THE PAGE 4 Faith Fund helps people with Payday loans December ommentator7, 2018 Vol. 56, No. 22 SERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1963 thecatholiccommentator.org C HOLIDAY SCRIBE Fr. Uter personalizes Christmas messages

By Debbie Shelley The Catholic Commentator

Shortly after Labor Day, when the only signs of Christmas are at retail outlets and drug stores, Father Frank Uter takes a seat at his kitchen table in his rectory and pens personal tid- ings in Christmas cards to each of the Father Frank Uter writes messages in Christmas cards that will be mailed out to parishioners at Church 4,100 families at Immaculate Concep- in Denham Springs and its mission church, Sacred Heart in Livingston. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator tion Church in Denham Springs and its mission church, Sacred Heart in Liv- out the personalized Christmas cards and her ministries and religious “That was my first pastorship,” he ingston. came from Paul VI’s 1975 encycli- education. But Pope Paul VI reminded said. He has carried out this tradition for cal, “Evangelii Nuntiandi” or “Evangeli- us how important it is to evangelize, to The St. Mary staff had Christmas decades, across the Diocese of Baton zation in the Modern World.” reach out beyond the pews.” cards printed up and were going to Rouge at the various church parishes “Evangelization has always been Father Uter attended workshops on print labels and send them out. where he has served. During that time part of the church’s ministry since the the encyclical, and in 1976 he was as- “I got a few parishioners together he has likely used many gallons of ink. ascension of our Lord,” said Father Uter. signed as pastor to St. Mary of False that were active in the parish and a few Father Uter’s inspiration for sending “But our focus primarily was within the River Church in New Roads. SEE CARDS PAGE 19 Sticker campaign spreads nationally

By Richard Meek when the young priest was serving as pa- The Catholic Commentator rochial vicar at St. John the Evangelist Church in Prairieville, called his friend Perhaps never before has a governmental agency flub presented and asked, “How many stickers do you such an opportunity for evangelization. want?” Yet, that is what happened from the fallout of the Louisiana Sec- “He told me I was crazy, which I retary of State’s office running out of ‘I Voted’ stickers Tuesday, Nov. probably am,” said Husers an insurance 6, when voters went to the polls. The governmental faux pas created agent, who remains a St. John parishio- a tsunami of complaints on social media, with people asking why ner. they were unable to get the sticker, which is ubiquitous on election “I had no intention of making stickers,” day. admitted Father Alello, who maintains an ac- At one point, Father Michael Alello, pastor at St. Thomas More tive social media presence and believes that me- Church in Baton Rouge, posted on his social media account, “Don’t dium is one of his ministries. “It was simply a sar- worry, you will get an “I Prayed Today” sticker today when you castic joke to play on what was going on in the community come to Mass.” at the time.” Even the personable Father Alello, who admitted his post was a A week later, ministers at St. Thomas More were distributing “sarcastic joke,” could not predict the impact that post would have 2,500 stickers at the weekend Masses, as were ministers at St. not only in the Baton Rouge area but across the country. Shortly John. Additionally, Father Josh Johnson ordered stickers to be dis- SEE STICKERS after reading the post, Todd Husers, who first met Father Alello tributed at Holy Rosary Church in St. Amant. PAGE 20 2 The Catholic Commentator December 7, 2018 | DID YOU KNOW What should I do?

A Pearl By Dina Dow how we may have subtly drifted away from our relationship with God, or how others we know The liturgical season of Advent is upon have seemingly drifted. What causes this us. This year there are 23 days in Advent, yet drift? It depends. Some are moving so quickly Harbor at the time of this publication, there will be (12,300 mph perhaps), others struggle to face 17 days remaining. This means the day, while still others Christmas Day is 18 days away. just do not think about it. However, wait a moment be- Life-Giving Whatever the reason, it is in hero fore jumping ahead to Christmas. FAI H these times we are to be a light Rushing through Advent is like rush- of joy to another through prayer On the morning of Dec. 7, 1941, ing the cooking time of a roast, which and action. In fact, in the Letter Father Al Schmitt, a Navy chap- ends up being under-cooked; it is not quite to the Philippians, St. Paul prays with “joy lain aboard the USS Oklahoma in ready. Advent tends to be over-shadowed by and confidence.” His prayers ask that their Pearl Harbor, awoke to celebrate the secularism of the season. People’s anxi- love will increase in knowing Jesus, in aware- Mass on board the Nevada-class ety levels increase the closer Christmas draws ness of his life and in discerning the value of battleship. near for various reasons: impending travel, good moral actions. We can ask for the same, Only minutes after the Sun- purchasing gifts, socializing events. Still oth- praying, “Lord, help me to know, to love and day morning Mass had ended, the ers are struggling with the loss of a loved one, to serve you.” Oklahoma was torpedoed during illness, economic strife and other life issues. St. John the Baptist knew this so well. the Japanese’s surprise attack The Mass readings for the second and Placed in the historical context, the Gospel on the Hawaiian Islands. Father commissioned a destroyer escort third Sundays in Advent offer an invitation of Luke describes the state of the union by Schmitt, along with several other named the USS Schmitt in 1943, to set aside our anxieties and awaken to the listing the earthly power in the early years of shipmates, was trapped in a small which was launched by the chap- splendor of the Lord. Imagine the most beau- Jesus’ life. Here stands St. John the Baptist compartment with only a small lain’s sister. tiful sunrise ever seen. We stop, take a mental on the threshold of covenants. Behind him porthole as an escape route. In 1944, the Navy Department image and feel the surge of something beyond are generations following God’s plan for sal- Father Schmitt, a native of St. presented a 24-inch crucifix, ourselves. Advent is this holy pause, a slowing vation. Some paths are straighter than others Lucas, Iowa who was ordained made of teakwood recovered from down to see the rays shoot up as the dawn re- are. In front of him is the path, theway, and Dec. 8, 1935, helped several men the deck of the Oklahoma and veals the “light of glory” pouring forth from only way. However, the way must be prepared. to escape, and when it came time metal from the ship’s deck, to the the Nativity of the Christ. If we are moving 12,300 mph, we may not be for him to leave, he declined. Ul- Archdiocese of Dubuque. 12,300 mph able to stop fast enough, to make ready and to timately, he helped 12 men escape Additionally, the Christ the It is impressive that the latest NASA In- relish this moment. We must remember those before he died, becoming the first King Chapel at Loras College in Sight Lander entered the atmosphere of Mars who have gone before us to clear the path. Our chaplain of any Dubuque, where at the speed of 12,300 mph, and then gen- calling is similar: to make straight the path for faith to die in World Father Schmitt at- tly landed in six minutes and 30 seconds by those who follow us as we hand on the faith War II. Father Schmitt tended, was dedi- means of a parachute, 12 powerful engines to our children, family, friends and strangers. His heroics re- cated in his mem- and three legs. Talk about a rapid slow down! Who prepared the way for me? How can I pre- portedly inspired a was honored ory. Some of his This precision took years of preparation. Ad- pare the way for others? number of priests to property that was vent is the season to prepare and to rapidly What should I do? become chaplains posthumously donated to the slow down, and gently step into the Nativity St. John the Baptist, as written in the Gos- during the war. school is on display of our Lord. pel of Luke, is asked, “What should I do?” as Following or- with a Purple in the chapel. The second Sunday of Advent helps steer he just proclaimed to those within earshot to dination Father In September our course toward the Incarnation with a prepare the way for the Lord. People from all Schmitt, who as a Heart along with 2016, it was an- sense of gratitude, joy and confidence. The states-of-life ask him this question. He shares seminarian stud- nounced that Fa- prophet Baruch tells of God’s plan to lead fundamental answers, “Share clothing and ied at the Pontifical the Navy and ther Schmitt’s re- the “scattered” suffering back together. This food with the needy, don’t steal, avoid threat- North American mains had been is a great thing. This reminds us to place our ening someone and giving false accusations, College in Rome, Marine Corps identified among 61 sorrows into the hands of God, thus allow- and be content with what you earn.” Some are served in a num- caskets with “un- ing him to lead us home in joy. Counting thinking he is the long-awaited Messiah with ber of parishes in Medal. known” soldiers our blessings over our sorrows increas- such powerful conviction. Ultimately, he tells Dubuque, Iowa, in Hawaii. While es our gratitude, even though the sorrows them someone greater that he is coming with and one in Chey- recovering his re- seem to consume us. a like no other. enne, Wyoming. In 1939 he asked mains, Father Schmitt’s liturgical Advent is also a time for us to think about SEE GOSPEL PAGE 15 for and received permission to book was also located. One month become a chaplain and joined the later, his remains were transport- Navy. In June of that year, he was ed to Iowa and a service held in St. appointed Acting Chaplain with a Lucas. rank of Lieutenant, Junior Grade. His remains were then trans- Father Schmitt was honored ported to Loras College for a fu- thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator posthumously with a Purple neral service held at Christ the Heart along with the Navy and King. Nearly 200 people were in Bishop Michael G. Duca Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager Marine Corps Medal. The Navy attendance to pay their respects. Father Tom Ranzino Associate Publisher Bonny Van Staff Writer Richard Meek Editor Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor Nicole Latiolais Graphic Designer | CLARIFICATION The Catholic Commentator (ISSN 07460511; USPS 093-680) Published bi-weekly (every other week) by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge,1800 South Acadian Thruway, The information submitted by Our Lady of Mercy Church in Baton Baton Rouge, LA 70808; 225-387-0983 or 225-387-0561. Periodical Postage Paid at Baton Rouge, LA. Copy must Rouge regarding the date of its Handel’s Messiah Advent concert that was reach the above address by Wednesday for use in the next week’s paper. Subscription rate: $14.00 per year. POST- included in the Christmas special section of The Catholic Commentator MASTER, send address changes to The Catholic Commentator, P.O. Box 14746, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4746. was incorrect. The concert will be held Sunday, Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. December 7, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 3 Domestic Church helps couples grow in marriage

By Debbie Shelley for that. First, Michael and I were The Catholic Commentator not ‘movement’ kind of people or so we thought. We were wary of Erin Franco remembers a that term for some reason,” said time early in her marriage when Erin. “Secondly, I don’t think she had difficulty looking at her we were interested up until that husband. (first Domestic Church) retreat As a young couple she and because we hadn’t encountered her husband, Michael, believed enough struggle yet.” their love for each other would But as pressures mounted Michael and Erin Franco have been nominated to be a national spokes couple for the Domestic Church allow them to withstand any on their marriage, Erin begged movement. Their children are, from left, Aidan, seated on Erin, Gabriel, Faith, Gianna and Roman. Photo provid- of life’s difficulties but babies, Michael to go on a men’s retreat. ed by Olivia Gulino changing jobs, financial hard- Returning from the retreat, ship and other stressors tested Michael said he would go on a they are encouraged to “meet in marriage, according to Michael. cos to find time to pray together, that love. marriage retreat, but changed the middle,” especially when it Sometimes it takes saying “no” and sometimes it may be a sim- “I remember there were his mind as the afterglow of the comes to faith. to good things they could do ple Our Father prayer at the end weeks (when they were experi- event faded. Sometimes when the Francos separately in order to spend free of the day. encing financial setbacks) that I However, Erin had already meet with their circle of couples, nights talking and spending And there’s some vulnerabil- was so angry and confused that I signed up for the retreat saying, they realize they haven’t prayed time together. ity involved as they open up to could barely look at my husband, “Sorry babe, we have to go now.” together as much as they could “We take time to watch LSU each other. let alone have a safe, honest con- While praying at adoration have. But they receive encour- ball games together or other ex- “I’m not typically one to pray versation about how we are do- during the retreat the couple agement and information that tracurricular activities,” said Mi- out loud. I’m more of ‘pray silent- ing as a couple,” she said. said they felt the Holy Spirit tell strengthens their resolve to con- chael, who met Erin at Christ the ly,’ ” said Michael. “That’s been a The saving grace for their them, “I want this for you guys.” tinue their journey. King Church and Catholic Center constant a hurdle you can say to marriage is not “something that Since then they have heralded And that includes setting pri- at LSU. pray spontaneously out loud.” reinvents the wheel” they said, the life-giving elements of Do- orities when it comes to their It can be difficult for the Fran- SEE CHURCH PAGE 15 but a movement for sacramen- mestic Church. tally married Catholic couples The movement focuses on Learn More & Register here: that began in Poland 40 years catechesis, formation and ac- ago with support from St. John cessing the treasures of the https://goo.gl/AnrgbL Paul II. church’s teachings on marriage, The movement, Domestic family life, prayer, Scripture and WORKSHOP FOR Church, gives couples lifelong the sacraments, according to the formation in personal, marital Francos. PARENTS & TEACHERS and family spirituality. Couples begin by going on The Franco’s initial reluc- an evangelization retreat in OF YOUTH GRADES 6 – 8 tance to participate eventually order to experience the Gos- turned around as they em- pel and saving power of Christ Would you like to understand your pre-teen/teen better? braced the values it nurtures. as a couple. Then the couples Be able to talk to him/her about tough issues? They are now coordinators for have the opportunity to join a Domestic Church for the Dio- circle of four other couples and Saturday, January 5, 2019 cese of Baton Rouge and have a priest. The couples are of dif- 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. been nominated to be a nation- ferent ages and walks in life, Catholic Life Center al spokescouple. The national whose insight the Francos find couple will be announced the enriching. $45.00 includes Lunch weekend of Dec. 8 during the The circle meets once a Brain Butler, Presenter national meeting that will be month in the homes of its held in Baton Rouge. members to share the joys and The Francos, who have sorrows of the journey, pray been married 10 years and are together and go over new for- members of Our Lady of Mercy mation material for the month. Church in Baton Rouge, heard They also look at their progress about Domestic Church from in spiritual growth according their close friends and current to seven promises: daily indi- national spokescouple David vidual prayer, daily study of and Kate Dawson, who brought Scripture, daily couple prayer, the movement to the United daily family prayer, monthly States a few years ago. couple dialogue, the rule of life Initially, the Francos were not and yearly retreat. interested. The circles are a “gentle ac- “Looking back – and I’ll be countability” and couples aren’t honest – there are two reasons expected to be perfect. However, 4 The Catholic Commentator December 7, 2018 Faith Fund offers a way out of payday loan debt

