The Church Today, March 21, 2016

CHURCH TODAY

Volume XLVII, No. 3 www.diocesealex.org Serving the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana Since 1970 March 21, 2016

O N T H E INSIDE

Holy Week, Easter Triduum, Easter Sunday, and Divine Mercy Sunday

At the height of the busiest liturgical season of the year, parishes are offering a variety of services throughout the diocese. Check out some of the services on pg. 5 and 19, and on our website at www. diocesealex.org.

Cleanup continues after historic statewide flooding

The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergen- cy Preparedness (GOHSEP) continues to coordinate the state’s re- sponse to the current historic flood event that began March 9. People in churches, schools, homes, and businesses continue to wait for the waters to recede and for the roads to clear. Read more on pg. 11.

Report says Catholic population is gowing faster than world population

The number of baptized Catholics worldwide has grown at a faster rate than that of the world’s population, according to Vatican statistics. Read more statistics from the Vatican on pg. 3. HE IS RISEN! PAGE 2 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016 Bishop Douglas Deshotel appointed new bishop of Lafayette diocese

WASHINGTON—Pope elor of Arts and Master of Divin- Parish, Richardson, Texas, 2008- Francis has named Bishop J. ity degrees. He was ordained a 2012; and vicar general and mod- Douglas Deshotel, 64, as bishop priest for the Diocese of Dallas erator of the curia, 2008-present. of the Diocese of Lafayette, La., on May 13, 1978. Other responsibilities include and accepted the resignation of Assignments after ordination the diocesan prebyteral council, Bishop C. Michael Jarrell, 75, included parochial vicar, St. Pat- priest’s personnel board and dioc- from pastoral governance of that rick Parish, Dallas, 1978-1980; esan review board. Pope Benedict diocese. parochial vicar, St. Anthony Par- XVI appointed him an auxiliary Bishop Deshotel has served ish, Longview, Texas, 1980-1982; bishop of Dallas on March 11, as an auxiliary bishop of the Dio- parochial vicar, St. Elizabeth of 2010. He was ordained a bishop cese of Dallas since 2010. Hungary Parish, 1982-1983; pa- April 27 of that year. The appointment was pub- rochial vicar, St. Thomas Aquinas Charles Michael Jarrell was licized in Washington, February Parish, Longview, 1983-1988; born May 15, 1940 in Opelou- 17, by Archbishop Carlo Maria pastor, St. William Parish, Green- sas, La., and ordained a priest of Viganò, apostolic nuncio to the ville, Texas, 1988-1992; pastor, Bishop J. Douglas Deshotel Bishop Michael Jarrell Lafayette on June 3, 1967. Pope United States. St. John Nepomucene Parish, New bishop of Lafayette Retired bishop of Lafayette John Paul II named him bishop of John Douglas Deshotel was Ennis, Texas, 1992-1995; and Houma-Thibodaux on December born in Kinder, La., January 6, pastor, St. Luke Parish, Irving, 29, 1992. He was ordained a bish- 1952. He attended the University Texas, 1995-2001. Holy Trinity Seminary, Irving, and St. Juan Diego Parish, Dal- op March 4, 1993. He has served of Dallas, where he earned Bach- He also served as vice-rector, 2001-2005; pastor, St. Monica las, 2006-2008; pastor, St. Joseph as bishop of Lafayette since 2002. 4 Missionaries of Charity, 14 others murdered in Yemen

(CNS) -- The four Missionar- intercede for peace and a sacred ing after the attack. ies of Charity (order founded by respect for human life.” Although the sisters would Blessed Teresa of Kolkata) mur- The four Missionaries of not make news headlines, Pope dered March 4 in Yemen “are the Charity and 12 other people were Francis said, the martyred sisters martyrs of today,” Pope Francis killed by uniformed gunmen, who “gave their blood for the church.” said. “They gave their blood for entered the home the sisters oper- The sisters and the 14 others the church.” ate for the elderly and disabled in killed “are victims of the attack After reciting the Angelus Aden. by those who killed them, but with thousands of people gath- The superior of the Mis- also (victims) of indifference, this ered in St. Peter’s Square March sionaries of Charity at the home globalization of indifference that 6, Pope Francis publicly offered survived by hiding, according to just doesn’t care,” the pope said. his condolences to the Mis- the Vatican’s Fides news agency. Yemen has been experienc- sionaries of Charity and prayed Father Tom Uzhunnalil, an Indian ing a political crisis since 2011 that Blessed Teresa of Kolkata Salesian priest who had been liv- and is often described as being in would “accompany to paradise FOUR MISSIONARIES OF CHARITY MURDERED in Yemen while working ing at the home since Holy Fam- a state of civil war with members these daughters of hers, martyrs in a home for the elderly and disabled. Fourteen others were also killed in the ily Parish in Aden was sacked and of the Shiite and Sunni Muslim of charity, and that she would attack. The Mother Superior survived by hiding. burned in September, was miss- Continued on pg. 4

Broadway’s favorite All-American musical is back! Holy Savior Menard Theatre Arts presents • Behavior Modification • In home, Individual, and • Obedience and Therapy Group Sessions Available Pet Training • Phone Consultations Damn Yankees • 30-day Money Back Guarantee and Phone Assessments book by George Abbot and Douglass Wallop • www.felinecaninecoach.com 985.226.6458 Music and Lyrics by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross

Directed by Cherise Rino April 6-10, 2016 Coughlin Saunders Performing Arts Center Showtimes are: April 6-9 at 7 pm and April 10 at 2 pm Tickets are $15 for general admission and can be purchased at the Menard office (318) 445-8233, or online at ticket-central.org, or at the door. “Damn Yankees” is presented through special arrangement from Music Theatre International. MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 3 Report says Catholic population is growing faster than world’s population By Junno Arochio Esteves Catholic News Service

(CNS) -- The number of baptized Catholics worldwide has grown at a faster rate than that of the world’s population, according New figures on the Catholic Church to Vatican statistics. Although the number of as of Dec. 31, 2014 priests has increased globally, the number has decreased slightly in Global Catholic Population Global Catholic Workforce Europe and Oceania, according 2014 2013 to the Vatican’s Central Office for Baptized Catholics world-wide 1.27 billion 18% of global Bishops 5,237 4,841 Church Statistics. population The figures are presented in Priests 415,792 the “Annuario Pontificio 2016,” Number of baptized Catholics has grown faster the Vatican yearbook, and will ap- than the general population growth on every continent. Permanent Deacons 44,566 43,100 * pear in the Statistical Yearbook of the Church, which gives detailed Africa saw a 41% increase in baptized Catholics; Asia saw a 20% increase. Religious Brothers 54,559 55,253 figures on the church’s workforce, sacramental life, dioceses Highest percentage of Catholics is in North and South America. Candidates for Priesthood 116,939 118,251 and parishes as of Dec. 31, 2014. The number of baptized Catholics reached 1.27 billion or 17.8 percent of the global population, the statistics office reported growth on every continent. reaching 5,237 worldwide com- The number of religious the level of philosophy and the- March 5. “The African continent re- pared to 4,841 a year earlier. brothers was down slightly, going ology studies showed a slight Despite the increase of Cath- mains without a doubt the one The total number of priests from a total of 55,253 at the end downturn. The number of candi- olics worldwide, the yearbook with the highest growth,” the re- -- diocesan and religious order of 2013 to a total of 54,559 at the dates fell to 116,939 men at the noted a “less dynamic” growth of port said; the number of Catholics -- around the world was 415,792, end of 2014. end of 2014 compared to 118,251 only 2 percent in Europe. While in Africa increased by 41 percent, which the report said was statisti- The number of women in men at the end of 2013. the continent is home to almost while the number of Catholics in cally “stable.” There was a steady religious orders continued to de- The variation in the num- 40 percent of the Catholic glob- Asia grew by 20 percent. increase of diocesan priests in Af- crease, dropping by 10,846 in ber of men training to become al population, the percent of the The percentage of baptized rica, Asia and Central and South 2014. The biggest decreases were priests varies by continent, the world’s Catholics living in Eu- Catholics as part of the general America, while numbers in North seen in North and South America, report said. There is an “evident rope has slowly decreased over population remains highest in America, Europe and Oceania Europe & Oceania while numbers decline” in the numbers from Eu- the past nine years, it said. North and South America where continued to decrease. in Africa & Asia continue to rise. rope and North America, while However, with the excep- they “make up almost half” of the The number of permanent The number of candidates for “Africa and Asia show great vi- tion of Oceania, the number of world’s Catholics, it said. deacons reported -- 44,566 -- was the priesthood -- both diocesan tality,” it said. baptized Catholics has grown The number of bishops of an increase of more than 1,000 seminarians and members of reli- faster than the general population the world continued to increase, over the previous year. gious orders -- who had reached

