January 11, 2013

THE CATHOLIC Page 3 Damean Reunion Concert at Hofinger Conference

JanuaryC 11, 2013 Vol.ommentator 50, No. 24 SERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 thecatholiccommentator.org Peace is impossible without openness to God, pope tells diplomats By Francis X. Rocca Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Deploring war, civil conflict and poverty around the world, Pope Benedict XVI told foreign ambassadors assembled at the Vatican that peace-building requires charity, religious liberty, a proper understanding of human rights and openness to divine love. Pope Benedict made his remarks Jan. 7 in his annual address to members of the Vatican’s diplomatic corps, presenting a survey of global troubles including “endless slaughter” in civil war-torn Syr- ia, terrorist attacks on Christians in Nigeria and the impact of Hurricane Sandy on the East Coast of the United States. He also warned about the international spread of legalized abortion and growing inequality between rich and poor. High school students leading the prayers for the living rosary during the 20th Annual Bishop’s Respect Life “Peace is not simply the fruit of human effort, Rally Jan. 6 at the Catholic Life Center in Baton Rouge are, from left, Catherine, Madelyn and Grace Ledoux, but a participation in the very love of God,” Pope Catherine Stewart and Jake Benson. Photo by Laura Deavers | The Catholic Commentator Benedict told the envoys. “Without openness to the transcendent, human beings easily become prey to relativism and find it difficult to act justly and to USCCB’s Notare gives history work for peace.” The pope pointedly distinguished true religion, which he said aims at “reconciling men and women with God” and hence with each other, from a “bane- of modern sexual revolution ful religious fanaticism which, again in 2012, reaped victims in some countries represented here.” By Laura Deavers movement had information on their specific efforts He particularly Editor to create a greater awareness and promote action to condemned recent Peacemaking respect all human life. attacks on Chris- New faces were among the more than 150 people Notare, who has a doctoral degree in church his- tian churches in requires the attending the 20th Annual Bishop’s Respect Life Ral- tory from the Catholic University of America, told Nigeria, including ly Jan. 6 at the Catholic Life Center in Baton Rouge. much of the history of the sexual revolution, includ- the “barbarous” protection of Many of those long associated with the pro-life ing information on the men and women who played killings of a dozen movement in this area, along with those attending key roles in forming how current society views sexu- people by gunmen fundamental for the first time, came to pray for an end to abortion ality and sexual relations. during services and to hear Dr. Theresa Notare, assistant director of The history of the movement involves many as- at Christmas. His human rights and the National Family Planning Program for the US- pects of culture and society – religious beliefs, phi- remarks on sub- CCB Secretariat for Laity, Marriage, Family Life and losophy, psychology, economics, population and gen- Saharan Africa also dignity. Youth, speak about the modern sexual revolution. der are a few. Notare said because so many concepts included a call for Bishop Robert W. Muench with the Knights of Co- are included a confused message is often delivered as international in- Pope Benedict XVI lumbus honor guard led the procession for the living to what is good and what is not. tervention in Mali, rosary, which was held inside the main auditorium of “The belief of Christians regarding human sexual- where a military regime is fighting to reclaim the the Catholic Life Center because of inclement weath- ity is it is a natural act between a man and a woman,” country’s north from Islamist rebel forces. er. High school students Jake Benson, Catherine said Notare. “Man and woman are made in the image The pope’s speech gave special attention to “that Stewart, and Grace, Madelyn and Catherine Ledoux, of God. They are co-creators with God and children privileged region in God’s plan, the Middle East,” led the prayers of the rosary. are the blessings” that come from that co-creation. reiterating earlier calls for a cease-fire and peace Clare Fletcher is the first place winner of the 2012 She said the modern sexual revolution is talks in Syria, where he said the almost two-year Pro-Life Oratory Contest and Benson is the second marked by a multi-faceted questioning of the civil war “will know no victors but only vanquished place winner. They received their awards during the truth of Christian beliefs about sexuality and if it continues, leaving behind it nothing but a field rally. sexual behavior, often accompanied by either of ruins.” He urged foreign governments to provide Many organizations associated with the pro-life SEE REVOLUTION PAGE 23 SEE PEACEMAKING PAGE 23 2 The Catholic Commentator January 11, 2013

| IN THIS ISSUE | DID YOU KNOW

has a new director. Stephanie Sterling The Angelus is prayed three times a day takes the reins from long-time director Janice Allen. PAGE 10 A short devotion in honor The Angelus today was developed. of the incarnation, the Ange- V. The angel of the Lord de- lus is a prayer that is repeated clared unto Mary. three times each day – morn- R. And she conceived of the ing, noon and evening – and is Holy Spirit. accompanied by the ringing of Hail Mary, full of grace, the PARENTS HAVE VARIOUS APPROACH- bells. Lord is with thee; Blessed ES IN HOW TO raise their children; some The Angelus, or Angelus art thou among women; And are nurturing and others are not. Dianne Domini, consists of three state- blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Pitts gives to a group of parents the ments, each followed by the recitation of Jesus. positives and negatives of some of these the Hail Mary and a concluding prayer Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us parenting styles. PAGE 5 asking for God’s grace. The prayer’s name sinners, now and at the hour of our death. JAN. 13- 19 IS VOCATION AWARENESS comes from the first line: “The Angel of the Amen. SUPREME COURT JUSTICE ANTONIN WEEK in the United States. Three semi- Lord.” V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord. SCALIA tells a Baton Rouge audience that narians talk about the role of their church When prayed as a group, a leader re- R. Be it done unto me according to thy believing in miracles is part of their faith parish in their decision to study for the cites the verses and everyone else in atten- word. (Hail Mary … etc.) and should not be viewed as foolish or priesthood. PAGES 11-15 dance recites both the responses and the V. And the word was made flesh. uneducated. PAGE 6 Hail Mary in between each verse. Tradi- R. And dwelt among us. (Hail Mary …) | INDEX tionally prayed at 6 a.m., noon and 6 p.m., V. Pray for us, O holy mother of God. A NEW VERSION OF ATHEISM ASSERTS the Regina Coeli prayer replaces the Ange- R. That we may be made worthy of the SCIENTIFIC FINDINGS have made God’s CLASSIFIED ADS 22 lus during the Easter season. promises of Christ. existence irrelevant. But the study of sci- COMING EVENTS 22 The origin of the Angelus is unclear. Let us pray: Pour forth, we beseech thee, ence can lead people to conversion and ENTERTAINMENT 18 However, it is known that praying the O Lord, thy grace into our hearts, that we deeper faith. PAGE 7 FAMILY LIFE 5 Hail Mary three times in the evening to whom the incarnation of Christ thy son hours dates back to the early 14th centu- was made known by the message of an an- INTERNATIONAL/NATIONAL NEWS 4 THE OFFICE OF ry. Over the years the morning and mid- gel, may by his passion and cross be brought MATERNITY, SPIRITUALITY 7 day hours were added, and by the early to the glory of his resurrection through the ADOPTION AND VIEWPOINT 20 17th century, the formula Catholics use same Christ our lord. Amen. BEHAVIORAL HEALTH YOUTH 16 | PRAY FOR THOSE WHO PRAY FOR US Please pray for the priests, deacons and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese. Jan. 13 Rev. Eliseus O. Ibeh MSP Jan. 20 Rev. Kenneth W. Laird Dcn. Maurico Salazar OP Dcn. J. Thomas Traylor Sr. Thérèse St. Pierre CSJ Sr. Mary Ann Sullivan CSJ Jan. 14 Rev. Michael Jung OSB Jan. 21 Rev. Charles R. Landry Dcn. Eliazar Salinas Jr. Dcn. John W. Veron Sr. Mary de Montfort Schexnaydre OP Sr. Patricia Sullivan CSJ Jan. 15 Rev. Steven E. Kimmons SJ Jan. 22 Rev. Clyde H. LeBlanc SJ Dcn. Mario (Sam) Sammartino Dcn. Joseph Vu Sr. Lucy Silvio CSJ Sr. Mary Rose Therese MC Jan. 16 Rev. Jon C. Koehler Jan. 23 Rev. Keun-Soo Lee Dcn. Milton J. Schanzbach Dcn. J. Peter Walsh Sr. Camille Simoneaux CSJ Br. Mark Thornton SC Jan. 17 Rev. Joseph Sanjay Kunnasseril IMS Jan. 24 Rev. Msgr. Gerald M. Lefebvre ©2012 NCEA/USCCB ©2012 Dcn. Peter Schlette Dcn. James E. Wax Sr. Mary Hilary Simpson OP Sr. Thanh Tâm Tran ICM Jan. 18 Rev. J. Joel LaBauve Jan. 25 Rev. C. Todd Lloyd Dcn. Joseph M. Scimeca Dcn. Alfred P. Zeringue Sr. Linda Songy SCSC Sr. Margarida Maria Vasques OSF Jan. 19 Rev. Jason M. Labbé Jan. 26 Rev. Matthew P. Lorrain Dcn. Rudolph W. Stahl Dcn. Henry J. Zeringue January 25 Issue Br. Jean Sorbert SC Sr. Doris Vigneaux CSJ Catholic Schools Week Deadline for articles, pictures and THE CATHOLIC

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January 11, 2013 The Catholic Commentator 3 Work of clergy, laity supercedes schooling in faith formation By Beth Donze Faith), they first had to understand for Clarion Herald themselves that faith is not something to be mediated over a single year of obser- While schooling Catholics in the tenets vance; rather, it is a divine gift from God and rituals of their faith gives them an im- nurtured by continuing encounters with portant “road map” to use in their lifelong the divine and ongoing conversions of the probing into the mystery of God, the most heart. powerful faith formation usually occurs “The door of faith leads us into mystery when a fledgling or longtime Catholic wit- – the mystery of God,” Father Fragomeni nesses the unassuming, Christ-like work said. “And because it leads us into mys- of the clergy and laity at the parish level, tery, it’s a mystery that we as Catholics said speakers to an assembly of priests, believe is not just incomprehensible, but seminarians and deacons at the 31st an- infinitely incomprehensible; the more you nual Johannes Hofinger Conference, held understand, you realize there’s a lot more Jan. 3-5 at the Pontchartain Center in to understand after you think you under- Kenner. stand it all.” “What allures people most to want to Entering willingly into this mystery, yield their hearts and make the leap of said Father Fragomeni, involves a tacit faith is not the content of faith. My expe- willingness of the faithful to “an ongo- rience is what draws them is the work of ing conversion” that ideally should unfold The Dameans, a group of seminarians studying at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans faith, the works of love,” said Father Rich- from one’s baptism through death. Not- in the 1960s who wrote and performed music for the revised liturgy that came from ard Fragomeni, one of three speakers who ing that the Greek word for conversion is Vatican Council II, played a reunion concert at the Johannes Hofinger Conference Jan. 3 presented the conference’s special clergy metanoia, or “going beyond the mind,” he at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner. Members of the Dameans are, from left, Gary track examining strides in catechesis in said conversion means repeatedly letting Daigle, Darryl Ducote, Michael Balhoff, Buddy Ceasar and Gary Ault. Photo by Beth Donze | the 50 years since the Second Vatican go of our “puny minds” and taking on the Clarion Herald Council and the two decades since the mind of Christ. covered that 87 percent of catechumenal classes” contained in a manila folder. promulgation of the “Catechism of the “This Year of Faith is an invitation programs in the United States. primar- “The vision from the council is that it Catholic Church.” to enter that doorway with a conversion ily focused on a strict syllabus “peppered should be so much more,” he said, comparing All three speakers had ties to the Cath- of mind so profound that we can probe with rites,” Galipeau asked clergy to re- the process of becoming Catholic to how an olic Theological Union (CTU) in Chicago, around the mystery of things like the in- examine if their religious education pro- electrician becomes an electrician – while the largest Catholic graduate school of carnation and the death and resurrection grams had also merely become “Catholic SEE HOFINGER PAGE 24 ministry in the United States. of Christ, and revel in mysteries that we “The works of love are the beauty of will never fully comprehend,” he said, the church,” Father Fragomeni said. “The leaving the clergy with two suggestions works of our church parishes – the chari- for the Year of Faith: to more actively pro- table works of love, the outreach that was mote catechetical opportunities in their poured out in that parish in (Newtown) church parishes; and to take advantage of Connecticut. That’s what allures the the sacrament of reconciliation to “flush communion and the re-evangelization of out the old leaven” and “allow God to en- peoples. I believe what will allure fallen- rapture us and transform us in the beauty away Catholics is not talk about the con- of Christ.” tent, but the beauty of our lives, given in “I think among the greatest sins that we love, transformed by God, and living out face as priests is the secret sin that some- the mystery so that we, the leaders of the times attacks all of us – clericalism – the church, become the very door of faith.” kind of clericalism that can lead to a cer- Father Fragomeni, a priest in the Dio- tain quality of entitlement, or better-than- cese of Albany, N.Y. and a CTU associate thou attitude,” Father Fragomeni said. professor of homiletics, noted that “faith” Jerry Galipeau, a CTU adjunct profes- and “content of faith” are interrelated, sor and vice president and chief publish- but distinct. Faith, he said, is “a yielding ing officer for World Library Publications over completely to God,” while content – (the music and liturgy division of Illinois- the church’s teachings and rituals – are based J.S. Paluch Co.), described the last “pointers” that help direct the faithful to 50 years as a “waking up” period of the the beauty, truth and goodness of God. catechumenate process as the “way in” to “You can memorize the ‘Catechism of Catholicism. the Catholic Church’ but not have faith,” Galipeau, a past chair of the board of he said. “We can have a lot of catecheti- directors for the North American Cat- cal answers; we can memorize the defini- echumenate, said most church parishes tions of (place names such as) Chalcedon in the United States are falling short of and Ephesus; we can even change trans- the council’s original vision for RCIA, as lations of the Nicene Creed and now say laid out in “Ad Gentes,” the Second Vati- ‘consubstantial.’ Those are the contents of can Council’s decree on the missionary our faith, but content does not guarantee activity of the church. That document that the radical transformation is occur- declared that Catholic formation should ring within the souls and in the hearts of be more than “a mere exposition of dog- believers.” matic truths and norms of morality,” but Father Fragomeni reminded priests a dynamic period of “apprenticeship” that before they could help usher their in which the catechumen gets to know flocks through the door of faith (or porta Christ through participation in the works fidei, the title of Pope Benedict XVI’s 2011 of the church. apostolic letter anticipating the Year of Noting that a recent USCCB study dis- 4 The Catholic Commentator NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL NEWS January 11, 2013 40 years after Roe v. Wade, pro-life movement strengthens its resolve Abortion in America The number of abortions performed annually in the U.S. hit By Carol Zimmermann lier than usual, serving as just one indica- a high point in 1988 and has been on a decline since. Catholic News Service tion that this year’s event will draw record crowds. WASHINGTON — Forty years after the She said she expects a bigger turnout U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortions, this year because of the “huge pro-life loss 1.59 million in 1988 the pro-life movement hasn’t stepped back during the election” and the “somber real- in its resolve to see the decision reversed. ity” of the 40-year anniversary of the Su- Each year near Jan. 22, the day of the preme Court’s decisions. Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton decisions “People are very passionate about this 1.32 1.36 on abortion, tens of thousands of protesters issue ... and they want to make their voices 1.31 march in Washington and San Francisco heard” she said. 1.18 1.21 and also take part in local events across the Monahan likened the march to a somber country hoping to change abortion laws. but energetic event, focused on the fact that Number of abortions This year will be no exception. “at least 55 million abortions have been per- per year in millions The annual March for Life in Washing- formed” in the past 40 years but fueled by ton will take place Friday Jan. 25 – instead the overwhelming number of young people .75 of Jan. 22 – to accommodate participants in attendance. because the anniversary date is the day af- “There is a positive energy and even a ter public ceremonies for the presidential joy” at the march because most participants 1973 1977 1981 1985 1989 1993 1997 2001 2005 2008 inauguration, which would have made it are younger than 25, noted Monahan, a difficult to secure enough hotel rooms for 40-year-old who attends St. Patrick Church Pregnancies ending in the thousands expected to descend on the in Washington. nation’s capital. Across the country, the ninth annual abortion in 2008 Jeanne Monahan, the new president of Walk for Life West Coast will take place the March for Life Education & Defense Jan. 26. Eva Muntean, a walk co-founder Fund, which organizes and runs the rally and organizer, said the event – which drew 18% and march each year in Washington, told 40,000 participants last year – was in- Catholic News Service that hotels reserved spired by Washington’s annual march. for march participants filled a month ear- It starts with a rally featuring several At the current rate, three in every 10 women will have an abortion by age 45.

