollar, regional abortion facility by Planned Par- He said there was “no justification, including economic Director of Saint Charles Center (1995-2010). enthood Gulf South, Archbishop Gregory Aymond wrote an hardship,” that would make either a direct or indirect rela- open letter Feb. 1 cautioning local Catholics and businesses tionship with Planned Parenthood or any abortion provider they would be “cooperating with the evil that will take place” “acceptable.” at the clinic if they participated in its preparation or construc- Archbishop Aymond added that any “affiliation or support” tion. of Planned Parenthood by Catholics would be “a matter of se- In the letter, published on the front page of the Feb. 1 issue rious scandal.” Special collections of the Clarion Herald, the archdiocesan newspaper, Archbish- Benjamin Clapper, executive director of Louisiana Right to op Aymond said the caution extends to any person or business Life, praised the archbishop for the letter, saying his stance “involved in the acquisition, preparation and construction of was “edifying and strengthens what we are doing.” this (abortion) facility.” “It should be a model for other religious leaders, not only in slated for March The archbishop also indicated the archdiocese would not this state but in other areas,” Clapper said. “Most of the time do future business “with any person or organization that par- people expect the bishop to say things and to teach principles, LAKE CHARLES -- Two special collections will be held in ticipates in actions that are essential to making this abortion but I don’t believe most people expect a bishop to make this the Diocese of Lake Charles during the month of March. facility a reality.” real-life, declarative statement that actually impacts the cor- Operation Rice Bowl, which supports the work of Catholic “This policy applies to all businesses, regardless of re- porate world. Relief Services, begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5, and con- ligious affiliation or non-affiliation,” Archbishop Aymond “When you have such a powerful institution in this city say- tinues through Easter Sunday, April 14. wrote. “Our fidelity to church teaching and our conscience ne- ing this, it makes people notice who Planned Parenthood re- The annual Black and Indian Mission Collection, which pro- cessitates this stance.” ally is,” Clapper added. “Planned Parenthood is selling itself vides funding for evangelization programs in needy U.S. home Planned Parenthood currently operates two clinics in Lou- as one thing and they are another thing. He’s technically not mission dioceses for African American and Native American isiana – in New Orleans and Baton Rouge – but do es not per- doing anything new – he’s just applying Catholic principles to churches, will taken up in all the parishes of the Diocese on form abortions in the state. In its public statements about the a situation. We have a leader willing to go to the wall for this March 8-9. Grants from the Black and Indian Mission collec- proposed 7,000-8,000-square-foot facility on South Claiborne cause and give us the strength and the energy to stand for life.” tion directly benefit a number of church parishes in the Dio- Avenue, located about five minutes from two universities and Archbishop Aymond asked Catholics to pray “for those that cese of Lake Charles. on a site easily accessible by public transportation, Planned are blind to the destruction caused by abortion,” and he in- Parenthood Gulf South indicated it would seek a state license vited Planned Parenthood officials and supporters to “prayer to perform abortions. and dialogue.” There are five, free-standing abortion clinics in Louisiana – “There are many issues, from violence in the streets to in New Orleans, Metairie, Baton Rouge, Shreveport and Boss- poverty, which hurt this community,” he wrote. “A regional Father Buller named ier City – but Archbishop Aymond said the proposed regional abortion center will not solve our problems; it will only cre- abortion clinic will be “the largest of its kind in Louisiana.” ate more. This is not the future the New Orleans metropolitan Using information obtained from a construction permit area needs.” temporary administrator that was approved by the city of New Orleans in December, experts have determined that Planned Parenthood could per- Peter Finney Jr. is the Executive Editor/General Manager of LAKE CHARLES – Bishop Glen John Provost has appoint- form “upwards of 30 abortions per day,” Archbishop Aymond the Clarion Herald, the newspaper of the Archdiocese of New ed the Rev. Ruben Buller, Director of the Office of Liturgy and said. Orleans. Reprinted with permission. Master of Ceremonies to Bishop Provost, as Parochial Admin- “This is a staggering increase in the number of abortions in istrator of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, effective Jan. light of the 3,496 abortions performed in 2012 in Orleans and 16. Jefferson parishes,” the archbishop wrote. Next Catholic Calendar Father Buller will serve in that capacity until March 21, The archbishop’s letter cited the “Catechism of the Catho- Publication of the next Catholic Calendar is Friday, March when the Rev. Keith Pellerin, the church’s pastor, returns from lic Church,” saying the church since the first century has con- 21. Free copies are available at the Diocesan Chancery, his sabbatical for ministry. sidered abortion “a grave evil.” 414 Iris Street; the Bishop Harold Perry Building, 411 Iris The appointment is according to the Code of Canon Law, “We cannot be silent in view of the grave injustice present- Street; and Crossroads Bookstore, 601 Prien Lake Road. canons 539-540. 