THE CATHOLIC PAGE 3

Pope Francis paves the way for Blessed ommentator Teresa’s sainthood. 25,ommentator 2015 Vol. 53, No. 23 SERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 thecatholiccommentator.org CC ‘WORD BECOMES FLESH’ Christ center of By Rachele Smith The Catholic Commentator

The is decorated. The presents are purchased. The Christmas meal is cooked. Time now to celebrate. But what exactly is this day about? Going to catechism taught us that Christmas is the day Christ was born. Yet, the true meaning, according to sev- eral area , is so much more. “For us Christians, it is the incarna- tion; when the word becomes flesh,” explained Father Bob Stine, pastor of Christ the King Church and Student Center at LSU. But becoming flesh takes on a spe- cific, more far-reaching meaning as Fa- ther Stine emphasizes the greater glory inherent in the birth of Christ. “It is this union of man and the di- vine. We often speak of this as the mar- This beautifully crafted at Sts. and LeVan Phung Church reminds us that , the season of riage of humanity and divinity,” said waiting, is over. Christmas is here, and God’s love for us has been fully realized. “For unto you is born this day in the city of , SEE CHRISTMAS PAGE 19 a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Lk 2:11). Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator Bearing his cross leads to answer from God

By Richard Meek Perhaps. (God) wanted me to be here so any- The Catholic Commentator For parishioners at Immaculate thing I can do, I just do it.” Heart of Mary Church in Maring- O’Neal suffered a heart attack on Days after suffering a severe heart ouin, however, the answer arrived Oct. 17, 2014 when he was cutting attack and other complications, in- on the first Sunday of Advent when grass at his son’s house in Johnson cluding dying “at least three times,” a stunningly beautiful and unique City, Tennessee. His son, a resident doctors told Wade O’Neal his sur- cross made of vines and limbs taken surgeon in Johnson City, immedi- vival was nothing short of a miracle. out of Whiskey Bay was unveiled. ately began CPR and a rescue crew Their message: Return to his New The seven-foot cross was O’Neal’s from the local fire department ar- Roads home and figure out why God creation, built with his vision under rived minutes later. Two attempts kept him alive. Apparently, there was the direction of God’s hands. at restarting his heart by shocking unfinished business. “I owe the man up top a lot,” said it failed, but a third one, this time A little more than a year later, O’Neal, a bank president who spends by local emergency responders, was A cross made from vines and limbs from Whis- O’Neal admits he still does not have his free time “building things,” espe- successful. key Bay was unveiled at Immaculate Heart of the answer, although he frequently cially those associated with wood- O’Neal was released from the hos- Mary Church in Maringouin on the first Sun- talks to God. working. pital four days later, but additional day of Advent. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Com- “One day he is going to answer “It’s just giving back,” he added. complications landed him back in the mentator me,” O’Neal joked. “Anything I can do to give back. SEE CROSS PAGE 7 2 The Catholic Commentator The Lighter Side of FAI t H December 25, 2015 | TREASURES FROM THE DIOCESE | DID YOU KNOW Differing accounts, same message

Jesus’ birth and the Na- eventually back to Nazareth. tivity scene are perhaps The theological empha- the most read passages sis of what each Gospel in the Bible, especially offers provides insight during this Christmas into the minds of all the season. Yet, only two Gospel writers. Gospel writers, St. St. Mark, for exam- Matthew and St. Luke, ple, did not author a describe the details of narrative of ’ birth his birth. and does not mention And even their ac- but has sev- counts offer some dif- eral references as Jesus ferences. of Nazareth. His Gospel Naturally, there are marks one reference to many commonalities, in- Mary, calling Jesus the “son cluding Mary, St. and of Mary.” Mark’s Gospel does Jesus, the angels, the Holy Spirit, not mention Joseph by name. the locations and the historical period. St. John, in his Gospel, mentions St. However. St. Luke’s account of Jesus’ Joseph twice but even then does not deal birth and events leading up to the Nativ- directly with the conception and birth of ity goes into far greater detail, including Jesus. the angel announcing the birth Most agree that Jesus was not born of St. and Jesus’ birth to on Dec. 25, and the exact date remains Mary. In St. Matthew’s account, an un- uncertain. Even today, there remains named angel announces Jesus’ birth to some discussion as to how Dec. 25 was St. Joseph in a dream. designated to celebrate Christmas, but St. Luke describes the journey of St. the most popular belief is that it revolved Joseph and the Mary to Beth- around a Roman mid-winter Saturnalia lehem and the angels appearing to the festival in late December. shepherds. St. Matthew says Mary’s son Despite some differences, what is most was born in Bethlehem and named Jesus important is that Christ was born to save but then goes to the Magi from the East all men. Of that, the facts are clear, and This exquisite mural of the Blessed Mother and Christ Child is in the religious education coming after first visiting Herod and then this is the time we celebrate the arrival of building at Church in Denham Springs. The mural was crafted by the Holy Family’s fleeing to Egypt, and our Savior. members of the church’s St. Martha’s Circle. The group formed to do crafts about three years ago. The group was inspired to make the mural from Mardi Gras beads after taking | classes from artist Stephen Wagner, who developed his craft of making murals out of CORRECTION beads that were discarded on the ground after Mardi Gras parades. The mural is one of The Dec. 11 issue story, “Faith leaders urge unity among ‘all,’ stated that Interfaith many art pieces by local artists in the two-story religious education building. Photo by Debbie Federation of Greater Baton Rouge sponsored the interfaith dialogue. The Our Lady of Shelley | The Catholic Commentator the Lake, Office of Campus Ministry sponsored and organized the event.

public when I was a Jesuit novice in 1972. Classical, jazz and contemporary I spent 12 weeks there learning Spanish. A gospel. I enjoy attending the Riv- It was well before the Dominican Repub- er City Jazz Masters Series here in Baton lic became a popular tourist destination. Rouge. … with FATHER THOMAS CLARK, pas- That was the first time I was ever out of tor, Immaculate Conception Church, Baton the country and I learned that there was a What are some of your favorite Rouge whole new world out there. Q foods? What are your favorite hobbies? What is your favorite type of mu- All kinds of Louisiana food, es- Q Q sic? A pecially boiled crawfish, which I religiously eat every Friday in Lent. My hobbies are reading and A watching Netflix. Most recent- ly I have read “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr; “The Monks of Tibhirine” by John Kiser; I am working thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator my way through the journals of Thomas Merton. I have now read four of the sev- Bishop Robert W. Muench Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager en volumes. I just finished “Between the Father Tom Ranzino Assistant Publisher Penny G. Saia Production Manager World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates. On Richard Meek Editor Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation Netflix I like to “binge watch” TV series. What are some of the interesting Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor Rachele Smith Staff Writer Lately my favorites have been: “Long- places you have traveled to? If so, Q The Catholic Commentator (ISSN 07460511; USPS 093-680) mire,” “Justified,” “House of Cards,” what captured your interest about that Published bi-weekly (every other week) by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge,1800 South Acadian “Breaking Bad” and “The Killing.” I also destination? Thruway, Baton Rouge, LA 70808; 225-387-0983 or 225-387-0561. Periodical Postage Paid at Baton enjoy going to Southern University foot- Rouge, LA. Copy must reach the above address by Wednesday for use in the next week’s paper. Sub- ball, basketball and women’s volleyball The most interesting place I have scription rate: $14.00 per year. POSTMASTER, send address changes to The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746. when I get the chance. A traveled to is the Dominican Re- December 25, 2015 The Catholic Commentator 3 recognizes miracle needed to declare a

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – in Santos, Brazil. St. John Paul II had made an excep- has approved a miracle attributed to the Doctors diagnosed the man with a vi- tion to the usual process intercession of Blessed Teresa of Kolkata, ral brain infection that resulted in mul- in Mother Teresa’s case by allowing her thus paving the way for her canonization. tiple brain abscesses, the said in a sainthood cause to be opened without Pope Francis signed the statement published Dec. waiting the usual five years after a candi- decree for Blessed Teresa’s 18 by AsiaNews, the - date’s death. He beatified her in 2003. cause and advanced three based missionary news The order she started – the Missionar- other sainthood causes Dec. agency. Treatments given ies of Charity – continues its outreach to 17, the Vatican announced. were ineffective and the the “poorest of the poor.” Although the date for man went into a coma, the Among the other decrees approved Dec. the canonization ceremony wrote. 17, the pope recognized the heroic virtues will be officially announced The then-newly mar- of Comboni Father Giuseppe Ambrosoli, during the next consistory ried man’s wife had spent an Italian surgeon, priest and missionary of cardinals in February, months praying to Blessed who dedicated his life to caring for people Archbishop Rino Fisichel- Teresa and her prayers were in , where he also founded a hospi- la, president of the Vatican joined by those of her rela- tal and midwifery school before his death Pope Francis has approved a miracle at- office organizing the Holy Blessed Mother Teresa tives and friends when her in 1987. His father ran the highly success- tributed to the intercession of Blessed Year of Mercy events, had said it would be dying husband was taken to the operating ful Ambrosoli honey company. Teresa of Kolkata, thus paving the way Sept. 4. That date celebrates the Jubilee room Dec. 9, 2008. The pope also recognized the heroic for her canonization. She is pictured of workers and volunteers of mercy and When the surgeon entered the operat- virtues of De La Salle Brother Leonardo with an ailing man in an undated photo. comes the day before the 19th anniversa- ing room, he reported that he found the Lanzuela Martinez of Spain (1894-1976) Photo provided by CNS ry of her death, Sept. 5, 1997. patient awake, free of pain and asking, and Heinrich Hahn, a German surgeon. The postulator for her sainthood cause, “What am I doing here?” Doctors report- Born in 1800, the lay Catholic doctor the German parliament. He founded the Father Brian Kolodiejchuk of the Mission- ed the man showed no more symptoms was the father of 10 children and dedi- St. Mission Society in Ger- aries of Charity, said the second miracle and a Vatican medical commission voted cated much of his activity to providing many and the “Giuseppino” Institute for that was approved involved the healing of unanimously in September 2015 that the medical care to the poor. He was also in- those suffering from incurable illnesses. a now 42-year-old mechanical engineer healing was inexplicable. volved in public service, even serving in He died in 1882. Churches vary schedules to accomodate parishioners’ needs

By Rachele Smith ry Chapel, located on the first floor attendance is a student. Some The Catholic Commentator of the hospital, celebrates a 7:30 might be families or individuals p.m. Mass on Sundays. This al- with other obligations prevent- Let’s face it. Sometimes life lows nurses and other health care ing them from attending Mass at is complicated, and even though workers to attend Mass after their their home parish that particular Catholic churches are known for work is complete. She noted that weekend. But just like at other offering as many opportunities many Catholics from the Baton Catholic churches, all are wel- as possible to attend Mass, it can Rouge community also attend this come at Christ the King. still be difficult for some people to evening Mass, possibly because the “I’m glad they are here. It shows meet their Sunday obligation. For time is perfect for some people to that desire to come, that com- this group, it’s not about refusing finish with chores, yet there is still mitment to come to Mass,” said to go. Rather, it’s about finding a good portion of the evening avail- Catholics stand during the celebration of Mass. Some churches are Father Graham, who added that the time. From having jobs on able after the celebration is over. considering the special needs of their parishioners when schedul- since the majority of those at this the weekend, other responsibili- While the chapel at OLOL in- ing Mass times. File photo late Mass are normally students, ties or even safety concerns, some stituted an evening Mass to help the celebrant has an advantage. people simply find it impossible those who must work on the and other parishioners attending might like to spend that extra “This particular Mass is very to go to Mass. Yet, instead of look- weekend, Father Paul Yi, pastor of received. daylight working in their yards. unique in that I can cater my mes- ing the other way, area churches the cluster church parishes of As- “(At that time) it is so quiet For college students attending sage to college students,” he said. have actually been empowered cension of Our Lord Church and and silent. The mind is so peace- LSU, working or studying on the For Father Graham, it’s about and have used these issues to St. Church in ful. We haven’t started thinking weekends sometimes spans all helping and showing students create “off-peak” Mass times. Donaldsonville, recognized some about the worries of the day, yet. hours, especially as important how to encounter Christ in the The small chapel at Our Lady of his parishioners needed an That’s why a lot of people say it is projects and big tests approach. Scriptures and how to relate the of the Lake Regional Medical earlier time, even before the sun also prayerful,” he added. To help, as it has for many de- word of God to everyday issues, Center is one example. In caring was up. This fall, from October For parishioners in Zachary cades, Christ the King Church of- such as dealing with classmates, for the community, health care to mid-December, a time known at St. John the Baptist Church, fers an 8 p.m. and a 10 p.m. Mass, roommates, professors and even workers are needed at all times. as the grinding season, Father Yi safety issues encountered follow- with the later often jokily referred finding comfort in the bigger is- They never get to say, “Sorry, celebrated Sunday Mass at 5:30 ing daylight savings time was the to as the “last chance Mass” by sues, such as being away from we’re closed.” For nurses, the a.m. for sugar cane farmers. catalyst for change. many students. home for the first time. typical weekend schedule is a 12- “The farmers could attend Nita Poole, administrator and Father Matthew Graham, pa- As someone who just recently hour shift. But for those who work Mass before they went to work. assistant to pastor Father Jeff rochial vicar at Christ the King, graduated from college, Father the 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. time slot, at- They would come in their farm- Bayhi, explained that after the notes that the 10 p.m. Mass, which Graham understands and re- tending Mass can be difficult. In ing clothes and there would be no time change, the Vigil Mass was is only offered during the fall members many of these concerns many cases, their is too early music,” said Father Yi, explaining moved back one hour to 4 p.m. and spring semesters when LSU himself. He sees the 10 p.m. Mass for Sunday morning Mass and that both provisions helped them “We have a lot of elderly parish- classes are in session, is typically as filling a definite need in the too late for the evening one. get to work as soon as possible ioners who attend that Mass and well-attended with a “good crowd LSU community, and he considers To try to accommodate em- and not be late. don’t drive after dark,” she noted. of about 200 to 250 students.” it another outreach of the church ployee schedules, Lucia Hamilton, Father Yi also noted that cele- During the spring, the time Since this Mass is the last one that has helped many students director of pastoral care at OLOL, brating Mass at 5:30 in the morn- will be changed back to 5 p.m. to in the area, Father Graham also grow in the Catholic faith and noted that Our Lady of the Rosa- ing had special benefits, which he accommodate parishioners who explained that not everyone in make it their own. 4 The Catholic Commentator December 25, 2015 Vet recalls short-lived but crucial mission of the Red Ball Express