Daniel Lacombe Floor Finishing 404 Bordelon Rd., Hessmer, LA 71341 Specializing in installation • Floor Finishing • Ceramic Tile Floors • Hardwood Floors • Reseal Tile Floors Ph: (318) 563-4753 • Cell (318) 305-0241 PAGE 4 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016 The flagellation and crucifixion of Jesus Christ explained By Dan Gonzalez of metal or bone and used to lash stripes. Thirteen hits rendered 39 www.massexplained.com the back, shoulders and legs of stripes. Adding another lashing the convict. At first, the skin and would exceed the number by two. During Lent, the readings underlying fat were torn. Then There is no evidence, however, and prayers of the Church focus the muscles and tendons were that the Romans had any set limit on the Passion of Christ. Col- slashed, including the vessels that to how many lashes were given. lectively, the last two weeks of supply blood to the tissues. Lent are called Passion Time. A devestating punishment The first week is called Passion 39 lashings The vast amount of blood Week, while the second, is known There was no Roman law loss during the scourging, how- as Holy Week. Part of Christ’s limiting the number of flagrum ever, would often send the victim suffering commemorated during blows the condemned received, into circulatory shock and un- Holy Week is the Scourging or and the Bible does not reveal how consciousness—leading many to Flagellation of Christ. many Jesus endured. Tradition, death. The historian Eusebius of Before crucifixion, the con- however, holds that Christ re- Caesarea describes the flagella- demned would often endure ceived 39 lashings. There are sev- tion of Christians who were mar- flagellation. A whip with leather eral reasons for this odd number. tyred: strands called a flagrum or flagel- The Law of Moses states: “…their bodies were fright- lum in Latin—scourge in Eng- “Forty lashes may be given, fully lacerated. Christian mar- lish—was fashioned with pieces but no more; or else, if more lash- tyrs in Smyrna were so torn by the scourges that their veins were es are added to these many blows, laid bare, and the inner muscles, Our 40-day Season of Lent your brother will be degraded in sinews, even entrails, were ex- is nearing completion leading us your sight.” —Deuteronomy 25:3 posed.” —Eusebius of Caesarea into the shortest season of the ONE IN Some scholars say that, for year: The Easter Triduum. The fear of exceeding God’s limit, Crowning with thorns solemn liturgies of Holy Week THE LORD Jewish practice by Jesus’ time After the scourging, the lead us into the fifty days of Eas- had reduced the number to 39, Scriptures say that Christ was ter. It is interesting to note that the Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog in case the person administering Bishop of the Diocese of Alexandria taken by soldiers into the prae- Easter Season is longer than Lent, the blows were to lose count. The torium—the palace of Pontius helping us recall that Easter is the Apostle Paul received this num- Pilate, the Roman procurator of great victory feast. ber: Judea. Jesus was surrounded by I offer my congratulations Appeal has begun very well. I pray that you will experi- “Five times I received from a cohort of soldiers (300 to 600 and welcome to all who were re- Thanks to all of you who have ence the great joy of Easter as we the Jews the forty lashes minus soldiers) and a crown woven of ceived into the sacramental life of already made your gift or pledge. continue on our path of faith dur- one.” —2 Corinthians 11:24 thorns was placed on his head. the Church this Easter. May the I will soon be celebrat- ing this jubilee Year of Mercy. It is also believed that a Ro- While the Bible does not joy of our risen Lord be a great ing confirmation throughout the man flagrum had three bands of source of strength and encourage- diocese. The clear faith of these leather, making every strike three Continued on next page (pg 5) ment to you.. young people is an inspiration to Our 2016 Annual Diocesan us all. CHURCH TODAY Missionaries of Charity murdered Volume XLVII, No. 3 • March 21, 2016 Continued from pg. 2 path of dialogue,” the message ly was kidnapped, he added. P. O. Box 7417 • Alexandria, LA 71303 said. “In the name of God, he “The signal was clear: This [email protected] 318-445-6424 communities vying for power; in calls upon all parties in the pres- has to do with religion,” Bishop the midst of the tensions, terror- ent conflict to renounce violence, Hinder said. Publisher: Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog, Bishop of Alexandria ist groups have been operating and to renew their commitment to In a statement released Editor: Jeannie Petrus, ext. 255; [email protected] in the country, including groups the people of Yemen, particularly March 8, the U.S. Conference of Advertising: Joan Ferguson, ext. 264; [email protected] believed to be associated with those most in need, whom the Catholic Bishops’ Administra- Circulation: Sandi Tarver, ext. 209; [email protected] the so-called Islamic State and al- sisters and their helpers sought to tive Committee said that, through Qaida. serve.” their sacrifice, the “martyrs of THE CHURCH TODAY (USPS 393-240) is published by the Catholic Although most Christians Bishop Paul Hinder, head charity” were “transformed into Diocese of Alexandria, once a month, free of charge to members of have fled the country, a handful of the vicariate of Southern Ara- signs of Christ’s victory over sin, the parishes in the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana. Out of diocese of Salesian priests and about 20 bia, which includes Yemen, told violence and death.” They echoed subscriptions are $20 a year. Missionaries of Charity chose to AsiaNews, a Rome-based mis- the remarks of Pope Francis and stay and continue their ministry. sionary news agency, that at invited people to join in solidarity The office is located at 4400 Coliseum Blvd., Alexandria, LA 71303. In a condolence message re- 8:30 a.m. March 4, “persons in with people “who see their lives Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, LA. POSTMASTER: Send ad- leased March 5 by the Vatican, uniform” broke into the Aden threatened by evil, indifference, dress changes to The CHURCH TODAY, P. O. Box 7417, Alexandria, Pope Francis described the Aden compound, killing the guard and hatred, and terrorism.” LA 71306 murders as an “act of senseless all employees who tried to stop The bishops also urged the and diabolical violence.” them. “They then reached the sis- U.S. State Department to issue a The CHURCH TODAY is a member of the Catholic Press Association. The pope “prays that this ters and opened fire.” declaration that genocide is oc- Website: www.diocesealex.org pointless slaughter will awaken Two of the sisters killed were curring against Christians, Yeze- To receive a free subscription, call 318-445-6424, ext 255 or e-mail consciences, lead to a change of Rwandan, one was from India and dis and other religious minorities [email protected] heart, and inspire all parties to lay one was from Kenya, the bishop in the Middle East. down their arms and take up the said. Father Uzhunnalil apparent- MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 5 Holy Week & Easter Holy Thursday, March 24 5:30 p.m. -- Mass of the Lord’s Supper, St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria (Note: no 12:05 p.m. Mass on Holy Thursday) 5:30 p.m. -- Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper, Washing of the Feet, Adoration until midnight, St. Rita Church, Alexandria 6:00 p.m. -- Mass of the Lord’s Supper and Mandatum (followed by Parish meal and Adoration), Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pineville 6:00 p.m. -- Mass of the Lord’s Supper (followed by Adoration until 10:00 p.m.), Mary, Mother of Jesus Church, Woodworth 6:00 p.m. -- St. Louis Church, Glenmora 6:00 p.m. -- St. Peter Church, Bordelonville 7:00 p.m. -- Mass of the Lord’s Supper followed by Solemn Adoration until midnight, Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, Alexandria 7:00 p.m. -- Mass, MB of the Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches 7:00 p.m. -- Mass followed by Adoration, St. Patrick Church, Ferriday

Good Friday, March 25 9:00 a.m. -- Living Stations Walk, Mater Dolorosa Church, Plaucheville 10:00 a.m. -- Outdoor Way of the Cross, MB of the Immaculate Conception, specify what kind of plant was God then tells Adam that the Sacrifice Typology Natchitoches used, any size thorn would cause ground is cursed, and, despite his Christ’s flagellation also has 12:05 p.m. -- The Way of the Cross, St. Rita Church, Alexandria blood loss as it forced its way great labor in cultivating it: a typological aspect. In Bibli- 12:40 p.m. -- Passion Walk (Way of the Cross) from Cathedral up Elliott St. through the scalp. Jesus was also “thorns and thistles shall it cal typology, a story from the to Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, Alexandria forced to carry a reed and wear bring forth to you.” —Genesis Old Testament (type) prefigures 3:00 p.m. -- The Passion of the Lord, St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, a scarlet robe—attire reserved 3:18 one found in the New Testament Alexandria (Note: no 12:05 p.m. Mass on Good Friday) for royalty. With an improvised The color of the cloak placed (antitype). In the story of the sac- 3:00 p.m. -- Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, Our Lady of Prompt crown, imperial robe and mock on Jesus—scarlet—represents rifice of Isaac, theologians see Succor Church, Alexandria scepter, Jesus was ridiculed, spat sin: Christological typology. 3:00 p.m. -- Way of the Cross, Mary, Mother of Jesus Church, Woodworth upon and struck by soldiers who “Though your sins be like In the narrative, God pro- 3:00 p.m. -- Good Friday service, MB of the Immaculate Conception, knelt before him saying, Hail, scarlet, they may become white vides a ram (a male sheep) as a Natchitoches King of the Jews. as snow…” —Isaiah 1:18 replacement for the sacrifice of 3:00 p.m. -- St. Peter Mission, Elmer By wearing the crown of Abraham’s only son. The ram was Fulfilling prophecy 3:00 p.m. -- St. Gerard Mission, Jonesville thorns and the scarlet robe, Christ found caught by his horns (head) 3:00 p.m. -- Good Friday service, St. Peter Church, Bordelonville After a vicious scourging, is taking on himself the icons of in a thicket (thorny bush), fore- 5:30 p.m. -- Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, Veneration of the Cross Jesus was mocked while wearing the fall of man and of humanity’s shadowing the crown of thorns and Holy Communion, St. Rita Church, Alexandria a crown of thorns and a scarlet sin. In addition to having symbol- worn by Christ, the lamb of God. 6:00 p.m. -- Stations of the Cross, Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, robe—a cruel parody of the rega- ic meaning, Christian writers see Three of the four Gospels tell Alexandria lia worn by the emperor. The ac- the scourging as fulfilling proph- of the scourging of Christ. The ac- 6:00 p.m. -- Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, Sacred Heart tions by the Roman soldiers un- ecy. counts do much more than merely of Jesus, Pineville wittingly carried great symbolism Isaiah’s prophecy is realized relay historical events. The flag- 6:00 p.m. -- Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion, Mary, Mother of and fulfilled prophecy. by Christ’s stripes—the marks on ellation is full of symbolism and Jesus Church, Woodworth Thorns represent man’s dis- his back left by the flagrum: fulfilled prophecy: it was the anti- 6:00 p.m. -- St. Patrick Church, Ferriday obedience. In the Garden of Eden, “…with his stripes we are type to Old Testament types. Adam and Eve were told by God healed.” —Isaiah 53:5 The soldiers spat on Jesus, Holy Saturday, March 26 that they could eat from any tree By hitting Jesus, the soldiers knelt before him and jeered: 3:00 p.m. -- Confessions, Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, Alexandria except from the tree of knowl- fulfill Micah’s Messianic vision: “Hail, King of the Jews” — 7:53 p.m. -- Great Vigil of Easter, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pineville edge of good and evil, but they “With the rod they strike on Matthew 27:29 8:00 p.m. -- Easter Vigil, St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria were persuaded by the serpent to the cheek the ruler of Israel.” — The words, intended as a (Note: no 4:00 p.m. Mass on Holy Saturday) eat the forbidden fruit. Micah 4:14 mockery, express an eternal truth. Continued on pg. 19

6 months for the price of 5* ONLY $160 -- a $240 value That’s only $26 a month!