speakers at a San Francisco plaza and Kevin J. Farrell of Dallas. then a two-mile walk through the heart of After the rally, marchers will walk the the city to a large waterfront plaza. This familiar route along Constitution Avenue year, participants will be joined by Arch- to the Supreme Court. Participants are en- bishop Carlo Maria Vigano, apostolic nun- couraged to visit their representatives on cio to the United States. Capitol Hill after marching to lobby for pro- Muntean told CNS from San Francisco life efforts. that the large number of young people Monahan, who was named to her post in who participate make the effort of orga- November, knows she has big shoes to fill nizing it worthwhile. After recently hear- replacing Nellie Gray, the Texas native and ing a group of teenagers talk about how World War II veteran who started the an- the event inspired them to be more active- nual March for Life in 1974 to protest legal- ly pro-life, Muntean said that might be its ized abortion. Gray died in August at 86. Open House “biggest fruit” – inspiring and energizing In a 2003 interview with Catholic youths. News Service, Gray said the first march in Wednesday, January 30, 2013 In Washington, the Archdiocese of 1974 was “put together in less than three 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Washington will sponsor two parallel months.” She said the word went out, some- events for young people. A Youth Rally how, and 20,000 people came in buses to Tour Campus and Visit Classes / Meet Administrative Staff and Mass for Life is set for the morning march around the U.S. Capitol on a sunny Application Information Available of Jan. 25 at the Verizon Center for local 70-degree day. residents. A second rally and Mass for When the marchers were packing up to out-of-town marchers that morning takes leave, she said, many felt that they had not www.olomschool.org place at Comcast Center at the University been heard and that political leaders did not of Maryland in College Park. seem ready to change abortion laws. Limited Openings for 2013-14 The night before the march the annual “So we decided to do one more march. National Prayer Vigil for Life will be held And now we’re at No. 30,” she said 10 years at the Basilica of the National Shrine of ago. Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School does not discriminate the Immaculate Conception. Boston Car- Monahan, former director of the Center on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin. dinal Sean P. O’Malley will be the main for Human Dignity at the Family Research celebrant at the evening Mass. The vigil Council in Washington, said that it is “only 400 Marquette Avenue  Baton Rouge, LA  225-924-1054 will conclude with a Solemn Mass for Life by standing on Nellie’s shoulders that we celebrated the next morning by Bishop can continue to do the work we do now.” January 11, 2013 FAMILY LIFE The Catholic Commentator 5 “Power in Parenting” program teaches effective practices for raising children

By Debbie Shelley uninvolved to the point of neglect. to and consider their children’s Assistant Editor Uninvolved parents are not in- viewpoint. Parents, however, terested in their children’s needs, make final decisions. Pitts added. “Parenting is a hard job,” Di- whereabouts or experiences at Children raised by authori- ane Pitts, coordinator of the school. They say things such as, “I tative parents are likely to have Family Achievement Center, ac- don’t care where you go,” or “Why good social skills, and are com- knowledged to a group of parents should I care what you do?” stated petent, responsible and indepen- attending a “Power in Parenting” Pitts. dent, Pitts pointed out. program on Dec. 13 at Immacu- Children’s input is rarely con- She told the parents things late Conception Church in Den- sidered by uninvolved parents, they can do to effectively raise ham Springs. She encouraged the who generally do not want to be their children. attendees and gave them infor- bothered. The uninvolved par- Teaching children that they mation to strengthen them for the From left, Alanna Boudreau, Karen Fontenot, Bonnie Territo and Crys- ent may be overwhelmed by per- are appreciated and valued is task of raising their children. tal Dillard ask Diane Pitts questions following the “Power in Parent- sonal circumstances or be self- very important, Pitts stated. The Family Achievement Cen- ing” program at Immaculate Conception Church in Denham Springs. centered. He or she might engage Children need someone who will ter, a program of Catholic Chari- Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator in this behavior if they are tired, listen to them and tell them they ties of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, frustrated or have “given up” try- understand. Eye contact is es- helps people become more self- are no discussions about family often make important decisions ing to maintain parental control, sential. sufficient through support groups rules and standards. without parental input, because said Pitts. Getting “the whole family on for vulnerable populations, edu- Children living in this type of their parents do not want to say Children raised by uninvolved board” also helps assure the rais- cation for first time home-buyers, household may become rebellious no or disappoint them. Also, per- parents may behave similarly to ing of balanced children. Hav- budgeting classes and family and act aggressively or become to- missive parents don’t think of those raised in permissive homes ing family meetings and eating strengthening activities. tally submissive to their parents. themselves as actively shaping and may also display thoughtless meals together is a good way to Pitts told the audience the first At the opposite end of the spec- their children’s actions. They be- behavior because they do not feel do this, stated Pitts. step in developing their parenting trum is the permissive parenting lieve they are a resource should loved or cared for, according to Cultivating children’s good skills is to determine their parent- style, according to Pitts. Permis- the children seek their advice. Pitts. manners, such as saying, “Yes, ing style, or the emotional climate sive parents are warm, but unde- Adolescents raised by permis- She said the a most balanced ma’am,” develops their social in which they raise their children. manding. They believe the way to sive parents may struggle with parenting style is the authorita- skills and teaches them to re- The first parenting style Pitts demonstrate their love is to give self-control and demonstrate self- tive style, which combines love spect others, Pitts said. discussed was authoritarian par- into their children’s wishes and ish tendencies that can interfere and limits. She listed 10 other practices enting, in which parents display so their children tend to walk all with the development of peer re- Authoritative parents are to help raise good children: hug little warmth and are highly con- over them. lationships, stated Pitts. warm, yet firm and set rules, ex- them; monitor them; notice and trolling. They are strict discipli- Permissive parents use phras- Another destructive type of ercise control over their children reward good behavior; be con- narians and insist their children es such as, “Sure, you can stay up parenting is uninvolved parent- without being controlling and en- sistent; set a good example; chal- follow their orders without ques- late if you want to,” and “You do ing, which Pitts described as cold courage their children to be inde- lenge them; take care of their tion, saying, “You will do this be- not need to do any chores if you and placing no demands on their pendent while maintaining limits health; read together; and take cause I said so,” and, “Because I’m don’t feel like it,” said Pitts. children. Quality time is minimal, and control over their actions. care of one’s own mind, body the parent and you’re not.” There Children of permissive parents and in some cases, parents are Authoritative parents listen and spirit. Put away the calls and texts and all that distracts from the road y mom, who is a reli- rella sticks and ice cream. There have to pass the driving test once. calls can wait. Give the keys to gious education direc- would have been other basketball You have to pass it each time you someone else if you’re overly Mtor, was locking up after games, anniversaries, parties, get in a car, for your sake and tired, or if you’ve had alcohol. a youth group event at her church celebrations, graduations, happi- others on the road. Don’t speed. If your friends are parish not long ago when she ness, sadness and sunny days. Driving while drunk kills. distracting you while you’re driv- heard a girl crying in the hallway. Tragedies like this hit home Driving while exhausted kills. ing, tell them to stop or pull over The girl had been texting with with me. When I get in my car, Texting while driving kills. Driv- until they are quiet. her friend Deanna, who was rid- my mind isn’t always on the road. ing while distracted kills. I don’t want anyone else to ing home with her boyfriend and I start thinking about something It’s hard to remember this have to get that phone call. two other friends after watching else. Sometimes, I forget I’m not when you’re a teenager, especially a college basketball game. It had supposed to text while driving when you’ve first felt the freedom OSBORNE contributes to “Coming been a typical Saturday night. and sneak one in. Sometimes that a learning permit promises. of Age,” a CNS column series for Suddenly, the texts stopped. I’m late for work, and I speed. “It But the next time you drive, and about youth. Shes writes for Then she heard the news: A can’t hurt,” I say. “I’ll do it just remember Chris and Deanna. The Evangelist, newspaper of the car had rear-ended her friends’ Our Turn this once. Right?” Wrong. Put away the phone. Texts and Diocese of Albany, N.Y. SUV on the freeway. New York The driver of the vehicle that State Police later said the SUV Therese Borchard hit Chris Stewart’s SUV took a rolled multiple times and hit a breathalyzer test. It showed he’d tree, killing her friend. couldn’t walk. I couldn’t talk. I had alcohol in his system, but not I can’t stop thinking about sank to the floor, sobbing. enough to qualify for a charge of this girl’s story because I under- I remembered that moment driving while intoxicated. Police stand what she’s going through. when I heard about the girl’s are investigating what happened. I was in a craft store, picking up story. Two people died on that Reading about Chris and things to make a scrapbook for freeway that night: Deanna Deanna reminded me that driv- my best friend Tovah’s wedding. Rivers and Chris Stewart. The ing is more than just a rite of My phone rang. It was Tovah’s high school seniors planned to go passage. It’s a huge responsibility mother, telling me Tovah had to college. They just celebrated you take on every time you put been killed in a car accident. I their anniversary with mozza- the key in the ignition. You don’t 6 The Catholic Commentator January 11, 2013 Justice Scalia tells BR group Catholics are sophisticated

By Laura Deavers to the several hundred in atten- convinced that he knew what writing about the stigmata be- Editor dance. “Jesus Christ is God, born was truth and what was not. Jef- cause it was a miracle that could of a virgin, he rose from the grave ferson edited the Bible to include not be explained, but understood In “educated circles” those and founded a church.” only those passages that he con- only through faith. who believe Jesus Christ was He said those who believe sidered genuine, leaving out any “Christ described us as his born of a virgin and rose from in God also believe in miracles, reference to Jesus rising from the sheep and said we are to become the dead are regarded as simple which non-believers have diffi- dead, Scalia said. like little children,” Scalia said. minded, said U.S. Supreme Court culty understanding. “Those who Scalia, quoting a Washington But Christians are also to be Justice Antonin Scalia during a love God and believe that they Post news story, said Christians educated in what the Church luncheon speech Jan. 2 in Baton will be happy with God forever in were poorly educated. teaches and follow those teach- Rouge sponsored by WPYR Cath- eternity” realize the miracle that In covering the story of a ings, as St. Thomas More did olic Community Radio. will occur, said the justice. Washington, D.C. priest with a when he went against the king of Justice Antonin Scalia speaks “One can be sophisticated In contrast, Scalia told how stigmata on his hands, the Wash- England and followed what the about what Catholics believe at a and believe in God, and in Jesus Thomas Jefferson, the third pres- ington Post wrote about a statue Vatican said about divorce, said Jan. 2 luncheon in Baton Rouge. Christ, the son of God, who tri- ident of the United States, stud- at the priest’s church, said Scalia. the justice of the saint who is the Photo by Laura Deavers | The Catholic Commen- umphed over death,” said Scalia ied the Bible and became quite He criticized the reporter for not patron of attorneys. tator Confusion over observance of holy days of obligation

There was considerable But this time on Saturday feasts are Christmas (because God, of course, can forgive sins, confusion among my evening, churches had only the of its centrality as the birthday but Jesus has shared the power Qfriends over the recent vigil Mass for Sunday, and some of Christ) and the Immaculate of absolution with his apostles feast of the Immaculate Concep- people thought that by attend- Conception (in part, at least, and their successors (thank- tion (Saturday, Dec. 8). My own ing that they were covering because it is the patronal feast of fully, because it is always more church parish announced it as both obligations. I thought that the United States.) comforting to hear another hu- a holy day of obligation, but the any holy day pertaining to the For those two feasts, you can’t man being proclaim that we are church in the next town over Blessed Mother was never done get “double credit” by attending forgiven.) simply called it a “holy day.” away with. Can you clear this up one Mass as some people thought Some sins – doubtless the Both church parishes had for us? (Somerset, N.J.) in the question you posed. (Since great majority – can be forgiven only one Mass on that Saturday I’ve now reviewed the rules in without the sacrament, by ap- morning, whereas in times past, As often as it is explained the simplest and shortest way I pealing directly to the mercy of churches used to have two or to them, Catholics in our can and it’s still taken more than the Lord. Technically, the only three morning Masses on a holy Acountry are still uncertain 200 words, confusion should sins that require confession to day of obligation and perhaps as to the holy days of obligation, Question Corner come as no surprise.) a priest are mortal sins -- i.e., another one in the evening. but let’s lay it out once more. In As for the scheduling of par- grave violations of God’s law Father Kenneth Doyle ish Masses on Saturday, Dec. 8, done with full knowledge and the United States, there are six 2012: Since most churches in complete consent. holy days of obligation, i.e., feast the United States now have only Lesser sins – traditionally days on which Catholics must one priest, I can understand called “venial” and described by attend Mass. why you would have only one the Catechism of the Catholic %* They are: the Mary Mother Mass on that Saturday morning, Church in No. 1458 as “everyday 3.30 APY of God, Jan. 1; Ascension (of the especially since the same priest faults”– can be forgiven by such *Includes Current Yield + 1.00% First Year Additional Interest. Lord) 40 days after Easter; As- had to celebrate the Sunday vigil practices as prayers of repen- Interest rates are subject to change & vary by plan. The minimum interest rate guaranteed is 1.50%. sumption (of the Blessed Virgin Mass later that day (maybe even tance or works of charity. Mary), Aug. 15; All Saints’ Day, two vigil Masses.) Participation in the Eucharist, Nov. 1; Immaculate Conception Some churches wisely sched- since it strengthens us in living (of the Blessed Virgin Mary), uled a vigil Mass for the feast Christ’s way of love, has the ef- Dec. 8; and Christmas, Dec. 25. that Friday evening to make it fect of wiping away venial sins, Now comes the confus- easier for people to fulfill their says No. 1394 in the catechism, ing part. In most areas of the obligation for the Marian holy and the penitential rite at the country, the celebration of the day. beginning of Mass reminds us Ascension has been transferred of our need for forgiveness and to the following Sunday, so there Must confession (the invites us to ask for God’s mercy. is no obligation in those dioceses sacrament of reconcilia- It should quickly be noted to attend Mass on that Thursday. Qtion) be done in collabo- that, though not strictly neces- On three of the feasts – Jan. ration with a priest? I see very sary, regular confession to a 1, Aug. 15 and Nov. 1 – when the small lines these days for the priest, even of venial sins, is feast day occurs on a Saturday or confessional, but it seems that “strongly recommended” since a Monday, you get “two for one.” 90 percent of those attending this practice helps one to moni- Frank Lamulle That is, the obligation to attend Mass receive Communion. So my tor behavior more closely and to 504-458-0957 the feast day Mass is lifted and question is this: Are we allowed make steady progress on the long attendance at a weekend Mass to “self-confess” without the road to holiness. covers you both for the feast and assistance of a priest and thus be for Sunday. eligible to receive Communion? FATHER DOYLE is chancellor for Securing Families’ Lives Since 1901 But (and this seems the hard- (Toms River, N.J.) public information and a pastor est part for people to grasp) dur- in the Diocese of Albany, N.Y. Home Office: San Antonio, Texas. #ASU 1.13 ing two feasts, Catholics are still The sacrament of rec- Questions may be sent to ask- ANNUITIES · IRAs · ROLLOVERS obliged to go to Mass no matter onciliation requires the [email protected] and 40 what day they occur. Those Apresence of a priest. Only Hopewell St., Albany, NY 12208. January 11, 2013 SPIRITUALITY The Catholic Commentator 7 Baglow talks about attack on Catholic faith by new version of atheism