By Marilyn Goff trucks or drivers, said Spooner. military traffic, which led to two parallel Special to The Catholic Commentator Spooner said the majority of these highways being built between the Nor- truck drivers were young African-Amer- mandy beachhead and the city of Char- Sgt. Henry Spooner is a proud Ameri- icans, mostly coming from rural areas, tres, France. He said the rules were clear can, a proud U.S. Army World War II vet- and the military thought these young for the drivers: trucks were to travel only eran and at 92 years old is proud to be able men certainly knew how to drive trucks. in convoys, each convoy was to have no to tell his story of being in charge of and The U.S. Army, said the former sergeant, more than five trucks, each truck was driving trucks for the Red Ball Express. made the decision to get those soldiers marked with a number showing its posi- Spooner was the guest speaker at a whose duties were not critical to the war tion in the convoy, and the trucks had to recent program at St. Paul’s Church Com- effort and make them drivers. stay 50 feet apart and travel at 35 miles munity Center in Baton Rouge, which Spooner told the audience that he was per hour. was attended by members of the congre- put in charge of 18 trucks and drivers and Showing pictures of the convoys, some gation that also included other veterans was in situations where he and his convoy of which were quite lengthy, Spooner said who had served in World War II or Korea, were in the midst of enemy attacks and that an American Infantry division re- Vietnam and Iraq. The gathering was im- under bombardment for up to 10 days at quired 150 tons of gasoline each day, and pressive with many of the veterans from a time. Spooner said this was because the an armored division 350 tons of supplies all branches of the military wearing either military operation each day. Spooner their full dress or combat uniforms. called for a massive the Red Ball Express was said gasoline supply Spooner recalled how the Red Ball aerial bombard- points were estab- Express was the code-name for one of ment along a small the code-name for one lished along the Red WWII’s most massive operations with a stretch of the Ger- Ball Express as well Sgt. Henry Spooner fleet of more than 6,000 trucks and trail- man defensive lines. of WWII’s most massive as other routes. ers that delivered during a three-month He told the audience Spooner said the period 412,000 tons of ammunition, food 3rd Army at one point was “grinding to that his first taste of operations with a fleet of Red Ball Express and fuel to the Allied 1st and 3rd armies a halt” from a lack of supplies. He said combat was flying lasted only from Au- in an 24-hour Express (trucking) Trans- after the breakout of Normandy in July over to Europe see- more than 6,000 trucks gust to November, portation Operation. 1944, the divisions were advancing so fast ing “bloodied bodies 1944, but without it, The purpose of the formation of the across France and Belgium that the mili- floating in the En- and trailers he told the audience, Red Ball Express was to supply Gen. tary could not keep up with furnishing the glish Channel.” the campaign in the George Patton’s 3rd Army with fuel, am- needed supplies. And in the beginning of Spooner related how the first envoys European Theater “could have dragged munition and food. Spooner said Patton’s the forward push there were not enough were quickly bogged down in civilian and on for years.” New pews bring welcome silence to Immaculate Conception

By Debbie Shelley The Catholic Commentator

“You could hear the pews cracking all around,” said Fa- ther Frank Uter, pastor of Im- maculate Conception Church in Denham Springs about the dilapidated condition of the 42-year-old pews that were re- cently replaced in the church by new ones that are expected to last even longer. “When people would sit down or stand up the noise was unre- Once the pews were in place, it wasn’t long before the contractors al,” said Father Uter. “It was like From left, Randy Norwood, Homer Valdez and Grenzo Lang of McGre- were halfway done in assembling them. being in Tiger Stadium.” gor, Texas, install pews at Immaculate Conception Church in Denham The priest stated that as he Springs. Photos by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator comfortable seating and silence community, but a social and raised his eyes to heaven during for reflection. spiritual one as well, said Father the eucharistic prayer he could “They (the pews) don’t affect Uter. tell when the congregation was “They came in pieces like removed the old pews, the floor the response and the singing, He is proud of the one thing beginning to kneel or sit by the these (new pews),” said Fontenot. tiling came in, allowing installa- you just don’t have the noise,” the pews don’t have – slots for the sound of the pews. According to Father Uter and tion work to begin. Father Uter said. missalette and hymnals. Each Father Uter noted the car- Fontenot, a majority of the old Denham Springs Middle The new pews are much better person coming into the church is peting beneath the pews needed pews were sold to parishioners. School, just down the street built and could have close to dou- given a book by a greeter. to be replaced, so it was a good Some were cut for those who from Immaculate Conception, ble the lifespan of the replaced “A lot of times we are looking time to replace the pews as well. did not want an entire pew. The offered to let the church cele- ones, Fontenot speculated. for ways to minister to people New ceramic tiles beneath the others were put underneath the brate Masses at the school while “They are the Cadillac of when they come in,” Father Uter pews match the tile in the cen- church’s pavilion and in its youth the church was being renovated. pews,” said Fontenot. said. He stated this assures that ter aisle. house. By Thanksgiving, parishioners He stated with other changes, the greeters can give, and visi- Immaculate Conception Just as with the old pews, counted their blessings to be such as improved lighting and a tors receive, a personal welcome parishioner Randy Fontenot the parishioners rolled up their celebrating Mass with the new better microphone system, the into the Immaculate Conception helped unload the original pews sleeves and went to work after pews, which have cushions that church has a new look and feel. community. that dated when the church built the Nov. 1 All Day Masses. match the marble tile. The new The pews have more than a “It’s a beautiful exchange,” 42 years ago. The same day the 40 volunteers additions provide much more positive physical impact for the Father Uter said. December 25, 2015 The Catholic Commentator 5 Jubilee spree: Year of Mercy beefs up pope’s already busy year

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – When Pope in July. So far the unofficial, tentative ing the last of the four Holy Doors in Francis established the Year of Mercy, a schedule has the pope attending the last Rome the Basilica of St. Mary Major -- on full slate of Jubilee events were slotted four days of events during the week-long the feast of Mary, Mother of God. into his already packed calendar for 2016. gathering, including a Way of the Cross, a He will send out more than 800 mis- A typical “business as usual” year for a prayer vigil, and the closing Mass where, sionaries of mercy on Ash Wednesday to pope is already full with meetings, litur- traditionally, he will announce the next go to different parts of the world to be gies and foreign trips. World Youth Day host country. “preachers and confessors of mercy.” But then add the extraordinary Jubilee The Vatican never makes an official That event will coincide with the relics Year, which will run until Nov. 20, and announcement of future papal trips un- of St. Padre Pio, a Capuchin priest who the pope will now preside over at least til a few months closer to the departure bore the stigmata of Jesus, being shown one major public ceremony or event each date but, looking at past practice, he took in Rome for the first time. The pope re- month. He will carry out a personal “work five trips abroad each year, trying to hit quested the saint’s corpse be exposed for of mercy” in Rome one Friday a month more marginalized nations and countries veneration in St. Peter’s Basilica, accord- and lead an extra general audience one with a Catholic minority especially plac- ing to jubilee organizers, to be a sign for Saturday a month in addition to his week- es where Christians had suffered persecu- the missionaries of how God welcomes ly Wednesday gatherings. tion. those who seek forgiveness. And being the “impromptu” pope who For 2016, one possible stop might be Pope Francis is expected to canonize likes to do things that aren’t marked in Armenia. He celebrated a special Mass Blessed Teresa of Kolkata in early Sep- press office bulletins, 2016 looks like it But that does not mean he’s putting at the Vatican in April 2015 to mark the tember as the church celebrates the Jubi- will keep this 79-year-old pontiff busier away his passport, since he still plans pas- 100th anniversary of the 1915-18 geno- lee for workers and volunteers of mercy. than usual. toral journeys across the globe. cide of up to 1.5 million Armenians at the He will also visit Rome’s synagogue The only load that has been lightened, A six-day, six-city trip to Mexico in hands of the Ottoman-Turkish empire. Jan. 17 and meet with the city’s Jewish at least one that has been announced February has been finalized with almost The pope told journalists in Novem- community. ahead of time by the Vatican, is there will daily flights out of Mexico City to the “pe- ber he had already promised the Arme- As far as time off? Pope Francis does be no pastoral visits to Italian parishes for ripheries” to meet with indigenous com- nian Catholic and Orthodox he staycations. Almost all audiences and the year. munities, young people, prisoners and the would visit their country. meetings will be suspended for a few “Due to the intensified commitments poor. This will be his fourth visit to Latin When asked about other trips planned, weeks in the summer. But he’ll be busy for the Jubilee, it is the intention of the America and his 12th trip abroad in his especially for Latin America, he said, nonetheless, as he uses the short lull to Holy Father to postpone pastoral visits in three years as pope. “You know, traveling at my age isn’t good play catch-up on paperwork, upcoming ,” the Vatican press office said early Pope Francis will take a short flight to for you. You can do it, but it takes its toll.” documents and personally responding to December. Poland for World Youth Day in Krakow He will start the new year with open- letters. Give the gift that’s always in style... THE CATHOLIC

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Mail to: The Catholic Commentator, P. O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 6 The Catholic Commentator December 25, 2015 Christian response to ISIS/Charity and responsibility

What is the Christian response to efforts have failed.” charitable for me to tell her to go live on ISIS? (Harrisonburg, Virginia) A parishioner happened to ask me, af- her own and to leave this house before I go Q ter the Paris bombings, how he could ever crazy? (City of origin withheld) The Christian response to ISIS is to “forgive ISIS.” I told him that he didn’t deplore their violence and to seek have to, because forgiveness (in my mind) Your first obligation is to your Athe most effective means to stop it. presumes remorse on the part of the per- husband and to your children. If, In March 2015, in what was seen as an petrator and a pledge of changed behavior, Aas you say, your mother-in-law’s unusually blunt endorsement of military both of which are notably lacking in the presence is seriously impacting your fam- action, the Vatican’s representative to ISIS terrorists. I said that we should pray ily’s health and happiness, she needs to the United Nations in Geneva called for for those benighted individuals and leave leave. And you need, very quickly, to have a coordinated international force to stop judgment of them to God – while also an honest conversation with your husband the “so-called Islamic State.” Archbishop remembering, of course, to pray especially as to how to accomplish this in as kind a Silvano Tomasi said that any anti-ISIS for their victims. manner as possible (keeping in mind that coalition should include the Muslim states there is, of course, no perfect way.) of the Middle East and unfold under the Question Corner I am the mother of three adopted Can you help to guide your mother-in- sponsorship of the United Nations. Father Kenneth Doyle children, ages 5 to 15. We live in a law into an alternate living arrangement? Archbishop Tomasi noted that every- Qsmall house with no extra space. A (Perhaps a local parish priest or Catholic thing possible ought to be done first to Following the ISIS bombings in year ago, we came to my mother-in-law’s social services agency could advise you on achieve a political settlement without Paris in November (which Pope Francis rescue when she was having some prob- some suitable alternatives that would ad- violence, “but if that not possible, then the deplored as “intolerable” and said “using lems and offered her temporary shelter dress her physical and psychological con- use of force will be necessary.” God’s name to justify this path is blasphe- until she could get back on her feet. cerns.) Far from prohibiting this course of my”), Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Now, though, she is still with us and action, charity in fact demands that you Find more ‘archived’ viewpoints Pietro Parolin backed the possibility of depends on us to do everything for her. take this courageous step – for the greater from Father Doyle or any of global military action against ISIS mili- She just sleeps, eats (she weighs over 300 good of your entire family. tants. He referenced the Catechism of the pounds) and talks on her cellphone; she our columnists at The Catholic (No. 2308), which states interferes in the life of the family and re- FATHER DOYLE is chancellor for public Commentator Online under that “as long as the danger of war persists fuses to help with any chores of the house. information and a pastor in the Diocese and there is no international authori- I am on disability myself, our family life is of Albany, New York. Questions may be “Viewpoint” at: ty with the necessary competence and unhealthy and the children are suffering sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfat thecatholiccommentator.org power, governments cannot be denied the from her presence in our midst. [email protected] and 40 Hopewell right of lawful self-defense, once all peace My question is this: Would it be un- St. Albany, NY 12208.