For a limited time, NEW advertisers in the Church Today newspaper can get six months of advertising for the price of five months! Choose the months you wish to advertise. We can design your ad for you at no charge! Call Joan Ferguson, (318) 445-6424, ext. 264 Diocese of Alexandria or email: [email protected]

*New advertisers only. Black and white 4” wide X 2” tall size only. Must prepay to take advantage of this offer. Option to renew another 6 months at $28/mo. PAGE 6 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016 MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE7 71 to enter into full communion of the Catholic Church this Easter

Seventy-one people, from McCullough, candidates. St. Edward, Fishville: Mar- 15 parishes in the diocese, are Immaculate Heart of Mary, tin Collins, Kori Chelette, and expected to be received into Tioga: Duke A. Goudeau and Jordon Boyette, candidates. full communion of the Catholic Nikol Perez, catechumens; and St. Frances Cabrini, Al- Church this Easter. Ronnie Thompson and Joycelyn exandria: Heather Anne Bandy, The 19 catechumens (never Lorio, candidates. Lawrence Hobdy, and Lavena been baptized) and the 52 candi- Mater Dolorosa, Plauchev- Sherrod, candidates. dates (validly baptized in another ille: Madelyn Dupuis, cat- St. Francis Xavier Cathe- faith), along with their sponsors, echumen; Alexis Barker, Aaron dral, Alexandria: Alex Davis, participated in a Rite of Election Barker, and Avery Lemoine, can- catechumen. Feb. 14 at St. Francis Xavier Ca- didates. St. Joseph, Cheneyville: Al- thedral. As each of them declared Our Lady of Prompt Suc- len Hoyt and Charles Harper, can- their intention to become Catho- cor, Alexandria: Scott Woodcock, didates. lic, Bishop Ronald Herzog ac- catechumen; and Lee Broom, St. Joseph, Marksville: cepted them as chosen in the Lord Anthony Murray, Aimee Butler, Paige Lucas, catechumen; and (the Elect). Sarah McDaniel, Kirk Hallquist, Kryssi Threeton and Robert “I now declare you to be Johnny Cheek, Brad Blackwood, Schexnayder, candidates. members of the Elect, to be initi- and Noel Fontane, candidates. St. Juliana, Alexandria: Director of Vocations blesses Air Evac helicopter ated into the sacred mysteries at Our Lady of Lourdes, Win- Dondre Head and Gavin Patter- the next Easter Vigil,” said the nfield: Dustin Procell, candidate. son, candidates. Fr. Louis Sklar, director of vocations, blessed the air ambulance bishop during the Rite. Sacred Heart, Pineville: St. Michael the Archangel, for Air Evac Lifeteam in Kinder. The grand opening was held Mar. 15 for At Easter, the Elect will be Juan Anaya, Miguel Anaya, Ga- Leesville: John Haynes II, cat- the newest Air Evac base in Kinder, Base 125. Many of the helicopters fully initiated into the Church and briel Clark, Sean Cross, Carolyn echumen; and Lauren Breaux, receive an unofficial name given by their crews and many local support- will participate for the first time in Glaze, Maddie Glaze, Carlene Cory Burggraff, and Lindsey ers. The name for the helicopter of Base 125 is Talokka’ Coba which the sacraments of Reconciliation, Hunton, Triston Newcomb, Ga- Burggraff, candidates. is translated from Coushatta as EAGLE. The Diocese of Alexandria is Confirmation, and the Eucharist. briel Witty, catechumens; Brandi St. Rita, Alexandria: Day- also served by Base 99 in Natchez who flies ELVIS and Base 100 in Those who are expected to Bell, Grace Bell, John Mark Bell, lien Cloessner and Hunter How- Rayville who has not named their helicopter. Air Evac Lifeteam is a ma- enter into Full Communion are: Riley Bell, Joe Dessens, Dwayne ell, catechumens; and Shannon jor sponsor of the Bishop’s Invitational Golf Tournament which benefits Holy Cross, Natchitoches: Falks, Josh Newcomb, and Ben- Alford, Michael Boatner, Taylor Seminarian Education. Pictured are Rhonda Williams, Mack McKinsey, Mark Vernon II, catechumen; jamin Spruill, candidates. Courville, Linda Faraldo, Mary Michael Dore, Fr. Louis Sklar, Kiarha Walker and Sandy Roberts (Man- and Joseph Taitano, Haley Nicole St. Augustine, Isle Brevelle: Habig, Matthew Hill, Sonya Hill, ager of Base 125 and Base 99) Blount, Marissa Shontel Morris, Michelle Demery and Kathleen Donald Mote, and Alish Sylvia, Clayton Leo Carr, and Kaitlyn Dunlap, candidates. candidates.

Seminarian Burses Mark your Calendar: February Donations Upcoming Ordinations Knights of Columbus Council 9217 ...... $25.00 Father Adrian L. Molenschot Burse Mark your calendars now for Deacon and Mrs. Rodrick Broussard...... $50.00 two upcoming ordinations this Monsignor Milburn Broussard Burse summer: Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Schupbach...... $100.00 Monsignor Steve Testa Burse Saturday, June 11 Bayou Chateau Nursing Center...... $100.00 Deacon John Wiltse will be or- Floyd J. LaCour, Sr. Burse dained a priest on Saturday, June Tri-Community Nursing Center...... $100.00 11 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Floyd J. LaCour, Sr. Burse Cathedral. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Miller...... $200.00 Father Daniel Corkery Burse Saturday, July 9 Seminarians Derek Ducote, Dan- Total...... $575.00 iel Hart, and Gus “Dutch” Voltz will be ordained as deacons on A Seminary Burse is an invested sum of money, the interest of which is used in Saturday, July 9 at 10 a.m. at St. perpetuity to help fund the education of men to the priesthood. Contributions to Francis Xavier Cathedral. any of the burses or to establish a new burse should be sent to: More information will be provid- Diocese of Alexandria Chancery Office • P.O Box 7417 ed later. • Alexandria, LA 71306-0417 PAGE 8 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016 Novena to the Divine Mercy begins on Good Friday, March 25 Day 1 -- Good Friday, March 25 Eternal Father, turn Your mer- Today bring to Me ALL MAN- ciful gaze upon meek souls, upon KIND, ESPECIALLY ALL SINNERS, humble souls, and upon little children and immerse them in the ocean of My who are enfolded in the abode which mercy. In this way you will console is the Most Compassionate Heart of Me in the bitter grief into which the Jesus. These souls bear the clos- loss of souls plunges Me. est resemblance to Your Son. Their Most Merciful Jesus, whose fragrance rises from the earth and very nature it is to have compas- reaches Your very throne. Father sion on us and to forgive us, do not Day 1: of mercy and of all goodness, I beg look upon our sins but upon our trust You by the love You bear these souls which we place in Your infinite good- “Today bring to Me and by the delight You take in them: ness. Receive us all into the abode Bless the whole world, that all souls of Your Most Compassionate Heart, All Mankind, together may sing out the praises of and never let us escape from It. We Especially All Sinners.” Your mercy for endless ages. Amen. beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Day 7 -- Thursday, March 31 Spirit. Today bring to Me THE SOULS Eternal Father, turn Your merci- WHO ESPECIALLY VENERATE ful gaze upon all mankind and espe- each and all. Receive us into the do not know what great happiness it it about that they, too, come to glorify AND GLORIFY MY MERCY, and cially upon poor sinners, all enfolded abode of Your Most Compassionate is to love You. Grant that they, too, the generosity of Your mercy. immerse them in My mercy. These in the Most Compassionate Heart of Heart and never let us escape from may extol the generosity of Your Eternal Father, turn Your merci- souls sorrowed most over my Pas- Jesus. For the sake of His sorrowful It. We beg this grace of You by that mercy for endless ages. Amen. ful gaze upon the souls of those who sion and entered most deeply into My Passion show us Your mercy, that we most wonderous love for the heaven- have separated themselves from spirit. They are living images of My may praise the omnipotence of Your ly Father with which Your Heart burns Day 5 -- Tuesday, March 29 Your Son’s Church, who have squan- Compassionate Heart. These souls mercy for ever and ever. Amen. so fiercely. Today bring to Me THE SOULS dered Your blessings and misused will shine with a special brightness in Eternal Father, turn Your merci- OF THOSE WHO HAVE SEPA- Your graces by obstinately persist- the next life. Not one of them will go Day 2 -- Saturday, March 26 ful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon RATED THEMSELVES FROM MY ing in their errors. Do not look upon into the fire of hell. I shall particularly Today bring to Me THE SOULS the inheritance of Your Son. For the CHURCH,* and immerse them in the their errors, but upon the love of Your defend each one of them at the hour OF PRIESTS AND RELIGIOUS, sake of His sorrowful Passion, grant ocean of My mercy. During My bitter own Son and upon His bitter Passion, of death. and immerse them in My unfathom- them Your blessing and surround Passion they tore at My Body and which He underwent for their sake, Most Merciful Jesus, whose able mercy. It was they who gave Me them with Your constant protection. Heart, that is, My Church. As they since they, too, are enclosed in His Heart is Love Itself, receive into the strength to endure My bitter Passion. Thus may they never fail in love or return to unity with the Church, My Most Compassionate Heart. Bring it abode of Your Most Compassionate Through them as through channels lose the treasure of the holy faith, but wounds heal and in this way they al- about that they also may glorify Your Heart the souls of those who par- My mercy flows out upon mankind. rather, with all the hosts of Angels leviate My Passion. great mercy for endless ages. Amen. ticularly extol and venerate the great- Most Merciful Jesus, from whom and Saints, may they glorify Your Most Merciful Jesus, Goodness ness of Your mercy. These souls are comes all that is good, increase Your boundless mercy for endless ages. Itself, You do not refuse light to those Day 6 -- Wednesday, March 30 mighty with the very power of God grace in men and women consecrat- Amen. who seek it of You. Receive into the Today bring to Me THE MEEK Himself. In the midst of all afflictions ed to Your service,* that they may abode of Your Most Compassionate AND HUMBLE SOULS AND THE and adversities they go forward, perform worthy works of mercy; and Day 4-Easter Monday, March 28 Heart the souls of those who have SOULS OF LITTLE CHILDREN, confident of Your mercy; and united that all who see them may glorify the Today bring to Me THOSE WHO separated themselves from Your and immerse them in My mercy. to You, O Jesus, they carry all man- Father of Mercy who is in heaven. DO NOT BELIEVE IN GOD* AND Church. Draw them by Your light into These souls most closely resemble kind on their shoulders. These souls Eternal Father, turn Your merci- THOSE WHO DO NOT YET KNOW the unity of the Church, and do not let My Heart. They strengthened Me will not be judged severely, but Your ful gaze upon the company of chosen ME. I was thinking also of them dur- them escape from the abode of Your during My bitter agony. I saw them mercy will embrace them as they de- ones in Your vineyard—upon the ing My bitter Passion, and their future Most Compassionate Heart; but bring as earthly Angels, who will keep vigil part from this life. souls of priests and religious; and zeal comforted My Heart. Immerse at My altars. I pour out upon them Eternal Father, turn Your merci- endow them with the strength of Your them in the ocean of My mercy. whole torrents of grace. Only the ful gaze upon the souls who glorify blessing. For the love of the Heart of Most compassionate Jesus, humble soul is capable of receiving and venerate Your greatest attribute, Your Son in which they are enfolded, You are the Light of the whole world. My grace. I favor humble souls with that of Your fathomless mercy, and impart to them Your power and light, Receive into the abode of Your Most My confidence. who are enclosed in the Most Com- that they may be able to guide others Compassionate Heart the souls of Most Merciful Jesus, You your- passionate Heart of Jesus. These in the way of salvation and with one those who do not believe in God and self have said, “Learn from Me for I souls are a living Gospel; their hands voice sing praise to Your boundless of those who as yet do not know You. am meek and humble of heart.” Re- are full of deeds of mercy, and their mercy for ages without end. Amen. Let the rays of Your grace enlighten ceive into the abode of Your Most hearts, overflowing with joy, sing them that they, too, together with us, Compassionate Heart all meek a canticle of mercy to You, O Most Day 3 -Easter Sunday, March 27 may extol Your wonderful mercy; and humble souls and the souls of High! I beg You O God: Today bring to Me ALL DE- and do not let them escape from the little children. These souls send all Show them Your mercy accord- VOUT AND FAITHFUL SOULS, and abode which is Your Most Compas- heaven into ecstasy and they are the ing to the hope and trust they have immerse then in the ocean of My sionate Heart. heavenly Father’s favorites. They are placed in You. Let there be accom- mercy. The souls brought Me conso- Eternal Father, turn Your merci- a sweet-smelling bouquet before the plished in them the promise of Jesus, lation on the Way of the Cross. They ful gaze upon the souls of those who throne of God; God Himself takes de- who said to them that during their life, were that drop of consolation in the do not believe in You, and of those light in their fragrance. These souls but especially at the hour of death, midst of an ocean of bitterness. who as yet do not know You, but who have a permanent abode in Your the souls who will venerate this fath- Most Merciful Jesus, from the are enclosed in the Most Compas- Most Compassionate Heart, O Je- omless mercy of His, He, Himself, will treasury of Your mercy, You impart sionate Heart of Jesus. Draw them to sus, and they unceasingly sing out a defend as His glory. Amen. Your graces in great abundance to the light of the Gospel. These souls hymn of love and mercy. Continued on pg. 9 MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 9