By Richard Meek lating principal compounded by high in- and the Catholic Campaign for Human Consumers are also afforded the op- The Catholic Commentator terest rates, many people find themselves Development. portunity to enroll in a credit repair pro- ensnared in a financial crevasse that of- The applicant will then come to the gram through the credit union at no addi- Consumers shackled by the tradition- fers no escape. north Baton Rouge office where Faith tional cost, and those individuals will be al high interest rates of payday loans now Lester Dale, director of the CCDBR Fund is housed and meet with a credit allowed to open up a savings account with have an avenue to establishing financial program, said he met one person who had union representative. an annual $5 charge. stability. eight different payday loans. Eventually, If approved, the credit union calcu- “I’m very excited about this program,” of the Diocese Ba- the individual was paying $800 of a $900 lates the amount owed and pays off that Dale said, adding that since Faith Fund ton Rouge, with the assistance of several paycheck to pay back loans, creating a sit- balance to the payday institution. The was rolled out in October, 97 people have partners, recently launched Faith Fund, uation where the individual had to contin- individual’s loan from the credit union is applied for loans, with the majority being an innovative program that will allow ually borrow more money. paid monthly rather than every payday at approved. “It’s convenient, it’s right in the borrowers to pay off those loans while “The interest rate is how (payday loan a greatly reduced rate of 5.99 percent. community, easy to get to us.” also receiving financial advice and bud- companies) pay their bills,” Dale said, Loans are capped at $1,500. Aguillard said the seed was planted geting education. adding he once watched five individuals “Monthly it’s a savings, versus paying several years ago on the heels of a failed “Our mission is not just to advocate pay off loans only to get the money back the entire loan back every pay period,” proposal in the Louisiana Legislature (for the less fortunate) but our mission is via a new loan. Dale said. “They (individuals) see more that would have capped the interest rate to do things (to) serve the poor,” CCDBR He said Faith Fund is simplistic in its money than what they have been doing in payday loan companies can charge. As executive director David Agiullard said. approach and features three specific steps the past.” recently as May, a legislative committee “It’s part of our Catholic mission that we that not only offer immediate financial re- Additionally, the borrowers are re- rejected a proposed bill that would have offer solutions.” lief but also helps the person repair their quired to attend monthly financial coun- created a payday loan product offering Aguillard noted that consumers often credit score and live within their means seling sessions for one year, where finan- loans from $500 to $875 to be paid off in turn to payday loan companies when ex- while planning for the future. cial consultants will analyze the revenue three to 12 months. periencing a cash crunch. But many of The first step is to complete an on- coming in and what is being spent. Af- That bill would have also capped the those companies, including national or- line application that will be followed by ter each session, the individual is given interest rate at 167 percent ganizations, charge interest rates that can a phone call either from Dale or the New homework to complete, such as making Currently, state law mandates lenders range from 500 percent to nearly 700 per- Orleans Firemen’s Federal Credit Union, calls to credit card companies or making cap the loan at $350 for up to 30 days. cent, he added. one of the program’s sponsors. arrangements to pay off bills. Aguillard originally believed that “if Consumers are often caught in the web Other partners include Our Lady of the The consultants also offer advice on these (payday loan) organizations have of paying off one loan then immediately Lake Regional Medical Center, the Baton how to cut back spending so a savings effective rates of 500 percent, surely taking out another loan. Given the esca- Rouge nonprofit agency MetroMorphosis plan can be established. SEE LOANS PAGE 15 Coming Now AcceptiNg orders For the 2018-19 Baton Rouge January 4, 2019 Diocese DiRectoRy Order your copy of the 2018-19 When should you consider inpatient hospice care? 2019 Mass Schedule Baton Rouge Diocese Directory January 5, 2018 2018 MASS SCHEDULE The Catholic Commentator 32 with all of the current listings and The Mass Schedules has information on churches, clergy, • The most current schedules for the schools, diocesan departments churches in the Diocese of Baton Rouge. 2018 – 2017 Directory Rouge Baton of Diocese 2018 Mass • The most current clergy, phone and personnel, religious, retreat centers, deaneries, Schedule numbers, mailing and email addresses, The Carpenter House staff is ready to intervene if you or a loved one are facing clinical problems that cannot be addressed at home with traditional hospice care. If the patient meets criteria, we can help manage uncontrolled symptoms from the comfort of our inpatient facility,

directions to the churches and website institutionsSt. Joseph Hospice and organizations.The Carpenter House. The Carpenter House provides is a home-like theconfi denceatmosphere and security where patientsof a hospital and family with the members comforts can of receive a home assistance with symptom management and, when appropriate, their stay is covered by Medicare. You can feel confi dent knowing your loved one is cared for by our experienced team . names. professionals. Most common uncontrolled symptoms: of healthcare • Index Masses both alphabetically by  Uncontrolled pain To place Pain requiring your use of IV-administered order, medications fill out the form  Unresolved dyspnea or shortness of breath  Uncontrolled nausea/vomiting towns and by time of day.  Uncontrolled anxiety or agitation below  Terminal and agitation mail to The CatholicT S ®  Uncontrolled or unresolved pruritis JOSEPH  Uncontrolled constipation or diarrhea H O S P I C E • Lists Spanish and signed Masses for Commentator, P. O. BoxQuestions? 3316, Let us help. Call 225-769-4810. Baton Hearing Impaired Masses. Rouge,Replace LA fear 70821-3316 with confi dence. Call The Carpenterwith House a check today. • Is inserted into all The Catholic or money order for $9.50 for each Diocese of Baton Rouge D I O C E S E O F B A T O N R O U G E Commentator and circulated into area directory ordered.

Supplement of The Catholic Commentator hotels for guests to use To reserve your space call by December 5 or until all spaces are sold out! Number of Directories Ordered Advertising space is limited and sold on Name a first come first serve basis. Address Advertisers will receive complimentary color in their ad. City State Zip Call Wanda Koch at 225-387-0983 or email [email protected] Phone including area code December 7, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 5 Former inmates enjoy holiday meal at Joseph Homes

By Bonny Van in the same situation with me The Catholic Commentator and seeing people doing better … and helping one another,” Cre- One early evening during late tian stated of the Nov. 15 gath- fall, the darkness of night sur- ering. “That’s what it’s all about rounded the St. Vincent de Paul helping: loving on each other and dining room in Baton Rouge, but helping somebody to the next inside, the dim lights were aided level. by the bright smiles of the men “And most of the guys, when Barry Williams, left, enjoys a Thanksgiving meal with Joseph Homes residents, supporters and volunteers. seated at the tables. they look at me, I make it look Williams was released one week earlier from Angola after serving 41½ years in prison. Photo by Bonny Van | The Clad in dark winter clothes, easy, but it wasn’t easy. You just Catholic Commentator their eyes, their faces, their have to stay focused and that’s shoulders and their demean- what I did.” or told their stories … even as Staying focused and staying For the men, there was some- they verbally shared their jour- connected appear to be the main thing else: a bond that was as neys that brought them there to ingredients of success for these strong as family because of time the Thanksgiving celebration of returning citizens who are ready spent behind bars. During the in- Joseph Homes of the Catholic for a second chance at doing troductions, former Angola pris- Charities of the Diocese of Baton things right. oner Robert Brown, also known Rouge. Barry Williams, 58, of Alex- as Rodan, explained why he still Joseph Homes provides tem- andria was released Nov. 8 from comes around. porary housing for former in- the Louisiana State Penitentiary “I did 50 years in Angola,” said mates who are now homeless. in Angola where he’d spent the Brown. “Whenever I can, I usual- Joseph Homes resident Mar- last 41½ years. ly hang around and try to help the cus Cretian of Arnaudville was “This here (Thanksgiving din- fellows out. A lot of them wasn’t released in June from Dixon Cor- ner) makes me feel like I’m free,” as fortunate as I was. (When) I rectional Institute in Jackson. He said Williams. “Once I stepped came home, I had somebody to told the group about riding the on this concrete (outside of An- come home to.” bus one early June morning and gola), that’s what I always said Now, this group of men is Magnolia House talking to a fellow bus rider about when I was locked up, if I ever get coming home to each other. And, trying to find a job. my feet on that concrete, I’m go- that could be just the support Estate Sales Major Smith, another fellow ing to be a nice person.” and love that will help Williams bus rider, overheard the conver- The meal, complete with tur- stay positive. It was certainly a sation and mentioned a job open- key, ham and all the trimmings, surprise when he walked into 225-383-6923 ing to Cretian. It was a simple was prepared by offenders at the the dining room to see so many Estate Liquidation gesture, but a life changing one State Police Inmate Barracks and familiar faces from a familiar for Cretian, who was so appre- served by Joseph Homes resi- journey. Rex Ransome ciative that he invited Smith to dents or former residents. It’s an “It was a shock, it really was www.MagnoiaHouseEstateSales.com be his guest for the Thanksgiving annual event that is full of smiles, strange,” said Williams. “I fig- dinner. hope and thanksgiving. ured there were going to (be) peo- “At 5 (a.m.) they put you out “It’s just a time for them to ple (from) the streets. I didn’t fig- (of the Bishop Stanely J. Ott share and so many of them that ure it was going to be a bunch of homeless shelter) and I went on were here tonight, this is their people I (already) know, you see the bus to see how the city (Baton first free Thanksgiving in de- what I’m saying? Now, I’m more Rouge) was ran, you know, and I cades and decades,” emphasized comfortable, being around the saw Major on the bus (but) I was Linda Fjeldsjo, coordinator of people that I knew for 40 years. talking to another guy about a Joseph Homes. “And that’s why Even if they give you 25 years, 30 job,” explained Cretian. “That’s there’s that camaraderie. It’s a (years), 15 (years) … I know those ATTORNEYS AT LAW when Major said, ‘God told me to very special time for them.” people, you heard me?” 270 S. Sharp Road • Baton Rouge, LA 70815 • (225) 924-7597 tell you, man, to come fill out this application.’ Ever since then I’ve JAMES R. COXE, III and ASSOCIATES been rolling.” Personal Injury General Practice AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS WILLS and SUCCESSIONS From the Bishop Ott Shelter, WRONGFUL DEATH CORPORATIONS RESTHAVEN PRODUCT LIABILITY SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY Cretian moved to Joseph Homes GARDENS OF MEMORY & FUNERAL HOME SEAMAN/HARBOR WORKERS CLAIMS REAL ESTATES where he would walk to the bus MEDICAL MALPRACTICE CRIMINAL DEFENSE station at 4:30 every morning ® Family Law Personal Bankruptcy to get to his job at an industrial We make it personal. Notary in Office company. Six weeks later, he had for a better farewell TELEPHONE (225) 924-7597 “In Home Consultations on Request” saved enough money to buy a car. “It was a blessing to be reunit- 11817 Jefferson Highway 225-753-1440 ed with brothers that (had) been www.resthavenbatonrouge.com

2x2” Rest.small.honor.those.cc’16 6 The Catholic Commentator December 7, 2018 Can Lutheran receive Catholic Eucharist?/ Possible to confess online?