6 Catholic Calendar Friday, February 21, 2014 Ecumenical Prayer Service for Christian Unity LAKE CHARLES – Mem- of a functioning unit by all ing of parts to an effort to bers of various church con- its parts that together make create a sense of harmony – gregations and their clergy a unit function. The unit, for synchronization,” Reverend leadership came together on our purpose and focus to- Thomas continued. “While it January 21 in First Presbyte- night, is the body of Christ, is true that we must gather rian Church to participate in the Church. before we can function, unity an ecumenical celebration of “The parts that must func- is the functioning parts that the Word of God and the In- tion in order that the Church exist for the sole purpose ternational Week of Prayer may prove its worth are its of the advancement of the for Christian Unity. The Rev. members, that’s you and I – unit – the church, the body of Dr. Norman Thomas, pastor/ individually and collective- Christ. founder of New Life Church ly,” he continued. “But unless “We are not created to be International, proclaimed the members of this great an immobile, paralytic insti- the Gospel and preached body are fitly joined together, tution rendered incapable of a sermon dealing with this it is impossible for the unit to completing the assignment The Greater St. Mary Baptist Church Praise Team provided the Meditation Hymn fol- year’s theme – “Has Christ mobilize and to become the that has been set before us,” lowing the sermon of Rev. Dr. Norman Thomas at the annual Ecumenical Prayer Ser- Been Divided?” agent of transformation that he said. “Jesus referred to us vice, this year held at First Presbyterian Church in Lake Charles. The prayer service, Other clergy participat- she was destined to be.” as the light of the world and the local event of the International Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, is sponsored ing in the event included He used St. Paul’s writing we are the carriers of solu- to the Church in Ephesus to tions for every rank of our so- by the Military and Hospitaller Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem, The Lake Area Min- Rev. Charles Langford, Uni- isters Group, and members of the Louisiana Interchurch Conference. versity United Methodist speak about working togeth- ciety. I suggest to you tonight Church in Lake Charles; er. that the principal of unity Rev. Angela Bullhoff; Rev. “The emphasis tonight yields a consistent return of Theron Watson, Calvary Bap- is that each part is working empowerment. The power of tist Church; Reverend Keith properly in all of its func- functional unity engages the James Mette concert Bell, United Christian Fel- tions,” he said. “So therefore, spirit of man and allows him lowship; Rev. Archimandrite unity in its completeness to see what ordinarily would Herbert J. May, pastor of Our ought to provide a strong, be impossible. I say when- Lady of Seven Dolors Catho- mature Church built on the ever you get to a place where you can see what would or- at St. Martin de Porres will lic Church in Welsh; and Rev. premise of God’s love toward Connie MacIntosh, pastor of humanity. dinarily be impossible then First Presbyterian Church in “We must define unity you can do what other people Welsh. Members of the music first by what it is not - not the ordinarily would not be able mere collection and gather- to do.” benefit Gabriel Project ministry of First Presbyte- rian Church of Lake Charles LAKE CHARLES – Mi- ing pregnant women that in Catholic parish ministry. and the Greater Saint Mary chael James Mette, a young they will be provided assis- During those years, he felt Baptist Church Praise Team national contemporary Chris- tance. St. Martin de Porres increasingly called to focus provided music. tian recording artist, will per- parishioners assist women in on beauty by sharing the Gos- Sponsors were the Mili- form a free, live concert in St. need through companionship pel through music. His debut tary and Hospitaller Order of Martin de Porres Catholic and support by coordinat- album – Always What I Need St. Lazarus of Jerusalem, the Church, 5495 Elliott Road, on ing transportation for medi- – in 2010 encourages trust in Lake Area Ministers Group, Thursday, Feb. 27, at 6:30 p.m. cal services, housing, food, God’s providence. His sec- A “love offering” to help materials and/or baby care. and members of the Louisi- ond album – Bring Forth the support Mette’s music min- The church also provides ana Interchurch Conference. Light (2012) – reflects a more One of the principal minis- istry will be asked as well as pastoral support, offering