Look for Study Theology and The CaThoLiC CommenTaTor aT your LoCaL ouTLeTs inCLuding: Spirituality in Baton Rouge! ✔ Affinity Nursing Home, Baton Rouge ✔ Oak Point Supermarket, Central ✔ Anthony's Deli, Baton Rouge ✔ Oak Wood Nursing Home, Zachary Loyola Institute for Ministry (LIM) of Loyola ✔ Albertsons, Baton Rouge ✔ Old Jefferson Community Care, University New Orleans offers graduate and certificate ✔ Alexander’s Highland Market, Baton Rouge Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake College, programs close to home. ✔ Ascension Books & Gifts, Gonzales Baton Rouge Our programs combine face-to-face study locally with ✔ Baton Rouge General Hospital, ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Regional online learning. To find out more about this dynamic, Baton Rouge Medical Center, Baton Rouge and ✔ Baton Rouge Healthcare, Baker Walker flexible and affordable opportunity visit us at one of our ✔ Benedetto’s Market, Addis ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Physician information sessions: ✔ Bohning Supermarket, Ponchatoula Group, offices with locations ✔ Calandro’s Supermarkets, throughout the Diocese Baton Rouge ✔ Reeve’s Supermarket, Baton Rouge Jan. 13 – Holy Family Church, Port Allen ✔ Catholic Art and Gifts, Baton Rouge ✔ St. Elizabeth Hospital, Gonzales Jan. 14 – St. Church, Prairieville ✔ Daigle’s Supermarket, White Castle ✔ St. Mary’s Books & Gifts, ✔ Grace Healthcare, Slaughter Baton Rouge Jan. 21 – St. School, Baton Rouge ✔ Hi Nabor Supermarkets, Baton Rouge ✔ St. Vincent dePaul Stores throughout All sessions begin at 6:30 PM. ✔ Hubbins Grocery, Port Allen the diocese ✔ Lane Regional Hospital, Zachary ✔ Schexnayer Supermarket, Vacherie ✔ LeBlanc’s Food Stores, Baton Rouge, ✔ Southside Produce, Baton Rouge LIM graduates from the Baton Rouge area will be on hand Gonzales, Donaldsonville, Hammond, ✔ Tony’s Seafood, Baton Rouge to share their experience and answer questions. Plaquemine, Prairieville and Zachary ✔ UPS Store, Coursey Blvd., Baton ✔ Louisiana Vet Home, Jackson Rouge ✔ Matherne’s Supermarkets, ✔ Whole Foods Market, Baton Rouge For more information about the information sessions, Baton Rouge ✔ Winn Dixie in Hammond, New Roads ✔ Magnuson Hotel, St. Francisville and Ponchatoula see www.lim.loyno.edu/batonrouge ✔ North Ridgely Healthcare, Baker or contact Diane Dougherty at 504-865-3727. as well as your local church parish THE CATHOLIC

CSERVING THE DIOCESE O F BATON ROUGE SINCE 1962 December 25, 2015 FAITH JOURNEY The Catholic Commentator 7

CROSS  weeks to complete. From page 1 He sheepishly admitted he took a cou- ple of blows to the head from the vines, emergency room. He survived that scare, and even bled a bit. and his first memory of the series of “When you don’t have a lot of hair, events was Oct. 23. there’s not much cushion,” the folli- “The only reason I’m here is because I cle-challenged O’Neal said. “Some of my was in the right space at the right time,” blood is in it. O’Neal said. “Had I had been at home or “It all led through God. I take pride in in the woods, by the vines (in Whiskey the final product but it was all God.” Bay) they would have probably found me After completion he let it sit before by the vines.” making a few more. Upon returning to New Roads, O’Ne- “It’s really an inspiration,” said Akeisha al, who lived in Maringouin for 18 years Williams, parish secretary and long time before moving to New Roads, attended parishioner. “It’s breathtaking. When you church and began his weekly conversa- sit there and idolize this type of work, and tions with God. when I heard the story behind it, it really “I said, ‘Okay, here I am. What do you shows the effort and how thankful (O’Ne- want me to do? Show me something.’ ” al) is of being here today. I thought it was Seeds of that answer were planted amazing. earlier this year when his mother, Cletta “When we found how he donated it to O’Neal, was in Sedona, Arizona and visit- the church, it was really awesome. You ed a church where a cross stood made out have to be dedicated to do something like of twigs. Cletta O’Neal said the church this.” previously did not have a cross, but word “He owed it to God and that is who he was sent out to parishioners to bring did it for,” she said. “He did it from the twigs, vines, branches or “whatever they heart. This is something God put him had in their yard” to be used as material. here to do. Every piece of vine he nailed The cross was eventually built from those is giving back to what he went through.” materials. The cross is also personal for Williams, “I took a picture and said, ‘Wade can Wade O’Neal, right, who built a cross made of vines and limbs taken from Whiskey who lost her son earlier this year. She said do this. He’s very talented.’ ” Bay, shows off the details to his mother, Cletta O’Neal, center and Akeisha Williams, that when she looks at O’Neal’s gift, she Armed with only a saw, Wade O’Neal parish secretary and long time parishioner at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in finds comfort. stepped into the woods of Whiskey Bay, Maringouin. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator “When I lost my child in January, I near Bayou DesGlases in the fall and be- felt like giving up,” Williams said. “(The gan painstakingly searching for vines that from 10 feet to 30 feet and put them in the “Each limb, you had to place in a certain cross) helps me deal with loss. I see grati- would make an appropriate cross. He ad- back of his pickup truck. Upon arriving spot.” tude and inspiration.” mitted he wasn’t exactly sure what he was home, he laid out the vines in his wife’s O’Neal, who donated the cross to the Meanwhile, O’Neal continues his con- looking for but knew he needed long vines, flower bed, and the vision slowly began to church, also admitted to a lot of adjusting versations with God waiting for a response. pieces that could go a long way and cut out take shape. and tweaking, and even starting over. Immaculate Heart of Mary parishioners sections to make it all fit and intertwine. “You look at the picture (from Sedona), “Just a work in progress,” he said, add- understand that answer arrived through He pulled sections of vine ranging think through it concept wise,” he said. ing that the project took him about two an early Christmas present. Inspiration for the new year

nother year is at our field of psycholog- among the canonized one to suffer from them. a fellow traveler in our journey doorstep. When you begin ical self-analysis, saints. “Teach me to profit by the toward eternal life. Ato think about the new rather than in Cardinal Newman suffering that comes across my “As I go my rounds from one adventures you’ll embark on theology. He saw wrote the following path. Let me so use it that it distraction to another, let me during this new year, try to make doctrine as a living prayer. It is one of may mellow me, not harden and whisper from time to time a Jesus Christ the centerpiece. To thing and com- various versions. embitter me; that it may make word of love to thee. accomplish this, I’d like to share pared it to the idea But it is a beautiful me patient, not irritable; that “May my life be spent in the some thoughts with you. of human devel- expression of his total it may make me broad in my supernatural full of power for Cardinal John Henry New- opment. It’s very dependence on Jesus. forgiveness, not haughty and good, strong in its purpose of man comes to mind. Cardinal important to un- Perhaps it will inspire overbearing. sanctity. Amen.” Newman was born in England, derstand him in the you in making some “May no one be less good and became an Episcopal priest context of his devo- New Year’s resolu- for having come within my FATHER CATOIR writes on issues of in 1825. In 1841, Newman began tion to the histori- tions, as it did for me. influence, no one less pure, less spirituality for today’s Catholic having doubts about the Angli- cal Jesus. Cardinal “Teach me, my kind, less noble for having been for Catholic News Service. can Church, and eventually re- Newman believed Spirituality Lord, to be sweet and signed his post. In 1845, he was that the incarna- gentle in all the events received into the Roman Catholic tion, or what we For Today of life – in disappoint- Church and was ordained by the understand as God ments, in the thought- Honor Those We Love. Catholic Church in 1847. This becoming man, was Father John Catoir lessness of others, GARDENS OF MEMORY &FUNERAL HOME -CREMATORY -MAUSOLEUMS was a courageous move, one that the central truth of in the insincerity of brought him a great deal of grief, Christianity, and those whom I trusted, but he attributed his strength that Jesus constitutes the source in the unfaithfulness of those on through it all to Jesus, whom of all spiritual power. whom I relied. he proclaimed as his lord and He died in 1890 and was be- “Let me put myself aside to 11817 Jefferson Highway master. atified by Pope Benedict XVI in think of the happiness of others, 225-753-1440 One of Cardinal Newman’s 2010. Another miracle is needed to hide my little pains and heart- www.ResthavenBatonRouge.com main contributions was in the before he will be numbered aches, so that I may be the only 2x2” Rest.small.honor.those’13 8 The Catholic Commentator December 25, 2015 Our Lady of the Lake College announces graduates

More than 230 Our Lady of the President and CEO of St. Elizabeth ceived the President’s Medal, award- berly Hummel, Aimeé Lynn Levy, Vincent Clark, Emily Cole, Frances Lake College students were con- Hospital from 2004 until 2012. ed to the bachelor’s degree recipient Donald Meaux Jr., Niesha Reed, Couvillion, Victoria Crockett, Chel- ferred master’s, bachelor’s or asso- Sean Swetledge, a Bachelor of with the second highest grade point Crystal Ritch, Alicia Stewart-Price, sea Crowell, Jacquelyn Davis, Nicole ciate degrees during the college’s Science in Biology graduate, was rec- average. Traci Thibodeaux Davis, Sonya Davis, Travis Day commencement exercises held ognized with the Board of Trustees’ Also, Marguerite Desselle, Lon- Dec. 18 in the Baton Rouge River Medal, awarded to the bachelor’s de- School of Arts and Sciences School of Nursing dyn Domingue, Kati Dooley, Vikki Center. gree recipient with the highest grade Master of Health Administration Master of Science in Nurse Dufrene, Brittany Dunn, Christine Dolores LeJeune RN, Our Lady of point average. Chaunte Briggs, Amber Daniel, Anesthesia Eddy, Tashika Edwards, Anna El- the Lake School of Nursing graduate Mary Chiappetta, a Bachelor of Rebecca Dirige, Trisha Dominick, Anna Antonatos, Katie Bar- lingburg, Gisel Espinoza, Laurie from 1969, was the keynote speaker. Arts in Liberal Studies graduate, re- Celeste Fontenot, Paul Green, Kim- ras, Christopher Benton, Quinten Esquinance, John Esser Jr., Tiffa- Blanchette, Jason Breaux, Richard ny Figuero, Allison Fontenot, Ash- Fleming, George Garcia, Audrey ton Fox, Kaylin Fox, Vivian Fruge, Gauthe, Sean Grand, Jean Guillo- Jessica Gaubert, Meredith Gaudin, ry, Chesley Holmes, Patrick Horn, Taylor Gautreau, Alicia George, Car- Joshua Istre, William Jarrell, Amy ly Gilchrist, Patricia Giron, Hallie Johnson, David Johnston Jr., Kasey Gloyd Jones, Bao Lam, Cameron Lane, Ra- And, Elizabeth Good, Amy chael Lanius, Andrew Martin, Byron Greene, April Guitreau-Sibley, Ari- McBride, Gratiella Pricop, Joshua el Hammett, Ashleigh Hansen, Ramsey, Patrick Warner, Joshua Leah Harrington, Shelia Harris, Wheat, Evan White, Lindsay Wil- Jeanine Helgevold, Sarah Hilburn, liams Hanh Hoang, Cassie Huot, Tranessa Hunter, Justin Hymel, Marisol De School of Arts and Sciences Los Angeles Jobe, Crystal Johnson, Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies Samantha Jones, Vera Jones, Cody Mary Chiappetta, Nam Vu Kennedy, Kaitlyn Kidd, Anitria King, Kellie King, Emily Kleinpeter, Bachelor of Science in Biology Erica Kling, Marissa Koshis, Mini Kodi Bethay, Sean Swetledge, Kuriakose, Britlyn Landry, Caroline John Teal, Alexis Threeton, Court- Lasseigne, Ellen Lavin ney Zahn And, Alena Leland, Jeremy Linton, Lakeisha Long, Brittany Bachelor of Science in Machauer, Crystal Martin, Danielle Health Sciences Martin, Brooke Martinez, Morgan Nashayla Davis Matherne, Tyler Maturin, Erin Mc- Carroll, Misty McCrory, Samantha Wishing you and your family Bachelor of Science in Health McFatter, Eric Meliet, Hollie Messi- a Merry Christmas. Service Administration na, Elizabeth Miller, Miller, Delisha Davis, Donna Flem- Maria Miranda Swanner, Debbie ing-Southall, Lely Hedrick, Kassa Mitchell, Lauren Molbert, Jeanne Jefferson, Jherrica Parker Monteilh, Darah Mueller, Jordyn Nethken, Nhu Nguyen, Ashley Associate of Science in O’Flynn, Rebekah Partin, Jordan Arts & Sciences Patterson, Virginia Paul, Meagan Melanie Parker Payne, Courtney Penton, Destiny Pino, Alexandria Plonczynski, Lo- School of Health Professions rena Poche, Lauren Prouet, Mary Bachelor of Science Degree in Quao, Catherine Rabalais, Kelly Ra- Clinical Laboratory Science balais, Billy Rachal Jr., Lisa Rauen, Chandra Carmack, Tara Cur- Amanda Rehms, Rickey Richard wick, Maranda Howard, Julie Ngo, Jr., Ebony Rideau, Erin Ringo, Whitney Pilcher, Celeste Quebe- Macy Robison, Aleesa Ross, Heath- deaux er Roussel, Anabel Ruiz-Marquez, Olivia Sabottke, Danielle Sagona, School of Nursing Lauren Sagona, Ashley Sananikone Bachelor of Science in Nursing And, Sydney Schexnaydre, Colby Haset Admasu, Stephanie Claire Schliegelmeyer, Allison Schubert, Amedee, Kristal Atkins, Erica Bac- Madison Sheridan, Brenda Shief, chus, Denise Bailey, Jessica Ball, Brandon Smith, Mary Smith, Markee Baltazar, Kimberly Barbee, Kandace Stabiler, Emily Stafford, Christine Barber, Alexis Bartolo, Christopher Staggers, Samantha Ryan Berard, Ashley Berger, Kylynn Steve, Justin Tabugbo, Samantha Betz, Jennifer Blanchard, Anthony Taylor, Amanda Thibodeaux, Bliss Bonadona Jr., Brandi Boren, Tara Thibodeaux, Jill Thomas, Logan Marie Bozeman, Candace Bou- Torrance, Christina Torres, Taylor dreaux, Candice Bradford, Chelsea Venable, Kristen Villar, Holly Walk- Bradford, Alice Briggs, Jibri Brown er, Rebekah Warner, Hannah Was- And Robert Brown, Trisha Bui, com, Sandy Whittington, Karnisha Karnika Campbell, Sara Campuza- Williams, Kandice Wilson, Rebecca no, Amanda Carline, Ashley Carline, Wilson, Margot Wood, Trena Wool- Yolanda Chambliss, Sabrina Charlie, ridge, Alexa Yanez December 25, 2015 The Catholic Commentator 9 STA counselor enjoys ‘rock star’ status as 610 Stomper

By Richard Meek ticipation with the Stompers The Catholic Commentator goes to the heart of his faith. “We can all bring something By all accounts, Nick Stou- to the table,” he said. “We are all lig is a dedicated family man, a going to have our strengths and husband and the father of two weaknesses. They may shine young children who exemplifies in other areas. I may not be the his faith through his life. best dancer but I’m giving it my So why would a 37-year-old 100 percent and I’m showing my man who spends his days as a dedication. high school counselor want to “Same thing with the kids don coaching shorts dating to (at STA). You’re going to find the Nixon administration, glitzy kids here who are going to bring gold tennis shoes, tube socks, something unique.” Olivia Newton John-style head- Shortly after Thanksgiving, bands, a blazing red jacket that Stoulig was back in the quiet- would have been a sartorial suc- ness of his small office at St. cess at any disco bar in the 1970s Thomas, the memories of the and dance his way through the Big Apple still smoldering while streets of southeast Louisiana? his focus turns to the hectic up- Oh yeah, don’t forget the mus- coming Mardi Gras season. It’s tache. all part of his alter life as a quasi Stoulig, a member of the wide- rock star. ly popular 610 Stompers based “I don’t plan on stopping any- out of New Orleans but attract- Nick Stoulig, center, a counselor at St. Diocesan Regional High School and a member time soon,” he said. “As long as ing members from as far away of the 610 stompers, recently participated in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Stoulig says being I’m living in Louisiana I will as Baton Rouge and D’Iberville, a member of the wildly popular group makes him “feel like a rock star.” He jokingly considers himself keep doing it.” Mississippi, called it instinct. a ‘Z-list’ celebrity. Photo provided by Nick Stoulig “You get an adrenalin rush, definitely,” said Stoulig, a coun- normal course of the day,” he “Dancing for millions of peo- selor at St. Thomas Aquinas Di- said with a chuckle. “It’s hard to ple you pass by on the street ocesan Regional High School in describe. You are out there and and obviously millions of people Hammond. “I think it’s just like no matter how bad you are going watching at home, it definitely any other performer; it’s that en- to hurt after, or how cold, once made us step up our game,” said joyment you bring to other peo- people start cheering all of that Stoulig, who failed to make the ple. You feed off of that.” goes away.” squad on his first audition. “Be- Bursting onto the scene in The Stompers’ growing leg- ing there and you are in that can- 2009 amid curious stares but in- end has gone national, straight yon of buildings, unmistakingly stant connection with the public, to Manhattan where the group you are in New York City.” the 610 Stompers, made its second How did the throngs of with their odd “People are appearance in the crowds react? attire and zany Macy’s Thanks- “From what I heard it was but well choreo- cheering for you; giving Day Pa- us and Santa who got the most graphed danc- rade, although it cheers,” Stoulig said proudly, es, have become I normally don’t was Stoulig’s first adding that he gained instant somewhat of a in an event he has recognition from people as he cultural phenom- get that in my revered for many walked the streets of New York on, even away years. He was in his red jacket following the from the Carni- normal course of even able to bust parade. val season. The a few moves on “It was a lot of fun,” he add- group consists of the day” .... “It’s the “Today Show” ed, jokingly saying he considers men of all ages, during the week himself a “Z-list” celebrity. “We from the young to hard to describe.” leading up to the got a lot of cheers and yells and middle age to the parade, introduc- laughs. People were not even much older, and from all walks ing unsuspecting viewers to Yat sure what we were. of life. Fever instead of Dance Fever. “We bring something that’s They come in all shapes and “It was a surreal experience,” completely different. That’s what sizes, some rather portly, others Stoulig said. “I would watch the many people, whether New York- more athletic. Most likely none parade every year, whether I was ers or from other countries, they would ever threaten “Dancing cooking dinner for my family or don’t ‘get to see that very often with the Stars” but they are re- going to someone’s house. Nev- and that was great for us. People markably in rhythm, their arms er ever thought I would have a came up to us and said we were flailing one way, arms the other chance to be in it.” amazing.” way, all to the delight of adoring The group danced the entire For Stoulig, the Stompers fans. 2.5-mile route, which is a bit is more than dancing; it’s also So what’s the attraction? different from the typical Mardi about the camaraderie and the Quite simply, there are few plac- Gras parade where they dance in lessons that can be learned when es where Stoulig could “feel like shifts. They performed to a rota- a group of average men with per- a rock star” and attract groupies. tion of three dances before fin- haps average talent coalesce as a “People are cheering for you; ishing with a fourth in front of unit to put on a spectacular show. I normally don’t get that in my Macy’s, on the store’s iconic star. As he talks, one realizes his par- 10 The Catholic Commentator | December 25, 2015 December 25, 2015 | The Catholic Commentator 11 THE GIFT OF CHILDHOOD

Some “girl talk” time for, from left, Lynn, volun- teer Annabelle Laville of Our Lady of Mercy Church in Baton Rouge and volun- teer Elissa Nun- nally of St. Aloysius Church in Baton Rouge.

Live2Serve volunteer Lauren McKowen wraps her arms around Martavian DeShayla, during Live2Play, one of the right, relishes ministries of the organiza- the attention tion for children in need. Photos she received provided by Nichols from volun- - teer Haleigh Santa (Allen White) visits with, from left, Jermaine, Amire and Jermar Wells during ion White after they received their gifts at Live2Serve’s Live2Play. giveaway on Dec. 20. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator

LSU student develops program to bring Christ to area youth

By Debbie Shelley each year Nichols went with a ‘Hey, give me my baseball gear,’ ” thought, ‘I’m doing all these cool their activities. “These kids go through a lot “I was taken by storm,” he said. The Catholic Commentator group of high school youth on Nichols said. things for you and I feel you aren’t “People call us unorthodox for and don’t live with security and With support from Rep. Patricia mission trips to high poverty One kid quickly turned into 30, here,’ ” Nichols said. doing this, call us crazy. We have sometimes go to bed very, very, Smith, campus churches and LSU t started with daily areas in the United States. and Nichols needed help. A friend invited Nichols to police protection here and there, hungry. These college kids love and high school students who col- meetings with a boy at a “I never really brought it home He contacted the youth minis- attend Mass at Christ the King but our main source of protection them and bear with them.” lected toys, Live2Serve gives toys convenience store who with me. I always just did mission ter at University Baptist Church, Church and Student Center on the is God, and God watches over us,” There are powerful conversions away to thousands of children at wanted a cherry ICEE, work and it stayed there,” Nichols who offered to help. A local YMCA LSU campus, which later became Nichols said. among the students. An atheist Parker Coliseum. It’s a Christmas SnickersI or other treats. The en- said. said they would be a big supporter of The motto of Live2Serve is joined the group during one play carnival, with space walks, games, counters moved Jacob Nichols to In 2010, Nichols lived the interested in moving I felt abandoned his ministry. “You never walk alone” because day. After the students walked the entertainment and talks from area develop an organization in which stereotypical life of an LSU some of the activi- “I sat in the back, they walk with Christ. children home, the young woman pastors and inner-city program volunteers go into impoverished freshman, spending more time in ties to their facility. by God. I I didn’t stand, I “We go out there and play with told Nichols, “I want you to know, leaders. neighborhoods to change and be Tigerland than in church. High school students didn’t kneel. I just these kids and love them,” said I grew up in the church. When I “What makes our toy giveaway changed by the lives of the chil- “I stopped by a gas station every helped, but when thought, ‘I’m took it all in. By the Nichols. “We give them Bible stud- started going to college I decided different is every child and parent dren and families they meet. single day on the way home and summer came, they end of the Mass, I ies and, of course, we do sports it wasn’t for me, Christ wasn’t who walks in hears about the real Nichols has “servants’ blood” in picked out either a Cherry Coke or stopped coming. doing all these decided this is the and art. for me because I never saw him meaning of Christmas,” Nichols him. His paternal grandfather was a sweet tea,” said Nichols. “Each Nichols went to the faith for me. I want “But those are not the real before. I saw Christ today in those said. “It’s not about toys, it’s not active in desegregating schools and day I would meet a boy named LSU campus church- cool things for to be Catholic. I miracles. The real miracle is the kids’ eyes. And I just wanted you about getting clothes. It’s not received many lifetime achieve- Tyler, who was seven – he always es and asked for help. had a sense God college students loving on these to know that I’ve accepted God about Santa – Santa is there. But ment awards. The work of his ma- wanted something different. I He spoke to 200 stu- you and I feel was calling me to kids where love is small.” back into my heart.” it’s that Christ is born on this day.” ternal grandfather was less well- would normally give it to him.” dents, and only two be Catholic,” said Powerful moments happen The scope of the organiza- The biggest gift is not in a known. It wasn’t until his funeral, “One day I said, ‘What do you volunteered. While he you aren’t here.’ Nichols. when the students and children tion’s ministry has expanded for wrapped box, Nichols said. which was attended by a large want to do?’ He said, ‘I want to had good volunteers, He enthusiasti- interact, Nichols noted. children and adults, including: “For the mother who has two number of African-Americans, that play baseball for the Houston there was a shortage. Jacob Nichols cally went through “This past year a boy was killed. Live2Play, Live2Build, Live2Fash- jobs, no husband, no father, the family discovered his grandfa- Astros,’ ” Nichols said. Yet the number of the Rite of Christian The kids and our volunteers ion, Open Air Ministries and LSU multiple fathers, for her to see her ther secretly went into poor, black A die-hard Astros fan, Nichols kids coming kept growing. Initiation of Adults. “Shortly after were upset,” Nichols said. “That Student. children get the opportunities that neighborhoods and served them, thought about the baseball and “We suffered a few tragedies – a becoming Catholic, an amazing Wednesday, the children chose One of the events Live2Serve ‘normal families’ do, to play in a bringing red beans and rice, items soccer gear he had at home. couple of kids got shot and killed,” thing happened, I had an explosion to dance. It was this beautiful is best known for is its Christmas soccer league, receive Christmas from the garden and even reading Nichols and Tyler began playing Nichols said. “We had some others of volunteers. I went from five to moment. Where these kids in the toy give away. toys, go see a Houston Astros Michaelyn McGinnis, volunteer from Our Lady of Mercy Church, right, and Devin work on some basket the Bible to a blind man. baseball in an empty field next to who had been abused and dealing six volunteers per night to 30-40 past few days had their childhood Nichols said, “I asked one of game. What better gift can we ball techniques. - Growing up in a Baptist church LSU. with the foster care system, and I volunteers per night,” Nichols said. taken away from them, they got my kids (in 2011), ‘Hey, what are give her other than that – to give in which he could dance, and “The next time, Tyler was was sick. The volunteers walk the chil- it back because these college kids you doing for Christmas?’ He said, a childhood to her kids,” Nichols which also did a lot of service, waiting with a friend who said, “I felt abandoned by God. I dren to and from their homes to loved on them. ‘Santa don’t come to the hood.’ ” said. 12 The Catholic Commentator December 25, 2015

Holiday Parties Redemptorist students present global message of Christmas with our delicious By Debbie Shelley good news of Jesus’ birth would sandwich, meat and cheese trays! The Catholic Commentator be for all people. For everyone all The cast of “Christmas Around over the whole earth,” said the the World,” presented by Re- “Do you remember the Christ- angel. She wondered how Jesus, demptorist/St. Gerard School, mas story ...? I was the one God just a small child, and his par- are, from left, Taleeya Payton, chose to speak to the shepards,” ents, humble and ordinary, could Morgan Huey, Keyana Jackson, announced an angel, played by make a difference to everyone. Kierra Parker, Jamia Robertson, Redemptorist/St. Gerard School Yet, the angel showed this is Zoe Jolla, Ji’Kerria Caston, Jas- third-grade student Kierra Park- possible by introducing believ- mine Bryant and Mary Banks. er to an audience. ers worldwide who were played Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Com- “But I remember that even in by other students who shared mentator the middle of all that excitement, their beliefs during the program, there was one thing I wasn’t sure “Christmas Around the World,” The three wise men, played by were some of the first to hear the that St. Boniface told the good about. God told me to say that the on Dec. 16. third-graders Jasmine Bryant, Gospel, and missionaries work to news to Germans, who wor- Mary Banks and Jikerria Caston, see that everyone hears it. shipped tree gods. said they were the first people An Asian child, played by South America is hot all year from another nation to hear about second-grader Jamia Robertson, and has jungles and rain forests Christ’s birth, led by a mysterious said many people in her country, and many strange creatures, said star hundreds of miles across Japan, are not Christians. a Venezuelan child played by Buon Natale & Buon Anno! deserts and over mountains. “We have 100 million people, third-grader Morgan Huey. from the Saia and Cedotal families! “But since then many other but only 1 million of us are Chris- “But we both believe the same Baton Rouge’s only people from many other nations tian,” said Robertson. “Many are promises ... that Jesus is the sav- TRUE ITALIAN DELI have heard about this baby. And only just learning about who ior of the world and that all of us, Since 1978 all of them have come to worship Jesus is and what he did … But no matter where we are from, will Jesus, just as we did,” they said. some of us already know. And worship him,” Huey said. Anthony’s A child from Malawi, Africa, Jesus is our king too.” The angel said Venezuelans played by fifth-grade student The angel noted missionaries first heard about Christ 500 years Italian Deli Talyeeya Payton, said, “In my came to Japan in the 1500s and ago from Spanish missionaries, 5575 Government St., country, it is sometimes 100 de- many were persecuted, tortured who countered the cruel treat- just west of Jefferson Hwy. grees on Christmas Day. We don’t and killed for their beliefs, but ment of the conquering Spanish Phone orders welcome! 225-272-6817 Open have Christmas trees either. And they were faithful. Many Japa- armies with the love of Christ. Mon. - Sat. 9:30 - 6 we don’t hang stockings. nese celebrate Jesus’ birth. The Huron tribe from Quebec “But just like you, I believe Europeans celebrate Christ- went for many years not hearing that the baby born in Bethlehem mas in the same way as Ameri- about Christ, said a native North

is our wonderful counselor, our cans, said a German child, played American Indian child, played by mighty God, our everlasting fa- by first-grader Zoe Jolla. fourth-grader Keyana Jackson. ther, our prince of peace. Jesus is The angel said Germans “But 400 years ago, we heard Beat the Clock! my king too.” didn’t always know about Christ. the good news, and now Jesus is The angel noted that Africans It was 700 years after Jesus lived my king too,” said Jackson. Get your Missionaries worked in harsh, dangerous conditions to spread tax the good news to the Hurons, of- ten through song, said the angel. deduction The program came together through the efforts and creativ- before the ity of the entire school, said co- end of 2015 chairmen Lisa East and Benolia The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Thomas. The music, for exam- ple, was provided by an iPhone needs car, boat, camper and motor- hooked up to a microphone. home donations. Proceeds will “Nobody was left out,” said benefit the poor and homeless served East. by the Bishop Ott Shelter Program, Principal Erica Walker was Myriam’s House, St. Vincent de Paul pleased with the packed house for the program, noting the school Community Pharmacy and St. Vincent Joe Skibinski de Paul Dining Room. Call us at (225) embraces, and receives, strong Agent parental support all year long. 383-7837, extension 0, today! 1953 Perkins Rd. Thomas said, “I think the Baton Rouge, LA 70808 children learned from it, but the This year we will serve over 240,000 Bus: 225-387-0201 meals to the needy; provide 25,000 teachers and parents learned Toll Free: 888-387-0201 something as well.” guest nights of shelter to homeless [email protected] Parker beamed as she talked men, women and children; fill over about what she learned from par- 30,000 prescriptions; and provide ticipating in the play and recited many other services to the poor and by heart her favorite angelic line: homeless! We need your help! “Behold! I bring you good news of great joy, which shall be for all Visit us at svdpbr.org! people. For on this day a savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord. Come, let us adore him.” December 25, 2015 The Catholic Commentator 13

Please take note of The Catholic Commentator’s EARLY DEADLINE!!!! STAR BRIGHT – With Deadline is TUESDAY, DEC. 29 the excitement of Christmas for the Jan. 8 issue. approaching, Sacred Heart of Jesus School students Macy Davis as Mary, Joshua Bertrand as Mr. D’s Tree Service Joseph, and Brian ovEr 35 yEars ExpErIEncE Gales as Andro, the , Don Decell, owner act out a scene from carl BaBin, owner • Economical the school play, “Oh • Fully Insured • Quality Work My Stars, It’s Christ- mas.” The program, CALL TODAY! which was per- 225-292-6756 formed on Dec. 18, featured the musical and acting talents of SINCE 1979 many other school students and was a big hit with parents, faculty, staff and FAST • AFFORDABLE • GUARANTEED FOR LIFE other students as (228-4882) Ask about our 10% discount. they anticipated the Call 1-800-BATHTUB Mention code: “Commentator” start of Christmas or 225-753-6810 for and receive an additional $100 discount. break. Photo by Lisa Cossé a free in-home consultation. | Sacred Heart School STEVE DECELL Walk-in Showers Aging-In-Place Consultant Walk-in Tubs

Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me. Coming January 22, 2016 Let there be peace on earth, the peace that was meant to be. With God as our Father, brothers all are we. Let me walk with my brother, in perfect harmony...

• The most current schedules for the churches in the Diocese of Baton Rouge.

• Lists Masses both alphabetically by towns and by • Lists timeSpanish of day and signed Masses for Hearing Impaired Masses. CatholiC SChoolS Week 2016 Of special interest to parents, The Catholic Schools Week section will feature information about the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, current registration for the next school year, distinguished graduates and more. Wishing you a MERRY CHRISTMAS, and Deadline for advertising is January 12, 2016. blessings of PEACE from the Christ Child for Call Wanda Koch at 225-387-0983. you, yours, and for all throughout the world! THE CATHOLIC The Catholic Commentator staff, Richard, Debbie, Rachele, Wanda, Lisa, and Penny

C   14 The Catholic Commentator ENTERTAINMENT December 25, 2015

and marital fidelity, unsettling images of turbing medical situations. A-II; PG Motion Picture Association of America violence with brief gore, a discreetly por- MOVIE ratings: G – General audiences; all ages admitted trayed act of indecent exposure, several In the Heart of the Sea PG – Parental guidance suggested; some uses of profanity, at least one instance Warner Bros. REVIEWS material may not be suitable for children of rough language, occasional crude and The real-life events that helped inspire USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting PG-13 – Parents are strongly cautioned crass terms. O; PG-13 Herman Melville’s classic 1851 novel “Mo- classifications: to give special guidance for attendance by-Dick” become the basis for a polished A-I – General patronage of children under 13; some material may Victor Frankenstein and exciting adventure directed by Ron A-II – Adults and adolescents be inappropriate for young children Fox Howard. As the novelist (Ben Whishaw) A-III – Adults R – Restricted; under 17 requires accom- The familiar story of the titular mad interviews the last survivor (Brendan A-IV – Adults, with reservations panying parent or adult guardian scientist (James McAvoy) and his unholy Gleeson) of an ill-fated 1820 whaling ex- L – Limited adult audience NC-17 – No one under 17 admitted O – Morally offensive creation is retold from the point of view pedition out of Nantucket, Massachusetts, of his traditional assistant, Igor (Dan- the old salt (played in youth by Tom Hol- iel Radcliffe). Afflicted with a deforming land) reluctantly reveals the tragic con- malady, Igor is an abused and despised sequences that resulted from the rivalry Secret in Their Eyes Yet resolution of the wrongdoing and of circus performer in Victorian between his vessel’s aristocratic but inex- STX his missed romantic opportunities with who harbors secret, self-taught medical perienced captain (Benjamin Walker) and In the months following the 9/11 at- Kidman’s character remains elusive. In knowledge until his kindly future pa- its veteran first mate (Chris Hemsworth), tacks, the investigation into the rape adapting Argentinean author Eduardo tron, recognizing his outstanding intel- a feud which led to the ship’s disastrous and murder of a Los Angeles-based FBI Sacheri’s novel “La Pregunta de Sus Ojos,” lect, rescues him from virtual captivity. encounter with a leviathan of vast propor- agent’s (Julia Roberts) teen daughter (Zoe which previously served as the basis for As Frankenstein spars with a religiously tions and unusual ferocity. While it falls Graham) is compromised by the fact that Juan Jose Campanella’s eponymous and zealous police detective (Andrew Scott) short of its own sublime ambitions, How- the prime suspect (Joe Cole) is a bureau Oscar-winning 2009 film, writer-direc- who’s determined to thwart his revivifica- ard’s film is visually striking and generally asset, an anti-terrorism mole working in- tor Billy Ray shuttles somewhat confus- tion schemes, Igor pursues romance with absorbing as it weaves its tale of hubris side one of the city’s mosques. The corrupt ingly between time periods but evokes a a trapeze artist-turned-socialite (Jessica and greed, deprivation and determination. outcome of the case is emotionally wear- striking performance from Roberts. In Brown Findlay) he knew and admired And a light touch is maintained in its inci- ing for the prosecutor (Nicole Kidman) the lead-up to a twist ending, only allu- from afar in his days of misery. While the dental treatment of religious and environ- supervising it, but takes an even greater sions to an “open” marriage trouble the tension between faith and science is one of mental topics. Despite some grim plot de- toll on the agent (Chiwetel Ejiofor) who ethical waters. On the far side of that the themes halfheartedly pursued amid velopments, this adaptation of Nathaniel led the hunt, a close friend and colleague surprise, however, lurks a justification the film’s steampunk-style spectacle, the Philbrick’s history text, published in 2000, of the victim’s mother. Thirteen years lat- of coldblooded killing that renders this representatives of the two sides in the dia- will make fit and even valuable fare for er, his ongoing obsession with the crime crime drama completely unacceptable for logue’s debate are equally unbalanced and most mature adolescents. Much stylized leads to an apparent breakthrough and viewers of any age. Warped values con- unconvincing. Despite committed per- seafaring violence with brief gore, mature to a reunion with his former co-workers. cerning justice, the sanctity of human life formances from the leads, director Max themes, including cannibalism and sui- Landis’ horror-flecked drama winds up cide, a fleeting bawdy image, about a half- feeling as cobbled together, lumbering and dozen uses of profanity, a single crude and directionless as the monster that lurches several crass terms. A-III; PG-13 through its climactic scenes. Possibly ac- ceptable for mature teens. Considerable stylized violence, an implied, but benignly Universal viewed, premarital encounter, a single Holiday horror reigns as one subur- crude term, a few mild oaths, a fleeting ref- ban family’s strident quarreling not only erence to homosexuality. A-III; PG-13 quashes the true spirit of Christmas, but unleashes Santa’s evil counterpart, a mon- The Letters ster bent on annihilating the naughty. The Freestyle titular fiend’s rampage is triggered when Appreciative but poorly handled biog- an innocent lad (Emjay Anthony), driven raphy of Blessed Teresa of Kolkata (Ju- to despair by the selfishness of his dys- liet Stevenson) focuses on her decision functional clan (led by Scott and to leave the cloistered teaching order Toni Collette), renounces his previously (led locally by Mahabanoo Mody-Kot- staunch faith in St. Nicholas by tearing up wal) in which she began religious life his annual letter to the gift giver. The result and dedicate herself instead to the work is a blizzard of epic proportions that traps of serving the most afflicted of her- ad the boy’s raucous relatives including his opted city’s slum dwellers. As narrated gun-loving uncle (David Koechner) and in- through a retrospective conversation be- effectual aunt (Allison Tolman) as well as tween the famed nun’s spiritual director the good-hearted but melancholy German (Max von Sydow) and the church official granny (Krista Stadler) from whom he in- (Rutger Hauer) charged with investigat- herited his trust in Kris Kringle inside his ing her life with a view to her possible parents’ home. There they make easy prey canonization, the facts surrounding her for the marauding Anticlaus and his min- courageous ministry and the tenacious ions. While avoiding any direct reference spiritual struggle that resulted from her to Christianity, director and co-writer Mi- decades-long sense of God’s complete chael Dougherty skewers the materialism absence are alternately spoon-fed to the that mars the season and promotes unity audience through dialogue and drama- and self-sacrifice in the face of danger. But tized in a way that fails to spark interest. such values seem to be checked off by rote Writer-director William Riead success- amid the chaotic logic of the film’s night- fully conveys the obedience with which marish events, an ordeal that yields scanty his subject submitted her personal con- rewards for viewers. Brief gory images, victions about her vocation to the judg- considerable stylized violence, a visual ment of the church, but otherwise fails drug reference, about a half-dozen uses of to delve below the surface. Some tense profanity, a single rough term, occasional scenes of conflict and potentially dis- crude and crass language. A-III; PG-13 December 25, 2015 ENTERTAINMENT The Catholic Commentator 15

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Live Forever 41 51 61

Oh, oh, oh Go, go crazy, go, go, go crazy 71 81 91 I was dreaming of war We’re gonna live, we’re gonna live forever Saw that I wouldn’t die This time, I want it all 02 12 22 32 Was dreaming of choice I want it right now, wanna feel the fall 254 2 274 2 That my ship would fight Go, go crazy, go, go, go crazy I was dreaming because We’re gonna live, we’re gonna live forever 298 2031323 It made me feel so alive I was feeling a storm, but it wasn’t outside 343 35363 73 Was dreaming it all Was feeling a force, I’m electrified From my bed last night I was feeling my heart, there was thunder inside 83 309 4 14 You will be my only one Was feeling it all from my bed last night Hold my hand so we can run You will be my only one 432 4 44 You and I, we’re staying young Hold my hand so we can run 4456 We’re gonna live, we’re gonna live forever You and I, we’re staying young We’re gonna live, yeah, we’re gonna live forever 74 498 4051525 Refrain: 543 555 576 5 598 5 This time, I want it all (Repeat refrain.) I want it right now, feel the fall 610 6 26 36 Sung by The Band Perry | Copyright © 2015, Republic Nashville Records 46 56 66

76 86 96

moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www Starting out the new year with a purpose ACROSS into another 1 Catholic bandleader, Lawrence ___ 3 Slow, musically 5 Discontinue 4 Mix dough o start my 2016 columns, mitment to act in a different way. 10 Latin 101 word 5 Biblical animal of transport I chose The Band Perry’s Yes, you can do this. Start this new 14 Animals frequently mentioned in the 6 Number of apostles after Judas hit single “Live Forever.” I year with positive expectations. Let Bible died T 15 Catholic comedian married to Burns 7 The Archdiocese of Edmonton is in thought the song could give us go of burdens from the past. One’s 16 College in New Rochelle, NY this province (abbr.) some insight on how to welcome personal history is likely to contain 17 Actress Russo 8 “What eye has not ___…” (1 Cor 2016. Each new year is a gift from successes and failures, mistakes and 18 Measures 2:9) 19 There was none at the inn 9 USNA grad God that invites us to live in a achievements, hurts and renewals. 20 Individual facts 10 According to I Thessalonians, we more satisfying and life-affirming To live well in 2016, I encourage you 21 Designer Piccone will meet the Lord in this (with manner. For the song’s character, to let go of the failures, the mistakes, 23 Vane reading “the”) 24 Unsteady gait 11 Celestial body used in dating Easter that means “this time, I want it and the hurts. Especially, it is impor- 26 Beverage made with beaten eggs 12 Ever and ___ all” and “I want it right now.” tant to emotionally release any anger 28 Jesus told him he must be born 13 Identical 22 ___ of Christ He is “feeling a force” and that flows out of the past. again of the Spirit 33 Chief minister of the Persian king in 25 “…but you make it a ___ of rob- believes “I’m electrified.” In fact, he Anger is an important feeling in the Book of Esther bers.” (Mt 21:13) is so full of life’s energy that he can that it clarifies how we need to assert 37 Seaport in New Jersey 26 Genesis skipper 27 Hollow rock 38 Pitcher say, “We’re gonna live, we gonna our personal power to make chang- 29 Toronto media (abbr.) On The Record 39 Month of the feast of St. Patrick 30 Alphabet string live forever.” es. Sometimes, these changes relate 41 “Just ___” 31 Discrete part As a statement of enthusiasm Charlie Martin to changes in ourselves. At other 42 St. John ___ (Basilica) 32 Brother of Cain for life, that might be fine. In the times, we need to consider changes 44 Opposite of height 33 Captain’s post 45 The newest are the Luminous spiritual sense, we do live forever in relationships. And sometimes, we 34 “___ in a manger…” 47 Squeal 35 1986 World Series winners as our soul is always connected to God. However, need to join others to make changes in our world. 48 Set on fire 36 Mountain ridge we know that our time on earth, no matter how After taking on this power, anger has no 53 Marian month 39 An evangelist 56 “Star Trek” navigator energized we feel, is bordered by birth and death. purpose and can often sabotage making helpful 40 Tropical cuckoo 58 Without value 43 The soldiers put this in Jesus’ right Consequently, living well in the present is what changes. Without releasing anger, it can bind us 60 Aid and ___ hand really counts. to the past. Look at any anger that you may feel, 62 Number of years the papacy 44 OT prophetic book was vacant between the death So, how shall we do this during 2016? And are then accept it, and see what you need to do to let 46 “___ Night” of Clement IV and election of 49 Surmise there changes to consider if we are to make the go of it. This may mean talking with someone you Gregory X 50 The ___ of Forbidden Books most of this gift of time given to us? trust about what engendered the anger, naming 63 556, to Nero 51 Silk fabric 64 Equipment 52 Young eel Many ways to answer these questions could be any grief or hurt associated with it, and making a 65 Groans’ partner 53 Gift bearers offered, but I will make only a few suggestions. commitment to live without anger in 2016. 66 Kind of tchr. 54 See 32D The place to start seems to be right where the I want to add one more suggestion: Make a 67 “Casablanca” role 55 Some votes 68 Young horses 56 “Skedaddle!” song says: to live with positive expectation. Doing commitment to pray each day. Prayer is an act of 69 Dry (comb.) 57 Mountain range so means that we affirm the best in ourselves and love for those that you pray for, plus a sure way to 59 Luxury car, briefly the best in our world. Such affirmation doesn’t nurture one’s relationship with God, the source of DOWN 61 Lilt syllable 1 “…and the ___ was God” (Jn 1:1) 62 HBO competitor deny the hurt in our personal lives or the pain felt our lives. Every day in 2016, be sure to take a few 2 Letter by which a priest is released in many places on our planet. minutes to pray. It is just as important as breathing. from one diocese and accepted Solution on page 18 Indeed, there is much to be addressed and We can be sure that we will “live forever” in the healed as we start 2016 – perhaps in your person- spirit, but on this earth, it takes positive choices and al life and certainly throughout the world. openness to change to continue living well. Aspire Yet, God has given us gifts to make positive to make 2016 a gift to yourself, a gift full of promise, changes in our lives and in the world. Change growth and, most of all, connection with God. begins by drawing on one’s creativity to envision different ways of living. Such change depends MARTIN is an Indiana pastoral counselor who on identifying options, new ways to live that add reviews current music for Catholic News Service. more satisfaction and meaning to life. The gift of Write to: [email protected], or at: 7125 West the Holy Spirit is to inspire new ways of seeing CR 200 South, Rockport, IN 47635, or like this one’s life and how it can have an impact on larger column on Facebook at “Charlie Martin’s Today’s world problems. Music Columns” and post a comment or sugges- This takes faith, personal energy and the com- tion. 16 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT December 25, 2015

| EDITORIAL Counseling the doubtful in the Christmas season The perfect gift any young adults, whom God made flesh, who shared our human life, social researchers today is a far more adequate, reasonable and truth- Amid the frenetic pace of holiday shopping, of Mcall the “millennials,” ful answer. As Jesus told Philip, “Whoever spending endless hours trying to find the right gift to answer religious surveys by check- has seen me has seen the father.” match wish lists, is it possible that we might have omit- ing the box after “religion” that God is love, St. John tells us. Love is not ted the most important person in our lives? says “none.” They are also called something we see in itself, it is something Even if we did, the good news is it’s not too late, and “the nones.” However, they also we experience, long for and cannot live the price of the gift at the top of this person’s Christmas often check the box describing their without. We experience it only through the list is cheap. In fact, the only present God desires and interior life as “spiritual.” That tells actions of another who is like ourselves. It even pleads for is the gift of ourselves. us two things: 1) they probably are is true that we are reflections of our creator. How easy it is to forget in this era of Nativity scenes not aggressive atheists, and 2) they He is not a reflection of us. But we do see being banned from public property that the focus of seek a spiritual life. However, they a God who is love, a “God with skin on,” this season should solely be focused on the birth of have not found a connection with a through the birth, life, death and resurrec- Christ. And all God asks from us is to give ourselves to personal God, and if raised Catho- tion of the son of God made flesh in Jesus. It him. lic, they doubt that the church as an Another makes total sense that a God whose nature institution can make God a mean- is love would reveal himself to his intelligent All God asks from us is to give ingful reality in their lives. Indeed, Perspective creation whom he loves. Jesus is the only ourselves to him. God seems a stranger to the world story of human experience that makes sense of violence, war, porn, greed and Father John Carville to me in a world that is and always has been By giving of ourselves we are committing to God that corruption that is reported daily in harsh, violent and painful as well as amaz- we will treat each other with the human respect and the media’s breaking news immediately as it hap- ingly beautiful. dignity deserved by all regardless of race, creed, age or pens. Against this experience of the world, Christmas Christmas is a story that answers our deepest long- gender. We will be committing to advocate for the most seems like a wish akin to a fairytale. ing. It is the beginning of a life and a love that reveals needy and vulnerable of society, to shelving our preju- Doubt leads to discouragement, and discourage- to us our own destiny. In Jesus, love overcomes doubt, dices and uniting to rid our country of all “isms” as ment leads to despair. Counseling the doubtful is discouragement, despair and death itself. It is the recently defined by Webster’s Dictionary, to being a role a true spiritual work of mercy. Even in these times story of God’s greatest act of merciful love. model for the young and tending to the elderly, lending filled with doubt, Christmas is to nearly all Americans Many of us hesitate to counsel the doubtful in sympathy to the suffering, and rejecting the anti-God a time of charity, a time of sheltering the homeless, religious matters. It is wise to remember that Jesus movement that is so prevalent in modern culture. clothing the poor and feeding the hungry. However, always offered invitations. He forced no one to follow Just as we carefully chose the perfect present for our the most serious form of poverty can be poverty of him. But people do question us about our faith, sin- loved ones, the same thought and consideration must spirit because it can be a despair that lasts forever. cerely wanting an answer to settle their own doubts. go into what we present to our savior, the Christ child A warm coat immediately lifts the comfort level and And these may be friends, children, loved ones or on his birthday, for he gives us of all – the spirit of a poor person. Despair is not so easily someone hurting badly enough to tell their story to a life and the hope for eternal salvation. dispelled. Billy Graham once told a story about dining stranger. As a spiritual work of mercy, we owe them Merry Christmas! with one of the wealthiest men in the world who con- an answer. So we should prepare ourselves. We have fessed to him that, despite being able to buy whatever to learn first to listen: listen to sacred Scripture; to could be bought, he was miserable. He truly suffered spiritual readings; to spiritual direction on retreats | LETTERS TO THE EDITOR from spiritual poverty. and ideally with an individual spiritual director; to Spiritual works of mercy heal the wounded spirit sermons; and to God in prayer. Then, our counsel and serve as preventative medicine for poverty of may be worth listening to. But remember, prepared or A healing process spirit. I have found the Christmas story a good place to unprepared, your personal testimony about your faith start in counseling the doubtful. According to Wiki- journey is often just what the one in doubt seeks and This letter is in response to a letter submitted by Sister pedia, the earth is about 4.5 billion years old, while needs to hear. Gubler OP in The Catholic Commentator Dec. 11 is- the human race, homo sapiens, began only 400,000- sue. In her letter, Sister Joel espouses, in her words, love 250,000 years ago. And human culture and language Merry Christmas, over law. that could express a concept of God developed only Father John I would like to address a couple of points she makes. about 50,000 years ago. As the psalmist says about Sister Joel says, “Can we imagine a good person who God, “A thousand years in your sight are as yesterday” FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest in the Diocese of has had the misfortune of having to divorce and re- (Ps(s) 90:4). How does an invisible God reveal himself Baton Rouge and writes on current topics for The marry?” Marriage is a choice, a person does not “have to to his most advanced creature, humankind? “Slowly” Catholic Commentator. He can be reached at johnny marry.” would not be an incorrect answer. But Jesus Christ, [email protected]. Following divorce, our church offers the healing pro- cess of an annulment. It is up to the individual to seek | out this annulment, and I would recommend a (divorced PRAY FOR THOSE WHO PRAY FOR US man or woman) apply for an annulment as soon as pos- Please pray for the priests, deacons and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese. sible. Then Sister Joel tells us to imagine Jesus telling a remarried person, “Sorry, but you’re not worthy to receive Dec. 29 Rev. Gregory Daigle Br. Xavier Werneth SC Sr. Adelaide Williamson CSJ me.” Jesus did tell the woman caught in adultery, “Go and Dcn. Frank W. Rhodes Jr. Jan. 3 Rev. Bradley A. Doyle Jan. 9 Rev. Philip V. Eapen CMI sin no more” (Jn 8:11). And he told the apostles that who- Br. Marcus Turcotte SC Dcn. Milton J. Schanzbach Dcn. J. Thomas Traylor ever divorced and remarried committed adultery (Mk Dec. 30 Rev. Peter Ai Dang Sr. Doris Vigneaux CSJ Br. Eldon Crifisi SC 10:10-12). Dcn. Alfred J. Ricard Jr. Jan. 4 Rev. Vincent J. Dufresne Jan. 10 Rev. Denis O. Ekwugha Jesus gave the apostles authority over his church. The Sr. Thanh Tam Tran ICM Dcn. Peter Schlette Dcn. John W. Veron annulment process is the church’s way of helping indi- Dec. 31 Rev. Jamin S. David Br. James Burns SC Sr. Martha Ann Abshire viduals to heal from a broken marriage. The holy father Dcn. Thomas M. Robinson Jan 5 Rev. Thomas P. Duhe FMOL has helped streamline the process by offering much Br. Edward Violett SM Dcn. Joseph M. Scimeca Jan. 11 Rev. Michael A. Galea needed changes. The church’s teaching on marriage did Jan. 1 Rev. Al M. Davidson Sr. Ugen Vu FMOL Dcn. Doanh Van Vu ICM not change, because it is based on the teachings of Jesus Dcn. Eliazar Salinas Jr. Jan 7 Rev. Matthew C. Dupre Br. Ramon Daunis SC in sacred Scripture. Sr. Margarida Maria Dcn. Rudolph W. Stahl Jan. 12 Rev. Henry W. Gautreau Jr. Vasques FMOL Br. William Cawley SC Dcn. J. Peter Walsh Duane Breaux Jan. 2 Rev. Christopher J. Decker Jan. 8 Rev. Reuben C. Dykes Sr. Barbara Arceneaux FMO Pierre Part Dcn. Mario Sam Sammartino Dcn. Michael F. Thompson December 25, 2015 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 17 Priests’ Formation Days offer spiritual growth for clergy

he Continuing Formation of the occur during these days. Nonetheless at for this special funeral need, the parish Clergy Committee holds Annual the express request of the Continuing staff may call the Office of the Vicar TPriests’ Formation Days on the Formation Committee and the Presby- General at 225-387-0561 for further second full week in January. These teral Council, I am expecting priests assistance. formation days are one of the important to attend the entire formation days’ Over the years attendance at our An- ways in which the priests of our diocese schedule. I know this may affect certain nual Formation and Priests Retreat has are formed for ministry. They offer the regular ministries, such as daily Mass been remarkably consistent. Pressing priests opportunities for growth in in- and funerals. The daily Mass schedule ministry could compromise and jeop- tellectual and spiritual formation, emo- in your parish can be adjusted as de- ardize our commitment to these special tional maturity and physical well-being. termined by your parish priest to meet opportunities. I hope this letter helps Since these days are offered once a year, the needs of your parish during Annual you understand and support our priests and is a commitment by the diocese for Formation. While this is a sacrifice, I with their commitment to their forma- their on-going formation, participation consider this sacrifice worth making. tion for ministry. I ask that you pray for by the priests is mandatory. However, Regarding funerals, I would ask that our priests and our diocese during these on occasion, ministry needs arise at the From The Bishop funerals be scheduled either before An- days. same time preventing the priests from nual Formation begins or after, but not In summary, every priest of the participating in these Annual Formation Bishop Robert W. Muench during, the scheduled Annual Forma- diocese is expected to be present and days. tion days. If this is completely impossi- take part in Annual Formation days in With the guidance of the Diocesan ble, one of the deacons from the diocese Biloxi. I appreciate your affirmation and Presbyteral Council, the Continuing The committee and I are aware that can provide the needed funeral rites, encouragement of our clergy who give so Formation for Clergy Committee has the distance from Biloxi to many of our namely the vigil wake, funeral without much of their lives for our diocese. May secured a site for this year’s Annual For- diocesan parishes would be significant Mass and rite of committal. If the local God be generous in leading us into the mation, Jan. 11-14, in Biloxi, Mississippi. and that pastoral ministry can and will parish staff is unable to secure a deacon future with hope. Our Muslim brothers and sisters

his is not a good time to terrorists perpetrate an act of constitutes the essence of what the same heaven. Muslims more be a Muslim in the West- violence, its victims are not just it means to be a Muslim. And for than ever need our understand- Tern world. As the violence those who die, are injured or more than 90 percent of Muslims ing, sympathy, support and perpetrated by radical Islamic who lose loved ones, it’s also in the world, that is exactly what fellowship in faith. groups such as ISIS, Al Qaeda, all true Muslims, particularly it means to be a Muslim, namely, Christian de Cherge, the and Boko Haram becomes those living in the West because to be a man or woman of peace Trappist monk who was mar- more and more prevalent, huge they are now viewed through who has surrendered to God and tyred by Islamic terrorists in numbers of people are becom- the eyes of suspicion, fear and who now tries to live a life that is Algeria in 1996, wrote a re- ing paranoid about and even hatred. centered on faith, prayer, respon- markable letter to his family in openly hostile towards the Is- But the Muslim religion is sibility and hospitality. Any inter- France shortly before he died. lam religion, seeing all Muslims not to blame here. There is noth- pretation of Islam by a radicalized Well aware that he had a good as a threat. Popular opinion ing inherent in either the Koran group that gives divine sanction chance of being killed by Islamic more and more blames the or in Islam itself that morally to terrorist violence is false and terrorists, he shared with his Moslem religion itself for that or religiously undergirds this belies Islam. Islamic extremists family that, should this hap- violence, suggesting that there In Exile kind of violence. We would hol- don’t speak for God, Moham- pen, they should know that he is something inherent in Islam Father Ron Rolheiser ler “unfair” if someone were to med, Islam or for what it means had already forgiven his killers itself that’s responsible for this say that what happened during to surrender in faith, but only for and that he foresaw himself and kind of violence. That equation the Inquisition is inherent in a self-serving ideology, and true them, his killers, in the same needs to be challenged, both such as ISIS or Al-Qaeda, we see the Gospels. We owe Islam the Muslims are, in the end, the real heaven, playing together under in the name of truth and in the that it first establishes itself by same judgement. One of the victims of that. God’s gaze, a gaze that lovingly name of what’s best in us as terrorizing and killing thou- great students of World Reli- Terrorist attacks, like the takes in all of God’s children, Christians. sands of its own people, honest, gions, the renowned Houston recent ones in Paris and Mali, Muslims no less than Christians. First of all, it’s untrue: Paint- God-fearing Muslims. And it Smith, submits that we should call for more, not less, sympathy ing all Muslims with the same goes on killing them. ISIS, Al- always judge a religion by its for true Muslims. It’s time to es- OBLATE FATHER ROLHEISER, theo- brush is like painting all Chris- Qaeda, and Boko Haram have best expressions, by its saints tablish a greater solidarity with logian, teacher and award- tians with the same brush, akin killed thousands more Muslims and graced-history rather than Islam, notwithstanding extrem- winning author, is president of to looking at most the depraved than they have killed Christians by its psychopaths and aberra- ist terrorism. We are both part the Oblate School of Theology man who calls himself a Chris- or persons of any other religion. tions. I hope that others offer us, of the same family: We have in San Antonio, Texas. He can tian and saying: “That’s Chris- While their ultimate target may Christians, this courtesy. Hitler the same God, suffer the same be at ronrolheiser.com. Now on tians for you! They’re all the well be the secularized, Chris- was somehow a product of the anxieties, are subject to the Facebook – facebook.com/ron same!” Second, it’s also unfair: tian West, but more immedi- Christian West, as was Mother same mortality, and will share rolheiser. Islamic militants no more speak ately their real war is against Teresa. Houston Smith’s point is for Islam than Hitler speaks for true Islam. that the latter, not the former, is Christianity (and that compari- Moreover the victims of Is- a truer basis for judging Chris- Mission Statement son isn’t idly chosen). Finally, lamic terrorists are not just the tianity. We owe our Islamic such an equation misleads our thousands of moderate Muslims brothers and sisters the same The mission of The Catholic Commentator is to provide news, sympathy: The first victim of who have been direct victims courtesy. information and commentary to the people of the Diocese Islamic terrorism is Islam itself, of their violence and killings, And that’s more a recognition of Baton Rouge, Catholics and their neighbors alike. In doing namely, authentic God-fearing but also all other Muslims who of the truth than a courtesy. The so, The Catholic Commentator strives to further the wider Muslims are the first victims of are now painted with the same word “Islam/Muslim” has its mission of the Church: to evangelize, to communicate, to this violence. brush and negatively judged in origins in the word “peace,” and educate and to give the Catholic viewpoint on important When we look at the history both their religiosity and their that connotation, along with the issues of the present day. of any terrorist Islamic group sincerity. Whenever Islamic concept of “surrender to God”, 18 The Catholic Commentator COMING EVENTS December 25, 2015

Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites – The host days of prayer and a retreat in January: Tuesday, Father Donald Senior CP will discuss “Life as God’s Gift” Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites welcomes all who Jan. 12, “Finding Peace Through Forgiveness,” with in his keynote address on Friday, Jan. 8, 9:30 a.m., at the are interested in developing their prayer life according to Father Tony Rigoli, offering is $35; Tuesday, Jan. 19, 34th annual Gulf Coast Faith Formation Conference, for- the Carmelite saints. The next meeting will be Sunday, “Thomas Merton: Discovering God Within,” with Msgr. merly known as the Johannes Hofinger Conference. The Jan. 10, 1:30 p.m., at Our Lady of Mercy Parish Activity Doug Dousson, offering $35; Friday, Jan. 22-Sunday, event will be held Thursday, Jan. 7 – Saturday, Jan. 9, at Center in St. Gabriel’s Room, 444 Marquette Ave., Baton Jan. 24, “Practicing Mercy: Kissed by Mercy, Embraced the Pontchartrain Center, 4545 Williams Blvd., Kenner. Rouge. Call 225-343-3181 or 225-803-3391, or email rob with Love,” with Father Philip Chircop SJ, offering $225. The conference will have a special track for priests and [email protected]. For information, visit retreats.arch-no.org or call 504- deacons. For more information, visit gulfcoastfaithfor 887-1420. mationconference.org Enneagram Workshop – Sister Lucy Silvio CSJ will present an enneagram workshop on Thursday, Jan. Faith Formation Series – Immaculate Concep- Ministry and Theology Classes – The Office of 21, 9 a.m. – noon, at St. Joseph’s Academy Mother Al- tion Church, 865 Hatchell Lane, Denham Springs will Evangelization will offer spring MAT I and II certifica- ice Hall, 3080 Kleinert Ave., Baton Rouge. Fee is $40. host several faith formation series in January: A Bibli- tion courses at the Bishop Robert E. Tracy Center, 1800 For more information, call 225-383-3349 or email con- cal Walk with the Blessed Mother, Thursdays, beginning S. Acadian Thwy., Baton Rouge, and MAT I on-line [email protected] Jan. 28, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.; Financial Peace University, courses beginning in January. Registration is $45 per Tuesdays, beginning Jan. 12, 7 p.m., with a preview class course. To register or for more information, contact your Women’s Morning of Reflection – A women’s held Jan. 5, 7 p.m. at the Faith Formation Center; and parish director of religious education, school coordinator morning of reflection, sponsored by Court Regina Coeli the Great Adventure Bible Series: “James: Pearls of Wise of religious education, visit diobrchristianformation.org #2063, will be held Saturday, Jan. 23, at St. Jude Church, Living,” Thursdays, 6:30- 8 p.m., beginning Jan. 28. For or call 225-336-8760. 9150 Highland Road, Baton Rouge. Deacon James Mor- more information, call 225-665-5359. risey, deacon assistant at St. Jude, will facilitate the gath- Survivors of Suicide – Survivors of Suicide, a ering. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the program St. Mark Mission – Father Wade Menezes CPM will non-denominational free support group for those who is from 9 a.m. – noon. The event is free, but please RSVP present a mission, “Celebrating Extraordinary Jubilee of have lost a loved one to suicide, meets on the first and by Monday, Jan. 18 by calling 225-769-5763 or 225-448- Mercy” Sunday, Jan. 31 through Thursday, Feb. 4 at St. third of every month at 6 p.m. at St. Albert the Great 3299. Mark Church, 42021 Hwy. 621, Gonzales. For more in- Chapel and Catholic Student Center, 409 W. Dakota St. formation, call 225-647-8461. Hammond. For information, call 985-351-1073 or 985- Metairie Retreats – The Archdiocese of New Or- 687-4144. leans Retreat Center, 5500 St. Mary St., Metairie, will Faith Formation Conference – Scripture scholar

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 now accepted.

announcements Business service Business service Help Wanted Help Wanted While we at The Catholic Commentator do Mr. D’s Tree Service Kitchen counter tops. Call for free es- In sales employment advertise- paid (salary, commissions, etc.) if our best to bring reliable advertisers to 3 Licensed Arborists timates. John O'Neill 225-938-6141 or ments, the advertiser must name money is mentioned. The ad must our readers, we are not responsible for any Free Estimates 225-683-6837. the product or service to be sold. also state if there is an investment claims made by any advertiser. Fully Insured Ads must state how wages will be required. Don Decell & Carl Babin, owners Dave’s Bicycle Repair and Sales. Free 225-292-6756 pickup and delivery, free estimates, ex- Business service pert economical repair on all brands. Maintenance Supervisor Position Available 225 PAINTING interior and exte- 225-924-4337 or www.davesbicyclerepair. Anthony's Furniture Specialties. We rior, residential and commercial. 30 com. St. Patrick Catholic Church, Baton Rouge, LA restore hurricane damaged furniture. years experience. For coupons go to If it's furniture we do it all! Refinishing, www.225painting.com. Call 225-205- re-upholstery, pick up and delivery, etc. 1027. Free Estimates. For sale The successful candidate must be a self-starter with hands 2263 Florida Blvd., BR. 225-413-2607. St. Joseph is the Patron Saint of a Roselawn Cemetery. Selling 2 burial on experience for a multi-function facility. Basic knowledge LEBLANC’S TREE & STUMP Peaceful Death. St. Joseph Hospice is plots for $1800 each, OBO. (225) 937-1579. of HVAC, electrical, plumbing and janitorial skills necessary. REMOVAL, INC. available to support families as they face Prompt service–Free estimates end-of-life decisions. Peace, comfort, Must be able to climb a ladder and lift 40 lbs. 35- 40 hours FULLY INSURED dignity and support can make every day For rent E. H. “Eddie” LeBlanc "a good day." Call 225-368-3100 for more per week with benefit package available. Must pass crimi- Phone 383-7316 information. Wooded Lot w/mobile home for rent off Hwy. 42. 2BR/2BA, fenced yard. $850 nal background check. Mail resume to 12424 Brogdon Lane, Pennington Lawn and Landscape month + deposit. No pets, non-smokers. BROUSSEAU'S Painting 225-806-0008 Baton Rouge, LA 70816 or email [email protected]. Interior and exterior painting. Experi- Lawn & bed maintenance. Clean-up neg- 225-715-7172. enced and reliable. Free estimates. Call lect. Call for your free estimate. 225-241-8488 or 225-928-7194. Baton Rouge Care Service. Serving Ba- THOMAS LUNDIN, CPA ton Rouge and surrounding areas since Donnie’s Furniture Repair & Uphol- Accounting and taxes for businesses, 1960. Registered sitters, nurses, and legal notice legal notice stery. We do refinishing, repairs, caning, non-profits and individuals; business, nurses aides for the sick and elderly in painting of furniture and upholstery. computer, financial and management the home, nursing homes and hospitals. Anyone with knowledge of the where- Anyone with knowledge of the where- In business 43 yrs. Pick up and delivery. services. 30 years experience; profes- Licensed and bonded for private duty abouts of Brittany Ann Sullivan is asked abouts of Miranda Leigh Andrews is 10876 Greenwell Springs Rd. 225-272- sional, prompt and personal attention. care. 225-924-6098 or 225-667-0480. to contact the Diocese Tribunal @ 225- asked to contact the Diocese Tribunal @ 2577. See our showroom. 225-296-0404. www.batonrougesittersregistry.com. 336-8755. 225-336-8755. Print Your Ad Here WE LK CEASE AMAS OXEN ALLEN IONA RENE METES ROOM DATA EVAN B NNE TODDLE NOG DATES TO RUN: E NICODEMUS Circle Category: Announcements—Business Services—Cards of Thanks—For Rent—For Sale—Help Wanted HAMAN BAYONNE —Positions Wanted—Legal Notices (other ) EWER MARCH DO IT Mail to: The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3316 LATERAN DEPTH Enclosed is $9.50 for the first 15 words + 15¢ for each word thereafter + 25¢ per line for each special effect (all caps, centered MYSTER IES A line, bold lettering); for a total of $______for each issue. EEK IGNITE Advertisements will not NAME MAY D SULU NULL be published without ADDRESS ABET THREE DLVI full payment in advance. GEAR MOANS ELEM CITY PHONE ILSA COLTS XERO www.wordgamesforcatholics.com December 25, 2015 The Catholic Commentator 19

FATHER DELACROIX HONORED – St. Vincent de Paul Society Council president Tim Mueller, right, presents Bishop W. Robert Muench, left, and St. Joseph Cathedral pastor Father Paul Counce GIFTS OF LOVE – Bishop Robert W. Muench gave away 1,862 gifts to 931 children in need at the St. with a plaque signifying Father Cyril Delacroix’s posthumously in- Vincent de Paul dining hall on Dec. 19. Hundreds of volunteers were involved in the bishop’s gift duction into the St. Vincent de Paul Top Hat Hall of Fame. The pre- giveaway, according to St. Vincent de Paul President and CEO Michael Acaldo. The bishop opened sentation came during Mass on Dec. 13 at St. Joseph commemo- the event with prayer at 8:40 a.m., with people lined up around the block. The bishop is always ea- rating St. Vincent de Paul’s 150th anniversary of serving the poor ger to give the toys away and has played an instrumental role in the tripling of the number of peo- and the homeless in the Baton Rouge area. The award is the high- ple served since it began, said Acaldo. He added the toy drive is fitting with this Year of Mercy in that est given by St. Vincent de Paul for exemplary service. Father Dela- the children, some of who may have not eaten that morning or the night before, feel the presence croix founded the society in Baton Rouge and served as its leader of God’s love as they receive the gifts. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator for the first 28 years. Photo provided by Michael Acaldo | St. Vincent de Paul

CHRISTMAS  Landry’s definition of the holiday. by giving us his son, Christians “The true meaning of Christ- of God’s great gift with parishio- From page 1 Father Landry, who serves as ultimately learn how to give. mas for me is celebrating the joy ners and family,” he said. pastor at St. Gabriel Church in “The spirit of giving begins Father Stine, noting that God, St. Gabriel, explains that God’s with God’s great act of giving us who could have chosen anything love for us is so great that it is his son, and that is what we are to reveal himself, chose to be- seen as the greatest gift we could called to do, to give of ourselves come a human being. ever receive. to each other,” he said. “That says something truly re- “Do you remember those Father Matthew Dupré, pas- markable about humans,” he said. commercials that said, ‘If you tor of St. Patrick Church in Baton Father Stine sees God choos- love enough or if you care Rouge and director of the Office ing to become human as very enough, you will send the best’? of Vocations and Seminarians, optimistic and adds that despite God gave us the best. He loves agrees that the true meaning all of the brokenness, problems us enough to send us the very of Christmas is found in God’s and other issues we have in our best: his son, Jesus Christ,” not- greatest gift, and as any gift, it is lives, “we are still capable of be- ed Father Landry, adding that meant to be shared. ing divine.” “We have the human potential to live our lives as Jesus showed us with love and compassion for others,” he explained. Hospice is About Living For Father Tom Duhé, pastor of St. Thomas More Church in • We rely upon the intercession of our Blessed Mother to assist us in imitating the healing ministry of Jesus Baton Rouge, the true meaning Christ as we care for terminally ill patients and their families. of Christmas can be found in just •We call forth the compassion and kindness of our staff, who serve in this health care ministry, to respond to one word: love. the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of our patients and their families. “Love was born into the world •We believe in the sacredness of life from conception to natural death, and we devote ourselves to through Christ and with that love supporting patients and families through the dying process at the end of life’s journey on this earth and (came) mercy, which is reflected new life in eternity. so beautifully this year with the Year of Mercy,” said Father Duhé. Through his mission of mer- cy, Father Duhé explained, Jesus taught how to give love, especial- ly to people who are considered unlovable. “Jesus came as a poor man to The right people, lift up the poor and the needy. doing the right thing Through his call, we are given a for the right reason. SERVING PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS new role in how to help the needy and how to seek God,” he added. www.NotreDameHospice-NO.org • (225) 243-7358 Christmas as a message of Notre Dame Hospice does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability or age in admission, treatment, ability to pay, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. love is also part of Father Charlie 20 The Catholic Commentator December 25, 2015 Project BRANT promotes literacy to underprivileged children

By Debbie Shelley cape from whatever troubles or The Catholic Commentator worries crown their precious little minds.” A Sharon Hills Elementary Promoting project BRANT is student kissed her book, hugged promoting literacy in the home, it and bounced as she walked schools or community, accord- away after she received it. A boy ing to Polozola. showed another how “cool” his “We are recognizing the pov- was when each student received erty in our secular world. Our a book to take home as part of act of donating books introduces the Diocesan Council of Catholic spirituality as we are practicing Women’s (DCCW) Books Read- at least one of the seven spiritual ily Available to all in Need of works of mercy, instructing the Teaching (BRANT) program. ignorant. Children are hungry for DCCW, which is committed to knowledge, hungry for time spent projects that benefit women and with a parent, hungry for some- children, began Project BRANT thing to call their own,” she said. in October 2003, according to DCCW President Cassan- Callie Broussard Polozola, proj- dra Will said Project BRANT is Callie Broussard Polozola, left, Project BRANT chairman for the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women of ect BRANT chairman. She was among the most important min- Baton Rouge, and DCCW treasurer Rose Marie Powell, right, distribute books to children at Sharon Hills inspired by the National Council istries of the organization. Elementary School to take home and read with their families. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator of Catholic Women’s (NCCW) “It is a great joy for us to or- reading program, “Helping Chil- other worlds as he and I lost our- Carmel Mask, Project BRANT parents, grandparents, guard- der and deliver books to needy dren Read for Fun and Future,” selves in children’s books. This has given away 4,645 books ians and mentors,” said Polozola. children to promote literacy,” she to chair a book drive in honor time was and still is so precious to children in area Title One “Our goal is two-fold: to promote said. “Our hearts are extremely of her first grandchild, Brant to me as a grandparent,” Polo- schools which have a high per- education while strengthening elated to see the faces of the chil- Broussard. zola said. centage of children who live in the family relationships. dren when we give them a book “Since one of my sons had Through the collection of poverty. “Books allow knowledge. of their own. Project BRANT died at the age of two, Brant gave books by DCCW members and “Our goal is for children to Knowledge provides confidence enables our members to practice me the opportunity to share the generosity of donors, such as have their own books that hope- and a successful future for God’s the mission of Jesus by sharing countless hours escaping to Gladys Ryan, now deceased, and fully they will read with their children, not to mention an es- our time, talent and treasure.”

Celebrating 150 Christmas Seasons

In the days leading up to Christmas, our faith is nurtured and strengthened as we think of the Christ Child born so long ago under such humble circumstances. With nowhere else to turn, Mary and Joseph sought shelter in a stable as they awaited the birth of their child. It’s impossible to imagine the joy and wonder Mary felt as she gazed at her newborn son, knowing that He would change the world. It’s so appropriate that this year, during this joyous season, we also commemorate St. Vincent de Paul’s 150th anniversary of service in our community.

Since 1865, we have been helping the needy – people like those in the photos on this page. These are just a few of the hundreds of thousands we have been blessed to serve since then: men, women, and children who, like Mary and Joseph, had nowhere else to turn.

On Christmas Day, our St. Vincent de Paul Dining Room will serve a traditional holiday meal, but, more importantly, we will be there every day, serving over 240,000 meals this year. Every night, our Bishop Ott Shelter Program opens its doors to the homeless. This year, we will provide over 26,000 guest nights of shelter to men, women, mothers and children. Whether our guests need a job, substance abuse treatment, or simply a chance to start over, we will give them the hand-up they need to turn their lives around. Our pharmacy will also be there for the needy of our community. In 2015, we will fill over 30,000 prescriptions for people who desperately need their life-sustaining medication – the best Christmas present they could receive.

Giving a hand-up to the poor and homeless has Cut out and send in with your financial gift. been our guiding principle for 150 years. At St. Vincent de Paul, I have enclosed a Christmas gift of $______to St. Vincent de Paul. $1 will provide a hot meal; $10 will provide a night of shelter for a Name: ______homeless family; and $28 will fill a life-sustaining prescription; so Address: ______you can imagine what a difference a larger gift can make. City, State, Zip: ______

Two Ways to make your gift before the end of the year: ¾ Mail your gift to St. Vincent de Paul at P.O. Box 127, Baton Rouge, LA 70821 and have it postmarked by December 31, 2015. ¾ Make your gift online at www.svdpbr.org before midnight December 31, 2015.