One of my sisters who is Lu- communion with the , ple, on just how inconvenient it would withheld) theran recently moved to an who cannot approach a minister of their be for your sister to attend the nearest In 2015, , in speak- Qarea where there is no Lutheran own community and who seek such on Lutheran church.) ing to the Vatican’s marriage tri- church, so she started attending Mass at their own accord, provided that they Abunal, expressed his desire that a nearby Catholic parish. She has been manifest Catholic faith in Is Catholic con- all annulment processes should be free receiving the Eucharist at Mass even respect to these sacraments fession available of charge. (He also intimated that a fair though she is not Catholic. She says that and are properly disposed.” Qonline? This number of marriages might actually be she asked the Catholic pastor and he From the wording of the would be so convenient. invalid and that tribunal judges should said that it was OK. Is it? canon, it would seem that (Baton Rouge, Louisi- seek to “determine if there was an I find this completely wrong because all of these several condi- ana) original lack of consent, either directly when I converted to the Catholic faith tions must be satisfied; it Certainly at this because of a lack of a valid intention, or 30 years ago, I was required to complete would not be enough, for time, there is no because of a grave lack of understanding RCIA classes. Has anything changed on example, simply that the Aprovision in the of marriage itself.”) this? (Chesapeake, Virginia) non-Catholic acknowledges church’s sacramental Previous to this, diocesan marriage As a general rule, the church’s the reality of Christ present practice for online con- courts customarily charged a fairly nom- Code of Canon Law provides under the symbols of bread fession and absolution. inal fee for processing an annulment – to Athat Catholic ministers lawfully and wine. Some typical Implicit in the church’s cover the cost, for example, of having the administer Catholic sacraments only examples of “grave necessi- Code of Canon Law testimony evaluated by a psychologist. to Catholics (Canon 844.1). That same ty” I have seen mentioned (Canon 959 ff.) is the no- (Fees were waived in cases of financial canon does go on to say that there are include a non-Catholic sol- Question Corner tion that the penitent is difficulty.) Since 2015, though, certainly certain situations in which believing dier who is present at Mass Father Kenneth Doyle in the personal presence most dioceses – if not all – have elimi- non-Catholics might be admitted to the and about to go into battle of the confessor. nated the fees entirely. sacraments, but only under very specific or someone gravely ill in a nursing home In fact, in 2011, when the Vatican gave Anyhow, in your case the issue of fees circumstances. whose own minister rarely visits. qualified support to a new app designed is irrelevant since you don’t need a full- Canon 844.4 explains that “if the This same canon does give some to help people examine their consciences, fledged marriage annulment. I am not danger of death is present or if, in the latitude to a bishop in determining what then-Vatican spokesman Father Federico entirely sure, from your question, wheth- judgment of the or qualifies as a “grave necessity,” so I would Lombardi was careful to tell reporters, er the woman you now want to marry in conference of bishops, some other grave think that the safest course would be to “It is essential to understand well the a Catholic ceremony is the same woman necessity urges it, Catholic ministers contact your own diocesan office. (It may sacrament of penitence requires the you married earlier in the Methodist administer these same sacraments licitly be that your diocese has already issued personal dialogue between the penitent church. also to other Christians not having full guidelines; and it could hinge, for exam- and the confessor and the absolution by If it is – and assuming that you had the confessor.” not received a dispensation from the “This cannot in any way be substi- Catholic Church to marry her in the Look for tuted by a technology application. One Methodist ceremony – what you would he aThoLiC ommenTaTor cannot talk in any way about ‘a confes- need to do is to go to confession and tell T C C sion via iPhone,’ ” he said. the priest that you were married in a aT your LoCaL ouTLeTs inCLuding: The is de- ceremony not approved by the Catholic signed to be, for the penitent, an Church. Then you would be clear to mar- ✔ Affinity Nursing Home, Baton Rouge ✔ Oak Wood Nursing Home, Zachary encounter with Jesus Christ through ry her in a Catholic ceremony. ✔ Anthony's Deli, Baton Rouge ✔ Old Jefferson Community Care, the person of the priest. It is difficult If, however, your earlier (Methodist) ✔ Alexander’s Highland Market, Baton Rouge for me to see how the internet would marriage was to a different woman, you Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Regional permit that close personal contact with do need to get that marriage cleared ✔ Ascension Books & Gifts, Gonzales Medical Center, Baton Rouge and the Lord. The additional concern I away before being married in a Catholic ✔ Baton Rouge General Hospital, Walker would have is for the privacy that is so ceremony. Baton Rouge ✔ Our Lady of the Lake Physician integral to the sacrament of penance, What you would need now is just a ✔ Baton Rouge Healthcare, Baker Group, offices with locations the danger that an internet confession declaration that this earlier marriage was ✔ Benedetto’s Market, Addis throughout the Diocese could be recorded or hacked. never recognized by the Catholic Church ✔ Bohning Supermarket, Ponchatoula ✔ Reeve’s Supermarket, Baton Rouge Having said this, I do not think that a decree from a Catholic tribunal stating ✔ ✔ Calandro’s Supermarkets, Rouses, Baton Rouge, Gonzales, the physical presence of the absolving the “absence of canonical form.” This is Baton Rouge Donaldsonville, Hammond, Plaquemine, priest is necessarily by divine mandate; far simpler than a marriage annulment ✔ and Gifts, Baton Rouge Prairieville and Zachary so online confession could conceivably be and much quicker. Your first step should ✔ ✔ Daigle’s Supermarket, White Castle St. Elizabeth Hospital, Gonzales permitted by the church sometime in the be to talk to your parish priest – or any ✔ ✔ Fran U, Baton Rouge St. Mary’s Books & Gifts, distant future, provided that the priva- priest you know – and he will guide you ✔ Slaughter Baton Rouge Grace Healthcare, cy concerns could be addressed – but I through the process. ✔ Hi Nabor Supermarkets, Baton Rouge ✔ St. Vincent dePaul Stores throughout wouldn’t wait for that to happen before ✔ Hubbins Grocery, Port Allen the diocese confessing my sins! FATHER DOYLE is a retired priest in the ✔ Lane Regional Hospital, Zachary ✔ Schexnayer Supermarket, Vacherie Diocese of Albany, New York. Ques- ✔ Louisiana Vet Home, Jackson ✔ Southside Produce, Baton Rouge Is there a fee for nullity? (I was tions may be sent to Father Kenneth ✔ Matherne’s Supermarkets, ✔ Tony’s Seafood, Baton Rouge married in a Methodist church Doyle at [email protected] Baton Rouge ✔ UPS Store, Coursey Blvd., Baton ✔ Magnuson Hotel, St. Francisville Rouge Qand now want to get remarried and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, ✔ North Ridgely Healthcare, Baker ✔ Whole Foods Market, Baton Rouge in a Catholic ceremony.) (City of origin NY 12203. ✔ Oak Point Supermarket, Central ✔ Winn Dixie in Hammond, New Roads the Catholic COMMENTATOR as well as your local church parish Hot-off the Press & Delivered to You for Only $14 per year To subscribe, call 225-387-0983. December 7, 2018 faith journey The Catholic Commentator 7

in God’s will without understanding and tercessor for my family. I remember even before the angel’s appearance. receiving my first job out of law school “While I can surely believe he must on the ninth day of a St. Joseph novena have been anxious about how things were that my wife and I prayed together,” said unfolding, and was likely confused ini- Scott. tially on what it all meant, through unity And St. Joseph leads and intercedes in prayer, his final decision was definitive quietly, according to Hermann. and absolute.” “With 30 of 33 years of Jesus’ life Which allowed St. Joseph to step for- veiled with the walls of the Holy House ward with confidence. in Nazareth, we know St. Joseph taught “I know we tend to focus on the great Jesus how to live and work within society responsibility that St. Joseph takes on, while knowing all along that he was the but as a father, I see another dimension to son of God. The second greatest , this. God has my back,” said Scott. “That’s having lived as a humble husband and fa- how I would feel as Joseph. Joseph won’t ther and craftsman, never a word of his have to bear this burden alone. There’s an was recorded in Scripture. That is why it extremely rough road ahead, but God’s was so difficult for the people of Nazareth angels will never be far off. I would be em- to grasp how Jesus could be the son of boldened to, as St. John Paul II says, ‘Put God, coming from such a humble home, out into the deep.’ ” shrouded in peace and tranquility,” said Chiappetta agreed, saying Hermann. “God is always two steps ahead. And we When reflecting this Advent on the life don’t need to know it.” of the unassuming husband of Mary, peo- Because of his trust, St. Joseph took ple can see it wasn’t because of St. Joseph’s care of the even if it went greatness, but his availability that he was “beyond the parameters of comfort and chosen to play an important role in God’s security for him,” noted Deacon Chi- incarnation, said Deacon Chiappetta. appetta. “In masculine terms, God was looking By turning over his plans to care for for ‘an average Joe,’ ” he said. “You don’t the Blessed Mother and Christ child to have to be wealthy or have high status God, St. Joseph is a powerful intercessor to accomplish the works of the Lord. No Seeking guidance from for families, agreed Hermann, Scott and matter who you are or where you are in Deacon Chiappetta. the social structure, you have something ‘an average Joe’ “St. Joseph has been a powerful in- to offer.”

By Debbie Shelley Joseph had four dreams: when the angel The Catholic Commentator told him to not be afraid to take Mary into Give the Gift of Catholic News (Second in a series) his home; to flee to Egypt; to return to the land of Israel; and directing him to live in Imagine St. Joseph’s reaction when he Nazareth to keep his family safe. The Catholic Commentator learned his betrothed Mary, whom he had “I know from personal experience that will be delivered to their not yet had relations, is with child. dreams are a powerful tool for God to mailbox every other Did St. Joseph’s heart pound as he felt speak to us without our ‘screens,’ preju- his dreams shatter? Hurt and confused, dices and biases getting in the way,” said week—all year long. did he withdraw from Mary and struggle Deacon Chiappetta. with anger and self-pity before deciding The deacon is involved in hospice work to divorce her quietly? And when he re- after he was led through dreams to help solved to end things civilly an angel ap- loved ones have a peaceful death. THE CATHOLIC peared and further turned his world up- Scott said God continually spoke to St. Commentator side down by telling him his betrothed is Joseph through dreams, which helped carrying the son of God. him stay strong during times of trial and ENCLOSE Joseph, why were you so quiet? Why tribulation.  Check  Money order for $14 per person per year. didn’t you shout out to the world while all “God’s own screams as an incarnated  Send a gift card.  I want to subscribe as well for an additional $14 per year. those things happened? newborn would have certainly infiltrated To pay by credit card, call The Catholic Commentator at 225-387-0983. Because humble, obedient St. Joseph his sleep and dreams,” quipped Scott. PLEASE SEND SUBSCRIPTION TO: followed his dreams and was willing to With dreams serving as a directional go where God sent him without knowing for God’s plan for the Holy Family, St. Jo- NAME ______where it would take him, say and seph responded with trust. ADDRESS ______lay faithful of the Diocese of Baton Rouge. “As men, we are often too proud to Concerning Mary’s news about her ask for directions much less fully trust in CITY ______STATE ______pregnancy, Scott Smith, vice-chairman of God’s will without understanding the des- ZIP ______GIVEN BY ______the Men of the Immaculata, said, “St. Jo- tination,” said Mark Hermann, chairman seph responds as Christ would. St. Joseph of the Men of the Immaculata. —AND TO— sacrifices himself, his pain, indignation Yet, St. Joseph’s background provided and shame, rather than cast it off onto him the strength to follow God’s direc- NAME ______Mary.” tions. ADDRESS ______St. Joseph received help in facing such “To be chosen by God to be the spiritu- turbulence in his life through dreams, al foster father of the son of man, Joseph CITY ______STATE ______noted Deacon Mike Chiappetta, dea- had to be a man of prayer, faithfulness and ZIP ______GIVEN BY ______con assistant at Immaculate Conception total trust in God,” said Hermann. “This Church in Denham Springs. deep-rooted prayer life allowed him to MAIL TO: THE CATHOLIC COMMENTATOR, P. O. BOX 3316, BATON ROUGE, LA 70821-3316 Deacon Chiappetta pointed out that St. discern the events taking place and trust 8 The Catholic Commentator December 7, 2018 40 Days for Life sees increased participation