Divine Mercy’s Message Divine Mercy Novena From page 8

The message and devotion Day 8 -- Friday, April 1 and compassion. Amen. to Jesus as The Divine Mercy is Today bring to Me THE SOULS based on the writings of Saint WHO ARE DETAINED IN PURGA- Day 9 -- Saturday, April 2 Faustina Kowalska, an uneducat- TORY, and immerse them in the Today bring to Me SOULS WHO ed Polish nun who, in obedience abyss of My mercy. Let the torrents HAVE BECOME LUKEWARM, and to her spiritual director, wrote a of My Blood cool down their scorch- immerse them in the abyss of My diary of about 600 pages recording flames. All these souls are greatly mercy. These souls wound My Heart ing the revelations she received loved by Me. They are making ret- most painfully. My soul suffered the about God’s mercy. Even before ribution to My justice. It is in your most dreadful loathing in the Garden her death in 1938, the devotion to power to bring them relief. Draw all of Olives because of lukewarm souls. The Divine Mercy had begun to the indulgences from the treasury of They were the reason I cried out: ‘Fa- spread. My Church and offer them on their ther, take this cup away from Me, if it In 2002, Pope John Paul II behalf. Oh, if you only knew the tor- be Your will.’ For them, the last hope officially established Divine Mer- ments they suffer, you would continu- of salvation is to run to My mercy. cy Sunday and set it as the second ally offer for them the alms of the spir- Most compassionate Jesus, Sunday of Easter (Sunday after it and pay off their debt to My justice. You are Compassion Itself. I bring Easter). Most Merciful Jesus, You Your- lukewarm souls into the abode of The Divine Mercy message self have said that You desire mercy; Your Most Compassionate Heart. In is one we can call to mind simply so I bring into the abode of Your Most this fire of Your pure love, let these by remembering ABC: Compassionate Heart the souls in tepid souls, who, like corpses, filled A - Ask for His Mercy. God Purgatory, souls who are very dear You with such deep loathing, be once wants us to approach Him in Divine Mercy Schedule to You, and yet, who must make again set aflame. O Most Compas- prayer constantly, repenting of retribution to Your justice. May the sionate Jesus, exercise the omnipo- our sins and asking Him to pour Sunday, April 3 streams of Blood and Water which tence of Your mercy and draw them His mercy out upon us and upon 11:30 a.m. Mary, Mother of Jesus (Woodworth) DM Chaplet after 10:30 Mass gushed forth from Your Heart put out into the very ardor of Your love, and the whole world. 2:00 p.m. OLPS (Alexandria) Confessions the flames of Purgatory, that there, bestow upon them the gift of holy B - Be merciful. God wants 3:00 p.m. OLPS (Alexandria) Divine Mercy Sunday Service too, the power of Your mercy may be love, for nothing is beyond Your us to receive His mercy and let 2:00 p.m. St. Frances Cabrini (Alexandria) Confessions celebrated. power. it flow through us to others. He 3:00 p.m. St. Frances Cabrini (Alexandria) Divine Mercy Holy Hour Eternal Father, turn Your merci- Eternal Father, turn Your merci- wants us to extend love and for- 3:00 p.m. Holy Ghost Church (Marksville) Divine Mercy Chaplet ful gaze upon the souls suffering in ful gaze upon lukewarm souls who giveness to others just as He does 3:00 p.m. St. Anthony Church (Natchitoches) Divine Mercy Chaplet Purgatory, who are enfolded in the are nonetheless enfolded in the Most to us. 3:00 p.m. St. Peter Church (Bordelonville) Divine Mercy Chaplet Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Fa- C - Completely trust in Jesus. 3:00 p.m. Our Lady of Lourdes (Fifth Ward) Divine Mercy Chaplet I beg You, by the sorrowful Passion ther of Mercy, I beg You by the bit- God wants us to know that the 3:30 p.m. Minor Basilica Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches of Jesus Your Son, and by all the bitter Passion of Your Son and by His graces of His mercy are depen- High Mass (Latin) followed by Divine Mercy Chaplet terness with which His most sacred three-hour agony on the Cross: Let dent upon our trust. The more we Soul was flooded: Manifest Your them, too, glorify the abyss of Your trust in Jesus, the more we will Throughout the Year of Mercy (Dec. 8, 2015 - Nov. 20, 2016), St. Louis mercy to the souls who are under mercy. Amen. receive. Church (Glenmora) prays the Divine Mercy Chaplet 15 minutes before Your just scrutiny. Look upon them In the Diary of St. Faustina, EVERY Mass celebrated -- even in its missions of St. Peter in Elmer and St in no other way but only through the During the Solemn Novena leading to Our Lord made 12 promises to Jude in Sieper. Wounds of Jesus, Your dearly be- Divine Mercy Sunday, the Chaplet of anyone who prays the DM chap- loved Son; for we firmly believe that Divine Mercy should be offered each let and venerates the image. For an updated list of Divine Mercy Services, go to www.diocesealex.org there is no limit to Your goodness day for the day’s intentions. PAGE 10 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016