By Debbie Shelley collection of atoms bearing the perstitions, religion can purify Assistant Editor name, ‘Carl Sagan.’ ” science from idolatry and false Conceding that atheists have absolutes. Each can draw the Many people struggle with some good points, Baglow said a other into a wider world, a world the question of whether scientif- problem with scientific atheism in which both can flourish. We ic discoveries prove or disprove is that it is based on a rigid sys- need each other to be what we God’s existence and whether tem of rules, and its advocates must be, what we are called to science and faith can coexist. lack the humility to acknowl- be.” Dr. Chris Baglow discussed how edge others’ points of view. Baglow said many Catholic modern scientific research find- Baglow wryly noted that G.K. religious and lay persons have ings are sometimes misused Chesterton, a writer about com- made significant scientific con- to attack faith and how Catho- mon sense who converted to tributions, including Bishop lic beliefs are compatible with Catholicism, was asked by the Niels Stensen and fathers Fran- scientific findings during the Dr. Chris Baglow, left, discusses with Michael Vince, from right, Jean “Times of London” to write on cesco Grimaldi, Georges Lemaî- presentation, “Belief Under As- Crites and Rita Ourso how scientific theories are sometimes used to as- the topic: “What’s wrong with tre and Lazzaro Spallanzani. sault: Rescuing Faith and Rea- sail faith following his presentation on the topic at St. John the Baptist the world?” Chesterton’s answer The study of science can lead son From Monstrous Mentali- Church in Brusly. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator was, “Dear Sirs, I am.” Baglow people to conversion and deeper ties,” on Dec. 20 at St. John the stated Chesterton’s comment faith, Baglow emphasized. He Baptist Church in Brusly. was found that a physically ob- Other scientific atheists have conveys that before people can noted that Flew changed his Baglow, a professor of theol- servable person was tending assailed Christian beliefs, said change the world they must mind concerning atheism and ogy and director of the master the garden, the believer said an Baglow. change themselves. wrote a book, “There is a God.” of arts program in theological invisible, undetectable person He quoted Richard Dawkins Scientific atheists have a be- Flew wrote, “I now believe studies for lay students at Notre must be caring for it. The skep- who stated, “Faith is the great lief system, which is based only that the universe was brought Dame Seminary in New Or- tic asked, “Just how does what cop-out, the great excuse to on what they can see, measure into existence by an infinite in- leans, said a new popular form you call an invisible, intangible, evade the need to think and and observe, stated Baglow. telligence. I believe that this uni- of atheism, scientific atheism, eternally elusive gardener differ evaluate evidence. Faith is belief Christians believe God cre- verse’s intricate laws manifest asserts that scientific findings from an imaginary gardener or in spite of, even perhaps because ated everything with reasoning what scientists have called the have made God’s existence ir- even from no gardener at all?” of, the lack of evidence.” so it can be rationally explored. mind of God. I believe that life relevant. Baglow said Flew used this Baglow stated Christopher “For Christians nothing is im- and reproduction originate in a Baglow stated predominant parable to challenge Christians Hitchens claimed the develop- possible,” Baglow said. This is divine source. Why do I believe scientific atheist Anthony Flew to explain the reason for their ment of the microscope and why the Catholic Church, ac- this, given that I expounded and retold a parable of two explorers belief in God. Flew had asked, telescope have made religion cording to Baglow, believes faith defended atheism for more than who came upon a garden in the “What would have to occur or to obsolete. does not conflict with science. a half century? The short an- clearing of a jungle. They debat- have occurred to constitute for The speaker also included a He quoted Blessed Pope swer is this: this is the world pic- ed on whether someone created you a disproof of the love of, or comment from Carl Sagan, “I, John Paul II, “Science can pu- ture as I see it, that has emerged the garden. After no evidence of the existence of, God?” Carl Sagan, am nothing but a rify religion from error and su- from modern science.” Closer to God’s love in moments of tragedy

hen you see a beautiful God or become angry with him When your faith is being Like a plant without water, he household plant that might be overpowering at times, tested as never before, do not had no faith to hold on to. Per- Whas not been watered but the truth is that God’s love give in to self-pity. You can haps Adam fell victim to despair. for a week, it will appear to be never abandons us. Feelings are accomplish this by loving your Perhaps he lashed out in pain deformed, even dead. But if you not facts. neighbor. Think of others. Do and outrage, rejecting the world give it a good soaking, it will Negative feelings will always not love them by showering pity around him, the very world that come back to its full splendor. In lead us into the swamp of fear upon them. Do it by stirring up would have loved and comforted the same way, faith is the water and doubt, but Jesus said, “Do their faith. Pity parties are a him. But we may never know of the soul. Without it, people not be afraid.” The Lord always waste of time. What we all need what truly happened. soon whither and become spiri- commands us to love God, and in times of trial is the faith to rise Jesus said, “Father, forgive tually depleted. be not afraid. above the fray. A strong belief in them, they know not what they In the aftermath of the When tragedies hit, all of God’s loving presence is an act of do.” Newtown, Conn., tragedy, a the explanations in the world the will. The will says yes or no. producer from Fox News asked are beyond comprehension. We Evil happens in this world. FATHER CATOIR is chaplain of an me to go on air that afternoon Spirituality need to fall back on that divine It is my opinion that the devil emergency assistance program and offer some spiritual advice command: Love “your God” poisoned the thoughts of Adam and writes on spirituality for to the grieving parents. I had to For Today and love him “with your whole Lanza, the Connecticut shooter. Catholic News Service. decline because of a conflict, but heart.” You are not a poor and I thought a lot about that difficult Father John Catoir helpless creature. When the challenge. storms of life rage about, hold I know pious platitudes are tion, but as a divine command: on to your faith and hold on to Mr. D’s Tree Service wasted on those in shock, and “You shall love the Lord, your your joy as well. since I couldn’t be there to put God, with your whole heart, and Joy is not an emotion. It is ovEr 35 yEars ExpErIEncE my arms around them, I thought with your whole being, and with based in the will, and it is con- Don Decell, owner that, at a later time, I might say your whole strength.” stant. Reject this truth at your carl BaBin, owner something like the following: God is unchanging love. own peril. Totally turning your- • Economical • Fully Insured • Quality Work In all the great losses and This is a matter of faith. Faith is self over to your upset emotions trials of life, we have the su- knowledge. In a time of crisis, it will get you nowhere. Feelings CALL TODAY! preme law to fall back on. It is embodies a truth that will never can mislead you and even poison 225-292-6756 not given to us as a consola- change. The temptation to doubt your destiny. 8 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT January 11, 2013 What does it mean to be a Catholic without a calendar? Once Christmas has come and gone, the spirit that infuses the holiday can disap- pear. How can people live the Christmas spirit all year? In this edition of Viewpoints Tom Sheridan says that properly understood, Christmas is endless. Liz Quirin talks about some “Christmas people” she has met who believe in daily doses of prayer and turning their lives over to God to do with them what he wills.

A woman stops to pray beside the life-size outdoor creche in Chicago’s Daley Plaza Nov. Christmas all year long 24. This edition of Viewpoints looks at the question: What does it mean to be a Catholic ost of us don’t think twice their stories. Christmas may circle without a calendar? CNS photo by Karen Callaway | Catholic New World about a library card and around once a year, but the people I’ve Mcertainly don’t put it in the met believe in living the Gospel every category of a gift that “keeps on giving” day throughout the year. Christmas: The endless celebration year-round. However, for a child who I find them in St. Vincent de Paul was a rock ‘n’ roll boy. It’s the music the Catholic calendar. doesn’t have ready access to books or councils, helping people put a roof over of my era. But along the way I’ve also Too bad for us. Because the challenge a library, it can seem like Christmas their heads if they’ve lost theirs, or keep Ideveloped an appreciation for jazz and of faith is to celebrate and live the mean- every time the mobile library pulls into the roof they have if that’s possible. The old big-band melodies. ing of the holiday even after the toys are the neighborhood, especially if it’s a people I’ve been fortunate to meet don’t Recently, a friend gave me a couple broken, after Aunt Ethel’s ugly sweater is neighborhood in Guanajuato, Mexico, worry about someone taking advan- of CDs labeled “World War II Favorites.” returned, the tinsel is put away and the where books are scarce and a library tage of them, and somehow they don’t They’re full of big-band tunes and more plastic Santa lies deflated on the front was just a concept until the “bibliobus” become jaded when it turns out some- favorites of the war years. But more than lawn. began making its rounds so children one’s been less than honest about his or the music, I found myself listening to the Christmas is more than presents could board, browse and check out a her predicament. “That’s not my role,” sounds of an era before my birth. Some- under the tree and even more than book or two. they’ve told me. “I’m here to do what times we get so involved in our own cul- celebrating the birth of Jesus. When that That opportunity, that experience, God wants me to do and help where I tural “bubble” that we forget our history event remains isolated from the rest of that gift would surely qualify as it can.” and the unbreakable association we have our lives, Christmas becomes impotent. continues to bring joy and wonder to Another group of “Christmas people” with it. Properly understood, Christmas is end- children whether snowflakes fly or a hot helps young people experience the true The discs had the usual patriotic and less. dry wind blows dust into sunny days. meaning of giving in a way that changes lovey-dovey stuff, nothing really special. Endless because this connection of One American couple with roots their lives. They pass on that spark that But two of the songs – now mostly forgot- God and humanity should be what powers in Mexico decided to bring the world cannot be extinguished, no matter how ten except by the very elderly – gave me a life of faith. Christmas, portrayed so of books to the children of a number many years pass. an emotional link to that very dark period. often as a time of caring about others, is of villages in Guanajuato through this The understanding that practicing “Comin’ in on a Wing and a Prayer” and how we should live all year. “bibliobus.” They found a place where the corporal works of mercy or living “When the Lights go on Again all Over When we forget our connection to the “retired” buses were housed and cobbled the beatitudes isn’t some smarmy way of the World” gave me a glimmer of the touch points of our history – whether together a bus from parts. Then they looking at life. It is life. And through that combination of deep despair and the great secular or religious – we risk losing a found ways to bring donated books to prism of reality others have a chance to hopefulness that punctuated those early sense of who we are. And, perhaps more the bus and then to the children. hold on to that dignity offered to them, 1940s years. important, who we are called to be. Volunteers rehabbed the bus, taking and a chance to look at the future with a Sure, every generation has its iconic As a people, we didn’t spring from out seats and building shelves for the bit of hope instead of complete despair. moments: Pearl Harbor, the Kennedy the womb fully grown. We were formed books. It turned into an amazing gift for This doesn’t produce Kodak moments assassination, 9/11. They help ground us and molded in the crucible of our history. everyone: Volunteers realized what a gift or Hallmark movies. Often, it comes out in a history, but the emotions don’t always World War II and other vital moments it was to give youngsters a new window of the pain and rejection of people who translate well across generations. in our past shouldn’t be relegated to the on the world through a library bus, and don’t want “do-gooders” in their lives. Sometimes the same thing happens dry pages of history books. The music on children discovered how a library can However, the “do-gooders” I know don’t with religion. those two CDs reminded me of what those open the world for them. shy away from someone in pain, some- Catholics too often live only through times were like for the people who lived The bus is one of many ways this one who’s crusty on the outside in more the touch points of their faith, the events them. In the same way, faith has a history. couple, and by extension their entire ways than one, who says he or she wants on the church’s liturgical calendar – end- Christmas and Lent and Easter and the family, reaches out to others. Their to live on the streets and who appears to lessly repeating the cycle of Christmas, others must be more than ritual, more faith drives their own personal bus. have no one to care for them. Lent, Easter, Ordinary Time and Advent than the here-and-now. They believe God gives them purpose, These are Gospel people, and they as well as the various holy days along the Christmas is how we try to understand whether they’re stocking a library bus don’t just fold up their tents and go way. The problem is that we don’t always an unfathomable truth: God connected or volunteering in their church parish home in the face of trouble. They believe live as though we understand that those to humankind. It began in a Gospel story or developing a vacation Bible school in in daily doses of prayer and turning high points are interconnected, strung whose ending is not yet completed. It con- Mexico. their lives over to God to do with them together like a rare pearl necklace. tinues, providing endless opportunities to It’s all about putting their faith into what he wills. That makes for an excit- Christmas, for instance. Oh, it’s a fine bring the kingdom of God to a hungry and action, being open to God’s plan for ing, uplifting time, whether it’s Decem- holiday, with gifts and jingle bells and hurting world. them every day - not just during the ber or July. It’s a Merry Christmas all angels and reminders of the birth of the Christmas season. year long. Savior. There’s good cheer, good liturgies SHERIDAN is former editor of the Catholic The great gift I receive throughout and good feelings all around. But far too New World, newspaper of the Archdio the year is to meet people like this QUIRIN is editor of The Messenger, news often we pack up that good cheer, good cese of Chicago, and a deacon ordained couple: to listen, to learn and to write paper of the Diocese of Belleville, Ill. spirit and the rest until the next tick on for the Diocese of Joliet, Ill. January 11, 2013 The Catholic Commentator 9

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Anthony’s ItAlIAn DelI Baton Rouge’s only TRUE ITALIAN Deli Since 1978 Stop in today...... for a muffoletta! or choose from a variety of GOOD FELLOWS/GOOD SAMARITANS — Gary Littlefield, from left, and Pam Fry, members of Sunrise deli sandwiches! And, while Rotary of Baton Rouge, and Patrick Yarbrough, president of the Most Blessed Sacrament Church’s you’re here, pick up some fresh cold cuts & homemade Men’s Club, talk about the Good Fellow/Good Samaritans program. Sunrise Rotary provides clothing, Italian sausage; imported a toy and a book to needy children in East Baton Rouge public schools each year at Christmas. Good black & green olives, pasta, Fellows, established over a century ago in Chicago, was a charitable endeavor of the Baton Rouge cheeses, groceries, olive oils newspapers, the Morning Advocate and the State Times, until Bishop Robert E. Tracy agreed to ad- & vinegars! Sandwich trays made to order. Call today! minister the program through the Diocese of Baton Rouge. The items given annually to the children 10248 Florida Blvd. are purchased from monies donated to Good Fellows/Good Samaritans. This is the second year the 225-272-6817 MBS Men’s Club has provided financial aid to the program. Photo by Buddy Weber | Most Blessed Sacrament Church “BON AMI” shopping center Mon. - Sat. 9:30 - 6 10 The Catholic Commentator January 11, 2013 Sterling new director of Maternity, Adoption and Behavioral Health Services