By Richard Meek tions are performed. stood vigil on their own. Van paign, traditionally held during even when we are not able to see The Catholic Commentator “To hear about women who Haute said the numbers also in- October to coincide with Re- the results that we would like, chose the leave (Delta Clinic) cluded many families who came spect Life Month, is to bring no prayer or sacrifice, however Nearly 1,500 people partic- is certainly cause for rejoicing, together to pray on the day their together the body of Christ in a small, is lost,” Van Haute said. ipated in the annual 40 Days for both the mom and the baby,” particular church parish adopt- spirit of unity during a focused “It’s always important, after for Life campaign, a slight up- Van Haute said. ed to stand vigil. 40-day campaign of prayer, an event, to take an objective tick from a year ago, according She added each year has “40 Days is really itself a fasting and peaceful activism, look at how things went and get to Danielle Van Haute, Respect brought a tangible measure of source of renewal for those in the all with the purpose of repen- feedback from others. There’s Life director for the Diocese of increased participation. pro-life community,” she said. tance, to seek God’s favor to always room for improvement.” Baton Rouge. “Some years it’s an increase “It’s encouraging to see so many turn hearts and minds from During the 40 days cam- Additionally, Van Haute said in individuals that come out to groups coming out to pray and to a culture of death to a culture paign, pro-life supporters set up she knows of at least 23 women pray; every year has brought know that you are not alone. of life, thus bringing an end to a vigil during operating hours who did not go through with a new groups and many years it’s “And many, many more abortion. of the Delta Clinic. Supporters planned abortion as a direct both,” Van Haute said. joined in prayer and sacrifice She said there are many ways stood vigil at the Women’s New result of volunteers standing Organizers said more than from home.” by which the success of the cam- Life Center, next door to Delta, vigil at the Delta Clinic of Baton 40 organizations participated, She said the mission of the paign is measured. and across the street from the Rouge, a facility where abor- joining many individuals who national 40 Days for Life cam- “We know, however, that clinic. Cardinal: No one has right to demand a pope’s resignation

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – People can the church’s credibility, he said in an in- among priests who must act with the heart trusts to study the situation and then offer disagree about problems and the best terview with the Italian website Vatican of Christ and do what is good for all peo- proposals based on “solid information.” ways to resolve them, but no one should Insider Nov. 27. ple, above all for children and young peo- Beyond the problem of opposing opin- launch a formal accusation against a pope “I am personally convinced that Pope ple,” he said in a lengthy question-and-an- ions, warring factions, propaganda in the much less ask for his resignation, German Francis is doing everything possible to swer piece. media and mutual suspicion, he said, “we Cardinal Gerhard Muller said. oppose the phenomenon of abuse against Asked about Carlo Ma- need a solid foundation of information. Such public attacks put into question minors and to foster a new spirituality ria Vigano’s public call for Pope Francis This is the only way we can make deci- to resign because he felt the pope knew sions for the future.” about the alleged sex abuse The cardinal was asked involving U.S. Archbishop about the Vatican’s re- Theodore E. McCarrick’s quest that the U.S. bishops but still failed to act, Car- postpone voting on sev- dinal Muller said, “No one eral proposals to address has a right to indict the abuse during their annual pope or ask him to resign.” fall general assembly in “Clearly it is possible mid-November. The Con- to have different opinions gregation for Bishops had about existing problems requested that no vote be and the ways to resolve taken on proposals such them, but we have to dis- German Cardinal Gerhard as standards of episcopal cuss this,” each according Muller is pictured in a Nov. accountability and conduct to his or her role and in a 19 photo at the Vatican. and the formation of a spe- discreet way, the cardinal He said in an interview cial commission for review said. with the Italian website of complaints against bish- Such discussions must Vatican Insider that peo- ops for violations of the never become “a public ple can disagree about standards. controversy with attacks problems and how best to Cardinal Muller said that end up calling into resolve them, but no one bishops and the pope each question the credibility of should launch a formal ac- have their own responsibil- the church and her mis- cusation against a pope ities, “but everyone must sion,” he said. much and ask for his resig- collaborate.” The former head of the nation. CNS photo The church’s existing Congregation for the Doc- laws are “sufficient” and trine of the Faith, which is charged with “the norms of the Congregation for the handling cases of clerical sex abuse, said, Doctrine of the Faith already exist,” said “We all have to cooperate in order to over- the cardinal, who led the congregation come this crisis (of abuse) that wounds from 2012 to 2017. the credibility of the church.” He said it would have been better to “Unfortunately, we have these groups, avoid debate and public controversy by these ‘parties’ – the so-called ‘progres- having more discussions well beforehand sives’ and ‘conservatives.’ We are all unit- in Rome and not at the last minute. ed in the revealed faith and not by the bi- “The Holy Father is one person and ases of political ideologies,” he said. he cannot take care of everything. This One way the abuse crisis unfolding in is why there are of the Roman the United States could be handled, for Curia, to collaborate with and come up example, he said, would be for the pope with a well-developed proposal to bring to to create a commission of cardinals he the pope.” December 7, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 9

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE – A sure sign the Christmas sea- son is upon us is when Father Jason Palermo, pastor at St. Joseph Church in French Settlement and St. Stephen the Martyr in Maurepas, sets up his popular Christmas village in his rectory at St. Joseph. The mammoth display is made up of 900 boxes with multiple pieces in each box, and fill the rector garage. Electric trains run throughout the village, which includes a mini-Disneyland as well as other multiple scenes. Below, Kim Bourgeois holds her grandson, two-year-old Julian, who is obviously delight- ed with the display. Photos by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator

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Left to Right Baton Rouge community and educational leaders participated in a turkey carv- ing contest at St. Vincent de Paul in anticipation of the big Thanksgiving feast.

Volunteers from many community service groups and churches helped staff the dining room of St. Vincent de Paul.

Denise Terrance, who operates the kitchen at St. Vincent de Paul, was also in charge of meal preparations at the Raising Cane’s River Center. Giving an d ST. VINCENT DE PAUL Receiving

Pictured, from left, Jamila Ott, Madison Har- By Bonny Van to join forces with SVDP at the River Center. mon and Alexis Bailey, all of Baton Rouge, The Catholic Commentator “It’s a wonderful thing to be giving out dinners, Love volunteered to help out at the River Center. but if they would collaborate with us, then we could In the days leading up to Thanksgiving Day, De- do so much,” said Terrance. “(Guests) could come nise Terrance of Baton Rouge was coordinating the inside, feel the love, feel welcomed, have a delicious finishing touches for a typical holiday feast with tur- meal sitting with people and talking instead of just key, dressing, gravy, sweet potatoes, green beans, getting a to-go plate and eating by themselves.” cranberry sauce, rolls and desert. There were scores of volunteers from the com- But, unlike most people who were cooking for munity ready to serve at the River Center. They in- loved ones, Terrance was preparing for almost 2,000 cluded church members, Girl Scout troops, cadets people at two separate locations in Baton Rouge: the from the Louisiana National Guard Youth Challenge Raising Cane’s River Center and the St. Vincent de Program, individuals and many area community Paul dining room. It’s something she has done for service groups. the past two years since SVDP took over the event at At the St. Vincent de Paul Dining Room, the scene Volunteers welcomed guests, walked them the River Center from Holiday Helpers. was the same but because of limited seating, the line to their tables and served them a Thanksgiv- “It can be overwhelming but you can’t think about of patrons stretched almost a block from the front ing meal at the River Center. it,” admitted Terrance, who relies on kitchen staff door. And, in the courtyard were tents filled with and volunteers to help. bags of toiletries, clothes, shoes, canned goods and For these events, cooks prepared 110 turkeys and fresh fruit for guests to take with them. hundreds of pounds of cornbread dressing, potatoes “We tried this (the tents) a few years ago and it and green beans. Terrance, who has two adult chil- does two things for us,” said Michael Acaldo, pres- dren and seven grandchildren living in Maryland, ident and CEO of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul worked for Child Nutrition Services for the Diocese of Baton Rouge. “One, we only have 120 seats to of Baton Rouge before taking over the SVDP dining serve 600 meals and that’s kind of a challenge and room 15 years ago. so we want to serve as many people in as short of a “My thing has always been food and the love of time as we can. Second, by giving someone a gift – children and the love of people,” she said. “I love a knit cap or a pair of gloves or a coat or whatever what I do, I love taking care of people. It’s not a job, it may be that they need this holiday season – it’s Volunteers from around Baton Rouge and it’s a mission.” a win-win situation. People are excited to see what beyond joined in the celebration at the River Once the cooking was done and the serving be- they’re going to get, they get something they need, Center on Thanksgiving Day. gan, Terrance had just one goal: to make sure each they get a hot nutritious meal and they just can’t Hundreds of volunteers helped serve meals at the guest felt special and welcomed for this holiday of beat it.” At St. Vincent de Paul, guests were St. Vincent de Paul dining room on Thanksgiving thanksgiving. She feels so strongly about it that she “It’s not about giving them the meal, it’s about giv- given the opportunity to shop for Day, Nov. 22. Photos by Bonnie Van | The Catholic Commentator would love others who provide Thanksgiving meals ing them the love on that day,” emphasized Terrance. clothes and food after the meal. 12 The Catholic Commentator December 7, 2018

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From heirloom quality to Fisher Becky Wild, technology coordinator for Ascension , assists students at St. Anne Church in Price…something for everyone! Sorrento parish hall. The church has become a satellite location two days a week for students who live on the east bank of the Mississippi River. Pictured, from left, are Connor Shalley, Andrew Bright, Cody Waguespack and Hunter Walker. Photos by Bonny Van | The Catholic Commentator Hand Painted Nativity Figures & Ornaments Ascension sets up satellite school

By Bonny Van cension School principal Sandy Pizzolato desig- The Catholic Commentator nated a single bus stop in Sorrento for a 6:50 a.m. pickup to transport students to school via the With 6 or On Tuesdays and Thursdays mornings at 8:30 Veterans Memorial Bridge in Gramercy. In the more a.m., students ranging in grades from pre-K to afternoons, riders load the bus 20 minutes ear- Advent- 12, arrive at St. Anne Church in Sorrento to at- lier than normal in order to avoid traffic tie-ups Christmas Items Holiday Hours! get 10% off tend class. and the drop-off is at the same Sorrento location. Open 9am - 6pm December 17 - 21 through For the younger students, that means work- By the second week of the bridge closure, Piz- Dec. 21st sheets and other activities appropriate for their zolato began to search for a satellite location Catholic Art & Gifts grade level. For middle school and high school to give families and faculty a break from the 6184 Florida Blvd. Baton Rouge students, it means logging onto computers and two-hour daily commute. That’s when St. Anne 225.926.1216 • www.zieglers.com streaming live from classrooms located on the Church was approached for accommodations. Hours: M-F 9am-5pm; Sat. 9:30am-4:30pm west bank of the Mississippi River. “We’re just helping each other out,” said Fa- These 35 students attend Ascension Catho- ther Keun-Soo Lee, pastor of St. Anne. lic High School in Donaldsonville but when the “The parents and students have been so ap- Sunshine Bridge was shut down Oct. 12 after a preciative of our efforts to provide this service barge slammed into a support beam, the com- to them,” said Pizzolato. “One student expressed For when mute for students and faculty on the east side of how happy he was that he didn’t have to wake up the river went from 15 minutes to an hour each at 5 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays just to get you get way. to school on time for 8.” “It’s more productive and I get more work Pizzolato admits the challenge has been to done, rather than being distracted in a normal make sure all of the materials are available from buffalo’d. classroom,” said Hunter Walker, a senior who teachers at each grade level, a burden that has lives in Sorrento. “You have to be more indepen- fallen on the teachers. dent but you can definitely catch up on a lot more “Without their support to pre-plan and make work than at typical school.” copies of materials for us to use at the satellite Walker, who is also a member of the cross location, this would not be successful,” she said. Joe Skibinski, Agent 1953 Perkins Rd We’ve got an agent for that. country and track teams, said he has to run on Becky Wild, technology coordinator for As- Baton Rouge, LA 70808 Bus: 225-387-0201 Toll Free: Sometimes you just never know his own rather than with the team on the days cension Catholic School, is one of the satellite in- 888-387-0201 what’s going to cross your path. he’s not commuting. structors and remains with the students to make Just know I have your back. One week after the bridge was shut down, As- sure they are able to access what they need from So when accidents happen, the classrooms. you have a real person who “It’s nice not having to drive an hour for work,” can get the job done right, and said Wild. “The students are happy to be here.” right away. On Nov. 29, the Louisiana Department of De- Like a good neighbor, ® velopment and Transportation announced the State Farm is there. bridge would reopen Dec. 1, with one lane flow- CALL ME TODAY. ing in each direction.