mature view of the Catho- tries of the Order of St. Laza- information on the church’s hope, prayer, and the “face of lic faith, exploring musical rus is the re-unification of all new Gabriel Project ministry Christ” in each Gabriel’s An- themes of human love, life Christians, and, thus, the rea- at St. Martin de Porres. gel – the women and men that son for the annual Ecumeni- The Gabriel Project seeks feel God’s calling to serve the and the afterlife. His music cal Prayer Service, according to save unborn babies and mothers. is brooding and spirited, full to Father May. their mothers from the de- Mette served in the U.S. of lush guitars, piano, and Rev. Thomas noted that struction of abortion. It is Air Force and upon his dis- haunting vocals. he contemplated the words of a parish-based “hands-on” charge completed his degree For more information, Scripture from 1 Corinthians program that aids in assur- in Theology, working 10 years call 337-478-3845. when he thought of unity. “‘For just as the body is a change our society. If I didn’t believe that, unit and yet has many parts, there would be no reason for me to stand in pro-life front of you today. I believe I will see an end and all the parts, though Continued from Page 1 to legal abortion in my lifetime. If you don’t many, form [only] one body, kind of mom just stands there and watches believe that, there is no reason to fight. It will so it is with Christ (the Mes- another woman’s child be murdered right in take every single one of us to be unabashedly siah, the Anointed One),’” he front of her face, and does nothing - me. I was pro-life.” said. “Unity is the outcome that kind of mom. The event helped to provide funding for of something I want to use “I don’t believe that abortion has been le- several diocesan pro-life ministries – Ra- as a term to challenge our gal for almost 42 years now in this country be- chel’s Vineyard/Silent No More and The Ga- thinking tonight – functional cause of Planned Parenthood, because of oth- briel Project - as well as aid in the expenses unity, which is the outcome Rev. Dr. Norman Thomas er abortion providers, because of pro-choice to send pilgrims to the National March for lobbyists. I believe that abortion has been Life each January in Washington DC. legal for so long because of one reason and Rachel’s Vineyard/Silent No More is a that is apathy. Our apathy. Abortion is alive weekend retreat program offered to men and and well in this country, I believe, because of women who have been harmed by the abor- our silence. Our silence in our churches, our tion experience. It is a safe place to renew, silence in the body of Christ.” rebuild and redeem hearts broken by abor- Since that departure from Planned Par- tion and the retreats offer a supportive, con- enthood, Johnson has written a book “Un- fidential and non-judgmental environment planned,” embarked on a pro-life speaking where women and men can express, release career, and, in 2012, formed a ministry called and reconcile painful post-abortive emotions “and then there were none” to get abortion to begin the process of restoration, renewal workers out of the industry and healing. “In the past year we have helped 93 work- The Gabriel Project provides a 24-hour ho- ers leave the abortion industry,” Johnson tline staffed by volunteers as well as spiritual said. and emotional support for unwed mothers “I just think that we live in crazy society, and those facing difficult pregnancies as well when the people of this country are more as baby items that the mother might need. concerned about the health and livelihood of For information on Rachel’s Vineyard Re- animals in shelters than they are about our treats and The Gabriel Project or to make unborn brothers and sisters,” she said. “It your contribution to aid in these important The crowd of nearly 600 people begins to gather in the Buccaneer Room of the Lake is a crazy time that we live in, but I believe pro-life and post-abortive ministries, call Charles Civic Center for the January 14 Respect Life Dinner featuring Abby Johnson, that we can take it back. I believe that we can 337-439-7400, Ext. 317. a stanch pro-life advocate and once a Planned Parenthood director. change the way things are going right now - Diocesan Briefs..... nings; March 25, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, lease deep feelings of anger, shame, and guilt that frequently Hour of Prayer at Immaculate Heart of Mary Jennings, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and March 26-7, St. Cath- accompany the abortion experience. It combines discussions, LAKE CHARLES – An “Hour of Prayer for the Spiritual olic Church, Oberlin, 7 a.m,-6 p.m.; March 27, 7 a.m.-4 p.m., spiritual exercises, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a Memo- Needs of Families will be held from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. on Satur- March 28, 7 a.,m.-5 p.m.;, and March 29, 7 a.m.