By Barbara Chenevert three months, but it feels like a the adoption field that was built Staff Writer year. We want everything to be by Allen. Sterling said she hopes right, right now,” she said. Ster- to improve and expand on that Stephanie Sterling said she ling shares duties with Paula Da- work. felt a call to work with adoptions vis LCSW, who was named clini- “We want people to see that and thought the ideal place to cal director of the department this is not just an adoption agen- work was at the Diocese of Baton at the same time. Sterling said cy, although that is a big part Rouge because its ethics and val- she handles the administration of what we do. We offer wrap ues are in line with her own. around services for families. We So she applied for a job as an Our philosophy want to strengthen and empower adoption social worker in the children and families through diocese at Catholic Charities and is to find parents adoption, behavioral counseling was hired. Only a year later she and crisis management,” Ster- finds herself heading the depart- for children, not ling said. The department offers ment as director of the reorga- a variety of diversified services, nized Maternity, Adoption and children for parents. and she hopes to develop those Behavioral Health Services, re- more fully. placing Janice Allen, who retired of the department, while Davis She said her philosophy is after 35 years with the depart- will handle the “best practices” reflected in a vision statement Stephanie Sterling is the new director of Maternity, Adoption and Be- ment. and ethics issues involved in the recently adopted by the depart- havioral Health Services of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Baton “It’s been a whirlwind. I had no adoption process. ment, which says it will work to Rouge. She replaces Janice Allen who retired after 35 years in the de- idea I would be in this position, The 39-year-old Sterling, who strengthen and empower chil- partment. Photo by Barbara Chenevert | The Catholic Commentator. but this is definitely the work I is also a licensed clinical social dren and families through adop- want to be doing, said Sterling.” worker, inherited a department tion, behavioral health, crisis cy services with “compassion, through its Adoption Related “I’ve only been doing this for with a renowned reputation in case management and pregnan- respect, justice and a belief in Services that treats children the importance of family con- and adults touched by adoption nectedness.” in any way; continue to reach Among her plans is the expan- out to the community through sion of services offered by the its domestic adoption program, Sanctuary for Life, a residential including recruiting families to facility for unwed mothers and adopt African-American and for mothers with babies as they bi-racial children; increase its make the transition into life as counseling services through the single parents. With funds from behavioral health program; col- the Bishop’s Annual Appeal, the laborate with other agencies to agency hopes to remodel the provide parenting seminars; and sanctuary home and a nearby to provide volunteer parent men- garage apartment to make them tors. more accessible and serve a Sterling said one of the new- greater number of women. est ventures of the department The department also hopes to – affiliation with the Safe Family bring its expertise on interna- program – has already helped 50 tional adoptions into the north- children in its first year. Under ern part of the state to fill a void Safe Families, children whose of services in that area. Because families are in a temporary crisis Adoption and Maternity Ser- situation, are taken in by fami- vices is accredited by the Hague lies and church parishes who Convention for Intercountry help the children and families Adoption, it can offer home stud- get back on their feet and re- ies and provide post-adoption unite. supervision for international Sterling is alarmed by a trend adoptions that will be accepted she sees on the internet where by many countries, Sterling said. people are attempting to reach The agency works primarily with their biological parents or chil- the adoption of Korean and Chi- dren through Facebook. “We nese children because of the sta- don’t feel that is the best way to ble process in those countries, do it. We have a counseling pro- but will work with other coun- gram to prepare people for ne- tries at the request of potential gotiating a reunion that is best adoptive parents, Sterling said. for both the birth family and the Please give generously in the collection at your The department also hopes to adoptive family. Some people are be able to serve referrals from also searching the internet for church parish on the weekend of Jan. 26 and 27. the State Department of Child children to adopt,” she said. “Our and Family Services for pre- philosophy is to find parents for adoption surrender counsel- children, not children for par- ing and for foster care children ents.” Read The Catholic Commentator online at thecatholiccommentator.org. January 11, 2013 The Catholic Commentator 11

Religious Vocations in the Diocese of Baton Rouge

Seven St. George parishioners answer God’s call to religious life By Barbara Chenevert A church parish said the friendly, Christ-like atmosphere besides, he hired (youth director) Matt Staff Writer and its pastor can and thriving ministries at St. George Brundrett. He was the right guy for the have a major impact helped him develop his faith life. And the job,” Coleman added. Brundrett leads the When Brad Doyle and Heidi Becnel at- on vocations, said youth group offered a “good, good environ- youth group at St. George. tended elementary school together at St. Father Matt Dupré, ment. It is very well run,” he said. Other A vocation begins with two prongs: the George School, they jokingly challenged vocations director churches may have larger groups, but the family who nurtures a good relationship each other to a kneeling contest before the for the Diocese of St. George youth group is a tight fam- with both God and the church and a pas- school Mass. Baton Rouge. The ily that offers a lot of activities and trips tor who displays his love of church and his “I looked at her and challenged her to priest must dem- including speakers and adoration of the ministry, Father a kneeling contest – like we were about onstrate a joy in his Blessed Sacrament, he said. Dupré said. 10-years-old. I don’t remember who won, ministry, and the Unlike Becnel and Doyle, Coleman and A priest must Joshua Johnson but probably Heidi,” said Doyle. parishioners must Johnson did not attend St. George Elemen- demonstrate a joy Little did they know then that they would also be willing to step out and encourage tary School, but were active in youth min- in doing what God be among seven parishioners of St. George young people to consider the religious life, istry. has called him to church parish who are currently study- he said. All three of the seminarians for the do. That speaks ing for life as a priest or religious sister “St. George School was a big influence on Diocese of Baton volumes to young or brother, an unusual number from one me,” said Doyle, who attended kindergar- Rouge said the men and women church parish in light of today’s shortage ten through eighth grade there. “It helped priests serving at who may be con- of vocations. Doyle is in his second year of me grow in a certain way and to prepare St. George also had sidering a religious theology at Notre Dame Seminary in New me to be a man. What God is calling is a a major influence vocation, Father Andrew Coleman Orleans and Becnel, now Sister Mary Mar- guy who can relate to people and be faith- on them. “Father Dupré added. tha, is a Dominican Sister of Mary, Mother ful. St. George had a major impact in that Tom (Ranzino) was The parishioners also play a crucial role, of the Eucharist. area. It made me into a well-rounded per- a strong pastor. I not only through prayer but by being will- “Heidi and I are very different people, son.” saw how much he ing to step out and invite young people to but that is what is so awesome about God. Both Doyle and Johnson said the St. loved the parish. I consider a religious life. When a parishio- He knows timing. He called us in different George youth group played a major role want to be a good ner sees someone with a love of the church ways, but to similar vocations,” said Doyle, in their decision. “St. George has its own pastor like Father Brad Doyle and who is involved, “You have to be the who said he received his call while in high youth house, not every parish has one. It Tom, who is committed to the parish,” voice of God and ask them if they ever con- school. was a place where we could be fed and be Doyle said. sidered life as a priest or religious sister,” Other vocations from St. George include formed – to be with other young people Johnson echoed those thoughts. Al- Father Dupré said. Joshua Johnson, in his third year of the- who were searching for the Lord. It was though Father Ranzino had been reas- Father Schatzle said St. George is blessed ology at Notre Dame Seminary; Andrew somewhere to go and to talk where you signed by the time he entered the semi- to have so many young people in formation Coleman in his first year of philosophy at were accepted and loved,” said Johnson. nary, he said Father Ranzino as pastor for religious life. He attributed it to the Eu- St. Joseph Seminary in St. Benedict; Alex Although he started off in a youth group made St. George into the church parish it charistic spirituality of St. George that has Harb, studying with the Eparchy Diocese in another church parish, Doyle said he be- is today. He added that both current pastor an emphasis on service; the spirit of the St. of Our Lady of Lebanon of Los Angeles gan playing music for the St. George group Father Mike Schatzle and former parochi- George youth group; and faith-filled family (Marionite Church); Brother Andrew Tar- and became active there. He was helped by al vicar Father Frank Bass, “always made lives “that make a connection between the leton with the Legionaries of Christ; and another student, Joseph Vu, who also en- time for us, whether it was for confession church altar table and the family dining Brooke Bethea, who is in formation with tered the seminary and is scheduled to be or just to talk. St. George has been blessed room table.” the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin ordained a priest on May 25. with good priests.” Doyle, Johnson and Coleman said ado- Matará. Coleman, who began his studies last fall, “I really got to know Father Mike, and SEE VOCATIONS ON PAGE 14 12 The Catholic Commentator VOCATIONS January 11, 2013 Study of never-married Catholics gives insight into future of vocations

By Dennis Sadowski give church leaders a vast array all women ... just a very small per- Catholic News Service of data on which to base positive centage (committing to a vocation) messages about religious life for would make a tremendous differ- WHEN CATHOLICS CONSIDER A VOCATION, there are WASHINGTON — In a survey of teenagers and young adults, said ence,” Father McKnight told Catho- generational and race/ethnicity differences. Catholics age 14 and older, about Father Shawn McKnight, executive lic News Service. Percentage of never-married Catholics age 14 and older who have 13 percent of males and 8 percent director of the Secretariat of Clergy, “The survey offers solid evidence, considered a religious vocation at least “a little” seriously (males of females said they considered a Consecrated Life and Vocations at credible evidence to base our judg- as clergy/religious brother and females as a religious sister) religious vocation at least “a little the U.S. Conference of Catholic ments on how to promote voca- MALE FEMALE seriously,” a study by the Center for Bishops, which commissioned the tions,” he added. Applied Research in the Apostolate survey. Broken down, 3 percent of male Pre-Vatican II 27% at Georgetown University found. “When you consider 13 percent respondents and 2 percent of fe- (born before 1943) 22% The findings, released Oct. 9, of all male youth and 8 percent of male respondents indicate they Vatican II 15% have “very seriously” considered (born 1943-1960) a vocation, according to the study, 23% Shop our extensive selection of “Consideration of Priesthood and Post-Vatican II 7% Religious Life Among Never-Mar- (born 1961-1981) 7% Clergy Apparel, Sacred Vessels, ried U.S. Catholics.” Liturgical Books and more. Millennial 13% Projected over the Catholic (born 1982 or later) 8% Chalice & Paten population of the United States, engraving available! those figures represent 350,000 14% never-married men and more than White, Non-Hispanic 250,000 never-married women 9% who may have very seriously con- 9% Hispanic sidered a vocation, concluded 8% CARA researchers Mark Gray and 14% Mary Gautier, who conducted the Other, Non-Hispanic 18% study. In the United States, there are Source: Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate ©2012 CNS 39,718 priests, 17,816 deacons, 4,518 brothers and 55,045 sisters, according to the 2012 edition of the ™ Official Catholic Directory. at least once a week; joining prayer seriously considered. Catholic Art & Gifts The study involved 1,428 people, and Bible study groups, devotional In addition, respondents were A Retail Division of F.C. Ziegler Co. Church Supply about 65 percent of those invited to activities or retreats; participating asked why they would not consider 6184 Florida Blvd. • Baton Rouge, LA 70806 participate. It was conducted on- in parish ministry; and receiving a vocation. 225-926-1216 • 1-800-331-4117 • FAX 225-926-1244 www.zieglers.com • M-F: 9-5, Sat: 9:30-4:30 line. The margin of error is plus or encouragement to consider a vo- For males, the most common re- minus 2.6 percentage points. cation from someone other than a sponse was a general lack of inter- The data collected in the survey family member. est (39 percent). Celibacy was cited shows that personal relationships Attending a secondary or prima- as the reason for not considering with adults – parents, teachers, ry Catholic school also seems to be a vocation by 18 percent of men. Serra Club of baton rouge clergy, men and women religious, an important factor among those Other reasons include not feeling and campus ministers especially considering a vocation. For males, called to a vocation (8 percent), Metropolitan Serra Club – can be a key factor in whether a those who attended a Catholic sec- having other life goals (8 percent) "Celebrating over 50 years" young person considers a religious ondary school were six times more and doubts about faith (8 percent). vocation. likely to consider a vocation than For females, responses to the The mission of the Serra Clubs in the Diocese of Baton Rouge is to: Fewer than 10 percent of the those who did not. Among females, same question were similar, with • Foster and promote vocations to the respondents said, however, that attendance at a Catholic primary 31 percent saying they had a gen- Catholic priesthood and religious life. anyone ever encouraged them school led them to be three times eral lack of interest and 16 percent • Appreciate and encourage the priests and to consider religious life. Among more likely than those who did not citing celibacy as a concern. Other religious we now have serving us. those who did receive encourage- to consider a vocation. reasons cited include not feeling • Further Catholicism for our members through fellowship, ment, both males and females were Pre-Vatican II Catholics, whom called to a vocation (11 percent), education & prayer. nearly twice as likely to consider the survey identified as those born the lifestyle of a woman religious entering religious life, according to before 1943, were the most likely to (10 percent), doubts about faith (7 The Serra Clubs sponsor various programs the study. have considered a vocation. In that percent), and not wanting to expe- to support vocations in our area: The study also showed that His- age group, 27 percent of men and rience the commitment necessary panics were far less likely to receive 22 percent of women at least con- or the restrictions imposed by reli-  Parish Vocation Committees encouragement to enter religious sidered a vocation. gious life (7 percent).  Student Essay Contest life than non-Hispanic white re- Post-Vatican II Catholics (born Overall, one percent of men  TV & Billboard Campaigns Promoting Vocations spondents. Respondents of other 1961-1981) were the least likely to and women survey participants  Clergy Golf Classic  Annual Crawfish Boil races are about equally as likely as consider a vocation, with 7 percent cited the sexual abuse of minors non-Hispanic whites to receive en- of men and 7 percent of women by clergy as key to not seeking a couragement, the study said. saying they considered such a step. vocation to religious life. For more information about the Serra Clubs Father McKnight said such differ- The study looked at a broad range Citing the findings, Father and membership please contact: ences must be addressed by church of factors that influenced the deci- McKnight said celibacy does not Serra Club of Baton Rouge, leaders given the growing number sion whether to enter religious life appear to be an overwhelming Randy Guillaume, president, 225-766-5358; of Hispanics in the U.S. church. such as Mass attendance, service hurdle to vocations. Metropolitan Serra Club of BR, Other factors identified in the volunteerism, participation in “I thought it would be 50 per- Fred Bahlinger Jr., president, 225-291-4191 study as influencing respondents’ World Youth Day and the National cent,” he said. “I take that as not consideration of a religious voca- Catholic Youth Conference, the a big issue. It’s a significant one. "Always Go Forward, Never Turn Back" tion were living in households importance of prayer and the age It needs to be talked about and where parents discussed religion when a religious vocation was most addressed.” January 11, 2013 VOCATIONS The Catholic Commentator 13 Religious orders say social media use spurs more interest in vocations

By Chelsea Weikart those are new visitors and 5,000 fill out der’s blog and communicated regularly ence they can find there,” he said. Catholic News Service profiles to find their vocational match, ac- with the director during his discernment One of the largest, youngest and fast- cording to Vision’s tracking records. process via Facebook and email. est growing orders in the U.S. is the Do- WASHINGTON — Several religious Prior to its launch as an online social Brother Josh said this is something that minican Sisters of St. Cecilia in Nashville, congregations and organizations are network, 150,000 copies of the Vision religious communities need to embrace. Tenn. With 284 sisters in the congrega- taking advantage of social media to “in- guide were printed, which resulted in 600 “My generation and younger, we grew tion and 95 women in formation, the sis- troduce” individuals discerning a call to inquiries mailed in by readers. up with technology being so integrated ters are considering getting a Facebook a vocation and the seminary, convent or Trinitarian Brother Josh Warshak of in our daily lives. It’s how we connect,” he page. monastery that fits them. Baltimore credited Vision with giving said. Dominican Sister Peter Marie said With more than 1,400 likes on Face- The Congregation of Holy Cross - which Facebook could be used as a tool to help book, the National Religious Vocation “You do need to have founded the University of Notre Dame in spread information about the congrega- Conference takes full advantage of social Indiana and operates the seminary pro- tion and the Gospel. networking, through its Vision Vocation one-on-one contact for the grams for its U.S. province there - is using “The possibility of creating a Facebook Guide and other outlets. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr and page for our congregation comes from At VocationMatch.com, also operated vocation to really blossom.” blogs to promote its retreat weekends and a desire to respond to the Holy Father’s by the Chicago-based conference, a brief increase general awareness of the congre- call for the new evangelization. We would questionnaire tells “discerners” - those Patrice Tuohy gation on the Internet. hope to make resources available to cat- considering a commitment to religious Executive editor of the Vision Vocation Guide The congregation has 55 men in for- echists, teachers, families, home-school life - what their seminary, convent or mation, its largest number since 1999. parents, and young people discerning a monastery matches are. him the information he needed in decid- A news release said the province’s voca- religious vocation,” she said. People post questions daily about their ing what type of religious life was for him, tions program is “among the healthiest” Although they’re not yet on Facebook, life circumstances, inquiring about what and he would recommend it to any “dis- for U.S. Catholic religious orders. Next the sisters’ media presence is not absent. resources could help them find the right cerner.” spring three Holy Cross seminarians will St. Cecilia’s is currently using a website, vocation fit, and Vision connects them “I tell people Vision is kind of like eHar- be ordained priests; two are in the pro- e-newsletters, and Veritas magazine to with the congregation that matches their mony for those who have a religious voca- cess for being ordained in 2014; and up to communicate with supporters and those interests. tion, it matches up your personality with six could be ordained in 2015. discerning a vocation. Patrice Tuohy, executive editor of the the order that fits you best,” he said. “The personal interaction still comes “There is no question that Internet so- Vision Vocation Guide, said social media Before finding Vision, Brother Josh was first,” Father James T. Gallagher, Holy cial networking has been a tremendous has brought the organization to a place focused on becoming a priest but didn’t Cross vocations director, said in a state- boon to Catholic religious vocation pro- greater than it could have been 15 years have access to much advice about the ment. “Our social media outlets are just motion,” Tuohy told CNS. ago. topic. “Vision showed me that there are tools we use to help make Holy Cross Whether to enter religious life is a pri- “As the community’s use of social net- so many other things,” he said, which led known, share discernment tips, and help vate, personal decision for many, but working has increased, so have inquiries. him to his community, the Order of the deepen a man’s prayer life.” Sister Peter Marie, Father Gallagher and They have quadrupled since we started Most Holy Trinity. Father Gallagher said in an interview Tuohy agree social media does not sub- having a presence online,” she told Catho- Brother Josh, who is 25, said his Trini- with CNS that having a place in social stitute for face-to-face interaction with a lic News Service. tarian vocations director, at 30 years old, media is a presence he wants. priest or woman religious. Vision is primarily a social network- was younger than most in that position “That’s where young people are finding “Ultimately, you do need to have one- ing site that attracts more than 200,000 and was extremely plugged in to social their news and information and connect- on-one contact for the vocation to really visitors each year. Seventy-five percent of media. Brother Josh kept up on the or- ing with friends. We want to have a pres- blossom,” Tuohy said.