Casey Mays attends class through a computer at the Ascension Catholic School’s satellite location. The satellite location was set up after a barge accident 1101160.2 State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL shut down the Sunshine Bridge, forcing commuters to travel an hour each way to get to the school. December 7, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 13

NEW MEMBERS – Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Baton Rouge inducted 25 new members into its Beta Club on Nov. 7. Pictured, front row from left, are Gabriela Journée, Derald Spears, Edwin Perrault, Claire Tramonte, Morgan Massey, Drew Ourso, Isabella Rawlinson; second row, Lilla Aucoin, Whitney Bracken, David Car- roll, Tavio Cinquemano, Blanche Coleman, Alfred Cooper, James McKay, Averie Har- ris, Turner Hester; and, back row, Caro Bookman, Bennett Barber, Luke Broussard, Reagan Chapman, Danny Woods, Jack McKay, Caroline Campbell, Ethan Hunter and Lucy Herasymiuk. Photo provided by Lisa Black Cossé | Sacred Heart of Jesus School

VOTING COUNTS – Sec- COMMUNITY SERVICE – The sixth-grade Beta Club of Catholic Elementary of Pointe ond-grade students at Coupee in New Roads, along with the help of the other students, collected 2,107 Holy Family School in pounds of food for H.O.P.E. Ministry of Pointe Coupee, the local food bank. Photo Port Allen recently held provided by Megan Girlinghouse | Catholic Elementary of Pointe Coupee a mock election based on the book “Grace for President.” The students explored what an elec- tion is, the voting pro- Coming January 19, 2018 cess, and what they can do to help until they are old enough to vote. Each student was able to fill out a voters’ registration card. Pictured, Aubrey • The most current schedules for theBerthelot churches casts in her the vote. Diocese of Baton Rouge. Photo provided by Annette Fitzgerald | Holy Family School

• Lists Masses both alphabetically by towns and by • Lists timeSpanish of day and signed Masses for Hearing Impaired Masses. CatholiC SChoolS Week 2018 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.

Deadline for this section is January 9, 2018. Call Wanda Koch at 225-387-0983 or email [email protected]. PUMPKIN PATCH – The 4-H club at Holy Ghost School Hammond had a pumpkin decorating contest and pumpkin carving contest at its October meeting. Pictured THE CATHOLIC with their winning pumpkins are, from left, Kayla Merwin, Kady Cormier, Ava Mer- win, Reece Pecoraro, Tate Soileau and Porter Foster. Photo provided by Cindy Wagner | Holy Ghost School C   14 The Catholic Commentator ENTERTAINMENT December 7, 2018

Motion Picture Association of America implied non-marital sexual activity, per- can pianist Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali) MOVIE ratings: vasive rough language. A-III; R in the company of Anthony “Tony Lip” G – General audiences; all ages admitted Vallelonga (Viggo Mortensen), an assis- PG – Parental guidance suggested; some Creed II tant maitre d’ at New York’s Copacabana REVIEWS material may not be suitable for children MGM USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting nightclub who served as both chauffeur PG-13 – Parents are strongly cautioned to classifications: Viewers will know what to expect from and bodyguard. Shirley was famous at give special guidance for attendance of A-I – General patronage this extension of the “Rocky” franchise the time for his recordings of jazz and children under 13; some material may be A-II – Adults and adolescents long before they buy a ticket. Yet the show tunes (since, in that era, promoters inappropriate for young children A-III – Adults tried and true, against-the-odds formula thought audiences wouldn’t accept a black R – Restricted; under 17 requires accom- A-IV – Adults, with reservations panying parent or adult guardian still works somehow. Early on in this classical musician). Director Peter Far- L – Limited adult audience NC-17 – No one under 17 admitted chapter of the saga, the boxer of the title relly, who co-wrote the screenplay with O – Morally offensive (Michael B. Jordan), with the help of his Vallelonga’s son, Nick, and Brian Currie, hard-driving trainer (Sylvester Stallone), shows the journey as a series of individual Instant Family least one rough term, frequent crude and becomes world heavyweight champion. challenges, depending on the venue. The Paramount crass language, an obscene gesture. A-III; He also proposes to his live-in girlfriend film has merit despite its flaws, although After taking in three siblings (Isabela PG-13 (Tessa Thompson), a singer who suffers it’s never clear that either character is Moner, Gustavo Quiroz and Julianna from hearing loss. But the rise of a rival experiencing anything along the lines of Gamiz) from foster care, a good-hearted Beautiful Boy (Florian Munteanu) he feels compelled personal growth. Pervasive racial slurs, couple (Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne) Amazon to take on sets up an emotionally fraught references to homosexuality, fleeting faces a series of challenges that disrupt The sheer randomness of drug addic- match since the up-and-comer is the son rough language. A-III; PG-13 their previously placid lifestyle and leave tion in this case, to crystal meth and the of the Russian fighter (Dolph Lundgren) them wondering if they can cope with ensuing raw family pain are covered ef- whose blows killed the champ’s dad in Ralph Breaks the Internet the commitment they’ve made. Drawing fectively, although succinctly, in this ad- 1985’s “Rocky IV.” Working from a script Disney on his own real-life experience, director aptation of two memoirs by journalist Stallone co-wrote with Juel Taylor, direc- Sweet animated follow-up in which the and co-writer Sean Anders deftly weaves David Sheff (Steve Carell) and his oldest tor Steven Caple Jr. handles themes of two arcade game characters central to amusing incidents with touching emo- son, Nic (Timothee Chalamet). There are disability, family estrangement and good 2012’s “Wreck-It Ralph,” the burly epony- tional interludes. While the result is a no solutions offered in this drama, no sportsmanship with dexterity and man- mous demolition specialist (voice of John fundamentally pro-family film, the script, speeches and no moralizing. Instead, as ages to instill suspense into this sequel C. Reilly) and his best friend (voice of penned with John Morris, includes mate- directed by Felix Van Groeningen from a to 2015’s “Creed,” the seventh successor Sarah Silverman), a diminutive race car rial appropriate for grown-ups only. Much script he co-wrote with Luke Davies, the to Stallone’s 1976 original. Possibly ac- driver, find both their resourcefulness sexual and some scatological humor, im- story finds Dad trying to be supportive ceptable for mature teens. Some intense and their relationship put to the test when plicit acceptance of homosexual relation- to the point of exhaustion until he real- physical violence, premarital cohabita- a difficult-to-replace broken part leaves ships and contraception, a handful of izes that his son has to solve the problem tion, about a dozen crude and at least one the business’ owner (voice of Ed O’Neill) profanities, a couple of milder oaths, at for himself. Frequent drug use, a scene of crass term. A-III; PG-13 ready to trash her game. Taking to the internet in search of the rare item, they Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald encounter a new and challenging environ- Warner Bros. ment, one he resists but she enthusiasti- Sharper sequel to the 2016 original, cally embraces. Directors Phil Johnston once again set in the 1920s, finds the and Rich Moore (Johnson penned the shy, critter-collecting main character of script with Pamela Ribon) deliver a pic- that film (Eddie Redmayne) caught up turesque and often funny adventure that in a multisided struggle among power- carries reassuring lessons about loyalty ful forces within the world of wizardry and forgiveness. Only the easily fright- created by screenwriter J.K. Rowling. ened and those who object to a couple of As the villain of the title (Johnny Depp) potty-themed puns need worry. Cartoon- schemes against non-magical humans, ish mayhem, some peril, fleeting scato- the only opponent capable of defeating logical wordplay. A-II; PG him (Jude Law), mysteriously remains in the background. When not on the male- Robin Hood factor’s trail, the protagonist pursues ro- Summit mance (with Katherine Waterston) and Vicious anti-Catholicism permeates tries to maintain his relationship with this otherwise merely dopey take on the his bureaucrat brother (Callum Turner). classic legend. Taron Egerton as the titu- Returning director David Yates works up lar outlaw teams with a Muslim warrior more energy than marked the last outing, (Jamie Foxx) he met while fighting the though the overly complicated plot and a film’s chronologically unmoored version heavy reliance on special effects and cud- of the Third Crusade to thwart the evil dly animals weakens the proceedings. But schemes of the sheriff of Nottingham the magic on display is unlikely to draw (Ben Mendelsohn) and his more powerful even impressionable youngsters toward patron, an unnamed cardinal (F. Murray the dark side and the script promotes tol- Abraham). Eve Hewson as a feisty Mar- erance and a preference for peace. Much ian provides both the traditional love in- stylized bloodless violence, occult themes, terest and, eventually, some battlefield some gruesome images, a possible refer- backup while Tuck (Tim Minchin) ence to homosexuality. A-II; PG-13 offers meager comic relief. The image of the church that emerges in director Otto Green Book Bathurst’s would-be hip updating of his Universal ancient source material is not merely un- High-minded saga of race relations in flattering but grotesque and morally ob- 1962 is hobbled by sentimentality and scene. Anti-Catholic animus, much harsh, doesn’t so much lean into stereotypes as sometimes gory violence, including tor- take flying, cringe-worthy leaps. It’s based ture, nongraphic sensuality, at least one on a real concert tour through the Mid- use of profanity, a milder oath, occasional west and South taken by African-Ameri- crude and crass language. O; PG-13 December 7, 2018 The Catholic Commentator 15

through the waters of baptism through prayer and knowledge. 12345 6789 11120 131 GOSPEL  and gain for us everlasting life We should love with the Sacred From page 2 by his death on the cross. Heart of Jesus. We should joy- 41 51 61 The baptism of St. John calls God gives us the “should.” We fully walk the path Christ has 71 81 91 for repentance, to straighten should praise him: shout for opened, beginning with the na- the crooked lines in our life. joy, be grateful and sing joy- tivity. 02 12 22 The baptism of Jesus sanctifies fully. We should be confident Advent is a time to pray more 243 2 265 2 the waters of repentance, opens and unafraid of his providential deeply, share more lovingly 28297 2 310 3 23 the floodgates of heaven where love and care. We should pull all and slow down exponentially. flows the graces ignited by the our strength and courage from Advent is a time of preparing 343 3 365 3 387 39304 Holy Spirit into our life. This him through the example of Je- to receive the only gift we ever 421 4 43 44 fire within is meant to be fed sus Christ. We should rejoice in truly need, a gift seen by few by the graces we continually re- the Lord, always: being radiant but known to many. It is the 54 476 4 84 ceive in the sacraments and the beacons of kindness, lessoning gift of God’s pure love. Pre- “ 409 5 521 5 35 life of the church. anxiety, asking God for all we pare the way of the Lord, make But wait … why are we dis- need, and receiving his peace to straight his paths: all flesh 55564 575 598 5 guard our hearts and move our shall see the of God” cussing baptism as we prepare 06 621 6 643 65666 for Christmas during Advent? minds toward his son. We know (Lk 3:4, 6). Because the same baby wrapped what we should do. 76 86 96 in swaddling clothes laying in We should embrace the hope Dow is the Director of Evan- 07 17 27 the manager is the same person of knowing why God sent his gelization and Catechesis for who will swaddle us in his glory son. We should cultivate faith the Diocese of Baton Rouge. 37 47 57 moc.scilohtacrofsemagdrow.www

ACROSS 75 Dells 1 The ___ of St. Mary’s for a marriage when no matter Being nominated as the na- 6 “…the appearance of the living DOWN CHURCH  how you are personally with tional couple is exciting, but creatures seemed like burning ___...” 1 Papal order From page 3 (Ezek 1:13) 2 “…___ saw Elba” God you go to God together the Francos are just as thrilled 10 Altar linen 3 Dryer residue Taking hold of Michael’s regularly and intentionally. It’s about spending time assisting 14 David married his widow 4 “See ya” huge,” said Erin. other couples strengthening 15 Friend who’s française 5 System of aircraft navigation hand, Erin said, “I love to pray 16 Burn soother 6 Possible occupation of Jesus out loud, I can talk in front From the couple’s core their own marriages. They said 17 Slow, musically 7 Biblical measure of people all day long. I’ve strength of faith, it can evan- their “fiat” comes from having 18 Stigma borne by Hester Prynne 8 Assisted learned to scale back a little bit gelize and catechize the rest a heart for helping couples who 19 Sacred Roman ___ 9 “___ lizards!” of their family. Their children are struggling because they 20 Unit of capacity 10 Catholic school and I learned to hugely respect 21 A type of school 11 “It is not good that the man should his efforts and I think he re- include Gabriel, 9, Faith, 7, Gi- have “been there.” 22 Responsibility be ___” (Gen 2:18) spects, in turn, my efforts. It’s anna, 5, Roman, 2 and Aidan, Surrounded by family, short- 23 “I have finished the ___” (2 Tim 4:7) 12 Water lily 1. ly before experiencing the 25 Geographical area of the Church 13 Contract one of those mysterious things. 27 Irish bishop-saint whose feast day is 24 “When we eat this bread and drink It’s about our vocation and how “It also gives you the tools wonderland odyssey of “The February 6 this ___…” we grow spiritually together.” to bring the faith to your chil- Nutrcracker” later that night, 30 “___ Dimittis” 26 Clods Their effort yields spiritual dren,” said Michael, a native of the Francos said Domestic 32 OT prophetic book 27 Hawkeye’s 4077 33 Not a base 28 Delta follower, to a ham awards. New Orleans and alumni of St. Church has been a joyful jour- 35 Egyptian deity 29 Place “It’s about strengthening Pius X Elementary School and ney. 37 Judas’ blood money bought it (Mt 31 He accompanied Joshua as he recon- what you already have and Brother Martin High School, “We don’t have a perfect 27:6–8) noitered the land of Canaan both in New Orleans. Erin marriage, but I think we have a 41 “Feed my ___.” (Jn 21:17) 34 “He ___ into hell; the third day he keeping growing individually 43 A Old Testament high priest rose again from the dead” in your spiritual life. But it’s grew up at St. Jude Church in deep down peace we never had 44 Dominic who is patron saint of 36 Church leaders about a conjugal spiritual life Baton Rouge and is an alum- before,” Erin said. choirboys 38 Mary, ___- nae of St. Jude School and St. For more information, visit 45 The ___ of David 39 “If anyone says, “I love God,” and – a spiritual life together. And 46 Musical instrument hates his brother, he is a ___” that is such a game changer Joseph’s Academy. domesticchurchfamilies.com 48 Thin (I Jn 4:20) 49 Religious instruction, formerly (abbr.) 40 Spanish titles 51 Bric-a-___ 42 They’re above abs 53 Monopoly purchases (abbr.) 47 Brother of Naphtali 54 First book of the Bible 50 The Good Thief a $75,000 grant for three years. day loan companies in those 58 Soon 52 The Second ___  60 Something to pump 54 Fixed LOANS “To offer funds and seed capi- neighborhoods far outnumber From page 4 61 “O, ___ of wonder…” 55 Uneven tal to create new structures that mainstream financial institu- 63 Land with a cavalry in Ezekiel 56 Cacophony there is a competitive product adjust some of the institutional tions. 67 Get rid of 57 Begin 68 Artist Chagall 59 Pertaining to warships that can be structured that is realties the working poor have He said similar programs 69 An ex of Donald 62 Medieval Spanish chest more economical for the work- to confront and keep them liv- have been implemented in oth- 70 Latin 101 verb 64 Pledge ing poor.” ing on the edge rather than er parts of the country but rely 71 Type of angel that Michael is 65 Grandson of Leah 72 Continually find fault with 66 Pistols However, he quickly discov- providing them a way out, the on donations and fundraising 73 Scholarship criterion ered the challenges of devel- CCHD mission aligned with the to survive. His goal is to es- 74 Visit Solution on page 18 oping a financially sustainable purpose of this grant,” Aguil- tablish a sustainable business model so CCDBR submitted a lard said. “They are particu- model that will cover its ex- grant application to the Catho- larly excited about this.” penses and have some revenue lic Campaign for Human Devel- With the assistance of match- left over to invest. Tree Service opment. The original applica- ing funds from the Firemen’s “We are reasonably confident Mr. D’s tion was sent back but CCDBR Fund and OLOL, the Faith that our model will work,” said ovEr 35 yEars ExpErIEncE was encouraged to reapply with Fund office opened on Evan- Aguillard, who called Dale one Don Decell, owner an improved business plan. geline Street in north Baton of the stars of the agency’s re- carl BaBin, owner Two years later, armed with a Rouge, housed at the site of cent disaster recovery program. • Economical revamped model that included Families First. Aguillard said Anyone interested in apply- • Fully Insured • Quality Work the recommendations of Ba- that location is ideal because ing should can visit Louisaina CALL TODAY! ton Rouge financial experts, of the demographics of the sur- faithfund.org or call CCDBR at 225-292-6756 CCDBR reapplied and received rounding area and the fact pay- 225-336-8700. 16 The Catholic Commentator VIEWPOINT December 7, 2018 Advent preparing to hope

sit here on “Black Friday,” Some swear to stay away from traditional carols and decora- and storms of daily existence. ness did not overcome it” (Jn the most commercial day the malls. This usually proves tions, Christmas cards and Advent is a time to refuel our 1:15). This faith of the early Iof the year, trying to write impossible (although Amazon is parties, while fostering the true lamps with the oil of hope. Christians is renewed each about Advent, a time of waiting greatly helping to make it more spirit and meaning of Christ- The star, the evergreen tree, Christmas in a world that still for the world’s salvation to be possible today), judging from mas. Advent hymns compli- Christmas candles, all began suffers the darkness of war, born as a shelterless infant in the crowd I encountered on my ment the readings for Mass, long ago in pagan celebrations famine, human corruption and a manger for animals, a sign of last visit (about two months ago so they can be sung during the of the winter solstice. That day, natural disasters. (After the his solidarity with the poor. the mall was almost empty). liturgies. But in our homes and the darkest day of the year, was very wide-spread dark smoke I did a piece about 20 years Others become liturgical purists schools it is appropriate to an- Dec. 25 in the pagan calendar. of fires, may Californians ago on Advent and refuse to ticipate Christmas with angels (Today it is Dec. 21.) Ancient this year still hope for golden and waiting in a play Christmas and carols, shep- people, inspired years ahead.) Our little world spirit of poverty. carols or put up herds and wise by a God they can feel fragile indeed. When So I pulled it up cribs and trees men. For what is “There they go did not know, dark fear grips us, we need the and realized that before the eve Christmas if not celebrated the hope that Shakespeare saw in the more things of the celebra- the celebration of again, Santa “birthday of the Christmas: change, the more tion of the feast a long hoped for unconquered Some say that ever ‘gainst they remain the itself. The Advent miracle, a miracle Claus and sun.” Nature, that season comes same. But then, wreath and “O that happened, without fail, Wherein our Savior’s birth is that should not Come, O Come, and is available candy canes would renew celebrated, surprise us about Emmanuel” is all for us all year herself. This The bird of dawning singeth a mystery that they will allow long, if we do not out before was their hope. all night long. was planned by until the Vigil of cease to hope? It was totally The nights are wholesome; God from all Christmas. Advent is a we even buy congruous that then no planets strike, eternity. Commer- time to rekindle Christians, No fairy takes, nor witch “There they Another cialism and its the embers of our the turkey for realizing that hath power to charm; go again, Santa excesses we can’t heart that have the coming of So hallow’d and so gracious is Claus and candy Perspective control. Only a become cold with Thanksgiving!” Christ marked the time (Hamlet). canes out before recession seems the setbacks and the fulfillment The meaning of the season we even buy Father John Carville to stem that. And hurts of a year of God’s promise for which we prepare is summed the turkey for who wishes for a of living. St. John begins his to Adam and Eve in Genesis up by the Chicago theologian, Thanksgiving!” recession, after the “Great Re- Gospel by describing Jesus as 3:15 to conquer sin and renew John Shea: “What is at stake is Yes, commercialism does cession” we just got out of? But the light that has come into the humankind, would celebrate human hope.” overdo the Christmas season I do believe that the anticipation world of darkness and despair, the birthday of God’s son on the So deck the halls and wait a little more each year. We try of Christmas (after Thanksgiv- a light of hope so powerful feast of the unconquered sun. in Advent hope for Christmas, to fight it in different ways. ing) in Advent can coincide with that the dark events of our life They remembered the prophesy when “the bird of dawning sin- should never extinguish it. of Malachi: “For you who fear geth all night long.” The difference between my name, the sun of justice and us is that they somehow shall rise, with its healing rays” FATHER CARVILLE is a retired priest Letters to the Editor carry the light, peace and joy (3:20). in the Diocese of Baton Rouge of the coming of God into our Christ is the eternal light and writes on current topics for Letters to the Editor should be typed and limited lives with them constantly. who came into our world, The Catholic Commentator. He to 350 words and should contain the name and We struggle to keep that light “The light (that) shines in can be reached at johnny flickering amidst the winds the darkness, and the dark- [email protected]. address of the writer, though the address will not be printed. We reserve the right to edit all letters. | Pray for those who pray for us Send to: Letters to the Editor, The Catholic Com- mentator, P. O. Box 3316, Baton Rouge, LA 70821- Please pray for the priests, deacons and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese. 3316, or to [email protected]. Dec. 13 Rev. Reuben Dykes Dec. 20 Rev. Matthew J. Graham Dcn. John L. McGinnis Jr. Dcn. Leon Roy Murphy Jr. Br. Dwight Kenney SC Sr. Doris Vigneaux CSJ Dec. 14 Rev. Denis O. Ekwugha Dec. 21 Rev. Paul A. Gros Dcn. Larry J. Melancon Dcn. Donald Musso Sr. Vandana Thomas CMC Br. Malcolm Melcher SC Mission Statement Dec. 15 Rev. Gilbert A. Enderle CSsR Dec. 22 Rev. Eric V. Gyan Dcn. Timothy Messenger Sr. Dcn. Roger A. Navarra The mission of The Catholic Commentator is to Br. Clifford King SC Sr. Adelaide Williamson CSJ provide news, information and commentary to the Dec. 16 Rev. Carl Evans Dec. 23 Rev. Ryan Hallford Dcn. Francis M. Minor Dcn. Angelo S. Nola people of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Catholics Sr. Thanh Tam Tran ICM Br. Paul Montero SC and their neighbors alike. In doing so, The Catholic Dec. 17 Rev. Michael French SJ Dec. 24 Rev. Robert Halter Dcn. Gary Mooney Dcn. Ricky P. Oubre Commentator strives to further the wider mission Br. Noel Lemmon SC Sr. Martha Ann Abshire FMOL of the Church: to evangelize, to communicate, to Dec. 18 Rev. Michael A. Galea Dec. 25 Rev. Patrick Healy SSJ educate and to give the Catholic viewpoint on Dcn. James J. Morrissey Dcn. Stephen Paul Ourso Sr. Margarida Maria Vasques FMOL Br. Marcus Turcotte SC important issues of the present day. Dec. 19 Rev. Henry Gautreau Jr. Dec. 26 Rev. Ray Hebert SC Dcn. Jodi A. Moscona Dcn. Ricky A. Patterson Br. Roger LeMoyne SC Sr. M. Alokesh MC December 7, 2018 VIEWPOINT The Catholic Commentator 17 A season of mixed emotions

uring my formative years, when phones still had Yes, spiritual joy is present in anticipation of the Lord’s tepid, if not downright challenged, in my faith, taking chords and folks hung out on porches to talk to birth, yet the recent clergy abuse scandals blistering the solace in the fact knowing I am not alone. Dtheir neighbors, one of my favor- Catholic Church have seemingly cast a pall Similar to so many others, I am left wondering what I ite times of the year was Advent. over this Advent. can do as a lone voice, or what can we or should be doing My own memory, fading as it is, Just as we envelop ourselves in the sacred- collectively. always associated Advent with a time of ness and spirituality of the season, seemingly Of course, prayer is always encouraged. Occasionally, joy, a time of anticipation. Naturally, as another scandal is reported, and our moods though, even that can become rote. How does one pray with any young person, I eagerly an- darken, like a rapidly fading late autumn sun. when the faith that you live has a target on its back? ticipated the holiday season, especially For myself, the scandal is perhaps a bit And how do we each reconcile the sins of the past, not those magical Christmas mornings. more disturbing because of my own positive only the actions of the abusers but also of some of the But even as a young Catholic, includ- experiences with priests starting at an early church’s highest leaders from around the country who ing my days as an altar boy, I understood age. Two priests particularly stand out as be- moved abusers from one parish to another in their own there was something special about Ad- ing role models through my tumultuous teen individual dioceses? vent, which was trumpeted by the priests years and into adulthood. Personally, my focus this Advent will be on the Eu- finally ditching their green vestments Because of their influence, and exemplary charist, which defines the very existence of the Catholic they had been wearing seemingly forever lives, at one point my thought was drifting to Church. Receiving the body and blood of Christ is at the to purple and a festive rose for the Third the priesthood. But the lure of a family com- heart of what we believe, the DNA of Catholicism. Sunday of Advent. Wandering plete with the white picket fence eventually Struggle as we may, either collectively or individually, In the classroom, the women religious won out, and, yet, neither dream was realized receiving Jesus through the Eucharist is our healing, our emphasized the true meaning of Advent, as God apparently had other plans. own spiritual panacea. and how the season is one of preparation Catholic We are indeed fortunate in the Diocese Ultimately, the church is our mother, and like every for the birth of our Lord. Richard Meek of Baton Rouge because I firmly believe that family, we are not without blemishes. But the misguided By contrast, Lent was always somber, collectively we have a tremendous group of actions of our own family members should not allowed one of sacrifice and penance, which even clergy members. to break down the entire family. as a youngster seemed almost fitting in an odd sort of Their spirituality, concern for others, love of the Healthy families are rooted in love, and it is in love way after the raucousness of Mardi Gras. Unlike Advent, church and even their enormous sense of humor and where one finds the necessary healing to endure the Lent was dreaded, especially since it involved fasting love of life is truly inspirational, especially for a Catholic most difficult of times. Along with the joy of Advent, let and giving up meat on Fridays, a troublesome dilemma who often struggles with his own faith. the next for weeks also be a time of healing, especially for someone like myself who has a disdain for eating any Unfortunately, the majority suffer for the horrid ac- for those affected by the abuses of the past, forgive- sea-faring critters. tions of a few, and because of that this Advent feels like ness for heinous acts of the past and for a church that is Personally, this Advent has more of a Lenten presage. one of healing rather than joy. I go into this season a bit clearly hurting. When is our life fulfilled?

hen is our life fulfilled? At what complishment. immediately after his For example, tetelesti was stamped on a point in our lives do we say: What’s our ultimate point miracles when the crowds document of charges against a criminal W“That’s it! That’s the climax! of growth? I suspect that we stood in awe, and it wasn’t after he had served his full prison sen- Nothing I can do from now on will outdo tend to think of this in terms after he had just walked on tence; it was used by banks when a debt this. I’ve given what I have to give.” of some concrete, positive water, and it wasn’t when had been repaid; it was used by a servant When can we say this? After we’ve accomplishment, like a suc- his popularity reached the to inform his master that a work had been reached the peak of our physical health cessful career or some ath- point where his contempo- completed; and it was used by athletes and strength? After giving birth to a letic, intellectual or artistic raries wanted to make him when, tired and exhausted, they success- child? After successfully raising our achievement that’s brought king that he felt he had ac- fully crossed the finish line in a race. children? After we’ve published a best- us satisfaction, recognition complished his purpose in “It is finished!” A flower dies to give off seller? After we’re famous? After we’ve and popularity. Or, looked life and that people began its seed so it’s appropriate that these were won a major championship? After we’ve at from the point of view of to be touched in their souls Jesus’ last words. On the cross, faithful celebrated the 60th anniversary of our depth of meaning, we might by his spirit. None of these. to the end, to his God, to his word, to the marriage? After we’ve found a soulmate? answer the question dif- When did Jesus have noth- love he preached, and to his own integ- After we’re at peace after a long struggle ferently by saying that our In Exile ing further to achieve? rity, he stopped living and began dying, with grief? When is it finally done? When ultimate achievement was a It’s worth quoting and that’s when he gave off his seed and has our growth reached its furthest life-giving marriage, or be- Father Ron Rolheiser Father Nouwen again, in that’s when his spirit began to permeate place? ing a good parent, or living a answering this question: the world. He had reached his deepest The medieval mystic, St. John of the life that served others. “We know one thing, however, for the Son center, his life was fulfilled. Cross, says we reach this point in our When, like a flower, do we give off of Man the wheel stopped when he had When does our living stop and our lives when we have grown to what he our seed? Father Nouwen suggests that lost everything: his power to speak and dying begin? When do we move from calls “our deepest center.” But he doesn’t people will answer this very differently: to heal, his sense of success and influ- being in bloom to giving off our seed? conceive of this the way we commonly “For some it is when they are enjoying ence, his disciples and friends, even his Superficially, of course, it’s when our picture it, namely, as the deepest center the full light of popularity; for others, God. When he was nailed against a tree, health, strength, popularity and at- inside our soul. Rather, for St. John, our when they have been totally forgotten; for robbed of all human dignity, he knew tractiveness begin to wane and we deepest center is the optimum point of some, when they have reached the peak of that he had aged enough, and said: ‘It is start to fade out, into the margins, and our human growth, that is, the deepest their strength; for others, when they feel fulfilled’ ” (Jn 19, 30). eventually into the sunset. But when maturity we can grow to before we begin powerless and weak; for some it is when “It is fulfilled!” The Greek word here is this is seen in the light of Jesus’ life, we to die. If this is true, then for a flower, their creativity is in full bloom for others, tetelesti. This was an expression used by see that in our fading out, like a flower its deepest center, its ultimate point of when they have lost all confidence in their artists to signify that a work was com- long past its bloom, we begin to give off growth, would be not its bloom but the potential.” pletely finished and that nothing more something of more value than the at- giving of its seed as it dies. That’s its When did Jesus give off his seed, the could be added to it. It was also used to tractiveness of the bloom. That’s when furthest point of growth, its ultimate ac- fullness of his spirit? For Jesus, it wasn’t express that something was complete. we can say: “It is fulfilled!” 18 The Catholic Commentator COMING EVENTS December 7, 2018

Holiday Safety Seminar – The Baton Rouge Police Michael G. Duca. Festivities will conclude that night Department will host a holiday safety seminar on Sat- with a centennial gala at the Belle of Baton Rouge Hotel Sister Mildred dies urday, Dec. 8, 9 a.m. – noon, at Sacred Heart of Jesus Atrium, 102 France St., Baton Rouge. Speaker will be Parish Hall, 2250 Main St., Baton Rouge. Lt. General Russel L. Honoré. For more information, Sister Mildred Guillot Joseph’s Academy in Ba- call 225-383-3479. (formerly Sister Francis ton Rouge. She professed St. Agnes Masses – St. Agnes Church, 749 East of Assisi) CSJ died at Our first vows in in 1945 and Blvd., Baton Rouge, will celebrate a pro-life Mass on Theology of the Body Workshop – Brian Butler, Lady of the made her fi- Tuesday, Dec. 11, 5:30 p.m. On Dec. 23, St. Agnes will executive director and co-founder of Dumb Ox Min- Lake Regional nal profession host a St. Charbel healing Mass at 6 p.m. For more in- istries, will present a workshop for parents and teach- Medical Center in 1948. From formation, call 225-383-4127. ers of youth in grades 6-8, “Theology of the Body for on Nov. 22 at 1945 to 1949 Teens,” Saturday, Jan. 5, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., at the Catholic age 92. Sister Mildred Day of Reflection – On Tuesday, Dec. 11, Lorraine Life Center, 1800 S. Acadian Thwy., Baton Rouge. The She was taught elemen- Hess, singer, songwriter and music minister, will pres- cost is $45, which includes lunch. To learn more and born in Natchi- tary school at ent a women’s day of reflection, “Don’t Just Do Some- register visit goo.gl/AnrgbL. toches on Octo- St. Joseph’s thing Sit There,” from 6 – 8 p.m. at the Archdiocese of ber 17, 1926 to Academy and New Orleans Retreat Center, 5500 St. Mary St., Metai- Afternoon of Reflection– Becky Eldredge will the late Leo and Sister Mildred Guillot Sacred Heart rie. To register, call 504-267-9604. present an afternoon of reflection, “The Spirit of Ac- Norma Hill Guillot. She in Baton Rouge and at St. companiment,” for wives of deacons of the Diocese of is survived by her sisters Rose in New Orleans. Women at the Well – Women of the Well, a ministry Baton Rouge on Sunday, Jan. 13, at 3 p.m. All wives Betsy G. Roark and Mary She attended Hotel Dieu providing women an opportunity for faith and fellow- of deacons, current, retired or deceased are invited Lee Guillot; her nephew Hospital Nursing School in ship, will host an Advent evening of reflection Tuesday, to join the gathering. For more information, call 225- Frank Roark of Orlando, New Orleans from 1949 to Dec. 11, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., at the Our Lady of Mercy Par- 978-7046. Florida; and her nieces 1952 where she earned an ish Activity Center, 445 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge. Rebecca Wall of Daytona, R.N. Tammy Vidrine will present a program, “Full of Grace: Eucharistic Healing Morning – A Eucharistic Morn- Holly Gordon of Orlando The funeral Mass was Anticipating the Living Water.” Kathleen Lee will offer ing for Healing and Consolation will be held Saturday, and Erin Rinker of Coco celebrated Dec. 3 at Sacred musical accompaniment for the evening. To register Jan. 26, 9 – 10 a.m. at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, Beach, Florida. Heart of Jesus Church in for the event visit womenofthewellbr.com. For more 15615 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge. For more informa- Sister Mildred was Baton Rouge. Interment information, email Corey Toups at coreytoups@olom- tion, call 225-752-6230. predeceased by her par- was at Roselawn Cemetery. church.com or call her at 225-926-1883. ents and her twin brother, Memorial contributions Men’s Conference – Tickets are now available for Msgr. Leo Guillot. in Sister Mildred’s name St. Francis Xavier Centennital Mass and Gala – St. the Men of the Immaculata’s men’s conference “A Call She entered the Sis- may be made to the Sisters Francis Xavier Church, 1120 Myrtle Dr., Baton Rouge, to Battle” that will be held on Saturday, March 9. Tick- ters of St. Joseph in New of St. Joseph, 3134 Hun- will celebrate its 100th anniversary closing Mass on ets are $50 for adult and $25 per students. For tickets Orleans on Sept. 8, 1943 dred Oaks Avenue, Baton Sunday, Dec. 30 at 10:30 a.m. Celebrant will be Bishop and more information, visit catholicmenbr.com. after graduating from St. Rouge, LA 70808.

The Catholic Commentator For help placing your classi ed ad, PO Box 3316 call 225-387-0983. All classi ed ads are prepaid. Baton Rouge LA 70821-3316 C Credit cards are now accepted. ANNOUNCEMENTS BUSINESS SERVICE BUSINESS SERVICE BUSINESS SERVICE BUSINESS SERVICE While we at The Catholic Commentator Allan’s Tree Service THOMAS LUNDIN, CPA Donnie’s Furniture Repair & Upholstery. Mr. D’s Tree Service do our best to bring reliable advertisers Specializes in large and dangerous tree Accounting and taxes for businesses, We do re nishing, repairs, caning, 3 Licensed Arborists to our readers, we are not responsible removal. Licensed and insured. Senior non-pro ts and individuals; business, painting of furniture and upholstery. Free Estimates for any claims made by any advertiser. citizen and law/military discounts. Allan computer, nancial and management In business 43 years. Pick up and de- Fully Insured Johnson 225-241-8789. services. 30 years experience; profes- livery. 10876 Greenwell Springs Road. Don Decell owner sional, prompt and personal attention. 225-272-2577. See our showroom. 225-292-6756 Dave’s Bicycle Repair and Sales. Free Call 225-296-0404. pickup and delivery, free estimates, ex- HOUSEKEEPER Anthony's Furniture Specialties. We pert economical repair on all brands. LEBLANC’S TREE & STUMP MATURE DEPENDABLE restore hurricane damaged furniture. FOR SALE Call 225-924-4337 or www.davesbicycle REMOVAL, INC. 20 + YEARS EXPERIENCE If it's furniture, we do it all! Re nishing, repair. com. Prompt service–Free estimates HAVE REFERENCES re-upholstery, pick up and delivery, etc. 2263 Florida Blvd., BR. 225-413-2607. Greenoaks Memorial Park. Promise Bill‘s Roo ng and Repair. We can x FULLY INSURED CALL DEBBIE Garden. Single plot. $3000. Call 225- any roof leaks. All work warrantied 5 E. H. “Eddie” LeBlanc 225-266-7655 926-7110 years. Free estimates. A+ BBB rating. Phone 383-7316 Call 225-505-6195 CALL TYRONE LEGAL NOTICES TURNING 65? “WHEN IT NEEDS FIXING” Greenoaks Memorial. 2 plots in Rose BROUSSEAU'S Painting MEDICARE QUESTIONS? LEAKING SINKS, FAUCETS, TOILETS Anyone with knowledge of the where- Garden. Section 15, lot 284, spaces 3 Interior and exterior painting. Experi- WE CAN HELP AND GARBAGE DISPOSALS abouts of Ray Coleman Jordan, III is and 4, including 2 vaults, 2 openings and enced and reliable. Free estimates. Call JOE GOODSON  2255722275 PLUS OTHER REPAIRS asked to contact the Diocesan Tribunal closings. $10,000. Larry 225-241-0715 225-241-8488. JOHNNY STUART  2259073619 CALL 225-802-4522 OR 225-346-6246 at 225-336-8755.

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CARDS  table and write cards so it doesn’t Determined to have some sense From page 1 become like an office project. of normalcy, the cards were soon “Each year the secretaries reprinted and Father Uter kept “I got a few parishioners to- give me a book with every fam- up the tradition. gether that were active in the ily with the names and ages and “I wrote a whole lot of cards parish and a few friends and I nicknames, everything that can saying, ‘We hope you will soon said, ‘Would you mind one Sun- help me to make the card per- be home for Christmas.’ ” day if we took the parish roll sonal and ages of the children,” Once Father Uter finishes and instead of putting labels on said Father Uter. writing the cards, a couple of all these Christmas cards if we If he sees a zero by a child’s people will take a few boxes of wrote out the envelopes in our name he writes a note to the cards home and seal the cards, own hand? It seems to me if pa- parents that he hopes their first which also contain a copy of the rishioners are getting cards from Christmas Mass schedule, and  Large Selection of Nativities the parish it needs to be with a bring them back to the church.  Happy Birthday Jesus Items  Ornaments personally written envelope and Parishioner Beverly Jackson will  Boxed Christmas Cards  Bibles  Advent Wreaths not like some mass production,’ get long trays from the post office  ” said Father Uter. “And they said and she and volunteers separate Many Christmas Activity and ‘Sure.’ the cards by zip codes before tak- Children’s Books “We did that for two years and ing them to the post office.  Jewelry including Rosary it was fun. We’d do all of that and The original artwork and a Bracelets and Medals have supper and they’d go in the framed copy of the Christmas   mail.” cards adorn the walls of the ICC Rosaries Saints’ Statues But Father Uter felt he needed Father Frank Uter writes messag- office. The 2013-2015 Christmas With every $35 purchase to do more. cards served as a gallery of art- es in Christmas cards. Photo by Debbie received a free “I said, ‘I don’t get to talk to Shelley | The Catholic Commentator work from ICC teens; 2016 incor- every parishioner all the time. porated the works of mercy and Christmas Ornament If I wrote a little personal greet- Christmas with their child is es- 2017 featured a stunning gold One per customer. ing it would be a way of reaching pecially graced. He also keeps star of Bethlehem encircled with out to everyone in the parish,” he cards in alphabetical order, so handprints of autistic children. said. that in case someone dies or be- This year’s card features a photo Stocking Stuffers He continued the tradition comes sick he can rewrite the of pint-sized angels and shep- 99¢ when he was assigned to St. Jo- card to their families. herds, from Immaculate Con- M-F 10 - 6; Sat. 10 - 4 • 11232 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge 225-272-4030 seph Cathedral in 1984. And there’s also personal ception Early Learning Center’s A Holy Family Institute Apostolate In 1997, Father Uter was as- thanks for people’s ministry. 2017 Christmas pageant. signed to the cluster parishes “I have one man who likes to Father Uter said the cards are of St. Michael the Archangel in cook shrimp boats (dishes), so I put in the mail on Dec. 17, the Convent, St. Joseph Church in tell him in the course of the mes- beginning of the O Antiphons, Paulina and Most Sacred Heart sage, ‘Thanks for the shrimp the final preparation days for of Jesus Church in Gramercy. It boat,’ ” said Father Uter. Christmas. was during the years when the The flood of 2016 was a chal- While it occasionally requires parishes were first clustered. lenging year with so many discipline to write the cards, Fa- “It was, ‘You prefer this par- people displaced. The church ther Uter said doing so helps him ish to us,’ or, ‘You like them bet- had received the cards shortly realize how blessed he is. Call Blocker Tree and Landscape today! ter than us,’ ” said Father Uter. before the flood and they were “To be surrounded by so “It was human nature and it was destroyed. Father Uter took a many good families and just Fully Licensed and Insured • Free Estimates understandable. It was almost picture of them in a wheel barrel writing for a few hours I feel re- Licensed Arborist #17-2227 • Licensed Irrigation #17-0691 like a sibling rivalry, but we got as they were being carted away. ally good,” said Father Uter. Owners Trey Blocker and Brant Fox over that.” He said he sent Christmas cards to families in the parishes so that they would know he cared for them Hospice is About Living “It was my way of reaching out to every family in all three par- • We rely upon the intercession of our Blessed Mother to assist us in imitating the healing ishes equally. And so they knew Christ as we care for terminally ill patients and their families. it was a way of growing together,” •We call forth the compassion and kindness of our staff, who serve in this health care ministry, to respond to said Father Uter. the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of our patients and their families. Then Father Uter came to Im- •We believe in the sacredness of life from conception to natural death, and we devote ourselves to maculate Conception and faced supporting patients and families through the dying process at the end of life’s journey on this earth and the challenges of making contact new life in eternity. with so many families. “I knew I was not seeing ev- ery family on Sunday, much less talking to every family person- ally. That’s where the spirit of evangelization really kicked in,” he said. Father Uter has rules regard- The right people, ing his Christmas card project. doing the right thing Beginning in September he does for the right reason. SERVING PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS not take a day off and in the eve- nings and on Sunday afternoons www.NotreDameHospice-NO.org • (225) 243-7358 if he doesn’t have meetings he 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. will go to the (rectory) kitchen 20 The Catholic Commentator December 7, 2018

STICKERS  should have fun with our faith another way for the church to From page 1 and be proud of it. Sometimes be present today. the misconception is we are “There is so much negativ- “For me the church has to just solemn and not having a ity about the church these days. be present in the world,” Fa- lot of fun. But we do have fun.” We have to enjoy the moment ther Alello said. “We encourage Even weeks after the stickers and be present.” people to vote, we encourage were distributed, Father Alello “I think sometimes we take them to participate in the life of remains amazed ourselves way too the community. This was just a at the project’s seriously,” he add- fun way to remind people our popularity. He has “For me the ed. “I think it was commitment is not just to the also heard from a great opportunity church on the weekends but churches in Tex- church has to for us to be church our commitment is to our faith as and Michigan and community to- and to our community.” asking how they be present in gether, just to laugh Father Alello said the stick- can have similar about something ers were a fun, quirky way to stickers produced. the world.” that happened in carry out the church’s mission He recalled one our community, WREATH BLESSING – Bishop Michael G. Duca blesses the Advent of the new evangelization. He story where a lady Father Michael Alello and also have an wreath at the Catholic Life Center in Baton Rouge on Nov. 30. The told his parishioners to wear at a nearby outlet St. Thomas More Church opportunity to be Advent season began Dec. 2. Photo by Richard Meek | The Catholic Commentator their stickers with pride, and mall saw another truly proud of who “when you are asked where lady wearing the we are. We want you got your sticker from, you sticker. When approached, you to be proud of who we are, can tell them your crazy pas- the lady wearing the sticker, we want you to share our faith tor handed them out since you who was from Lake Charles, and our story with other peo- didn’t get one for voting.” said she had attended Mass at ple.” Husers said he and a friend St. Thomas earlier that day, Father Alello encourages First Communion designed the stickers, which received the sticker and was Catholics to be engaged inside Dresses are similar to the “I Voted” proud to be wearing it in public. and outside of the church. stickers but crosses replace the “It’s been fun, a fun way to “What better way to have stars and includes the words “I engage the community, a fun a sticker plastered on you,” he

Prayed Today.” way to be a proud Catholic in said. “It gives you a chance to “It was a fun project; our our community,” Father Alello tell a crazy story about your faith should be awesome and said. “The people loved it and crazy pastor and why it’s won- fun,” Husers added. “I think we thought it was a great idea. It’s derful to go to church.”

At St. Vincent de Paul, we have one Christmas wish above all others: that every heart will be filled with the true meaning of Christ’s birth. As we celebrate this joyous A Christmas Wish occasion, we are reminded that His message of love and compassion lives on through us.

When we respond to a plea for help with an act of kindness, it is His hand that guides us. This year, we will serve over 270,000 meals; provide over 30,000 guest nights of shelter; and fill prescriptions worth more than a million dollars. Each of these numbers represents a wish fulfilled and a triumph of faith over adversity.

When it comes to wishes, the kids we serve here at St. Vincent de Paul in the weeks leading up to Christmas are pretty typical. Children like Liz, the little girl in the photo, want bikes and dolls and video games; but there are also some things they don’t want. They don’t want to go to bed hungry; they don’t want to live in homes without heat; and they don’t want to worry about adult problems like lay-offs and eviction notices. The adults we serve – people like Liz’s mother – want things like steady jobs and enough income to buy food for themselves and their families, to pay rent and utilities, with a little left over for Christmas gifts. When a homeless mother has nothing to give her child but love and a kiss, they must rely on others for everything else. Liz and her mother represent the thousands who have benefited from the kindness and generosity of our community.

We’ll do our best to make this Christmas Season a good one for as many people as possible. Our dining room will serve thousands of meals. Our shelters will provide warm beds to homeless men, women and children. Our community pharmacy will fill life-sustaining prescriptions. We hope you will add one more person to your Christmas list and ask you to consider making a financial gift at svdpbr.org or by sending a gift by mail. If you can’t afford to give at this time, please pray for the poor and homeless and help us when you can afford to give.

At St. Vincent de Paul, $1 will provide a hot meal; $10 will Cut out and send in with your financial gift. provide a night of shelter for a homeless family; and $28 will I have enclosed a Christmas gift of $______to St. Vincent de Paul. fill a life-sustaining prescription; so you can imagine what a Name: ______difference a larger gift can make. Any gift, no matter how Address: ______small, will make a Christmas wish come true. City, State, Zip: ______

Give online at: svdpbr.org or mail your gift to St. Vincent de Paul, P.O. Box 127, Baton Rouge, LA 70821