-to 4 p.m.. rial Service, and Mass of entrustment. Participation is strictly day, March 15, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, following the 4 p.m. Vigil Mass. confidential. March prayer breakfast, luncheon Call Rachel’s Vineyard of Southwest Louisiana at 337-439- The Hour of Prayer will consist of prayer, Scripture read- LAKE CHARLES – The next Men’s Prayer Breakfast with ing and singing. Everyone is invited. 7400, Ext. 317 or e-mail [email protected] for Bishop Glen John Provost is Friday, March 7 in Ave Maria Hall. information. Call Bertha Pappion at 337-439-9690, Equilla Brannon at The breakfast is preceded by 6:30 a.m. Mass in the Cathe- 337-433-2114, or Theresa Lavergne at 337-433-0134 for more dral of the Immaculate Conception. Mass, Adoration for Healing on First Thursdays information The Women’s Prayer Luncheon is Wednesday, March 19 in HACKBERRY – Mass and Adoration for Healing is held on Ave Maria Hall. the First Thursday of each month, March 7 this month, in St. Dominican Sisters to speak March 25 Women should send a check for $15, payable to the Dio- Peter the Apostle Catholic Church with Father Rommel Tolen- LAKE CHARLES – Two religious women from the Domini- cese of Lake Charles, to Gaynell Carrier, P.O. Box 3223, Lake can Sisters of St. Cecelia Motherhouse in Nashville, Tenn., tino as the celebrant. It begins at 5:30 p.m. with Confessions, a Charles, LA 70602-3223, and include a stamped, self-ad- Rosary, and Chaplet of Divine Mercy. The Mass is at 6 p.m. fol- will offer a presentation on consecrated life for high school dresssed envelope. and college age young women at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, March 25, lowed by Eucharistic Exposition and Adoration with prayers in the Community Center of St. Henry Catholic Church, 1021 Black Alumni scholaraships at McNeese for healing and deliverance, ending with Benediction. Eighth Avenue. LAKE CHARLES – Applications are now being accepted The sisters will answer questions about their lives and the Together for Life March 8-9 for 2014 scholarships available through the Black Alumni MOSS BLUFF – Together for Life, a weekend marriage beautiful fulfillment they find in being a bride of Christ. Din- Chapter of the McNeese State University Alumni Association. preparation event sponsored by the Office of Family Life, will ner will be provided. Specifics of the program can be obtained by calling 337- be Saturday and Sunday, March 8-9. Saturday’s events are in Our Lady’s School Fall enrollment 475-5232 or e-mail: [email protected]. Applications must Tabor Retreat House at Saint Charles Center and on Sunday be received in the MSUAA-Black Alumni Chapter, MSU Box the location changes to the Diocesan Chancery, 414 Iris Street. SULPHUR – Enrollment for new students for 2014-2015 is 90755, Lake Charles, LA 70609 by March 1. ongoing at Our Lady’s Catholic School. Couples may attend the 11:15 a.m. Mass on Sunday in the New families may obtain a registration packet from the “Holy Hour to Discern Vocation” Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and attend the pro- school office at 1111 Cypress Street. Enrollment is open for all SULPHUR – The next “Holy Hour to Discern My Vocation,” gram following. grades from the school’s three-year old pre-school program a ministry of “VOCARÉ and the Office of Vocations, is Sunday, For more information, call 337-439-7400, Ext. 301. A reg- through eighth grade. March 2, at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church begin- istration form is available at www.live.lcdiocese.org/forms. Contact the office at 337-527-7828 or go to olcs.org for more ning at 6:30 p.m. html. information. The program is designed for young men age 15 and older seeking to know God’s will in their lives and intended to give Natural Family Planning Training Forty Hours Devotion schedule them a united effort of prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. LAKE CHARLES – The incredible gift of Natural Family LAKE CHARLES – Forty Hours Devotion to the Blessed The hour of adoration is followed by refreshments and fra- Planning is now avialable in the Diocese of Lake Charles. Sacrament, praying for an increase in vocations to the priest- ternity. Three instructors certified in the Creighton Model hood in the Diocese of Lake Charles, will be in Immaculate Fertility(Care) System work with the Diocese and Dr. David Conception Catholic Church in Sulphur from Monday, Feb. 24 Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat scheduled Darbonne. through Friday, Feb. 28. LAKE CHARLES – A Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat Weekend For more information about training in the Creighton Meth- Times and locations are March 10-14, St Philip Neri Catho- is set for Friday through Sunday, Feb. 28-March 2 at Tabor Re- od of Natural Family Planning or to schedule training contact lic Church, Kinder, five hours a day; March 17-20, Our Lady treat House of Saint Charles Center in Moss Bluff. Bonnie Kron at 337-377-7953; Laura Hobgood at 338-480-1280; Help of Christians Catholic Church, Jennings; March 21-23, This unique retreat allows participants to enter into the Jackie Stewart at 337-540-8959 or the office of Dr. Darbonne at 10 hours daily, Immaculate Conception, Catholic Church, Jen- grieving process, identify effects the abortion has had and re- 337-474-3883.