Vatican official thanks mothers of priests, asks National Vocation Awareness for their prayers Week is Jan 13-19

By Cindy Wooden home and from regular family life, but the physi- The Catholic Church in the sential in the Church’s mission of Catholic News Service cal separation is replaced by a closer spiritual United States will celebrate Na- spreading the joy and love of Je- bond, he said. tional Vocation Awareness Week sus Christ. Our world and culture VATICAN CITY— The mothers of priests and “The experience of the church teaches that the Jan. 13-19. The annual event ear- needs the Good News of Christ seminarians deserve the thanks of the whole mother ‘receives’ her priest-son in a completely marks a time for church parishes more than ever.” church for raising their sons in the faith and sup- new and unexpected way, so much so that by the to consider their role in promot- Vocation Awareness Week re- porting them in their vocations, said Cardinal will of God she is called to recognize in the fruit ing the role of priests, deacons minds Catholics that they have Mauro Piacenza, prefect of the Congregation for of her womb a ‘father,’ who is called to generate a and religious order brothers and responsibility to pray for voca- Clergy. multitude of brothers and sisters and accompany sisters to Catholics deciding on tions and to invite young people Writing on the Jan. 1 feast of Mary, Mother of them to eternal life,” the cardinal wrote. their future. to consider a call to ordained God, the cardinal said having a priest-son re- While “every mother of a priest is mysteriously “National Vocation Awareness ministry and consecrated life, quires a new form of motherhood, one that in- a ‘daughter of her son,’” Cardinal Piacenza said, Week gives dioceses and par- said Father John Guthrie, CCLV volves a “discreet, but very effective and invalu- she also is called to continue offering him her ma- ishes across the country a chance associate director. ably precious accompaniment in prayer.” ternal support, particularly through her prayers. to promote vocations through “When someone is encour- Cardinal Piacenza’s letter was posted, in Ital- “Such a work of authentic support, always nec- prayer and education,” said Arch- aged by three or more people to ian, on the website of the clergy congregation. essary in the life of the church, seems even more bishop Robert Carlson, chair- consider a religious vocation in When a man becomes a priest, he said, every- urgent today – especially in the secularized West, man of the bishops’ Committee the Church, they are more than one in his family is touched and is called to a which is awaiting and asking for a new and radi- on Clergy, Consecrated Life and five times more likely to seri- deeper conversion, but “unique and special are cal proclamation of Christ,” he said. “The moth- Vocations. “This is especially im- ously consider it, the CARA study the spiritual consolations that come from having ers of priests and seminarians truly represent an portant in this Year of Faith and showed. We need to be less shy carried in your womb one who becomes a priest army that raises prayers and offerings to heaven as the Church continues to focus about encouraging someone with in Christ.” from earth and, with even greater numbers, in- on the New Evangelization. Voca- the right qualities for religious Obviously, he said, seminary studies and tercedes from heaven so that grace is poured out tions to the priesthood, diacon- life to think about it,” Father priestly ministry often take a man further from on the lives of holy pastors.” ate and consecrated life are es- Guthrie said. 14 The Catholic Commentator VOCATIONS January 11, 2013 VOCATIONS: Three received call during adoration at Steubenville youth conference FROM PAGE 11 “Brad, Alex and I all received a call during adoration at Mother. It is an exciting time in the church,” Johnson said. ration of the Blessed Sacrament and a devotion to the Steubenville (youth conference),” Johnson said. In each “The youth group exposing us to the Blessed Sacrament Blessed Mother also played a vital role in their discern- generation the Lord raises up saints in one way or anoth- opened my heart to the possibility of a vocation,” Doyle ment process to seek a priestly vocation. er. In this generation it is the Eucharist and the Blessed added.

OFFICE OF VOCATIONS CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE

Phone: 225-336-8778

[email protected]

DIOBR.org/Vocations January 11, 2013 The Catholic Commentator 15 Couple meets during scavenger hunt; leads to marriage

By Barbara Chenevert forward and friendly, and I felt comfort- When Capone called Witty in 2010, they Staff Writer able with her.” talked for an hour, and it was like “picking “We became friends,” Witty said. “After up where we left off,” Witty said. When Jennifer Witty and Christopher a short time we started dating.” They dat- They reconnected as friends for several Capone took part in a scavenger hunt ed for four months before the two split up. months before they dated. “We wanted during a diocesan youth conference, Witty said she told Capone while they to make sure it was what we wanted and they found more than the list of items were still in high school that she wanted what God wanted,” she said. “There had they were supposed to collect. The two to marry him someday, something that been other guys I was interested in but found love, although it has taken anoth- sent Capone running. “It just wasn’t in my none of those guys could compare to er 11 years for that love to grow and lead heart then. I couldn’t satisfy that desire of Chris. He was my dream guy,” she said. to marriage. The couple, who met at the hers. She is so straight forward she scares The two said they see marriage as a vo- 2001 youth conference at the Catholic Life me, but it’s what I love about her,” Capone cation and have remained virgins. They Center, will wed on July 13. said. both live in their parents’ homes. “As part of the scavenger hunt, we had Witty said after the breakup she just “A lot of our spiritual decisions brought to find people from another country. Jen- gave Capone over to God. “When I went us together,” Capone said. He said he nifer came up to me and said, ‘Are you off to college, I prayed and wrote in my prayed for guidance if he were ever to get from another country?’ Those were the journal that I really wanted to spend my into another relationship. “After all these first words she said to me,” Capone, who life with him. For a period of seven years I years, Jennifer entered my mind.” he said. is part Asian, said. He replied, “ ‘No, but if didn’t date. I was waiting on God.” “It was like a floodgate of memories of there is anything else I can fill in for you, I Witty went to college at Southeastern this wonderful person I had met in high will.’ That was real smooth, huh?” Louisiana University in Hammond, and school. God took that girl and turned her Even though they were from different Capone attended the University of Louisi- into a wonderful woman who has totally church parishes, the two spoke several ana at Lafayette. They only saw each other knocked my socks off,” he said. times over the two-day conference, and once during that period – at a wedding. The couple became engaged last Christ- Capone asked Witty for her phone num- Witty said she called him after that, but mas Eve. Because God is such a part of ber. “I just picked up that she was straight he didn’t call her back. their relationship, Capone proposed in Jennifer Witty and Christopher Capone, the adoration chapel of St. John before who met at a diocesan youth conference in Midnight Mass. 2001, returned to the Catholic Life Center “Our story is a testament to God’s faith- Bishop Robert Muench’s Sacrament of Confirmation in December to take pictures for their en- fulness. Our decisions kept us on this 2013 Winter Schedule gagement. Photo by Laura Deavers | The Catholic Com- path,” he said. Sunday, Jan. 13, Ascension of Our Lord/St. Francis, at St. Francis Church, mentator The couple said they want other young Donaldsonville, 10:30 a.m. Witty said she then went on a spiri- people to know that being obedient to Friday, Jan. 18, Immaculate Conception, Denham Springs, 7:00 p.m. tual journey that took her away from the God’s will does work. “Be stubborn, be Thursday, Jan. 24, St. Theresa of Avila, Gonzales, 7:00 p.m. Catholic faith, but she has now returned patient, wait on God. God’s timing is per- Friday, Jan. 25, St. Margaret of Scotland, Albany, 7:00 p.m. and worships with Capone at St. John the fect,” Witty said. Serving God and living Saturday, Jan. 26, St. Joseph/ St. Stephen, French Settlement, 5:30 p.m. Baptist in Zachary. for God isn’t in vain, Capone added. Sunday, Jan. 27, St. James/ St. Philip, Vacherie, 10:00 a.m. Capone said he went through two un- Witty and Capone returned to the Cath- Tuesday, Jan. 29, Most Blessed Sacrament, Baton Rouge, 7:00 p.m. successful relationships before he decided olic Life Center last month to take their Thursday, Jan. 31, Our Lady of Mercy, Baton Rouge, 7:00 p.m. to get in touch with Witty. “God has a way engagement photographs because they Saturday, Feb. 2, St. Augustine, New Roads, 4:00 p.m. of teaching us things through those rela- said the site was part of their story, the Monday, Feb. 4, St. Mary of False River, New Roads, 7:00 p.m. tionships. I am a much better man now place they met and where their spiritual Wednesday, Feb. 6, Our Lady of Peace, Vacherie, 7:00 p.m. who can understand Jennifer,” he said. lives connected. Thursday, Feb. 7, Immaculate Conception, Lakeland, 7:00 p.m.

Sacrament of Reconciliation Schedule for Baton Rouge Send US YoUr High Schools in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Spring enten ventS and ecipeS Semester 2012-2013 L e r ! Jan. 28-29, Redemptorist: Bishop Robert Muench, School Chaplains Rev. Marcel Okwara CSsR, Rev. Derrick Weingartner SJ and other priests Jan. 30-31, St. Michael the Archangel: Bishop Robert Muench, School Chaplains Rev. C Todd Lloyd, Rev. Gerard Martin and other priests Issue Date:Lent February 8;2013 Deadline: January 30 Feb. 4-5, St. Joseph’s Academy: Bishop Robert Muench, School Chaplain Rev. Jack Nutter and other priests LENT begins this year on FEB. 13 and ends on MARCH 28. The Feb. 6-7, Catholic High: Bishop Robert Muench, School Chaplains Rev. Catholic Commentator will publish its annual Lenten section in print Matthew Dupré, Br. Ray Hebert SC and other priests and online at thecatholiccommentator.org Chaplains for the high schools outside of Baton Rouge oversee reconciliation services. • Opportunities for Spiritual Renewal • Lenten Retreats • Fasting & Abstinence regulations in the Baton Rouge Diocese Bishop Robert Muench’s High School & Elementary • Fund raisers sponsored by churches, schools and Catholic School Schedule organizations • Seafood/Lenten Recipes Spring Semester 2011-2012 Feb. 21, St. Alphonsus Liguori Elementary, Greenwell Springs Feb. 22, Ascension Catholic High, Donaldsonville (rescheduled from Oct. 19) Feb. 26, Redemptorist Elementary, Baton Rouge For advertising opportunities call 225-387-0983. Mar. 4, Redemptorist High, Baton Rouge (rescheduled from Nov. 2) Email recipes to: [email protected], FAX: 225-336-8710; or Mar. 8, St. John Primary, Prairieville Mail to: The Catholic Commentator P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746 16 The Catholic Commentator YOUTH January 11, 2013

St. Michael High School students conduct an experiment using a bal- loon during a lesson they taught through Skype to St. George School second graders. Photo provided by Ashley Guglielmo | St. Michael High School

SPORTS CONVOCATION – Receiving awards at the Catholic High School fall sports convocation on Dec. St. Michael High School students teach 7, are, from left, front row, Brendan Walsh, Most Improved Award in football; Casey Panepinto, Swim- ming Coach’s Award; Cody Favaro, Cross Country Coach’s Award; Alex Say, Orange Wave Award in cross chemistry class using Skype country; Joseph St. Cyr, Cross Country Outstanding Runner Award; and James Chastain, Most Improved Award in swimming; back row, Everett Knox, Gayle Hatch Strength Athlete of the Year Award in foot- St. Michael High School stu- who attend a different school all ball; Patrick Van Duzee, Team Captain Award in football; Khalil Thomas, Special Teams Award in football; dents recently taught a chemistry the way across town without hav- Colin Bone, Most Valuable Swimmer; Trey Fruge, Coach’s Award in football; and Tyler Sparrow, Team class to St. George School second- ing to actually be there was so Captain Award in football. Not pictured is Austin Wilson, Golden Grizzly Award in football. Photo provided by grade students via Skype. cool.” Caitlin Switzer | Catholic High School “My honors chemistry stu- Following the experiment, dents created a lesson for Mrs. a question and answer session Scioneaux’s second-grade class was conducted between the two Youth Ministry Staff invites you to attend: to correspond with their lesson classes. regarding states of matter, which “My juniors had to use higher- Diocesan Youth Conference included studies on solids, liquids level thinking skills in order to and gases,” said SMHS chemistry create a lesson appropriate for a teacher, Jennifer Parker. “I feel second-grade class,” said Parker. this is a wonderful opportunity “In addition, during the Q&A ses- for my high school students to sion, they had to answer the St. mentor to the younger students George students’ questions cor- all while making learning par- rectly but in a way that a younger ticularly about science interesting mind could understand.” and fun for both my 11th-grade Parker said she believes that learners as well as the elementary even though there were a few students.” minor technical difficulties, this The web cam class began with cross-classroom experience was a a discussion about the different success ... one they plan to repeat states of matter between both in February. classes with different examples of St. Michael High School Prin- matter shown for each state. Fol- cipal Ellen Lee said, “In order for lowing the discussion, Parker’s our students to become true 21st class led the second-grade stu- century learners, they must learn Fetued Prformr: dents through an experiment that to use technology as a tool for correlated with the lesson. learning and teaching.”

March 2-3, 2013 “We made ice cream from a She added, “Mrs. Parker’s proj- mixture of sugar (the solid ex- ect allowed her students to expe- at he ample) and milk (the liquid) rience distance learning from a

which was so fun and delicious,” teaching point of view. This is ex- Crowne Plz Hot said SMHS junior Jesse Mayeaux. actly the type of project we hope “Hands-on experiments like to expand and continue as St. i these make learning, particularly Michael begins their one-to-one

science, fun; and sharing this ex- laptop program in the next school Bato Rouge perience with younger students year.”

Mtt Mahe Msi by: Ecee: Knote: Valenzuela earns eagle award Cope Kate Steane Ray Prejea Clouatre-Davis St. Thomas Aquinas High eaves and rewired School senior Juan Valenzu- and added con- ela Jr. received his Eagle Scout duit to exposed Award on Dec. 15 at First Meth- wires on the out- Jr. High Conference open to 6-8 Grades odist Church in Loranger. side of the build- High School Conference open to 9-12 Grades For his project Valenzuela, ing. Cost: $175 a member of Troop 164, made He also re- Register by Friday, January 18, 2013 repairs to the American Legion placed the vent For more info, contact Brigitte: [email protected]; 225-336-8751 Hall in Loranger. He replaced and signage and repainted the rotted wooden boards in the exterior wall. January 11, 2013 YOUTH The Catholic Commentator 17 College inspires Frederic to enter the mission field

By Debbie Shelley active member of the Holy Ro- Frederic will travel to El Frederic said she will reach Assistant Editor sary youth group and a member Salvador during Mardi Gras to out to the mothers whose chil- of the Diocesan Youth Board help the Jesuits serve the peo- dren were taken from them and During her Christmas break from 2007-2009. ple of that country through the forced to be soldiers and bring from Springhill College in Mo- When Frederic attended a International Service Immer- messages of peace to the coun- bile, Ala., Kate Frederic recon- Catholic youth conference at sion program. “I’m so excited,” try. Among the things Frederic nected with her family and the Spring Hill College, a Jesuit said Frederic, who added the and her fellow missionaries will Holy Rosary Church parish university, she fell in love with mission trip was on her “buck- offer the El Salvadorans is art family in St. Amant and wel- Spring Hill and its commitment et list” of things to do before and music classes. comed a year that she said will to social justice issues. she graduated. The trip will be “The country itself is vibrant, include many new experiences She stated that the college in- her first outside of the United but they’re trying to deal with as she goes on a mission trip to cludes service-learning courses States. things on their own,” Frederic serve with the Jesuit Corps. Kate Frederic, 22 in its curriculum, in which stu- While in El Salvador, Fred- said. Frederic said she learned Hometown: St. Amant dents serve in the community eric will learn about the impact She added, “I know the trip to volunteer as a young child and are graded on their service. that the country’s civil war had is not going to be easy, but I feel as she “tagged along” with her School: Spring Hill College Students may tutor children at on its people. “Their stories if I don’t do it now I will regret mother and grandmother while Church: Holy Rosary a public school, teach English are heart wrenching,” Frederic it. There will never be a better they served in various minis- as a second language to immi- said. time.” tries, such as selling cookies mother when she taught Rite of grants, work with the elderly According to Frederic, al- Frederic, who will gradu- after Mass to raise funds for Christian Initiation for Adults or help paint a local library in though El Salvador ended its ate with a nursing degree in the church and going with her classes. Kate Frederic was an hurricane-stricken areas. civil war 20 years ago, there is May, has also joined the Jesuit still much work to be done in the Corps and hopes to serve in area of social justice. Particular- Alaska next summer. She plans ly as El Salvador held elections to serve AIDS/HIV patients and following the civil war, people increase awareness about the were intimidated into not vot- disease. According to Frederic, ing or killed for trying to do so. there are many Alaskan com- Frederic added that a minority munities that desperately need of people possess a majority of a doctor or nurse. She said she the wealth in El Salvador. chose Alaska because if she The Jesuits are among those were to serve in other parts of who are persecuted or suffer- the United States, she most like- ing in El Salvador. Referring to ly would have relatives nearby the movie “Romero,” about El and would be tempted to lean Salvadoran Archbishop Oscar on them for support. Romero, who was assassinated Frederic said she will likely in 1980, Frederic said, “A lot of be homesick as she serves, but Jesuits are modern day mar- she will enjoy living in com- tyrs, fighting for what they be- munity with the Jesuits and the lieve in.” people she will serve.

UNDEFEATED – The St. George School CSAL girls’ basketball team finished with a 70-0 record. This Did you or someone you eighth-grade team has never been defeated in a regular season game or in any tournaments since its members started playing together in sixth grade. Coaches and team members are, from left, front row, know forget to pick up or Megan Lofaso, Avery Legendre, Megan Welsh, Emily Hanks and Ally Lutgring; back row, Coach Thad Rispone, Hannah Beene, Jamie Lato, Natalie Baldwin, Molly Michiels, Gabby Rotolo, Coach Lisa Hilburn was unable to get and Coach Barry Mancuso. Photo provided by Danielle Mancuso The Catholic Commentator

PATRIOTS OF THE SEMESTER at Mass this past weekend? – The Holy Ghost School Dad’s Club named eighth-grade stu- If your church ran out of copies, dent Camille Bechac and pre-K student Bronwyn Doan pa- call your church office and let triots of the semester. Bechac and Doan were chosen for their them know. Christ-like actions and for do- If you would prefer to receive ing their best academically. They were honored along with The Catholic Commentator in their parents to a lunch of their another way, phone us at choice in the school prayer garden. Congratulating Bechac and 225-387-0983 or go to our website Doan are Holy Ghost Principal Tangee Daugereaux and Dad’s thecatholiccommentator.org. Club members, from left, Rick Sedberry, Bill Fritz, Robert Pierre the CatholiC and Kenny Mayeaux. Photo provided by Cindy Wagner | Holy Ghost School Commentatorserving the diocese o f baton rouge since 1962 18 The Catholic Commentator ENTERTAINMENT January 11, 2013

vivor of the slaughter. A vengeance theme, ence professor (Hal Holbrook) and from Motion Picture Association of America extensive gruesome violence, including a personable environmentalist (John Kra- ratings: MOVIE killings by chainsaw and axe, drug use, sinski), who launches a fervent campaign G – General audiences; all ages admitted PG – Parental guidance suggested; some pervasive profane, rough and crude lan- to thwart them, Damon’s character begins REVIEWS material may not be suitable for children guage, sexual banter. O; R to have second thoughts. His change of USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting PG-13 – Parents are strongly cautioned heart is also driven by his attraction to a classifications: to give special guidance for attendance Jack Reacher local teacher (Rosemarie DeWitt) whose A-I – General patronage of children under 13; some material may (Paramount) regard he comes to value. A gifted cast and A-II – Adults and adolescents be inappropriate for young children Tom Cruise as the title character sets smooth direction by Gus Van Sant help to A-III – Adults R – Restricted; under 17 requires accom- out to clear a former military sniper (Jo- disguise the simplistic perspective and un- A-IV – Adults, with reservations panying parent or adult guardian seph Sikora) accused of five murders in mistakable anti-business bias underlying L – Limited adult audience NC-17 – No one under 17 admitted Pittsburgh. He is aided in his sleuthing Damon and Krasinski’s script. And mov- O – Morally offensive by the veteran’s lawyer (Rosamund Pike). iegoers committed to scriptural values Writer-director Christopher McQuarrie will, of course, appreciate the prioritizing has adapted a reasonably compelling de- of stewardship over greed. But the proper Silver Linings Playbook between normal and crazy. Brief glimpses tective story from Lee Child’s novel “One balance between the two may appear quite (Weinstein) of a violent assault, fleeting rear and par- Shot.” But his protagonist turns out to be different when viewed from a failing Iowa Off-kilter romantic comedy that manag- tial female nudity, some profane language, an amoral avenger. Pervasive violence homestead rather than a Malibu beach es to address mental illness with fresh sen- frequent crude and crass terms, sexual in- including gunplay, implied drug use, fre- house. About a dozen uses of profanity, sitivity while delivering laughs and uplifting nuendo. A-III; R quent profanity. L; PG-13 much rough and crude language. A-III; R. emotion. Eight months after catching his wife (Brea Bee) cheating on him, and being Texas Chainsaw 3D Promised Land Parental Guidance confined to a psychiatric hospital because (Lionsgate) (Focus) (Fox) of his violent reaction, a Philadelphia man Desultory sequel to the low-budget 1974 Reasonably entertaining message Family comedy stars Billy Crystal and (Bradley Cooper) checks out of the institu- gorefest, “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” movie about the environmental dangers Bette Midler as grandparents babysitting tion and moves in with his parents (Robert In updating Tobe Hooper’s original, di- of drilling for natural gas using a method for – and trying to connect with – a trio DeNiro and Jacki Weaver). He meets – and rector John Luessenhop provides little to called hydraulic fracturing – fracking for of grandchildren (Bailee Madison, Josh- is drawn to – one of their neighbors, a widow no shock value, but a high body count and short. Matt Damon and Frances McDor- ua Rush and Kyle Harrison Breitkopf) (Jennifer Lawrence) who has psychological splatter factor. Dan Yeager plays Jed Saw- mand play a duo of energy company ex- they’ve barely seen before. Though they issues of her own. Writer-director David O. yer, aka Leatherface, a chainsaw-wielding ecutives out to convince down-on-their- obviously mean well, director Andy Fick- Russell doesn’t shy away from awkwardness loony who’s out to avenge his family’s luck farmers in a rural Midwestern town man and screenwriters Lisa Addario and or feel-good sentiment as he guides a superb long-ago liquidation at the hands of a mob to sell their land to the corporation, glibly Joe Syracuse produce some very stale and ensemble through a character-driven story (led by Paul Rae) and to protect his cousin promising them instant wealth. When they predictable situations. Childish scatologi- about hope – and the sometimes fine line (Alexandra Daddario), the only other sur- encounter opposition from a retired sci- cal humor. A-I; PG

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JOIN ONE OF OUR SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS January 29 at 1:00 pm or 6:30 pm St. Thomas More Parish Activity Center (located at Goodwood Blvd. & Dartmoor) Tootie Bonacorso Rhonda Richardson with Globus Vacations Travel Expert will be present to answer any questions you might have. RSVP to Tootie 225.236.1388 225•236•1185 We Make Vacations Affordable. *Restrictions apply. www.vacationsbycrown.com Crown’s Adventures At Sea • Trusted Quality & Service for Over 25 Years • 800.330.1001 7569 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge (next door to the Mailbag, across from Town Center) January 11, 2013 ENTERTAINMENT The Catholic Commentator 19 Making the best out of moments of transition 1234 56789 11120 131 41 51 61

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Somewhere In Neverland 02 12 22 Say goodbye to the halls and the classes; Say We’ll start a life of the plain and simple, of 243 2 265 2 hello to a job and the taxes; The weekends great times with far better people; And week- with old friends spilling into 9-to-5 routine; ends with our friends, laughing ‘bout the wine 72 2289 Tell me how you feel over and done with; Like that stains the teeth; We’ll talk about how your 310 323 343 3 365 3 your life is a map with no compass to guide; At parents separated and; How you don’t wanna the bar, drinking way too much; We sing along make the same mistakes as them; I’ll say it’s all 73 83 93 to “Forever Young” about sticking it out and trying to feel forever 40 14 24 young So here we go again wishing we could start 443 4 54 again So here we go again wishing we could start again 64 487 494 Refrain: 510 5 25 543 5 Wendy, run away with me; I know I sound (Repeat refrain.) crazy, don’t you see what you do to me; I 55 576 5 85 wanna be your lost boy; Your last chance, So here we go again wishing we could start a better reality; Wendy, we can get away; I again 95 06 16 promise, if you’re with me, say the word and 26 36 46 I’ll find a way; I can be your lost boy, your last (Repeat refrain.) chance; You’re everything that I planned; Oh, moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www somewhere in Neverland; (Somewhere in Oh, somewhere in Neverland; Oh, somewhere ACROSS 7 310, in ancient Rome Neverland) in Neverland; (Somewhere in Neverland) 1 City in which Acts ends 8 Tint 5 Recess in a wall 9 Airport letters 10 Size of type 10 A king is said to have written Sung by All Time Low | Copyright © 2012 by Hopeless Records 14 Turkish weights some of these 15 Usually not a G movie 11 Apers 16 LA problem 12 Message symbols have to admit that there’s not through this process in a way that 17 “…the ___, raise the 13 Culture medium much in the pop punk scene that is good for me? dead…” (Mt 10:8) 21 TV movie players interests me, but All Time Low As in every step of life, practice 18 Ran swiftly 22 Teen and new follower I 19 Verdi opera 24 He has his “ears” on certainly has staying power. Released gratefulness. Thank those who have 20 Permanently, in poems 25 King of 10D this fall is the group’s “Don’t Panic” helped you navigate through the 21 Type of engine 26 River in central Europe album and off the new disc is the recent past. Some of these people 22 Let out, perhaps 29 Hydrocarbon suffixes single “Somewhere in Neverland.” are likely to become lifelong allies. 23 Sport of Sneijder, Dutch 30 Ike The song comes on as a type of Let them know how important they athlete who converted to 31 Lubricates anthem to accepting the loss of ado- have been to you. Also, consider Catholicism during the 32 Mary, the Mother of God, for World Cup games example lescence. The song’s character knows your whole experience and thank 25 Most important teaching 33 Easter treat it is time to “say goodbye to the halls God for the surprises, the lessons, 27 Male members of religious 34 Fruit drink and the classes” while saying “hello and the caring connections that orders (abbr.) 36 Loafer letters to a job and the taxes.” Even though have formed this past step. 28 First word of a Latin hymn 38 “___ Dimittis” he is willing to sing “Forever Young,” During some transitions, you 30 Prescribed amounts 39 Monastery chamber 33 Spelunker 41 Member of the Conservative his adolescence feels over and done On The Record may also recognize that your 35 “I believe in ___ God…” Party with. His solution? He asks “Wendy” mistakes have diminished the good 37 Designer Christian ___ 42 St. Veronica’s feast day is in to “run away” with him and head into Charlie Martin that could have surfaced. Let these 38 Lowest point this month “Neverland.” mistakes teach you how to live and 39 Native American 44 Joseph and Mary traveled to Since this song is punk rock, it’s hard to take love better in the future, but most of all, forgive 40 Corner piece Bethlehem to be counted in 41 Adjusted pitch this anything very seriously. However, the song did make yourself. Life is journey. All of us are learning as we 42 Rod of ___ 45 Luxury boats me think about life’s necessary transitions and how go. 43 Commandment that forbids 47 Russian country house periodically we say “goodbye” and “hello” to life’s No matter what the immediate past has meant, taking God’s name in vain 48 One of the seraphim or stages. Such are the comings and goings of what it or regardless of the uncertainty you may feel about 45 Brynner who played cherubim, for example means to accept fully God’s gift of life. the next step, resolve to trust God and trust yourself. pharaoh in “The Ten 49 Rascal Commandments” 50 Male swine Given that transitions are inevitable, how do we God made you right, and your life is filled with God’s 46 “I desire ___, not sacrifice.” 51 Miss Kett approach them with grace and hopefulness? For divine purpose. You are called to bring God’s light (Mt 9:13) 52 Anger example, let’s say that you are in your senior year of and love into our world and your purpose for how to 47 Catholic university in Texas 54 Bologna bone high school or college. You know that soon your life do so will be revealed. 50 Late comedian, Jack ___ 56 Vigor is going to significantly change. Most likely, much of Focus your mental and emotional energies on 52 Suggestive 57 Liquid used in some 53 Sgt., for one sacraments the past will need to be released, including friend- this day. Yes, do what this day demands, but also 55 Elevator name 58 United States farmer’s org. ships that have meant much to you. keep an eye out for opportunities that bring joy, oc- 56 Encroach Solution on page 22 Likewise, uncertainty awaits. How can you go casions to help others, and moments of quiet prayer. 58 Muslim titles of honor through such a process in a way that supports your All of these will help you let go of the past with grati- 59 Aleutian island LEARN well-being? tude, and enter the future with grace and hope. 60 Octave 61 Members of a pol. party ROSARY MAKING While there is no sure recipe for effectively So, do you need to find some mythical “Never- 62 Beams A Catholic Tradition handling life transitions, here are some steps to land” to hold off life’s transitions? Fortunately, no. 63 Entreaties consider: Many options are available. Your life is an adven- 64 Fido’s brand? Contact us for Think about what is occurring or will soon ture. DOWN a catalog and happen. Don’t find yourself moving on like a robot, 1 Patron saint of South America introductory offer. just going through life. Ask yourself: What are my Martin is an Indiana pastoral counselor who re- 2 Migrant farm workers LEWIS & COMPANY hopes? What steps will create the possibility that views current music for Catholic News Service. 3 Large Dedicated to Rosary Making! such hopes might become reality? What from my Your comments are always welcome. Write to 4 River in New South Wales 5 Agatha is their patron saint rosaryparts.com immediate past seems most important to carry [email protected] or at 7125 West Country (800) 342 - 2400 forward? What do I need to let go of if I am to go Road 200 South, Rockport, IN 47635. 6 “The bombs bursting ___…” 20 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT January 11, 2013 Working too hard begins as virtue, ends as escape