VIANNEY HALL, the resident hall where diocesan seminarian Thomas Ken- BENET HALL, a six-hundred seat auditorium with modern stage and equipment on the campus of St. Joseph Abbey nedy lives, was flooded March 11. St. Joseph Seminary spent $5 milllion on and Seminary College, was one of several buildings on campus flooded by the recent stormwater. Classes were renovations to the residential hall in 2014. cancelled, as well as the annual Abbey Youth Fest, an event expected to draw more than 4,000 youth to the campus. Flood waters fill St. Joseph Seminary; Abbey Youth Fest cancelled By Thomas Kennedy of my friends was nowhere to be We were able to get most of my urday the water had receded but walk more closely with him and Diocesan seminarian found so I called him to tell him important things upstairs into unfortunately not before destroy- each other as we discern priest- St. Joseph Abbey & Seminary to move his SUV. He was in the my storage area before two and a ing my room, many other rooms hood. woods for a walk and the water half feet of water rushed into my and facilities on campus and a Priesthood is a life of letting Louisiana faced crippling from the Bogue Falaya rose and room. majority of the seminarians’ cars. go of our will and putting others floods during the month of overflowed so quickly that he had Over the next few minutes We (seminarians) met to pray and their needs before our own. March. Many families have been to swim in rushing neck deep wa- the first floor of the monastery, the Divine Office throughout the This flood, as bad as it was, is a displaced and their lives changed ter to get back to the campus. He the refectory, gym, basement of disaster in the Oratory which was great opportunity for us to grow forever. Sadly, there have also made it back just in time to save the Abbey Church, auditorium well above the floodwaters. in our love for Jesus and our been fatalities. his vehicle. and the majority of the cars that Each of us learned the value neighbors. The severe weather forecast- I returned to my room to were moved to higher ground of the words from Psalm 43:2a The seminary will be closed ed caused Saint Joseph Abbey and change out of my soaked clothes were flooded. “When you pass through the for a week and recovery for the Seminary College in Covington when it became apparent that my By 1 p.m. all of the seminar- waters I will be with you; and seminary and monastery will take to cancel its annual Abbey Youth building was about to flood. I ians evacuated to the upstairs of through the rivers, they shall not a long time. Please pray for us as Fest which has been celebrated lived on the first floor so I made one of the dormitories through overwhelm you.” we try to recover the remainder of for the past 15 years. The semi- a phone call to a friend of mine torso deep water that was a rush- Our Lord protected our lives this semester academically, and narians (including those from who lived on the second floor ing river at this point. The river though we lost material posses- for those who lost life or property the Diocese of Alexandria) were of another building and he and did not crest until 8 p.m. and sions. Our comfort was stripped around the state. disappointed that the event which a few others came to my rescue. when I woke up at 4 a.m. on Sat- from us and we are learning to we have been planning for the past year had to be canceled 48 hours before it was to take place on March 12. Four thousand teens Teacher Positions Available were scheduled to attend. As a result of the cancella- 2016-2017 School Year tion we (seminarians) were ex- pecting a relaxing four-day weekend to catch up on homework and St. Anthony of Padua School prepare for the remainder of the Bunkie, LA semester. On Friday, March 11 around noon, water began to rise on cam- English Language Arts Teacher needed for pus. I was in the refectory eating grades 5, 6, 7, 8. lunch when an announcement was made for all students to move their vehicles to higher ground. Third grade teacher needed for all subjects. At this point no one knew what Bring this ad coupon AND your was coming. MARCH 2016 Students and faculty began Interested and qualified persons please church bulletin from this week for moving vehicles and the wa- send resume to: ter rose quickly. I had to jump 10% off! in knee deep water to move one Martha Coulon, St. Anthony School professor’s vehicle for her and 116 S. Knoll, Bunkie, LA 71322 This offer is valid at this location only: drive it to higher ground. Andrew 20 MacArthur Drive, Alexandria, Louisiana 71303 • (318) 704-6058 Flynn had to do the same. One MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 11 Thousands begin cleanup after ‘100-year flood’ covers the state

By Jeannie Petrus National Guard and 700 by the ered the roads, making travel CT editor Louisiana Department of Wildlife there impossible. At presstime, and Fisheries. Fr. Charlie had not yet been able The flood of 2016. Governor John Bel Edwards, to assess the damages at the It’s being called “historic.” key cabinet members and a repre- church, but local residents said It’s the flood that surpassed the sentative from FEMA have trav- the church hall had received 2-3 records of the worst flood in Lou- eled to many of the hardest hit feet of water. isiana history last recorded on areas for site visits. TV reports showed several Jan.5, 1946. State agencies manning the water rescues in Winnfield. Reports supplied by parishes State Emergency Operations According to Father Chris- indicate 6,143 structures (homes, Center (SEOC) continue round tian Ogbanna, pastor of Our Lady businesses, structures) have re- the clock work to meet requests of Lourdes Church in Winnfield ceived flood damage across the for resources from parishes im- said the church was fine, although state. The total is expected to pacted by the floods. the town itself experienced flood- climb as more parishes compile ing. He said he had to cancel data. New problems are still be- Diocese of Alexandria Mass in Olla last weekend being reported in some regions as Probably the hardest hit area cause he could not get to the mis- river levels continue to climb. in the Diocese of Alexandria sion church due to closed roads. Thousands of people have was in the north-central part In Natchitoches, Father John been forced from their homes. which includes Natchitoches and O’Brien, pastor of St. Anthony This number also continues to Winnfield. Church and head of the Natchi- climb. Thousands of rescues have Schools and businesses were toches deanery, said, the heavy been reported since March 9 in- closed for a week due to the storm flooding in Natchitoches shut cluding 4,255 by the Louisiana and then the flooding waters that down schools and businesses, but the three Catholic churches in ST. AUGUSTINE’S FLOODED CEMETERY. The almost 200-year-old cem- Natchitoches, remained dry. etery at St. Augustine Church in Isle Brevelle was flooded by backwater from “It will take time and prayer Cane River, but no damage was reported. for so many to recover from the damage done to their homes,” he said. resulted. Farmers lost their crops and cattlemen lost many of their livestock. According to Father Char- lie Ray, pastor of St. Augus- tine Church at Isle Brevelle, the church stayed high and dry, but part of the almost 200-year-old cemetery located behind the church was covered with water. “The cemetery behind the church did have some water, but there was no damage,” he said. However, a few miles down the RESIDENTS IN NATCHITOCHES, wait for storm waters to recede so cleanup road at his mission church of St. can begin. There were several reports of rescues in Winnfield. Anne’s at Old River, water cov- INSIDE BORROMEO HALL, a residential hall at St. Joseph seminary.

Let us help your family manage your financial goals.

*Education Funding *Retirement Planning Family Risk Management *Mutual Funds Small Business Planning *Annuities Emile P. Oestriecher, III, CPA Anne Oestriecher, CPA, CFP® 4641 Windermere Place, Alexandria, LA 71303 318-448-3556 • www.o-fms.com

*Securities offered through HD Vest Investment ServicesSM, Member: SIPC Advisory services are offered through HD Vest Advisory ServicesSM 6333 North State Highway 161, Fourth Floor, Irving, Texas 75038, 972-870-6000 Oestriecher Financial Management Services is not a broker/dealer or independent investment advisory firm. PAGE 12 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL COMMUNITY SERVICE. Second graders from St. Anthony School in Bunkie visited The Bailey Place and Bayou Vista Nursing Home on Feb. 4. They had a great time playing board games, card games, ST. FRANCES CABRINI PRE-K & K VISIT NURSING HOME. Pre-K and K students from St. Frances Cabrini School and coloring with the residents. visited Naomi Heights Nursing Home as a way to serve in the community for Catholic Schools Week. Kelly Lombardi teaches kindermusic and led them in song for the residents. The students also brought the residents flowers.

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL’S CDA POSTER WINNERS. Students in grades 4-8 from St. Anthony School in Bunkie competed in the Catholic Daughters Poster contest. The topic was “How do we care for the environ- ment?”

STUDENT OF THE YEAR FIRST RUNNER-UPS. First runner ups are 5th STUDENT OF THE YEAR WINNERS FOR NON-PUBLIC SCHOOLS. District winners in the Non-Public school cat- grader , St. Mary’s Assumption School in Cottonport; 8th egory for the state-wide Student of the Year competition were announced Feb. 17 by Thomas E. Roque superintendent grader , Alexandria Country Day School in Alex- of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Alexandria. The competition is open to students in grades 5, 8, and 12. andria; and 12th grader ) from Holy Savior Menard High School. Pictured in back are Wendy and Matt Marchand, ; and Lori DeWitt, .

MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 13

SCOUT SUNDAY. Bishop Ronald Herzog presented Light of Christ Awards and Parvuli Dei Awards, to local scouts Feb. 7 after a special Mass held on Scout Sunday at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. Both awards recognize scouts who have learned about their relationship with Jesus, his people and his Church.

SACRED HEART CLASS HATCH- ING EGGS. Sacred Heart kindergar- tener

watch their teacher Ms. Barbara Lang, check the chicken eggs in the incubator. Using an incubator donated by Avoyelles Farm Bu- ST. MARY’S CHANNEL ONE VIDEO. Students in Paula Thompson’s class reau, the students have taken care of at St. Mary’s in Natchitoches, put together a video that was aired Feb. 26 on the eggs and can’t wait for them to Channel One News. hatch!

Avoyelles Author Brenda Juneau visited the Pre-K and kindergarten classes at Sacred Heart School during Catholic School Week. She presented a power point presentation of the artwork as she read one of her stories to the children.The three books she has authored -- SanTaa Kroupee: A New Year’s Eve Tale; SanTaa Kroupee and Paquin’ Eggs on the Bayou; and SanTaa Kroupee and the Shod De Vod De Parade, were donated to the Sister Marisa Ricci Media Center. Ms. Juneau attended Sacred Heart for awhile when she was child. PAGE 14 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016 MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 15 Menard’s top football recruit signs with Jacksonville State

Holy Savior Menard’s top football re- said “My parents have always cruit is going to Jacksonville State Univer- stress the importance of getting a sity in Jacksonville, Ala. good education. That is why they choose made his decision offi to send us to Menard and it is why I’ve tional Signing Day. chosen Jacksonville State.” a 6’2, 290 lb. powerhouse Jacksonville State’s offensive line on b ffensive and defensive line, coach, Matt Jones, said the same. was highly sought after by four university “You can find great football players,” football programs. His senior year alone, said Jones. “It’s when you find great men recorded 53 tackles and his run- that your football program really succeeds. ks racked up 1200 running yards. I wanted to play for us because he says he ultimately choose Jack- is more th a good player on the field. State for the school’s strong aca- He comes from a disciplined household demic program and respected reputation and he’s a young man of strong character. both on and off the football field. It made him a perfect candidate for our , a senior at Holy Savior Menard, signs a letter of intent Feb. 3 to play “I’m the baby in a family of ten,” football program.” football at Jacksonville State next fall. St. Mary’s senior distance runner wins state title in 1600 meter run

St. Mary’s senior distance runner, meters, I would make my move with 400 used a 62 second last 400 meters to go.” run away with the Division And go he did. II, 1600 meter run at the LHSAA State In- He covered the last half of the race door Track and Field Championships held once second faster than the first half to out- Feb. 13 on the LSU campus. distance the field by 4 seconds. Seeded fourth coming into the race, “I have had five state runner-up finish- knew that he would have to run a es over the past two years,” he said. “I re- ctical race to garner a state champi- ally wanted to win this one for me and my onship. As the race unfolded, used school. I am glad that everything worked his experience and a strong fi win out.” his first state championship. is an eight-time All-State run- “We came through the first half mile ner i r ss country, indoor and outdoor split in 2:16 and the two Episcopal HS track and field. He is an altar server and SCOTT MAGGIO, a St. Mary’s senior distance runner, wins the state title in the Division II, 1600 runners surged to the leads. I knew that member of the Minor Basilica of the Im- meter run at the LHSAA State Indoor Track and Field Championship held Feb. 13 at LSU. if I could stay with them for the next 400 maculate Conception in Natchitoches.

Brigitte Paul Kelso Insurance, LLC Fire Ants! Brigitte Kelso Owner/Agent We’ve got 2918 S. MacArthur Dr. what you need! Alexandria, La. 71301

Phone: 318.448.2226 Fax: 318.448.2280 [email protected]

LHSAA ALL ACADEMIC COMPOSITE TEAM. , a senior PetrusFEED & SEED from St. Mary’s School in Natchitoches, receives the LHSAA All-Academic Award from Jeffery Sampson and Eddie Bonine, both representatives from 2914 N. Bolton Ave. the LHSAA. was recently recognized as a member of the LHSAA Alexandria, LA All Academic Composite Team (all 4.0 students) at the 2016 Girls’ Top 28 Tournament Finals. The LHSAA All-Academic Award Program recognizes the academic excellence of senior student-athletes. To earn composite team hon- 442-2325 ors, a student-athlete’s six-semester GPA must be one of the 18 highest in all seven classifications. PAGE 16 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016

VOLUNTEERS Charlie Thiels, Jacob Hebert, Al Mathews, Sean Tucker, and John Robichaux INMATES from the Rapides Parish Detention Center spent 50 hours of free labor on the project. replaced the door and door seal of the backside of St. Cyril Chapel in Flatwoods.

FATHER DAN COOK stands on a ladder to sand and repaint the iron pipes of the bell stand outside the front of St. VOLUNTEERS from KC Council 1134, ACTS, Menard, and other places came together to repair, replace, and repaint the church hall at Cyril Chapel in Flatwoods. St. Margaret Mary in Gorum. Father Taylor Reynolds pitched in to help as well.

SAVE up to 40% with

Alexandria Business Machines Copiers • Printers • Printer Supplies Faxes • Office Supplies Cost Management for your Business 318-443-0435 5527 Coliseum Blvd. Alexandria, LA 71303-3708 MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 17

BEFORE ST. CYRIL CHAPEL RENOVATIONS. The small rural chapel of St. Cyril in Flatwoods has AFTER ST. CYRIL CHAPEL RENOVATIONS. After a small group of volunteers worked been seriously in need of repairs for a long time. Maintenance and repairs were put off for years, due four weekends in February to repair, replace, and re-paint the small rural chapel in Flat- to lack of funds, until recently, thanks to KC Council 1134, ACTS team members, and other volunteers. woods, St. Cyril looks alive and new again. Volunteers renovate St. Cyril, St. Margaret Mary Chapels By Jeannie Petrus Council #1134 attended the 11 support of KC Council 1134 as volunteers scraped and painted “I can’t thank everyone CT editor a.m. Mass at St. Cyril Chapel af- well as some ACTS friends, and the church hall -- inside and out. enough for all of the hard work ter a weekend of great deer hunt- local volunteers. On the final day of work, the of those who gave up their week- There’s nothing a handful of ing in the local area. “Everyone brought family volunteers brought food to cook ends to work on these projects,” hard-working men can’t accom- Father Dan Cook, chaplain of and friends who were all willing and enjoyed a celebration of food said Father Dan. “It was a proj- plish when they pool their skills Manna House, was the celebrant. to pitch in and help. Even Sheriff and fellowship after both projects ect that was very much needed, and talents together to get a job After the Mass, which in- Hilton sent some inmates up here were completed. but was put off for so many years done. cluded a small gathering of lo- for a few days to help.” “It was wonderful to see so due to lack of funds. We could That’s exactly what hap- cal people, Al and Father Dan Renovations to St. Cyril in many people out there helping not have done this project with- pened on four weekends in noticed some maintenance issues Flatwoods included reparing the out,” said Father Dan. “We had out the generous donors and hard- Febraury when members of KC around the small chapel -- rotten roof, replacing windows, doors, professional painters, carpenters, working volunteers who provided Council 1134, ACTS team mem- boards around windows, chipped and the seals around the doors and firemen, students, and even a few free labor. bers, Menard students, and other paint all over the exterior, and windows. The entire building was doctors who volunteered their According to Father Dan, local volunteers came together many other areas of disrepair. scraped, primed, and re-painted. time to paint, scrape, and repair.” more than $4,000 and 120 hours to renovate St. Cyril Chapel in “I remember us both looking Even the rusted iron pipes for the In addition to physical labor of labor have been donated so far. Flatwoods and St. Margaret Mary at each other and saying “This church bell were sanded and re- required for these projects, it was Anyone wishing to donate Chapel in Gorum -- both in bad looks like a job for the Knights of painted. good to know that several groups funds to finish paying for the sup- need of repair. Columbus (Council 1134),” said While the group was on a were out there praying for the suc- plies that were used can mail a It all began back in Decem- Father Dan. roll, the volunteers decided to do cess of the project -- local nursing donation to “St. Cyril Renovation ber of 2015, when Al Mathews, Together, the two made a list some work at another local cha- home residents, our seminarians, Project” c/o Father Dan Cook, the Grand Knight of the Bishop of the most urgent repairs needed pel, St. Margaret Mary in Gorum. Carmelite nuns in California, as 340 Park Place Drive, Alexan- Greco, Knights of Columbus and then enlisted the help and At St. Margaret Mary, the well as a couple in Kentucky. dria, LA 71301. PAGE18 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 14, 2015

IMMIGRATION SEMINAR. CLIIC (Central Louisiana Interfaith, Immi- gration Center), the Central Louisiana Pro Bono Project, and the Loui- siana State Bar Association hosted a Continuing Legal Education seminar Feb. 18 at the St. Joseph Catholic Center in Alexandria. Pictured ST. JULIANA CHURCH BLACK HISTORY MONTH HONOREES. St. Juliana celebrated Black History Month Feb. 28 are Glenda McGraw Regnart, executive director of CLIIC, and Tinashe by honoring several of its members for their work and dedication in the Church. After the presentation, a reception and Chimwaza, legal services attorney. Glenda presented Naturalization program were held in the church activity building. Pictured are (from left) Emily Boswell who is standing in for her hus- 101: A Primer for Non-Immigration Practitioners. Roughly 30 attorneys band honoree Percy Boswell, Tommy Milo assisting honoree Janice Clay, Juanita Boyd, Vanessa Louie, Hilda Cooper, and legal professionals attended the seminar, which was designed to and Darryl Davis. Father Remi Owuamanam, SMMM, pastor of St. Juliana, is standing with the honorees in the back. introduce local attorneys to the practice of immigration law.

ST. JULIANA JR. KNIGHTS. Con- gratulations to eight young men initiated Jan. 17 into the Jr. Knights Council #268 at St. Juliana Church in Alexandria.

On Sunday, Feb. 14 at the 10 a.m. Mass, they were officially presented as Jr. Knights of the Church. DECEMBER 14, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 19

SIMMESPORT’S KC COUNCIL 10564 TASTE OF FAITH annual fundraiser was held March 5 in Christ the King Church hall. Pictured above are members of the KC Council who worked the fundraiser. Friends and 70 years ago on March 19, 1946 parishioners cooked their favorite dishes and served samples to those Bishop Greco installed as Bishop 200 people who purchased tickets On March 19, 1946 --70 years ago -- the Most Reverend Charles P. for the event. At left are winners of Greco was installed as the 6th bishop of the Diocese of Shreveport/ the “People’s Choice Award” with the Alexandria by Archbishop Joseph Rummel of New Orleans and Bishop best dish. Pictured are Belinda Rab- Charles Jeanmard of Lafayette. He was 51 years old. alais, Crystal, Jade, and Paul Marsh, and Kenneth and Donna Marsh. Easter Mass Schedule SECRETARY OF THE YEAR. Ber- Continued from pg. 5 tha Lavalais, secretary at Holy Ghost Church in Marksville receives a 8:00 p.m. -- Easter Vigil, Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, Alexandria plaque from Father Edwin Rodriquez, 8:00 p.m. -- Solemn Vigil of Easter, Service of Light, St. Rita, Alexandria pastor of St. Alphonsus Church in 8:00 p.m. -- Paschal Vigil Mass, MB Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches Hessmer for being named Secretary 8:00 p.m. -- Easter Vigil, St. Peter Mission, Elmer of the Year in the Avoyelles area. 8:00 p.m. -- St. Peter Church, Bordelonville Father Rodriquez hosted the 12th 8:00 p.m. -- St. Patrick Church, Ferriday annual Catholic Church Secretary Appreciation Dinner on Feb. 2 at the Easter Masses, Sunday, March 27 St. Alphonsus Church rectory. Secre- 7:00 a.m. -- Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, Alexandria taries from 10 Catholic churches in 8:00 a.m. -- St. Rita Church, Alexandria the Avoyelles area and their guests 8:00 a.m. -- Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pineville attended. 8:00 a.m. -- St. Michael Church, Rexmere 8:30 a.m. -- St. Louis Church, Glenmora 9:00 a.m. -- St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria 9:00 a.m. -- Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, Alexandria 9:00 a.m. -- Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches 9:30 a.m. -- Mass followed by Easter Egg Hunt for children ages 7 and under, St. Rita Church, Alexandria 9:30 a.m. -- St. Peter Church, Bordelonville 10:00 a.m. -- Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pineville 10:30 a.m. -- Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, Alexandria 11:00 a.m. -- St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria 11:00 a.m. -- St. Rita Church, Alexandria 11:00 a.m. -- Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches 11:00 a.m. -- St. Jude Mission, Sieper 11:30 a.m. -- Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pineville 12:30 p.m. -- Spanish Mass, St. Rita Church, Alexandria 4:30 p.m. -- Holy Vespers, Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches 5:00 p.m. -- Traditional Latin Mass, Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches 5:30 p.m. -- St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria 5:30 p.m. -- Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, Alexandria SECRETARY APPRECIATION DINNER. Secretaries from the Avoyelles area who attended the 12th annual Catho- 6:00 p.m. -- St. Rita Church, Alexandria lic Church Secretary Appreciation Dinner on Feb. 2 at the St. Alphonsus Church rectory are Gilda Augustine, Julia 7:00 p.m. -- Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pineville Voinche, Susan Poche, Beatrice Bordelon, Stacy Chesne, Shirley Mayeux, Juliette Linzay, Delilah Aymond, Bertha Lavalais, Danita Coco and guest. PAGE 20 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016 St. Mary’s Residential Training School opens new behavior unit