here are dangers in overwork, no matter how our work soon becomes an escape. We remain busy and harder to find mean- good the work and no matter how noble the and preoccupied enough that we have a built in ing in anything outside of Tmotivation for doing it. Spiritual guides, begin- excuse and rationalization so as not to have to deal our work. Old habits are ning with Jesus, have always warned of the dangers with relationships within our own families, our hard to break. If we spend of becoming too taken-up in our work. Many are the churches or with God. Being weighed-down con- years drawing our identity spouses in a marriage, many are the children in a stantly with work and duty is a burden, but it is also from working hard and family, many are the friends and many are churches, the ultimate protection. We do not get to smell the being loved for being any- who wish that someone they love and need more at- flowers, but we do not have to deal with the deeper thing from a professional tention from was less busy. things that lurk under the surface of our lives. We athlete to a dedicated But it is hard not to be over-busy and consumed by can avoid the unresolved issues in our relationships mum, it will not be easy work, particularly during our generative years when and our psyches. We have the perfect excuse, “We to simply shift gears and the duties of raising children, paying mortgages, and are too busy.” draw our meaning from running our churches and civic organizations falls Generally, too, our society supports us in this es- something else. more squarely on our shoulders. If you are a sensitive capism. With virtually every other addiction, we are Classical spiritual person you will wrestle constantly with the pressure eventually sent off to a clinic, but if we are addicted In Exile writers are unanimous to not surrender yourself to too many demands. As to our work, we are generally admired for our disease in warning about the Henri Nouwen once described this, our lives often and praised for our selflessness: If I drink too much, Father Ron Rolheiser danger of overwork and of seem like over-packed suitcases with too much in or eat too much, or become dependent on a drug, I becoming over-preoccu- them. There is always one more task to do, one more am frowned upon and pitied; but if I overwork to the pied with our work. This is in fact what Jesus warns phone call to make, one more person to see, one more point of neglecting huge and important imperatives in Martha about in the famous passage in Scripture bill to pay, one more thing to check on the internet, my life, they say this of me: “Isn’t he wonderful! He’s where she, consumed with the very necessary work one more leaky faucet to tend to, one more demand so dedicated!” Workaholism is the one addiction for of preparing a meal, complains to Jesus that her from some church or social agen- which we get praised. sister, Mary, is not carrying her share of the load. In a cy, and one more item that needs Idleness may well Beyond providing us with an rather surprising response, Jesus, instead of chastis- to be picked up from the store. unhealthy escape from some impor- ing Mary for her idleness and praising Martha for her The demands never end and we be the devil’s tant issues with which we need to be dedication, tells Martha that Mary has chosen the are always conscious of some task dealing, overwork brings with it a better part, that, at this moment and in this circum- that we still need to do. Our days workshop, but second major danger: The more we stance, Mary’s idleness trumps Martha’s busyness. are too short for all that needs to over-invest in our work the greater Why? Because sometimes there are more important be done. busyness is not the danger of taking too much of things in life than work, even the noble and necessary And so, we give ourselves over our meaning from our work, rather work of tending to hospitality and preparing a meal to our work. It begins in good will always a virtue. than from our relationships. As we for others. and innocence, but it invariably become more and more immersed in Idleness may well be the devil’s workshop, but transmutes into something else. our work, to the detriment of our re- busyness is not always a virtue. Initially we give ourselves over to all these demands lationships, we will naturally begin, too, to draw more because this is what is asked of us, but as more and and more of our meaning and value from our work Oblate Father Rolheiser, theologian, teacher and more time goes by that commitment becomes less and, as numerous spiritual writers have pointed out, award-winning author, is president of the Oblate and less altruistic and more self-serving. the dangers in this are many, not least among these School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas. He can be First off, though we are generally blind to this, is the danger that we will eventually find it harder contacted through his website ronrolheiser.com. Thoughts for Inauguration Day

nauguration Day will soon be upon began to read these ticularly forgiveness of ordinary life and from those places did us. It rolls around in Washington famous words: debt). what they could to address the prob- Ionce every four years. Hundreds “The Spirit of the God made some lems Jesus cited in his inaugural call to of thousands turn out on the National Lord is upon me, be- important promises bring good news to the poor. Mall in Washington; millions watch on cause he has anointed through his prophets Jesus and his original band of television. It is a great spectacle and me to bring glad tidings to the economically, disciples are not around to meet these always an agenda-setting event. to the poor. He has sent physically and socially responsibilities today. All he has on The president speaks words of inau- me to proclaim liberty unfortunate, and Jesus earth now is us. In this season of guration. He has to look to the citizens to captives and recovery was there to deliver inauguration, fully aware that the he leads – to elected representatives of sight to the blind, on those promises. In president is not to be confused with and to all the rest of us – to put legs to let the oppressed go his inaugural address, or compared with Jesus, we should under his ideas, to quite literally lend free, and to proclaim a Jesus spoke words of be thinking about putting legs – our the helping hands needed to put his year acceptable to the promise and encourage- legs – under the inaugural ideas Jesus programs into place. Lord.” ment to the poor, the proposed. Jesus gave an inaugural address Jesus drew upon Looking Around sick, the systematically Presidents come and go; and so does at the beginning of his public life. He Isaiah to construct oppressed, the impris- inaugural rhetoric. But Jesus Christ is “returned to Galilee in the power of both a platform and a Father William J. Byron SJ oned (particularly those “the same yesterday, today and for- the Spirit,” Luke’s Gospel tells us. “He program: (1) to bring imprisoned with, by and ever” (Heb 13:8), and his inaugural came to Nazareth, where he had grown glad tidings to the poor; (2) to proclaim for indebtedness), and to those who address, recorded in Luke’s Gospel, up, and went according to his custom liberty to captives; (3) and recovery of were economically downtrodden, put remains a challenge for all of us who into the synagogue on the Sabbath day. sight to the blind; (4) to let the op- upon, crushed. call ourselves Christian. He stood up to read and was handed a pressed go free, and (5) to proclaim a Jesus went to work and attracted scroll of the prophet Isaiah.” (You will year acceptable to the Lord (“accept- a band of disciples. They in turn Jesuit Father Byron is university notice that he had a speechwriter of able” in the sense of something along went out preaching and teaching and professor of business and society at impeccable credentials.) the lines of the ancient jubilee year of spreading the good news. They took St. Joseph’s University, Philadelphia. So Jesus unrolled the scroll and forgiveness and reconciliation, par- their places in the daily doings of Email: [email protected]. January 11, 2013 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 21 Bringing Gospel to KM 64 Finding contentment ne of the most fruitful the handicapped use them. The Missions in 2013 documents of Vatican Coun- in homes for them; Company also built a Ocil II was the Decree on the and celebrate Mass chapel next to the bars hat Missionary Activity of the Church. in little villages so and huts that flanked might Catholic dioceses in countries far in the boondocks KM 64. Because the Wbe a where the Church was well estab- that they seldom see women’s living quarters refreshing, unique lished were asked to send priests, a priest. We do all of had no electricity, the resolution for the brothers, sisters and lay persons these things on mis- capilla (chapel) doubled new year? May as missionaries to countries where sion trips and more. as a tienda (shop). The I suggest we use Christ was not known, or the I am sure that seamstresses sew in the a seldom-used Church was just getting a foothold, it does some good. chapel. As for the mar- means for increas- or where, though Catholicism was Jesus even mentions ket, the churches of the ing true joyful well established, there was an some of these in the Diocese of Lafayette are contentment? It’s acute shortage of priests, religious 25th chapter of St. providing that. These called detach- and catechists. The response was Matthew’s Gospel. Another women, having changed ment. strong. But short-term mis- occupations, now work In the Gospel Our diocese, like many others, sionaries returning Perspective in their chapel which is of St. Matthew The Human Side sent priests to staff a foreign church home after 10 days, lit and sew altar linens we read of chil- parish that had no priests. Father Eu- or even a month, Father John Carville (purificators, corporals dren playing their Father Eugene Hemrick gene Engels, Father David Vavasseur can’t always see and custom altar-table flutes but nobody and Father Vic Messina all served the good they have done. There is a cloths) that are sold in Lafayette. Is dancing, John the Baptist heralding the good news and in Santa Apolonia, Guatemala. The deeper good than these material and this a role reversal? being labeled a demon, and the Son of Man seen as a Archdiocese of Boston even started charitable acts. It is a good that goes What I love about ministry in the drunkard. No matter how good and well-meaning the a missionary society for diocesan by the name of evangelization. That is missions is the way the Gospel comes actions of Jesus and John the Baptist, or anyone else, priests called the St. James Society a broad, ambiguous term, but on a re- alive. Consider the witness of these discontentment runs through the crowds. so they could serve in Latin America. cent mission trip to General Cepeda, women about their new life in Christ. Discontentment permeates life. We may be discon- Religious orders like the Jesuits and Mexico, with Family Missions Com- Maricela: “Since the missionar- tent over the government, the church, world events, Maryknolls, who had religious mis- pany, I saw a very tangible spiritual ies have started visiting, they have our spouse, children or the direction life is going. The sionaries already in foreign missions, result of Christ’s great commission, helped us a lot. We didn’t have a list of discontent is endless. None of us can escape its created volunteer groups of laity who “Go into the whole world and pro- church, but thanks be to God now we clutches. served at their mission stations. claim the Gospel to every creature. have a place to come together. I have Once in its grasp, ill disposition follows, endanger- Church parishes in the United Whoever believes and is baptized will felt much closer to God, I have much ing a spirit of kindness that is well-disposed toward States began adopting church parish- be saved” (Mark 16: 16). more fortitude and faith.” self, life and God. Discontentment, on the other hand, es in mission countries and sending In the deserts of Northern Mexico Yolanda: “The missionaries have sours our disposition, drains its loving spirit and casts groups of laity on short-term mission near the town of General Cepeda, brought us great options, especially a dark cloud over us. trips to help in those churches. Today population 11,784, a two-lane high- the chapel, the sewing and the chance The word “content” means to be filled, implying we colleges and even high schools are way heads west with its traffic of to be with the Word.” have no desire for anything in addition. It encourages sending students on short-term mis- dusty banged-up trucks transporting Berta: “We are so thankful to us to see the glass half full rather than half empty, and sion trips. the commodities of a poor people. God and the missionaries since they to count our blessings. Not long after Vatican Council II, Right off the highway, in a spot so started coming. May God bless them, What is an effective way to cultivate contentment? an Abbeville family — Frank, Genie, dry that it is covered with only rocks because we bless them. We are happy The mystic St. John of the Cross would encourage us and 10-year-old Beau Summers — and a whitish powdery sand, are a every time they visit us.” to rid ourselves of inordinate attachments that weigh us decided God was calling them to a few bars and tiny huts that house Socorro: “We have felt so good down. The more we have, the more they take posses- more permanent life as missionaries women who once served the truck since the missionaries found us. I sion of us, the more we desire them. Once in the mood in the South Pacific. They sold ev- drivers after they tired of drinking. believe that our village has been of seeking more attachments, we become discontent. erything — house, furniture and car This tiny village is named simply recognized thanks to them. Because By their nature, inordinate attachments cultivate — and went. Eventually a few friends Kilometer 64. of them, we’ve learned a lot. We’ve selfishness and enslave us in a self-centered world that joined them, and others asked to be About 10 years ago, Family Mis- gotten involved in our Church. May is never satisfied. trained so that they, too, might an- sions Company began ministering to God bless them so that they can keep When we let go of an attachment, it leaves room swer the call to the missions. Family these prostitutes and their children. supporting us and we can be better for God’s love to flourish. Equally true, it opens us up Missions Company was established. The women expressed great enthu- people.” to others and God’s creation. We become more out- Today its more than 80 members, siasm for learning more about the In Catholic Louisiana, in first ward looking and less tied to our world. Our vision is all laity, have served in India, the Catholic faith, for finding a way out of world abundance, we practice our enlarged, as are our hearts. Philippines, the Marshall Islands, their desperate poverty and a better faith, we hear the Gospel, but the It goes without saying that mass media marketing Peru, Ecuador, Spain, the Caribbean means to provide for their families. If Word becomes often just words. “Sal- is forever encouraging us to treat ourselves to the best. and Mexico. Some are families with only they could find a positive enter- vation,” “sin,” “redemption” lose their Once we have the best, we are encouraged to look for quite a few young children, others are prise that provided income. meaning, they get drowned out by something even better, to never be content. singles of all ages. In addition to the permanent mis- the latest news, the latest entertain- As we enter 2013, how about letting go of just one While chaplain at LSU and since sionaries from the United States, two ment, all the noise in our lives. But little attachment that is dear to us and see what hap- my retirement three and a half years Mexican families had joined Family as we celebrated Mass and I looked pens? ago, I have had the privilege of work- Missions Company. One of these cou- into the faces of these women in their My guess is we will almost never hear the words ing with Family Missions Company, ples, Gallo and Rita, knew that these roadside chapel/sewing shop on the “self-denial” in 2013, but advertisers will tell you, both at their base in Abbeville and in women sewed much of their cloth- baked desert of Northern Mexico, I “Don’t deny yourself, get it now while there is time.” Mexico, Ecuador and St. Lucia. Peo- ing. The solution became apparent knew what Jesus was saying, “Who- Self-denial not only has its place in the spiritual life, ple often ask me what does one do in — the women could sell things they ever believes and is baptized will be but equally true, it contains the key to creating true the missions and does it do any good. sewed if they could find a market saved.” happiness in the new year. To answer the question of what does and if they could produce enough one do, I could respond: lay sewerage goods to supply the market. The FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest F aTHER HemrICk, a research associate with the Life lines; clear land for churches; paint Missions Company provided the KM in the Diocese of Baton Rouge and Cycle Research Institute at The Catholic University schools and churches; visit the sick, 64 women with free electric sewing writes on current topics for The of America, writes on issues pertinent to the church the elderly who are in nursing homes, machines and taught them how to Catholic Commentator. and the human spirit for Catholic News Service. 22 The Catholic Commentator COMING EVENTS January 11, 2013

Diocesan Youth Conference – “Ablaze” is the theme of to participants how to discern what is at the root of of their lives. For information and to register call 504- the Diocese Youth Conference that will be held Satur- their actions and emotions so they can make wise deci- 887-1420 or visit cenaclesisters.org/metairie. day, March 2-Sunday, March 3, at the Crowne Plaza sions. Fee for the retreat is $40. For information and Hotel, 4728 Constitution Ave., Baton Rouge. The key- to register call 225-383-3349 or email contact@stjoc- Catholic Schools Showcase – The Catholic Schools note speaker will be Stephanie Clouatre-Davis and enter.org. of the Diocese of Baton Rouge will celebrate Catholic featured performer will be Matt Maher. Cost is $175. Schools Week with a showcase at the Mall of Louisi- Registration deadline is Friday, Jan. 18. For informa- Women in Spirit Meeting – Bobbie Carey, corporate ana, 6401 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge, on Saturday, tion email Brigitte Burke at [email protected] or call communications consultant, will speak about how the Jan. 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The event will feature school 225-336-8751. Holy Spirit works in people’s faith life at the Women in performances and art displays. For information call Spirit meeting on Thursday, Jan. 31, noon, at St. Joseph 225-336-8735. Life in the Spirit Seminar – The Corpus Christi prayer Cathedral, Fourth and Main streets in Baton Rouge. group of St. Alphonsus Church, 13940 Greenwell Women in Spirit is an interfaith gathering of women. A Chicken dinners – The ladies altar society of St. Jo- Springs Road, Greenwell Springs, will present a day of light lunch will be served. To RSVP email sjwomenin- seph Church, 76950 Gum St., Grosse Tete, will host renewal and revival during a Life in the Spirit semi- [email protected] or call 225-387-5928. their annual fried chicken dinner on Sunday, Jan. nar Saturday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at the St. Fran- 27, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The cost of a dinner is $6. Desserts cis Room at St. Alphonsus. Lunch will be provided. To Sanctity of Life Series – The JustFaith and Dignity of and beverages will be sold. Representatives will be on RSVP call Reneé Elliot at 225-773-8936. Life ministries of St. Aloysius Church in Baton Rouge hand and information will be available from: Along the will present a Bible study series, “Sanctity of All Life,” Bayou Garden Club of Grosse Tete, We Are the Differ- St. George Mission – St. George Church, 7808 St. on Monday nights, Feb. 18-March 25, 6 p.m., at the Mi- ence – Iberville Arts, Louisiana Art and Artists’ Guild George Drive (Siegen Lane), Baton Rouge, will host a mosa House, 4065 Mimosa St., Baton Rouge. The se- –Iberville chapter, Home Instead Senior Care Baton mission, “Unwrapping the Gift of Faith: Daily Dwelling ries will examine capital punishment and other human Rouge and the St. Joseph prayer blanket ministry. For in Possibility,” led by Father Phillip Chircop SJ Monday, life issues. To register contact Ginger Lowry at 225- information call Kendra Vallet at 225-648-2784. Jan. 21-Wednesday, Jan. 23, 7-8:30 p.m. For informa- 761-1327, email [email protected] or Art Adams at tion call the St. George church office at 225-293-2212. 225-766-2963, email artinbr.aol.com. And Jesus Wept – The chaplain and bereavement coordinator at The Carpenter House of St. Joseph Hospice St. Joseph Spirituality Center Retreat – Father Mark Legends of the Soul Retreat – Father Joseph Nassal will discuss difficulties surrounding grief and bereave- Thibodeaux SJ will present a retreat, “Learn to Discern CPPS will lead a retreat, “Legends of the Soul: Stories of ment during a presentation, “And Jesus Wept,” Thurs- ... God’s Voice Within,” sponsored by the St. Joseph Transformation on the Journey of Faith,” Friday, Jan. day, Jan. 24, 6:30 p.m., and Friday, Jan. 25, 10 a.m., at Spirituality Center, Saturday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m.-noon, at 18-Sunday, Jan. 20, at Cenacle Retreat House, 5500 St. St. Thomas More Church, 11441 Goodwood Blvd., Ba- Mother Alice Hall at St. Joseph’s Academy, 3080 Klein- Mary St., Metairie. The retreat will focus on how the ton Rouge. For information call the St. Thomas More ert Ave., Baton Rouge. Father Thibodeaux will explain stories of people’s faith reconnect them with the stories parish office at 225-275-3940.

The Catholic Commentator For help placing your classified ad, PO Box 3316 call 225-387-0983. All classified ads are Baton Rouge LA 70821-3316 prepaid. Credit cards are not accepted. Announcements Business service Business services Business service cArds oF tHAnks While we at The Catholic Commenta- Anthony's Furniture Specialties. We Donnie’s Furniture Repair & Uphol- Flower beds, landscaping, general Special thanks to St. Joseph Cupertino tor do our best to bring reliable ad- restore hurricane damaged furniture. stery. We do refinishing, repairs, caning, yard work, debris removal; commercial; for prayers answered during exams and vertisers to our readers, we are not If it's furniture we do it all! Refinishing, painting of furniture and upholstery. residential; quality work, licensed, free throughout the entire semester. responsible for any claims made by re-upholstery, pick up and delivery, etc. In business 43 yrs. Pick up and delivery. estimates, references. 225-247-6079. JMB any advertiser. 2263 Florida Blvd., BR. 225-413-2607. 10876 Greenwell Springs Rd. 225-272- 2577. See our showroom. Baton Rouge Care Service. Serving Ba- For sAle positions WAnted Business service ton Rouge and surrounding areas since Mr. D’s Tree Service 5 cemetery plots Roselawn Baton Senior care, meal prep, bathing, clean- 1960. Registered sitters, nurses, and 3 Licensed Arborists Rouge. All 5 next to each other. $5000 for ing, sitting, shopping etc. 6 days a week. Pennington Lawn and Landscape nurses aides for the sick and elderly in Free Estimates all. 225-954-6558. Experienced, own transportation. Call 225-806-0008 the home, nursing homes and hospitals. Fully Insured me 225-382-5536; cell 225-428-1528. Lawn & bed maintenance. Clean-up neg- Licensed and bonded for private duty Don Decell & Carl Babin, owners Greenoaks Memorial Park beautiful lect. Call for your free estimate. care. 225-924-6098 or 225-667-0480. 225-292-6756 Garden of Time, lot #332, his/hers top/ www.batonrougesittersregistry.com. bottom. Selling $7000, worth $8500. Call Help WAnted Dave’s Bicycle Repair and Sales. Free BROUSSEAU'S Painting 225-245-1585. pickup and delivery, free estimates, ex- Interior and exterior painting. Experi- In sales employment advertisements, pert economical repair on all brands. Kitchen counter tops. Call for free es- enced and reliable. Free estimates. Call Greenoaks Memorial Park, BR. Beauti- the advertiser must name the prod- 225-924-4337 or www.davesbicyclerepair. timates. John O'Neill 225-938-6141 or 225-241-8488 or 225-928-7194. ful Garden of Valor, Lot 17, Space 10 his/ uct or service to be sold. Ads must com. 225-683-6837. her, top/bottom. Selling $6500. Call 225- state how wages will be paid (salary, commissions, etc.) if money is men- THOMAS LUNDIN, CPA St. Joseph is the Patron Saint of a 571-6822. Peaceful Death. St. Joseph Hospice is tioned. The ad must also state if there Accounting and taxes for businesses, LEBLANC’S TREE & STUMP is an investment required. non-profits and individuals; business, REMOVAL, INC. available to support families as they face cArds oF tHAnks computer, financial and management Prompt service–Free estimates end-of-life decisions. Peace, comfort, services. 30 years experience; profes- FULLY INSURED dignity and support can make every day Thanks to the Holy Spirit for favor grant- sional, prompt and personal attention. E. H. “Eddie” LeBlanc "a good day." Call 225-368-3100 for more ed. Classifieds Work! 225-296-0404. Phone 383-7316 information. RG

Print Your Ad Here ROME NICHE PICA OKAS UNCUT SMOG SICK RACED AIDA EER VS IX ALTER SOCCER DOGMA DATES TO RUN: BRS ADESTE Circle Category: Announcements—Business Services—Cards of Thanks—For Rent—For Sale—Help Wanted DOSES CAVER ONE —Positions Wanted—Legal Notices (other ) DIOR NADIR CREE Mail to: The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 ELL TUNED JESSE Enclosed is $9.50 for the first 15 words + 15¢ for each word thereafter + 25¢ per line for each special effect (all caps, centered SECOND YUL line, bold lettering); for a total of $______for each issue. MERCY DALLAS NAME Advertisements will BENNY RACY NCO not be published OT IS POACH AGAS ADDRESS without full payment in ATTU EIGHT DEMS CITY PHONE advance. RAYS PLEAS ALPO www.wordgamesforcatholics.com January 11, 2013 The Catholic Commentator 23 REVOLUTION: Women benefitted from some efforts FROM PAGE 1 consumer sex, and having a variety of sex- a partial or complete rejection of it. A will- ual experiences before and after marriage ingness to expand definitions of human are good. Another result, that contracep- sexuality and sexual behavior, including tives are necessary, has led to more abor- an acceptance of same sex attraction and tions because people rely on contracep- what in the past was labeled “deviant” also tives and they fail, Notare said. are markers of this revolution, said Notare. She repeatedly warned of the misin- Other markers include: formation that advocates of the modern An acceptance of non-reproductive sex- sexual revolution put forth, such as poor ual activity typically facilitated by contra- people should be prevented from marry- ception or sterilization. ing or having sexual activity because they An on-going attempt to separate sexual would have babies that they could not af- behavior from the social institutions of ford to raise, therefore causing a greater marriage, religious and moral structures. hardship on society. A qualitatively more positive evaluation Notare also said that in some ways of sex as a human behavior. women benefitted from the efforts of these A substantial sustained increase in advocates because they were no longer Eva Arena, right, reads to Anne Marie Ledoux, left, and Marie Bergan in the Borders Din- non-marital coitus. considered slaves, property or inferior to ing Hall while their parents listened to Dr. Theresa Notare’s keynote address at the 20th Some of the results of the modern sex- their husbands. The natural sexual desires Annual Bishop’s Respect LIfe Rally Jan. 6. Children of those attending the rally were en- ual revolution, according to Notare, are a of women were also more understood. tertained with crafts, books and games. Photo by Laura Deavers | The Catholic Commentator sense that entitlement to sexual activity, She gave the results of a 1929 study of

2,200 women that reported the majority of those attending the rally were entertained these women believed that the use of con- in the Borders Dining Hall with craft ac- traception in marriage was moral, procre- tivities, games and books. PEACEMAKING: Peace important to freedoms ation and conjugal happiness and pleasure Danielle Van Haute, pro-life coordina- justified sexual activity, sex between en- tor for the Office of Marriage and Family FROM PAGE 1 gaged couples was inadvisable but morally Life, which sponsors the Respect Life Rally “essential humanitarian aid” in response natural and married respondents admit- each year, invited all at the rally to attend to the “grave humanitarian situation” in ted to using birth control. the Louisiana March For Life Jan. 12 in Ba- Syria. While Notare was speaking, children of ton Rouge. Pope Benedict also reiterated the Vati- can’s support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Alluding to Egypt’s new Islamist constitution, which has drawn opposition from liberals and religious minorities, the pope assured “all Egyptians of my closeness and my prayers at this time when new institutions are being set in place.” Pope Benedict XVI greets Sweden’s Am- Speaking more generally, the pope bassador Ulla Gudmundson during a stressed that peacemaking requires the meeting with members of the Vatican’s protection of fundamental human rights diplomatic corps in the Sala Regia at the and dignity, especially through “respect for Vatican Jan. 7. The pope told foreign am- human life at every stage.” He said he felt bassadors that peace-building requires “dismay” over recent moves to decriminal- charity, religious libert y, and a proper un- ize abortion in various countries, which he derstanding of human rights and open- said would upset the “balance between the ness to divine love. Photo by Evandro Inetti | CNS right to life of the mother and that of the unborn child, a right belonging equally to grow hopelessly poorer.” both.” The pope also stressed the importance

In Western societies today, the pope to peace of religious liberty, particularly SACRED HEART OF JESUS SCHOOL said, “rights are often confused with exag- the “right of conscientious objection,” gerated manifestations of the autonomy of which he said was under threat in unspeci- the individual, who becomes self-referen- fied countries. OPEN HOUSE tial ... absorbed only in seeking to satisfy In the United States, an Obama ad- Pre-K through 8th Grade his or her own needs.” ministration plan to force most Catholic Such societies also suffer from distort- institutions to provide insurance coverage ed economic values, the pope said: “The for contraception and sterilizations, which current economic and financial crisis ... violate the church’s moral teaching, has Tuesday, January 29, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. developed because profit was all too often provoked strenuous opposition from U.S. made absolute, to the detriment of labor, bishops. and because of unrestrained ventures in “Outlawing individual and institutional the financial areas of the economy, rather conscientious objection in the name of lib- than attending to the real economy.” erty and pluralism paradoxically opens by Acknowledging tensions within the Eu- contrast the door to intolerance and forced ropean Union between financially troubled uniformity,” the pope said. debtor nations and their more prosperous The Holy See currently has diplomatic 2251 Main Street Baton Rouge, LA 70802 neighbors, Pope Benedict called for conti- relations with 179 countries, as well as the nental solidarity and voiced dismay over European Union, the Sovereign Military “increasing differences between those few Order of Malta and the Palestine Libera- For more information visit www.sacredheartbr.com or call 225.383.7481 NewNon student-discriminatory testing will be admissions Saturday, February policy 23 who grow ever richer and the many who tion Organization. 24 The Catholic Commentator January 11, 2013 HOFINGER: Creation and Scripture are both the word of God FROM PAGE 3 Room C on Tuesday nights for he is “in the hole” doing the RCIA classes.” hands-on work of electricity, and He said the Council’s vision not in the classes he takes to re- makes the evangelization of the ceive his certificate. catechumenate the responsibil- “As far as the RCIA goes, your ity of all parishioners – not just church parish is the hole,” Gal- religious educators – and should ipeau said. “It’s a hole in which be happening long before a can- people don’t become electri- didate receives the sacraments. cians, they become disciples “Too often what has happened of Jesus Christ; those who are in church parishes is that the coming to baptism are becoming RCIA becomes the catechetical Christ. It’s in the hole that they cocoon; it’s its own little group,” become Roman Catholic, not in Galipeau said. “You almost get New Orleans-Style Shutters Visit our showroom at 6032 Crestmount Dr., Baton Rouge

The 31st Annual Johannes Hofinger Catechetical Conference Jan 3-5 at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner included for the first time a clergy track. Keynote speakers told priests and deacons that no amount of book or faith knowledge was enough to bring people to a deeper faith or to encourage those who have stopped practicing their Catholic faith to return to the church. What is needed, they said, are true wit- nesses to Christ who are happy and loving. At left, accompanied by her father Kerry Godbold, Lily God- bold, 4, makes the sign of the cross while her litte sister Vivian, 1 1/2, peers over the holy water font. The Godbolds were there to attend a reunion concert by the Dameans. Photo by Beth Donze | Clarion Herald 225-292-2278 Installation and www.spshutters.com Custom Finishing Available

this sense that you’re protecting “(The catechumen said), ‘That sequent centuries had become people from the community that old woman knew that Jesus “gun shy” about too much direct they’re actually going to be ini- Christ, the Light of the World, engagement with it, and had tiated into. The recidivism rate was coming to her home, so she treated Scripture as “classic folk It’s a New Year so… is fairly high, because in many greeted us with a lighted candle! literature.” This reductionist ap- places we’re initiating people I can’t wait to be baptized be- proach to Scripture began its into a strange community.” cause I want to do what Helen modern reversal in the 1940s. and give unwanted In order for RCIA programs does!’ ” Galipeau said, telling “There is a fundamental har- Clean out your closet to flourish to the dynamic de- clergy that “no amount of lec- mony between Revelation – the clothing to St. Vincent de Paul! We desperately gree envisioned by the council, ture” on the tenet of Real Pres- Word spoken to us, through Is- need your donations of clothing to help us in a Catholic church parish should ence would have had the same rael, through Jesus, through the our mission of charity. Help us to help the strive to be a place where the sa- impact on the catechumen. Church – and the created uni- cred word and church traditions “She was put into the hole verse,” Father Senior said. “This poorest of the poor. Last year, we are treasured and proclaimed; a with Helen, and that’s where it is why there should be no fear helped over 15,000 people (free of vibrant community of disciples happened,” Galipeau said. within the Catholic tradition of charge) with their clothing needs on fire with the love of Christ; The track’s final speaker, Pas- science; no fear of the quest for helping them become self-sufficient. a place where people pray in all sionist Father Donald Senior, truth; no fear at all of the inquir- kinds of ways; and a place where CTU’s president, urged priests to ing mind, because (creation and

apostolic activity flourishes. reacquaint themselves with two Scripture) are both the Word of Give a hand-up to people in need! Help us To illustrate his point, Gal- short documents he said were God to us. “ with our clothing shortage, and drop your ipeau shared a story from his the two most “revolutionary” to Father Senior praised “Nos- clothing donation off at any St. Vincent de own church parish in Chicago come out of the Second Vatican tra Aetate” for positing that all Paul location. in which an adult catechumen Council: “Dei Verbum,” a 1965 people, regardless of their re- was invited to accompany an document that exhorts Catholics ligion, are brothers and sisters

extraordinary minister of Holy to re-engage themselves in Scrip- on a common quest to see the We also gladly accept household items, Communion named Helen on ture – or, as Father Senior put it, face of God and understand the furnishings and appliances in good condition. her morning rounds to distrib- the way God’s love for his chil- riddles of human existence. He And we love left-over items from your garage sale. ute Communion to the home- dren “spills over in the Word;” said the four levels of dialogue bound. In addition to learning and “Nostra Aetate,” a declara- called for in the document – Call our pick-up service at (225) 267-5447 to a new vocabulary word for the tion of the Catholic Church’s re- theological (discussions between container of consecrated hosts lation to non-Christian religions. academics and church leaders), make your large clothing, furniture or – pyx – the catechumen noticed “We have come so far through spiritual (praying together), col- appliance donation. that one of the elderly Commu- a very difficult period,” Father laborative work and the dialogue nion recipients greeted her visi- Senior said of the fluctuating of life (acts of kindness in the lo- tors at the door with a lighted role of Scripture in Catholic cal community) – could not only Give your clothing to a great Catholic candle, which the catechumen life, recalling how in the early be used as a template for heal- was then able to connect to the centuries, Catholic leaders and ing wounds between faiths, but Organization – St. Vincent de Paul! perpetually lit lamp near her academics elaborated on Scrip- within the Catholic Church itself church’s tabernacle. ture with great zeal, but in sub- and inside individual churches.