By Jeannie Petrus CT editor

St. Mary’s Residential Train- ing School held an open house March 3 for a new, one-of -a-kind residential unit designed specifically for individuals diagnosed with intellectual and develop- mental disabilities and who also display significant problem behavior. The new 10-bed “behavior” unit is designed to provide ample personal space for each of the residents, many of whom will have their own bedroom. According to Tony L. “Bo” Vets II, programs director at St. Mary’s, individuals diagnosed with intellectual disabilities and 9 BEDROOMS at the new behavior unit feature single bed accommodations, the first resident to move in to the new behavior unit at St. Mary’s autism may exhibit different except one, (pictured) that will accommodate two residents in one room. Residential Training School, sorts letters with his aide. types of problem behavior, such as physical aggression, self-in- jury, or pica (digesting inedible ent for the open house. The goal of the behavior tin Howard Foundation, Com- few short months. objects). The new behavior unit in- unit is to incorporate and utilize munity Network Inc., The Fore! “David Courville had a big “Giving these individuals cludes 10 bedrooms, of which principles of applied behavior Kids Foundation, Mr. Robert heart and was passionate about their own personalized space with nine are single rooms and one is analysis (ABA) to teach activi- Hecker, The Front Foundation, providing the best care for the plenty of opportunities to engage large enough for two residents. ties of daily living and replace the Mr. Ron Chauffe, ElectriMech, residents at St. Mary’s”, said in habilitative active treatment Each bedroom shares a full bath- problem behaviors with skills that Mr. Thomas and Lisa Long, Mr. Christi Guillot, interim adminis- and leisure activities may help room with another bedroom. serve the same function. James “Jim” Rives III, Proctor & trator at St. Mary’s. “We dedicate them learn more appropriate The unit houses a library and This will be accomplished Gamble Company, and The Rho- this behavior unit in his memory.” forms of behavior,” he said. quiet area for the residents who through a lower resident to staff mas H. & Mame P. Scott Founda- Family and friends of David This is why St. Mary’s re- prefer this type of setting, while ratio (one staff person to one or tion. Courville were present for the cently converted the old on- on the other end of the unit a two residents, depending on the The behavior unit was also dedication, blessing, and open campus convent, which was most movie and activity room is set up residents’ needs) and special- dedicated in loving memory of house. recently used as office space, into for the residents who prefer noise ized training and assistance from David Courville, who lovingly the new behavior unit. and stimulation. St. Mary’s onsite ABA Learning gave of his time and talent to help Bishop Ronald Herzog The unit also has a gated out- Center. draft the plans for the renovations blessed and dedicated the new fa- door pavilion and a common din- The unit was made possible and guiding it through the moun- cility March 3 with many parents, ing area, as well as office space through grants and generous do- tains of red tape before becoming employeesBUDGET BLINDS and benefactors 1cx4 REV2016_BBL-04-0 pres- for unit staff and nurses. nors including the Virginia Mar- ill and passing away after only a

FORMER SOCIAL SECURITY JUDGE

Custom Window Coverings PETER J. LEMOINE Shutters • Draperies • Blinds Social Security Disability Law

Offices in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Cottonport Adjunct Professor (1994-1997), Northwestern State University MEMBER: Louisiana State Bar Association, American Bar Association, Baton Rouge Bar Association, Avoyelles Parish Bar Association, National Organization of Social Security Claimant Representatives, Legal Services for Purposes of Disability Committee (Louisiana State Bar Association).

PUBLISHED ARTICLES: “The Worn-Out Worker Rule Revisited,” Huge selection of the best brands! “Significant Work-Related Limitations of Function Under 12.05C,” “Questionable Retirement and the Small Business Owner,” “Crisis of (318) 443-9730 Confidence: The Inadequacies of Vocational Evidence Presented∲ at FREE In-Home Consultation Social Security Disability Hearings.” & Estimates Professional Installation • Low Price Promise Each Franchise Independently Owned and Operated www.budgetblinds.com Signature Series • Lafayette Interior Fashions 318-876-3174 Exterior Window Screens MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 21 Miracles from Heaven tells remarkable story, even skeptics can’t dismiss

By John Mulderig Catholic News Service MOVIE (CNS) -- The fact-based drama “Miracles From Heaven” REVIEW (Columbia) tells a remarkable story. Christy -- one which is certainly Though director Patri- providential if not indeed miracu- cia Riggen’s screen version of lous. Christy Beam’s 2015 memoir Though it may be aimed at is clearly designed for believers a self-selecting audience of the -- and sometimes feels padded -- already convinced, screenwriter even dedicated skeptics may have Randy Brown’s script minimizes trouble dismissing its underlying neither its protagonist’s crisis of narrative. doubt nor the larger mystery of A wife and the mother of innocent suffering. three daughters, Christy (Jennifer The dialogue also takes a Garner) is going about her every- wide view of what counts as a di- day life in the Fort Worth area vinely inspired marvel, highlight- of Texas when tragedy strikes ing the above-and-beyond kind- without warning: Her 10-year-old ness shown to Christy and her middle daughter Annabel (Kylie clan by an ensemble of secondary Rogers) develops an unexplained characters. The most significant but seemingly unshakable illness. of these is Angela (Queen Lati- Alarmed, Christy refuses to MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN. Jennifer Garner, Queen Latifah and Kylie Rogers star in a scene from the movie “Mir- fah), a gregarious waitress who accept the series of more or less acles From Heaven.” The Catholic News Service classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture takes an instant -- and cheering casually delivered misdiagnoses Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. -- shine to Annabel. from unfocused doctors with (CNS photo/Columbia Pictures) While squeaky clean as far as which she’s presented. And even- the normal array of objectionable tually, the grim truth emerges. elements is concerned, “Miracles Annabel’s symptoms are identi- cuses on obtaining the care of one easygoing veterinarian husband, to pray. She’s also deeply angered From Heaven” nonetheless in- fied as stemming from pediatric of the few specialists in CIPO, Dr. Kevin (Martin Henderson), are by the misguided notions of some cludes both subjects and sights chronic intestinal pseudo-ob- Samuel Nurko (Eugenio Derbez). dedicated churchgoers -- John fellow parishioners who seem to that make it inappropriate for the struction, or CIPO, a rare, pain- However, although kindly and Carroll Lynch plays their good- entertain a pre-Christian under- youngest viewers. ful and incurable condition that caring, Dr. Nurko proves power- humored pastor -- Christy’s faith standing of the connection be- The film contains mature prevents the body from digesting less to combat the disease -- and crumbles in the face of Annabel’s tween sin and misfortune. themes as well as potentially up- food. Annabel’s death sentence stands. current torment and impending Yet a startling, almost in- setting incidents and medical pro- Persistent Christy now fo- Although Christy and her demise. She finds herself unable explicable, turnaround awaits cedures. Rated PG. Spotlight wins Oscar for Best Picture of the Year Vatican says movie about clergy abuse scandal is not ‘anti-Catholic’ VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- there is trust in a pope who is con- then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzing- The Vatican newspaper said the tinuing the cleanup begun by his er, prefect of the Congregation Oscar-winning film, “Spotlight,” predecessor.” for the Doctrine of the Faith, in is not anti-Catholic. “There is still trust in a faith launching action against abusers “It is not an anti-Catholic that has at its heart the defense of in the church. movie, as has been written, be- victims, the protection of the in- “But a film can’t say ev- cause the film succeeds in giving nocent,” said the article, written erything, and the difficulties voice to the alarm and deep pain” by Lucetta Scaraffia, a professor that Ratzinger encountered only experienced by the Catholic faith- of contemporary history and a confirm the premise of the film, ful when a team of investigative frequent contributor to the Vati- that is, that too often the church newspaper reporters in Boston can newspaper. institution did not know how to revealed the scandal of clerical “Spotlight” won two awards: respond with the necessary de- abuse, said the article published one for best picture and one for termination before these crimes,” Feb. 29 in L’Osservatore Roma- best original screenplay. The film the article said. no. documents the Boston Globe’s While children are vulnera- The paper said it was also investigation into the scandal and ble to abuse in many other places, a “positive sign” when Michael Feb. 28, Sugar said the movie Vatican.” cover-up of the sexual abuse of like in the family, school or sports Sugar, the movie’s producer, said “gave a voice to survivors, and The fact there was such an minors by clergy in the Archdio- teams, it said, “it is now clear that he hoped the film would “reso- this Oscar amplifies this voice.” appeal, the Vatican newspaper cese of Boston. too many in the church were more nate all the way to the Vatican.” He then expressed hopes this said, was “a positive sign” be- The Vatican newspaper said worried about the image of the in- In his acceptance speech at voice would “become a choir that cause it shows “there is still trust the film does not touch on the stitution than the seriousness of the 88th annual Academy Awards will resonate all the way to the in the institution (of the church), “long and tenacious fight” by the act.” PAGE 22 CHURCH TODAY MARCH 21, 2016

Diocesan Steubenville South group

Steubenville South and the Diocese of Alexandria are DIOCESAN excited to offer a Diocesan Steubenville South Group this year. If your parish does not have an active youth ministry BRIEFS program, the youth of your parish can attend Steubenville with this group. Clayton Cobb and his wife Carrie, will be the group leaders. The package price of $200 per person on holidays and with prayers. includes: suffers from scoliosis infantile and Allgroves • hotel room at Holiday Inn Express (4 to room) Synd which causes trouble with her eyes, body for Friday and Saturday night glands, and swallowing. She has had 12 surgeries to cor- • all meals rect her spine. • all conference registration fees To register, individuals should go to: https://form.jotform. April 10: Queen of Mercy Sunday com/50477174098160 The Knights of Columbus of Natchitoches -- Fr. Jose Robles Sanchez, Steubenville South served seafood gumbo as their annual Lenten meal this year. Come celebrate Queen of Mercy Sunday, a local pri- Gumbo was on sale at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church April 1-3: Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat vate devotion, on Sunday, April 10 at the Maryhill Retreat in February and March. The gumbo was served hot every other Chapel. Confessions will be at 2 p.m., Rosary and Chap- Friday night and frozen to take home on alternating Fridays. lets at 2:30 and Sunday Mass at 3:15. All are welcome. Pictured are L-R: Ray Ponthieux, Joe Roque, John Vercher, A Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat will be held April 1-3 in Priests are asked to bring their own albs. Lafayette. Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat is an extraordinary Micheal Yankowski and Rob Watson. Not pictured are: Buford opportunity for any person who struggles with the emo- Grappe and Charles Lee. tional and spiritual pain of abortion. The weekend is a April 13: Josh Blakesley concert unique and effective process designed specifically to help you experience the mercy and compassion of God. The The Diocese of Alexandria and St. Joseph Church tion and experience in pro-life work. Contact Alexandra weekend will help your soul find a voice and transform the in Marksville will host a Josh Blakesley Band Concert Seghers of LA Right to Life, at [email protected] pain of the past into hope! For more information and to on April 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the St. Joseph Church Hall. or 1.866.463.5433. register, contact Trista at 337.261.5607 or email tlittell@ The cost is FREE and open to everyone. Come enjoy the diolaf.org. All inquiries are kept strictly confidential. Catholic music of our own local award-winning recording April 23: Magnificat Brunch artist, who is widely known across the country. CENLA Magnificat will host a brunch April 23 from April 9: Catechetical Quiz Bowl April 14: Adult Faith Formation Series 10 a.m. -noon at St. Mary’s Assumption Church Hall in Cottonport. The Catechetical Quiz Bowl will be held Saturday, The Spirituality and Education Commission at Our The guest speaker will be Dorinda Bordlee, a pro-life April 9 at 10 a.m. at Maryhill Renewal Center. Registra- Lady of Prompt Succor in Alexandria will offer an Adult lawyer dedicated to the protecion of life from conception is $10 per team. The Bible Quiz Bowl, (for students in Faith Formation series once a month, throughout 2016. tion to natural death. She will share her story of how God grades 6-8), is sponsored by the Office of Religious For- • The April presentation will be held April 14 from moved in her life and her heart to protect His people. She mation and Training. For more information, email emc- 6:30 -7:30 p.m. at the Divine Providence Center. Offficer has dedicated her law practice to sanctity of life constitu- [email protected] or call 318-445-6424, ext 251. Chad Gremillion will speak on “Keeping Our Kids Safe: tional issues since 1994. The Real Dangers of the Internet.” The series is free and Tickets are $18 in advance and must be purchased by CDA 2029 selects CDA Kid open to the public. Childcare is provided for newborns April 10. No tickets sold at the door. For tickets call Mary through 8 years old in the church nursery. Wilson @ 318-359-7735. Catholic Daughters (Msgr. Van der Putten) Court #2029 of April 15-17: Camp Joshua April 23: Cabrini Crawfish Boil Mark elected 11-year- old as CDA Louisiana Camp Joshua (LCJ), a weekend pro-life St. Frances Cabrini Church invites you to help cel- kid for the second year. and camp to train high school students to be pro-life leaders, ebrate Fr. Chad Partain’s 40th birthday with a Cabrini her family, Don and Aimee Du- Dates for Camp Joshua 2016 Crawfish Boil on Saturday, April 23 from 5:30 -9 p.m. on puy, attend St. Genev Church • Baton Rouge: April 15-17 the church grounds. $100 provides crawfish with sides and in Brouillette, where is an • Covington: April 29-May 1 non-alcoholic beverages for two adults. Tickets are $30 altar server. At Camp Joshua, you will experience top-notch for children ages 12-16. (No children under 12 will be The CDA Kids program en- workshops, classes, and activities, and you’ll learn from admitted due to space limitations and alcohol.) Live auc- ables each diocese to chose one child, 12 years or younger, the nation’s leading pro-life experts. You’ll also make tion and door prizes given throughout the evening. Tickets who has a life-threatening illness or is underprivileged. great pro-life friends and have a ton of fun! More than are available for purchase at www.cabrinischool.com or Throughout the year, the child is remembered with gifts just listening and observing, you’ll get hands-on interac- through the school office. Proceeds benefit the school.

Correction Louis Lowrey, M.A.

Bishop Ronald Herzog was pre- P.O. Box 5624 Licensed Professional Counselor sented with a check Feb. 9 for Alexandria, LA 71307 Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist the Priests Retirement Fund (not 3306 Giamanco Street the seminarian fund) by John Offices located at 207 Church Street, Natchitoches Morovich, past Grand Knight of Donald J. Baker, ACF/RF/CF Phone: (318) 473-8751 (318) 332-8422 • Pager (318) 252-2945 CONSULTING FORESTER Bishop Charles Greco 3rd De- Fax: (318) 473-4045 [email protected] gree Council #1134. EMail: [email protected] Licensed Urban Tree Consultant Mail: 109 Royal Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457 MARCH 21, 2016 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 23 March - April

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Chrism Mass Lenten Series Start Novena 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Chad Partain for Divine Mercy St. Francis Xavier 6:00 p.m. Cathedral, Alexandria St. Frances Cabrini Church, Alexandria

HOLY THURSDAY GOOD FRIDAY HOLY SATURDAY EASTER SUNDAY PRAY FOR FR. A. THOMPSON PRAY FOR MSGR. J. TIMMERMANS PRAY FOR FR. A. TRAVIS PRAY FOR FR. G. UZONDU PRAY FOR FR. A. VARGHESE PRAY FOR FR. V. VEAD PRAY FOR FR. N. VIVIANO

APRIL 28 29 30Pro-Life 31 1Confirmation 2Confirmation 3 DIOCESAN OFFICES Oratory Contest 4:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. CLOSED 6:00 p.m. St. Alphonsus Church, St. Mary’s Assumption Westside Library, Alexandria Hessmer Church, Cottonport

Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat -- Lafayette SUNDAY of EASTER MONDAY FIRST FRIDAY FIRST SATURDAY DIVINE MERCY PRAY FOR FR. J. XAVIER PRAY FOR FR. K. ZACHARIAH PRAY FOR FR. A. AELAVANTHARA PRAY FOR FR. W. AJAERO PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG PRAY FOR FR. T. ALLEN PRAY FOR FR. J. ANTONY

Confirmation 4VIRTUS Training 5Confirmation 6 7 8Catechetical 9 6:00 p.m. 10 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Quiz Bowl St. Rita Church, St. Mary’s Assumption St. Michael the Archangel 10:00 a.m. Alexandria Church, Cottonport Church, Leesville St. Joseph Catholic Center, Alexandria Queen of Mercy 2:00 p.m. Maryhill Renewal Center

Menard Theater presents Damn Yankees! -- Coughlin Saunders Performing Arts Center, Alexandria PRAY FOR FR. S. BRANDOW PRAY FOR FR. D. BRAQUET PRAY FOR FR. J. BROCATO PRAY FOR FR. S. CHEMINO PRAY FOR FR. D. COOK PRAY FOR FR. D. CORKERY PRAY FOR FR. J. CUNNINGHAM 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Josh Blakesley Band Adult Faith Confirmation Confirmation FREE Concert Formation Series 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30-7:30 p.m. St. Edward Church, Our Lady of Prompt Our Lady of Prompt St. Joseph Church, Succor, Alexandria Tallulah Succor Church, Alexandria Marksville

Camp Joshua -- Baton Rouge PRAY FOR FR. W. DECOSTE PRAY FOR FR. D. DEJESUS PRAY FOR FR. B. DESHAUTELLE PRAY FOR FR. J. DESIMONE PRAY FOR FR. P. FAULK PRAY FOR FR. J. FERGUSON PRAY FOR FR. T. FEY

Confirmation 18 19 20 21 225:00 p.m. 23 24 VIRTUS Training Menard Confirmation St. Paul the Apostle Confirmation 6:00 p.m. Fine Arts Night 6:00 p.m. Church, Mansura 11:30 a.m. St. Joseph Catholic 5:00 p.m. Holy Cross Church, Sacred Heart of Jesus Center, Alexandria Holy Savior Menard High Natchitoches Cabrini Crawfish Boil Church, Pineville School, Alexandria 5:30-9:00 p.m. St. Frances Cabrini Church, Alexandria

PRAY FOR FR. A. FIGREDO PRAY FOR FR. R. GARRIONE PRAY FOR FR. J. GOOTEE PRAY FOR FR. W. GEARHEARD PRAY FOR FR. R. GREMILLION PRAY FOR FR. J. HASIEBER PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG