CHURCH TODAY

Volume XLV, No. 12 www.diocesealex.org Serving the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana Since 1970 December 15, 2014

O N T H E INSIDE Papal Blessings are still available, but only through the Vatican

On page 7 of the Nov. 17 is- sue of the Church Today, an ar- ticle titled, “Vatican ends sale of Papal Blessings” was published. It was not entirely accurate. Ef- fective Jan. 1, 2015, the Vatican has indeed ended the sale of Pa- pal Blessings among independent vendors, however, Papal Bless- ings will continue to be offered at the Vatican, through the Office of Papal Charities. For details on how to obtain a Papal Blessing, see page 2.

Tis’ the Season for Pilgrimages

Two groups in the diocese recently travelled abroad on pilgrimages. One group from the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception visited and the Vatican and another group of confirmation students from St. Mary’s in Winnsboro visited the Vatican and sites in . Read more about these trips on pages 14-17.

Merry Christmas and a 2014 Vatican Christmas stamp jointly issued with Argentina. The 2014 Vatican Christmas stamp is a joint issue Blessed New Year in 2015! with Francis’ native Argentina. The Nativity scene is from a painting by Argentine artist Raul Soldi (1905- 1994). (CNS photo/courtesy Vatican Philatelic and Numismatic Office) PAGE 2 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014 Papal Blessings are still available through Office of Papal Charities

(Editor’s note: On page 7 of the Nov. 17 issue of the Church Today, an article titled, “Vatican ends sale of Papal Blessings” was published. It was not entirely accurate. Effective Jan. 1, 2015, the Vatican has indeed ended the sale of Papal Blessings among independent vendors, however, Papal Blessings will continue to How to request a Papal Blessing be offered at the Vatican, through the Office of Papal Charities. I. By letter or fax If you would like to request a Papal Blessing, go to www.el- Requests for Papal Blessings on parchment can be sent to the emosineria.va. A downloadable Elemosineria Apostolica - Office of Papal Charities only by regular post request form is available at the or by fax (but not by e-mail). (A downloadable request form is available website; or follow the instruc- online at www.elemosineria.va) tions on the right.) If you don’t use the request form, a written request should include: () Archbishop (Click on the English site.) which was granted later. A Bull • the name, surname and address of the person making the request; Konrad Krajewski, the head of • the name and surname of the person(s) for whom the blessing is the Holy Father’s Alms-giving The scrolls can be ordered di- of Pope Innocent III (1198-1216) rectly in the Vatican, or by send- mentions the post of Almoner as being requested; office (“Elemosineria”), has con- • the reason or occasion prompting the request; firmed that as of Jan. 1 2015, Pa- ing a special order form via mail already in existence. or by fax. The scrolls are shipped The first Pope to organize • the date, the name of the Church and the address are required when pal Blessings will no longer be the blessing is requested for the celebration of a sacrament, a religious available from stores and busi- almost anywhere in the world. the Office of Papal Charities was Msgr. Krajewski notes that Blessed Gregory X (1271-1276), profession or an anniversary; nesses outside the Vatican. The • the address of where to send the parchment and payment details. Vatican’s Office of Papal Chari- as of last September, Pope Fran- who set down the duties of the cis also extended to apostolic Almoner. In a Bull of 1409, Al- ties will now be the only place The payment should be made after you receive the Papal Blessing. It is where an authenic Papal Blessing the right to grant Papal exander V laid down guidelines Blessings on parchment paper. and regulations for the Office, possible to make the payment in one of two ways: may be obtained. • via a bank transfer (the banking coordinates will be sent to you in the In a note, the Apostolic Al- He confirms that the decision which has always functioned will not affect the jobs of calligra- as an expression of the constant same parcel as the parchment) moner recalls that the Alms-giv- • or by online credit card payment via our website. ing office is tasked with carrying phers who draw up the blessings. concern of the Roman Pontiffs. out “works of charity for the poor The Alms-giving office has a staff The Almoner of His Holiness has of 12 and relies on a group of 17 the rank of Archbishop; he is a The fee includes the cost of the parchment (cost varies depending on in the name of the Supreme Pon- the requirments of the occasion) and the postage costs. tiff” and that the resources needed outside specialists for assistance. member of the Papal Family and to do so derive from donations This tradition of papal alms- as such takes part in the Holy Fa- giving goes back to the earli- ther’s liturgical celebrations and The time required for receiving the parchment is approximately one raised from the blessings. month from the date when the request is received. In the past, the office had est centuries of the Church. The audiences. website of the Apostolic Alms- Pope Leo XIII, as a means collaborated with stores and in- Requests made by telephone are not admitted. stitutions outside the Vatican to giving office gives some historic of helping to fund the charitable permit a greater number of faith- reference points: Originally one works carried out by the Office, A Papal Blessing is granted for the following occasions: ful to obtain the blessings. In re- of the immediate responsibilities delegated the Almoner to grant cent years, however, the faithful of the Deacons, responsibility the by parch- 1. Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation have been able to order blessings for the Pope’s charities was later ment certificate: these parch- 2. Marriage directly from the charitable office exercised by one or more mem- ments, in order to be authentic, 3. Priestly Ordination after obtaining information from bers of the with must bear the Almoner’s signa- 4. Religious Profession its website www.elemosineria.va. no particular hierarchical dignity, ture and the seal of his Office. 5. Secular Consecration 6. Ordinations of Permanent Deacons 7. Marriage Anniversaries (10, 25, 40, 50 , 60 years)*, Priestly Ordina- tion Anniversaries, Religious Profession Anniversaries 8. Birthdays (18, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100)* 9. Catholic individuals or families (with name and surname of the spouses united in a religious marriage).

The asterisk (*) indicates the need for the approval of ecclesiastical authority. Requests for papal blessings for other occasions will not be accepted.

Mail requests to: Fax requests to: Elemosineria Apostolica (+39) 06.69883132 Parchment Office (Fax machines are open 00120 24 hours) DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 3 Police officer leans on Catholic faith during Ferguson crisis By Dave Luecking Catholic News Service Prayer for Policemen

ST. LOUIS (CNS) -- Among O Almighty God, the iconic images of the 9/11 trag- edy, photographs of policemen whose great power and eternal and firefighters stand out: The wisdom embraces the universe, first responders were entering the watch over all policemen and doomed World Trade Center as law enforcement officers most everyone else was filing out. everywhere. They embraced the danger of Protect them from harm the moment, most going ultimate- in the performance of their duty ly to their death, because the job to stop crime, robbery, requires it. First-responders sign riots and violence. up for this risk; they accept it as We pray, help them keep our streets part of their service. and homes safe, day and night. Similarly, in the situation We commend them to your loving that has become known as simply “Ferguson,” Sgt. John Wall of the care because their duty St. Louis County Police Depart- is dangerous. ment knew in the second week of Please God, protect these brave August that the time had come to men and women. Grant them stand up and be counted. Peaceful St. Louis County police officer leans on Catholic faith during Ferguson crisis. Sgt. John strength and courage protests after the Aug. 9 shoot- Wall poses outside of the St. Louis County Police Department in Clayton, Mo., Nov. 21. Wall has relied on his Catholic in their daily assignments. ing death of Michael Brown by a faith during the ongoing crisis in Ferguson, Mo., which began with the fatal shooting of a black teen by a white police Grant them your almighty protection, police officer during a confronta- officer Aug. 9. The St. Louis County prosecutor announced Nov. 24 a grand jury determined there was not enough Unite them safely with their families evidence to indict Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown. (CNS photo/Lisa tion had devolved into rioting and after duty has ended. -- Amen. looting. Johnston, St. Louis) A QuikTrip near the shooting site had been looted and burned. Police had lobbed tear gas and fortunate for being there. the part about loving thy neigh- that there would be no indictment and fellow officers have leaned on shot rubber bullets to disperse This from a man who in 12- bor. of the police officer who killed. the pastoral care of county police crowds, presumably while real hour shifts on his two weeks of “Faith comes into every as- When Ferguson Police Offi- chaplains. Chaplains started each bullets flew in their direction. The voluntary duty was spit on, was pect of this job,” said Wall, who cer Darren Wilson, who is white, shift with a prayer before the of- situation was fraught with danger. hit by rocks, bricks and bottles became a Catholic in 1991. “You fatally shot 18-year-old Brown, ficer’s role call and briefing at the But did Wall think twice of urine, and was berated -- with have to forgive. I can’t personally an African-American, racial un- police command center. Catholic about going into it? Nope. protesters calling him every name hold a grudge against any of these rest in the St. Louis suburb led priests served among chaplains of “I volunteered,” he said, on a in the book. people; they were not screaming to protests. Some demonstrators many religions. recent morning at a coffee shop. “In those two weeks, I was at me as an individual. I under- looted and burned local busi- “No one went to church for “I volunteered; it was kind of called more things than in the stand, and most of us understand, nesses. two weeks either; you’re work- ‘all hands on deck,’ so everybody 25 years I’ve been in this busi- they’re looking at a uniform and When it was announced that ing the whole time. So, it was had to work it at some time,” he ness,” said Wall, who became a not a face. They don’t know me after three months of looking at very helpful to have the chaplains explained, matter-of-factly. He police officer in 1989 and joined and everything that I stand for. the evidence and hearing more there,” Wall said. added, “I was fortunate enough to the county force in 1998. “I’ve “You have to have forgive- than 70 hours of testimony, the The prospect of having Mass work it the entire time.” worked narcotics, I’ve worked ness in your own heart,” he told grand jury declined to indict Wil- or other religious services at the Wall, a 50-year-old married homicide and I’ve never been the St. Louis Review, the arch- son, violent protests followed. command post was out of the father of a teenager, not only vol- talked to like that. Ever.” diocesan newspaper, in an inter- Protests have continued in Fergu- question. Work consumed the of- unteered for duty, willfully taking In those moments, his Catho- view some days before the grand son and across the country. ficers, for one, and it wasn’t safe the risk, but counted himself as lic faith guided Wall, particularly jury handed down its decision From the beginning, Wall anyway. Bomb threats prompted Gov. Jay Nixon to call out the Na- tional Guard to protect the com- mand center and make it a safe haven for officers. The scene of the unrest on the quarter-mile stretch of West Florissant in Ferguson was un- safe. A native of St. Louis, Wall describes the venom directed at him and other officers in Fergu- son as “unbelievable,” particu- larly since he knew, or at least recognized, some of the people hurling insults. “The people we took it from were ... people I had good rela- tions with,” he said, adding that See POLICE OFFICER, pg. 4 PAGE 4 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014

The Season of Advent is well beginning of our Advent journey, in our midst, during this Advent under way. It is a rich and multi- the Church asks us to focus our of 2014. faceted time, much like a fine attention on the second coming of What a rich season we live, jewel. While only four weeks in ONE IN the Lord. We hear the message to asking us to open our eyes to length, it challenges us take the prepare, to be ready. Considering more than an historical event or time to ponder its diversity. THE that the time of his return is not a future one. For most people, attention LORD known, it takes time and energy Advent is now! Let us cel- centers on the preparations to Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog to keep vigilant. How do we pre- ebrate it well, guided by Isaiah, celebrate the historical birth of Bishop of the Diocese of Alexandria pare? The Gospel readings seem John and even Mary and Joseph. . And for good reason. That to offer clues. We prepare by rec- event changed the course of hu- ognizing Jesus in those in need May the Lord bless you dur- man history, especially salvation who would bring peace and pros- those expectations. He brought a around us. ing these days of Advent and history. No one anticipated that perity, conquering all enemies, very new and different message. As we make this annual jour- Christmas! May the new year of God would enter into the world in most notably the Romans who He announced a spiritual king- ney of preparation and anticipa- 2015 be even more rich in the human form. rule Palestine. dom. tion, we need to devote at least Lord’s graces and blessings! The longing for the Messiah It is not surprising that Jesus As important as the birth of some of the time to the days of was very important to the Isra- was misunderstood and rejected Jesus was, the days of Advent in- Jesus’ public ministry announced elites, but their expectation cen- by many because, during his pub- vite us to consider other aspects by John at the Jordan. John tered around a new David, one lic ministry, he did not live up to of the Lord’s ‘coming.’ At the guides us in looking for the Lord Police officers Continued from pg. 3 Been shot at, though.” and daughter worry about his two rings he wears on the little non-Catholic officers wear the he gave those people the benefit It’s a tough time for the men safety in Ferguson. finger of his right hand. From his medals and carry the prayer cards of the doubt. “There were people and women in uniform and their “My family has worried way wife, he has a ring with crosses. in their pockets. that just got caught up in the heat families, but Wall’s attitude is to more than I’d like them to,” Wall From his daughter, he has a ro- “Almost every policeman of the moment.” grin-and-bear it. “You just have to said, adding, “I know how to take sary ring. He also carries a rosary will have a religious trinket of The protesters “came from gut through it.” care of myself and take care of in his duty bag, hands out St. Mi- some kind,” Wall said. “Faith is all walks of life -- young, old, For all of the bad Wall has my people. They don’t need to chael the Archangel prayer cards huge in the police department, ministers,” Wall said, noting that experienced in Ferguson, he also worry about me.” and wears a St. Michael pendant and in the military, too. It’s a big one woman among the latter “re- has experienced much good, Thoughts of his wife and that his wife gave him 24 years presence. ally laid into me, saying things starting with people closest to daughter are with Wall at all ago. St. Michael is the patron “Like a minister, a policeman like how we mistreat people, how him -- “family members, friends times; he has only to look at the saint for policemen, and even is there for good.” we beat people, how we should and people of the parish.” be ashamed of ourselves, and People also have come up all the people that I’ve killed. I to him while he’s in uniform and was just looking at her. I haven’t thanked him for being a police of- killed anybody. I haven’t fired my ficer. gun in 25 years as a police officer. In the meantime, Wall’s wife

CHURCH TODAY Volume XLV, No. 12 • December 15, 2014

P. O. Box 7417 • Alexandria, LA 71303 [email protected] 318-445-6424

Publisher: Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog, Bishop of Alexandria Editor: Jeannie Petrus, ext. 255; [email protected] Advertising: Joan Ferguson, ext. 264; [email protected] Circulation: Sandi Tarver, ext. 209; [email protected]

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The CHURCH TODAY is a member of the Catholic Press Associa- tion. Website: www.diocesealex.org To receive a free subscription, call 318-445-6424, ext 255 or e-mail [email protected] DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 5 Celebrating ‘holidays’ doesn’t hold same meaning as celebrating Christmas

By Pete Sheehan, editor or Kwanzaa are welcome. In fact, The Catholic Exponent Knights of Columbus councils Youngstown, Ohio have invited Jewish congrega- tions to set up menorahs by their When I was growing up in Nativity scenes. Ironically, the Youngstown, Ohio there was no Never Christmas crowd doesn’t St. Patrick’s Day Parade. When seem to mind explicit celebra- radio personality Pete Gabriel tions of Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. -- of Greek ancestry -- came to Of course, the religious di- Youngstown, he couldn’t believe mension to Christmas -- the true there was no St. Patrick’s Day source of Christmas joy -- must Parade. So, he started one, rea- never be lost, but anyone can soning that almost everyone, no share in that joy without believ- matter their ethnic or religious ing. background, enjoys celebrating No one is forced to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Christmas any more than anyone Such is the case with Christ- is forced to go to a Super Bowl mas. Doesn’t everyone enjoy party. And if you’re at the Super celebrating Christmas, no matter Bowl party, you don’t even have their ethnic or religious back- to watch the game. ground? Trying to reduce Christmas Such beloved Christmas TRUE STORY ABOUT WWI SOLDIERS IN 1914 WHO CAME TOGETHER AT CHRISTMAS IS A YOUTUBE VIDEO. to “the holiday” is really the op- songs as “White Christmas,” “Sil- To view this video, go to YouTube and search for “Sainsbury’s Official Christmas 2014 Ad.” posite of pluralism and multicul- ver Bells” and “Rudolph the Red- turalism. It is trying to hide some- Nosed Reindeer” were written by thing that has touched hearts in a Jewish composers. John Lennon, to protests, Santa began just si- ing Christmas, the way that some beliefs or no beliefs are free to way that the “the holidays” can’t. an atheist, wrote “And So This is lently waving. pro-Iraq War advocates in 2003 enjoy the sights and sounds of the There’s that wonderful sto- Christmas.” I personally know Nevertheless, the Never began calling French fries “Free- season without anyone really car- ry from World War I, when on Jewish people and even atheists Christmas campaign began to dom fries.” ing about their beliefs. They can Christmas Eve 1914, soldiers who enjoy celebrating Christmas. dominate TV, movies and every- It’s easy to criticize that enjoy it while those of us who be- in the trenches began singing Someday, someone will day conversation. Advertisements Never Christmas mentality-- and lieve in Christmas are making the Christmas songs. write a doctoral dissertation about full of Christmas decorations believe me, I have. This aversion, preparations. Soon, soldiers on both sides when the movement against men- -- the tree, Santa, etc. -- and in- according to some surveys, is felt You can listen to Handel’s were crossing the trenches into tioning Christmas began. I call it strumental versions of Christmas by only five percent of the public, “Messiah” or Tchaikovsky’s the enemy camp, making Christ- the “Never Christmas” campaign, songs appealing to you for your but that five percent has been able “Nutcracker”; “Silver Bells,” “Si- mas decorations, giving presents from a phrase in C.S. Lewis’ “The Christmas shopping scrupulously to foist this odd sort of intoler- lent Night” or “Go Tell It on the and playing a game of makeshift Lion, the Witch and the Ward- avoid mentioning Christmas. ance on the rest of the country in Mountain.” You can watch “It’s soccer. Eventually, hostilities re- robe.” “Happy Holidays” is a bland, the name of tolerance and inclu- a Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas sumed, but that brief shining mo- I first noticed it during the obligatory, evasive greeting -- as sion. Carol,” “The Nativity Story” or ment will forever offer hope for 1986 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day though the idea of Christmas is Of course, I’m all for being “A Christmas Story.” You can something more. Parade. Santa Claus, who tra- something to avoid. sensitive to minorities and being wish people “Merry Christmas,” I doubt that celebrating “the ditionally winds up the parade, In recent years, there seems inclusive. Yet the irony is that “Joyeux Noel” or “Feliz Navi- holidays,” would have touched proclaimed: “Ho, ho, ho. Happy to be some letup, though most Christmas is perhaps the most in- dad.” the battle-hardened soldiers’ Holidays.” That went on for a few national advertisers and some clusive of holidays. Christmas is so inclusive that hearts so deeply. years until, I assume in response individuals still avoid mention- People of different religious parallel celebrations of Hanukkah Merry Christmas to all.

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*Securities offered through HD Vest Investment ServicesSM, Member: SIPC Advisory services are offered through HD Vest Advisory ServicesSM 6333 North State Highway 161, Fourth Floor, Irving, Texas 75038, 972-870-6000 Oestriecher Financial Management Services is not a broker/dealer or independent investment advisory firm. PAGE 6 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014 Christmas Season is Dec. 24 - Jan. 11 Advent Penance Services Tuesday, Dec. 16 5:30 p.m. -- St. Joseph Church, St. Joseph 12 Days of Christmas is extended a little 6:00 p.m. -- Mary, Mother of Jesus, Woodworth 6:30 p.m. -- St. Joseph Church, Marksville 6:30 p.m. -- Mater Dolorosa Church, Plaucheville due to the way dates fall on the calendar Wednesday, Dec. 17 6:00 p.m. -- St. John the Baptist, Cloutierville We all know that the Christ- Friday, Dec. 19 mas season officially begins on 6:00 p.m. -- Sts. Francis and Anne, Kolin Christmas Eve, but when does the Christmas officially end? Christmas Mass Schedules On the Feast of the Epiphany If your church is not listed, contact your parish office for dates and times. (celebrated either on Jan. 6 or on the Sunday between Jan. 2 and Christmas Eve Vigil Mass, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2014 Jan. 8), the Church celebrates the 4:00 p.m. -- Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Alexandria event where the Magi, also called 4:00 p.m. -- St. Rita Church, Alexandria the Three Wise Men or Three 4:00 p.m. -- Sacred Heart, Pineville, Children’s Mass (Pageant at 3:30 p.m.) Kings, traveled from the East to 4:00 p.m. -- Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches pay homage to the newborn King, 4:00 p.m. -- Mary, Mother of Jesus, Woodworth Jesus Christ. Many Catholics be- 4:00 p.m. -- St. Anthony of Padua, Bunkie lieve that this is the date when the 4:00 p.m. -- St. Joseph, Marksville, Children’s Mass (CCD Play at 3:30 p.m.) Christmas season officially ends, 4:00 p.m. -- Sacred Heart Church, Moreauville being the end of the 12 days of 4:00 p.m. -- Mater Dolorosa Church, Plaucheville Christmas. 5:00 p.m. -- Sts. Francis and Anne, Kolin However, according to the 5:00 p.m. -- St. Peter Church, Bordelonville Roman Catholic Liturgical Cal- 5:30 p.m. -- St. Rita Church, Alexandria endar for 2014-15, Ordinary 5:30 p.m. -- Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Pineville, Mass with Youthful Choir Time doesn’t officially begin un- 5:30 p.m. -- St. Francis of Assisi, Waterproof til the Monday after the Feast of 6:00 p.m. -- Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Alexandria the Baptism of the Lord, which 6:00 p.m. -- St. Frances Cabrini Church, Alexandria falls on the Sunday after Epiph- 6:00 p.m. -- Mary, Mother of Jesus, Woodworth any. This means that this year, are usually celebrated not just ing for the full 8 days. 6:00 p.m. -- St. Joseph Church, Marksville the Christmas season actually ex- during 24 hours, but given the The ‘peak’ of the Christmas 6:00 p.m. -- St. Anthony of Padua, Bunkie tends beyond the “Twelve Days honor of an octave (8 days) which ‘season’ is Epiphany, the end of of Christmas.” is a custom that traces its roots to the 12 Days of Christmas. Je- Christmas Midnight Masses In older traditions (which are Old Testament feasts. sus is now revealed as a light to Midnight, Dec. 24 -- Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Alexandria still kept in the liturgical calen- The end of the octave can the Gentile nations. Keep your Midnight, Dec. 24 -- St. Rita Church, Alexandria dar of the Extraordinary Form of been seen as the end of the Christ- Christmas decorations, especially Midnight, Dec. 24 -- St. Frances Cabrini Church, Alexandria the Mass) Christmas lasted until mas feast proper, after which be- your Christmas lights, up at least Midnight, Dec. 24 -- Sacred Heart, Pineville (Carols at 11:30 p.m.) Candle-mas, or the Feast of the gins the longer Christmas season until this day is over; or better, 8 Midnight, Dec. 24 -- Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches (Caroling at 11:30) Purification of Mary and the Pre- that extends either to the Baptism days for the full octave. Midnight, Dec. 24 -- Mary, Mother of Jesus, Woodworth sentation of the Lord, which isn’t of the Lord for the Ordinary Form The official end of the Christ- Midnight, Dec. 24 -- St. Joseph Church, Marksville until Feb. 2. This marked the end (this year Jan. 12, or the Sunday mas season is the Baptism of the Midnight, Dec. 24 -- Sacred Heart Church, Moreauville of a long 40 day “Christmastide” after Epiphany) or the Presenta- Lord the following weekend (the Midnight, Dec. 24 -- Mater Dolorosa Church, Plaucheville that corresponded to the 40 days tion of the Lord for the Extraordi- end of the octave of Epiphany), of Lent. nary Form (Feb. 2). However this after which Ordinary Time be- Christmas Day, Thursday, Dec. 25, 2014 On Feb. 2 the Church cel- understanding of a proper Christ- gins. Keep your nativity scene 7:00 a.m. -- Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Alexandria ebrates the day that Mary entered mas ‘feast’ in some traditions is displayed up through this day or 7:00 a.m. -- St. Frances Cabrini Church, Alexandria (Latin Mass) the temple with the Child Jesus also associated with the 12 Days until the Presentation of the Lord 8:00 a.m. -- St. Rita Church, Alexandria when her days of purification of Christmas which culminates on on Feb. 2. 8:00 a.m. -- Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches (Traditional Latin Mass) after giving birth were fulfilled Epiphany. These are just suggestions of 8:00 a.m. -- St. Joseph Church, Marksville (according to the Mosaic law) course. The varying Christmas 8:00 a.m. -- St. Michael Church, Rexmere and when Simeon made his well- So, When Does Christmas End? traditions reflect the universal na- 9:00 a.m. -- Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Alexandria known prophecy about Mary and ture of the Church (all tribes and 9:00 a.m. -- St. Frances Cabrini Church, Alexandria the Child. It is called “Candle- When Christmas ends de- tongues!) which has been going 9:00 a.m. -- Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Pineville mas” because of Simeon’s proph- pends on the Rite (Latin or East- strong for 2,000 years. Every- 9:00 a.m. -- Sacred Heart Church, Moreauville ecy of Jesus being a light for the ern), the liturgical calendar, and one is on the same page gener- 9:30 a.m. -- Mary, Mother of Jesus, Woodworth Gentiles. whether you’re looking for the ally speaking in keeping the feast 9:30 a.m. -- Mater Dolorosa Church, Plaucheville end of the Christmas ‘feast’ or of Christmas, even though there 9:30 a.m. -- St. Joseph Church, St. Joseph The ‘Octave’ of Christmas the end of the Christmas ‘season’. have naturally arisen differences 10:00 a.m. -- Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches But overall, here is what sounds over the millenia in exactly how 10:00 a.m. -- St. Joseph Church, Marksville Another element to throw good to me: this is done from place to place. 10:30 a.m. -- Sts. Francis and Anne, Kolin into the mix is that the “octave” The Christmas feast itself 10:30 a.m. -- St. Anthony of Padua, Bunkie of Christmas ends on the eighth ends on the final day of its octave, Source: The Catholic Com- 11:00 a.m. -- St. Rita Church, Alexandria day after Christmas, which is Jan. which is the feast of Mary, the pany -- https://www.catholiccom- 5:30 p.m. -- St. Frances Cabrini Church, Alexandria 1 and the Feast Day of Mary, the Mother of God, on Jan. 1. Keep pany.com/blog/does-christmas- 6:00 p.m. -- Sts. Francis and Anne, Kolin Mother of God. Major feast days your feasting and merriment go- end-on-epiphany For updated list, go to www.diocesealex.org. DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 7 Keeping Christ in Christmas 8 ways to keep Christ in Christmas and to focus on the real “reason for the season”

By Jeannie Petrus true story. CT editor Send “Christ”-mas cards Now that Black Friday has Send Christmas cards that been moved to Thankless Thurs- convey a spiritual message. This day for some people, the Christ- is an easy way to share your faith mas rush begins much earlier and at Christmastime. If you’ve al- the focus on Jesus has become ready bought the reindeer cards— much less. no problem! Just write a Bible Instead of complaining about verse and include a personal mes- how “others” choose to feed into sage with each card. the frenzy, try focusing on how you and your family can stay fo- Do something for others cused on keeping Christ in your Helping others doesn’t al- Christmas celebrations. ways require money. Do you have an elderly neighbor in need of Start with Advent home repairs or yard work? Visit It’s not too late to use these someone in the nursing home. last few days before Christmas to Take a group Christmas caroling still do something in your spiritu- Spend less, and try put more ing wrong with having a Christ- quick prayer, or sing to Baby Je- at a nursing home or a children’s al life to prepare yourself for the thought into a more personal (and mas tree, but how about taking sus. If the pieces are not too frag- hospital. Buy a small gift for a birth of Jesus. perhaps a spiritual) gift. off some of the Santa ornaments ile, allow young children to use child or donate to a local Christ- If you or someone in your Consider shopping early and replacing them with stars, the figures while telling you the mas charity project or food bank. family were expecting a baby to (before Thanksgiving or Black wise men, and a Baby Jesus? The story. be born this Christmas wouldn’t Friday) so that you can enjoy the brightest shining star or a heav- Make time for Jesus you be getting yourself ready for spirit of the season. You may not enly angel on the top of the tree Know the true story The night before Christmas, its arrival? save as much, but it makes for a will be a much better reminder of Pick up the Bible and read read the Christmas story to your Clean your house (go to con- much more relaxed season. the “reason for the season” than a the beginning of the Gospels of self or to the young children in fession), make sure you have all During your quiet prayer snowman. Mathew(1: 18-25 and 2: 1-15), your home. If you are alone this the equipment you need (spend time, think about what you can- Luke (1:5-56 through 2:1-20), Christmas or don’t have family time in prayer, attend Mass), and give to Jesus for His birthday. Display a Nativity and John (1:1-5). Each Gospel living near you, invite a friend or get some rest before the big day Maybe you could commit to Every Catholic family should writer gives a slightly different a neighbor to join you. (stop rushing around, be still, and spending more time with God have a nativity scene displayed perspective of the birth of Jesus. Before opening the gifts, give yourself some quiet time to daily. Or maybe there is some- prominently in the home during Even if you’ve done this before, take a few minutes to gather to- listen to God). thing God has asked you to give Christmas (Dec. 25 - Jan. 6). As do again -- a refresher course gether as a family in prayer. up. Make this your most impor- often as you can during season, never hurts. Attend Mass. What better Shop early tant gift of the season. families with young children Watch the 2006 release of way to celebrate the birth of Je- OK. That may sound hypo- (or grandchildren) could gather The Nativity Story, starring sus than to attend the Holy Mass critical, but you know you will do Decorate around the Nativity scene to talk Keisha Castle-Hughes as Mary. where Jesus is truly present in the shop anyway. But keep it simple! There’s absolutely noth- about the Nativity story, to say a It’s a very realistic account of the Eucharist. PAGE 8 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014 Nov. 30, 2014 - Feb. 2, 2016 Church launches Year for Consecrated Life By Laura Ieraci Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The first Sunday of Advent, Nov. 30, marking the start of the new liturgical year, will also inau- gurate the Year for Consecrated Life. The yearlong observance is dedicated to renewing hope in re- ligious life and instilling it more profoundly with a prophetic wit- ness of the Gospel. Msgr. Jose Rodriguez Carballo, secretary of the Congre- gation for Institutes of Consecrat- Dominican sister discusses launch of Year of Consecrated ed Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. Dominican Sister Marie Bernadette Thompson, council coordinator for Life, told Vatican Radio the first the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, discusses initiatives fo- Sunday of Advent was selected as cused on bringing together men and women religious and families, particularly the launch date because Advent young adults, during an Oct. 1 pr ess conference in Washington. (CNS photo/ represents “the time of hope par Tyler Orsburn) See YEAR-CONSECRATED Oct. 1, 2014. excellence.” He said the congre- gation would like the entire year “to be lived with the hope that And a workshop for young con- as far as possible, ‘that form of must always characterize conse- secrated men and women has life which He, as the Son of God, crated life.” been organized for Sept. 23-25. accepted in entering this world.” A number of international The observance will actually The quotation is from St. John Statistics on women religious. A study by Georgetown’s meetings have been planned in extend beyond one liturgical year Paul II’s 1996 apostolic exhorta- Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate analyzes some of the Rome over the course of the year. and wrap up with a weeklong tion “Vita Consecrata” (“Conse- ways women’s religious orders have adapted to declining numbers At the start of 2015, a three-day conference in early 2016, from crated Life”). since the 1960s. (CNS graphic/Anthony DeFeo) ecumenical conference of reli- Jan. 26 to Feb. 2. A papal Mass on the Day for gious will take place Jan. 22-25. The theme of the conference Consecrated Life, Feb. 2, 2016, A seminar for formation di- will be “Reproduce in yourself, will conclude the year. rectors will take place April 8-11.

Position Available: Development Director

The ioceseD of Alexandria is seeking a dynamic professional for its Director of Development position. Candidates must possess a minimum of 3 years of direct or related experience in development, marketing and stewardship and be able to demonstrate a proven track record of success. Experience: Must be proficient in technology, have the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally The Church Today is planning to and in writing, with a strong development/fundraising feature the choirs in our diocese background. Three years of nonprofit development experience desired, preferably in church or social service in the January 2015 issue. environment and knowledge of church organization and If your choir(s) would like to be procedures. Practicing Catholic strongly preferred. pictured in this special section of Education: BS or BA in Communications, Marketing, the Church Today, please send or Public Relations or equivalent combination of education and experience. a good clear (high resolution) Send resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements by picture of your choir(s) to December 31, 2014 to: Diocese of Alexandria, [email protected] ATTN: Mr. David Brook, P.O. Box 7417, Alexandria, LA 71306-0417 or mail to Church Today, or email: [email protected]. 4400 Coliseum Blvd., Alexandria, LA 71303. The deadline to submit a picture is Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015. Diocese of Alexandria DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 9 ‘A Nun’s Life’ website becomes a growing vocations ministry

Netherlands. He gave much of By Mark Pattison the credit to A Nun’s Life for aid- Catholic News Service ing his discernment. “You’re the ones who helped me, let me ask (CNS) -- What started out as all the dumb questions,” she said a blog, at a time when few people he told A Nun’s Life. “You let me knew about blogs and hardly any- see that religious are people, and one was familiar with Twitter, is now I am one, too.” now a living and growing minis- Sister Julie herself had no try run by two women religious access to any kind of online vo- who are Sisters, Servants of the cation or discernment website Immaculate Heart of Mary. before she entered religious life Sisters Julie Vieira and Max- in 1997. A native of Rochester, ine Kollasch oversee their web- New York, she was working for site “A Nun’s Life” from Toledo, a Catholic publishing house and Ohio, which is a quick drive from studying theology in graduate their order’s motherhouse in school. Monroe, . “I never imagined myself as Soon they will be joined by a sister,” she told CNS, adding a third sister because the Inter- she thought all nuns fit the popu- net ministry continues to expand. lar stereotypes of women in full Blogs have been joined by pod- habits and teaching in schools. casts and heart-to-heart question- In her studies, she said she and-answer message boards for found herself “captivated by the women -- and men -- thinking theology of (Father) Karl Rahner. about religious life and whether it ... It got to the point, ‘Why is this is something they should pursue. affecting my prayer life?” And early in 2015, A Nun’s When Sister Julie approached Life, found online at anunslife. her professor about this, he said org, will launch a redesigned A NUN’S LIFE WEBSITE, started out as a blog about religious vocations for women. Today it is a living and growing she might benefit from spiritual website tailored to be more user- ministry run by two women religious who are Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The website is help- direction. “I was, ‘What?’” she friendly, particularly for smart- ing others be faithful to themselves as they explore vocations. Pictured above (in the inset) is Sister Julie Vieira who remembered reacting. phone users. answers questions online from others (men and women) around the world who might be thinking about pursuing a The spiritual director turned Sister Julie, in a Nov. 19 in- vocation in the religious life. For more information, go to www.anunslife.org. out to be an Immaculate Heart terview with Catholic News Ser- of Mary sister. “After several vice, said she and Sister Maxine months, I was listening to her ... both professed final vows with “both technically savvy,” she how in the online world, and that have computers! Oh! You’re us- talking about ‘my sisters’” with a their order in 2006, and A Nun’s added. “We were looking (online) their own order -- and many oth- ing the Internet!” warmth and love one would ex- Life has been their ministry ever for stuff on nuns, sisters, religious ers besides -- could benefit from A Nun’s Life was “asking, pect about blood sisters,” Sister since. life. All we found were carica- an online presence. ‘What’s it like to be a sister?” and Julie recalled. In thinking of the missionary tures. It was very problematic. “Facebook was just growing bust(ing) some stereotypes,” Sis- It convinced her to explore sisters “of today and yesterday, ... No one was out there defining in 2006. Twitter started in 2006,” ter Julie said. “Then it became, religious life “to be faithful to and all the things they had to do who we are as Catholic sisters.” Sister Julie said. “We started ‘What’s it like to pray when God who I am as a Catholic woman,” -- build a house, find water” -- it A Nun’s Life came from a small, very small, with a free isn’t there?’” she said. “I felt I had to do it, at seems that what they are doing joint realization by Sisters Julie WordPress blog.” She added that her favorite least to cross it off my list.” with A Nun’s Life is not all that and Maxine along with their re- Back then, she added, the story from A Nun’s Life is that And now Sister Julie is help- different, she said. ligious superiors that the order’s prevailing attitude was, “Oh! of a young man who took vows ing others be faithful to them- She and Sister Maxine were newest members had some know- You’re Catholic sisters. Oh! You as a Dominican novice in the selves as they explore vocations.

Happy holidays from your ABM team!

Alexandria Business Machines 318-443-0435 Copiers, Printers, Fascimile and Office Supplies 5527 Coliseum Blvd. Alexandria, LA 71303-3708 PAGE 10 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014

Seminarian Burses October Donations

Knights of Columbus Council 9217...... $25.00 Father Adrian L. Molenschot Burse Dr. Joseph Landreneau...... $25.00 Ms. Edna Rabalais Burse Deacon and Mrs. Rodrick B. Broussard...... $50.00 Monsignor Milburn Broussard Burse Dr. Joseph Landreneau...... $100.00 Monsignor Henry Beckers Burse Mrs. Dorothy Lacour...... $100.00 Floyd Lacour Sr. Burse FOURTH DEGEE KNIGHTS SERVE AT VETERAN’S DAY CEREMONY. The Fourth Degree Knights from the Msgr. Belgian American Club ...... $225.00 S. J. DeKeuwer General Assembly #2078 of Natchitoches served as Honor Guard at the Veteran’s Memorial Park dedi- Father Jules L. Claes Burse cation ceremony in Natchitoches on Nov. 11. The keynote address was by David LaCerte, secretary of the Louisiana Dwight Beridon ...... $250.00 Department of Veterans Affairs. The ceremony included reading the names of all those from Natchitoches Parish who Monsignor John Timmerman Burse died in our nation’s wars, from World War I to the present. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Knights served as Dwight Beridon ...... $250.00 Honor Guard for the raising of the American flag in the park. Pictured in front of the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Harold and Lillie Beridon Burse Conception are (front row) Sir Knights Tim Felchle, Bufford Grappe, Eddie Richard, Mike Menou, and John Dobernig. Back row: Sir Knights Robert Watson, Gary Racine, and Mike Yankowski. Total...... $1,025.00

HOLE IN ONE WINNER. Thad We- A Seminary Burse is an invested sum of money, the interest of ber, winner of the 2014 Bishop’s which is used in perpetuity to help fund the education of men to Invitational Golf Tournament Hole- in-One contest, is presented with a the priesthood. It may be named for anyone – bishop, priest, re- check for $2,000 from Bishop Ronald ligious, or lay person – by the original donor, and can be added Herzog and Dr. Ed and Marie Mi- to and allowed to grow. chael, of Cruise with Me, sponsors of the hole in one contest. Congratula- Contributions to any of the burses or to establish a new burse tions to Thad for his winning hole-in -one shot at the tournament held on should be sent to: Oct. 13, and thank you to Dr. Ed and Marie Michael, who have been spon- Diocese of Alexandria Chancery Office sors of the Bishop’s Invitational Tour- P.O Box 7417 nament for the past 19 years. Alexandria, LA 71306-0417 DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 11

WORK CONTINUES AT MARYHILL. Demolition workers are busy at Maryhill Retreat Center in Pineville removing old buildings and clearing the land of some of the trees, in order to make way for the new housing units. In the last few weeks, three buildings -- including the old seminary administration building -- have been torn down on the north side of the lake.

2014 WOMEN’S CATHOLIC CHAR- ISMATIC CONFERENCE. “Be Not Afraid” was the theme for the 2014 Women’s Catholic Charismatic Con- ference held Nov. 22 at Maryhill Re- newal Center. The speakers, Aggie Neck and Leslie Bertucci, encour- aged the ladies with their inspiration- al talks. The day ended with a Vigil Mass celebrated by Father John Par- due, diocesan liason to the Catholic Charismatic Renewal.

IMPROVEMENTS AT ST. FRANCIS. Fr. Peter Kuligowski, pastor, blesses the new parking lot at St. Francis of Assisi, Waterproof. More than eight truck loads (120 tons) of gravel were used to resurface the parking lot. The church steeple was refinished and waterproofed, two metal doors were installed to replace wooden ones, and the door frames were re- fitted and painted. Special thanks to all who donated their time or funds. PAGE 12 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014

DUKE TIP TALENT SEARCH. Twenty-nine 7th graders from Holy Savior Me- nard Junior High School have been chosen to take part in the Duke TIP Talent Search. Tose chosen for the program are SACRED HEART SCHOOL (Moreauville) THANKSGIVING MASS. Sacred Heart School celebrated its annual Thanksgiving Mass Nov. 21, at Sacred Heart Church. The Mass began with a procession of students and teachers bearing various symbols of gifts and talents that they, as a school, are thankful for. Pictured are (front row) . Back row: , Mrs. Karen Guillot, Mr. Dan Soldani, , Mrs. Marcy Center (religion teacher),

RAPIDES PARISH LIBRARY BOOKMARK WINNERS FROM OLPS. The Rapides Parish Book- mark contest is held each year to promote library use, reading among children, and cooperation between schools and the public library. More than 1,000 Rapides parish students enter the bookmark contest each year. Congratulations to the fol- lowing OLPS students who placed on the parish level in the 31st An- nual Rapides Parish Bookmark con- test: 1st grade, 2nd place - ; 2nd grade, 2nd place - ; 3rd grade 2nd place - ; 4th grade, 1st place - ; 5th grade, 1st place - ; 6th grade, 2nd place - . Pictured are (front row) , (parish winner),

(parish winner), (par- ish winner), , and . Middle row:

(parish winner), , and . Back row: (parish winner),

(parish winner), , and . DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 13

ST. NICHOLAS VISITS ST. RITA CHURCH. St. Nicholas (Father Taylor Reynolds) reads the Christmas Story to the children at the annual St. Nicholas Party at St. Rita Church in Alexandria. Julie Thiels Dekeyzer leads the chil- dren in singing a few familiar Christmas carols.

CHRISTMAS AT THE NEST. More than 100 families attended Holy Savior Menard’s first annual “Christmas at the Nest” held Dec. 2. Students, ages Pre- K to 6th grade were invited an evening of family fun that featured Christmas storytelling by professional storyteller, Sylvia Davis. Kids were also able to make their own Christmas ornaments and take pictures with Santa. This is the first year Menard has hosted Christmas at the Nest. Organizers look forward to making this an annual event.

ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA SCHOOL (Bunkie) CELEBRATES FEAST OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION. The students at St. Anthony School in Bunkie celebrated the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception Dec. 8 with a special school-wide Mass. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a Holy Day of Obligation.

Where to go for Advent Penance Services and Christmas Mass Schedules go to www.diocesealex.org PAGE 14 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014 30 Immaculate Conception pilgrims visit Rome Sites include the Vatican, Assisi, St. Peter’s Cathedral, St. Paul

By Kent Hare of Magnificat’s urging that we the Duomo, and view many IC Parishioner & prepare ourselves physically for important works of Renaissance NSU history professor a steep, brisk, uphill walk from art in the very epicenter of the the bus parked at the bottom of Italian Renaissance, at the Uffizi After a year of preparation the city to our hotel – learning Gallery. both physically (walking) and quickly that everything in Assisi From Florence, we took spiritually (prayer, fasting, is literally uphill. Both ways! a long bus ride back to Rome, and confession) Father Ryan A quick chance to check into where our lodging, the Hotel Humphries (pastor) and 30 the Hotel Giotto was followed Cicerone, was within walking parishioners from the Minor by the beginning of the spiritual distance of St. Peter’s Square. Basilica of the Immaculate component of our pilgrimage with Our time in Rome began Conception in Natchitoches a short ride back to the Basilica on Sunday morning, with Mass embarked on a pilgrimage to Italy of Saint Mary of the Angels in in the sister basilica of our own Oct. 20-29. the valley by Assisi. There we minor basilica, the Major Basilica After gathering at St. Mary’s heard our first daily Mass in Italy of St. Mary Major, concelebrated School for a 3 a.m. Mass, we and marveled at the first of many in Italian by Fr. Chris Decker of began the journey with a bus beautiful, ancient churches we Baton Rouge. St. Mary Major ride to Dallas. From Dallas, we would see. is the largest Marian church in boarded an overnight flight to Like just about everything Rome, and was built during the Italy. else we would encounter, St. fifth century, immediately after We arrived at the Rome Mary of the Angels is of immense the 431 Council of Ephesus airport soon after sunrise and historical significance. In this proclaimed Mary “Mother of immediately boarded our bus case, the existing 16th-century God.” Next, we went to St. where we met Debra, our basilica completely encloses the Gelato! Mmm! Carol Green with Becky and Larry DeBlieux in a gelato Peter’s Square, where we – and delightful tour guide. Debra famous Porziuncula, the little, shop. (Picture provided by Anne Hare) hosts of pilgrims from all over commenced a narrative that delapidated ninth-century chapel the world – were part of Pope literally did not stop for the next which St. Francis restored, in Francis’ weekly Angelus service. nine days, immersing us in the which he and his first followers the group split up for a little free beheld a material bearing In the afternoon, we traveled culture and deep religious history created the Order of Friars Minor time. In addition to lunch and Our Lord’s Precious Blood, the outside the ancient city-walls of Italy. It was charming. in 1209, and where he would shopping while exploring the Corporal of Bolsena. In 1263, of Rome to tour the Catacombs We drove across the stunning a few years later receive Clare town at our leisure, many of us a skeptical priest was stunned of St. Callixtus, artifacts of the countryside from Rome into the into the religious life and thus individually toured St. Clare’s when the Host he consecrated very first age of the Church, hills of Umbria to Assisi, seeming begin the Poor Clares. The aura and viewed the original painted began to bleed. Investigation of when the Faith was still outlawed to go back in time to the medieval of holiness was tangible in that crucifix from San Damiano’s this miracle led directly to the and persecuted, containing both world of Sts. Francis and Clare. basilica. Church which famously spoke institution of the Feast of Corpus tombs where some of our earliest We soon realized the wisdom As tired as we were, we to Francis and urged him to Christi the very next year. Fathers in the Faith once reposed nonetheless enjoyed an early “Rebuild my Church,” as well as Friday morning brought our and some of the earliest Christian (by Italian standards – only 7 St. Clare’s incorrupt body. My departure from Assisi, traveling iconography. p.m.) three-course dinner back wife and I were blessed to witness to Florence for one night. A busy In the evening, back in at our hotel before individually the Poor Clare nuns briefly close afternoon and morning gave us the city, we briefly toured the reflecting on our first day in Italy the curtains in the viewing area opportunities to go into the Church Pantheon, one of the most ancient and collapsing into our beds. and sing the afternoon Office. of the Holy Cross containing the surviving buildings in Rome, Early the next morning, we Absolutely beautiful. tombs of many famous Italians, from just before the BC-AD rose for breakfast followed by Late in the afternoon, those see Michelangelo’s magnificent divide, a pagan temple to all the another uphill walk, to the Basilica of our group who wished (the David in the Academy, tour Roman gods which later became of St. Francis, the headquarters of majority, it turned out), made the Franciscan Order. Built into an optional excursion to San the side of a hill, this huge basilica Damiano’s Church itself, further actually contains two churches – up the hill overlooking Assisi. A Upper and Lower – directly atop statue of St. Francis sitting there, each other above the tomb of St. looking off the bluff, epitomized Francis in the crypt below. the tranquility of the place. Before our local tour guide Every day thereafter Marco conducted us through began and ended the same – a the complex, we heard Mass in hearty breakfast and a three- the basilica’s “Peace Chapel.” course dinner, with a barrage of Marco’s exuberance was religious sites in between. Mass infectious as he explained the was sometimes in the morning, famous frescoes by Giotto and sometimes in the evening. others, before leading us out and Thursday brought a day trip to Anne and Kent Hare by a statue of up (of course) a long street to the the picturesque town of Orvieto, St. Francis in Assisi. The turtledove plaza in front of the Basilica of St. built atop a flat volcanic butte is real. (Picture provided by Anne Clare. a couple of hours from Assisi. Brenda and David Stamey in Florence. (Picture provided by Brenda Stamey) Hare) At that point, just after noon, Inside the Duomo (cathedral), we DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 15

pilgrims FROM Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Natchitoches) at Cynthia Johnson, Eva Coleman, Patsy Melder, Donna Loustaunau, Adele Scott, Jane Chauvin, St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City. Front row: Becca Rodriguez, Charlie Vienne, Ethan Anne Hare, Melanie Johnson, Rebecca DeBlieux, Carol Green, Ashley Hebert, Beverly Giering, Wold, Scott Wold, Dennis Gordon; Jason Methvin, David Stamey, Burley Johnson, Foy Melder, Zella Lopez, Kathy Hollier, and Rita Fontenot. Back row: Roberta (Roman guide), Lisa Johnson, Raymond Chauvin, Wayne Waguespack, Larry DeBlieux, Kent Hare, Hulen Rodriguez, and Bud- Debra Mallinson (Italian escort), Alexis Darbonne (Magnificat representative), Fr. Chris Decker, dy Giering. Row 2: Manuel Lopez, Nita Doughty, Rosemary Troquille, Jessica Rodriguez, Linda and Fr. Ryan Humphries. Not pictured are Rick Johnson and Denise Johnson. LaCaze, Sharon Gordon, Christa Rodriguez, Donell Adams-Welch, Brenda Stamey, Cecile Hymel, a Christian church dedicated could only see a fraction. and tombs – including that of ranks of circular medallions high including fragments of the True to St. Mary and the Martyrs of Monday was primarily spent St. John Paul II – then out and around the periphery, bearing the Cross brought back to Rome by Rome. Then we were “let loose” at the Vatican. First, we heard around to the , a visages of all 266 to date – St. Helena, mother of the first in the Piazza Navona, one of the Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica – vast repository of artistic treasure and room for at least five more. Christian Emperor Constantine centers of Roman night life, for actually two Masses, according to culminating in the Sistine Chapel. Our last day began at St. the Great just after AD 300. our only evening meal on our our preferences: most heard Mass It was magnificent, standing there John , the oldest and After lunch (which was near the own. A group of about ten of us in English, said by Fr. Chris; a few beneath some of the most famous the Pope’s own cathedral in his Trevi Fountain -- unfortunately had dinner at an excellent open- heard Fr. Ryan Humphries say a paintings in the world, knowing capacity as Bishop of Rome. In under restoration), we visited air restaurant to the sounds of a Traditional Latin Mass at a small that is where the Cardinals the immediately the Colosseum before walking to jazz band in the plaza. altar within sight of the main assemble in conclave to elect adjacent, we were privileged to our final church – and final Mass Of course, even there we Papal altar. It was wonderful, each new Pope. climb the Scala Sancta, the very in Rome – at the Basilica of St. had the opportunity for more moving beyond words. Late in the afternoon, we steps from the Praetorian Palace Peter in Chains. There we saw “religious tourism,” viewing the After Mass, we met our visited St. Paul Outside the in that Our Lord scaled Michelangelo’s famous “horned” of the young Roman martyr Roman guide, Roberta, who Walls, perhaps the most visually after he had been scourged. We statue of Moses. St. Agnes in her immediately would be with us for two days. stunning of the churches we did so according to indulgenced The final day ended with the adjacent church. There are She was quite good – a perfect saw, with palm trees in the front custom – on our knees. Many in “surprise” with which Debra had hundreds of churches in Rome, balance of knowledge and piety. courtyard and the golden shimmer our group found the experience been teasing us for several days. each of them with their own From Michelangelo’s Pietà, past of mosaics on the façade that put the most moving part of their It was a Farewell Dinner hosted fascinating significance. We various shrines, chapels, altars, me in mind of something out of pilgrimage. in Le Terme del Colosseo (“The the Caribbean. The similarly At the Basilica of the Holy Baths of the Colosseum”), a great idiosyncratic interior has as one of Cross in Jerusalem, we venerated arched hall that was once part of its most notable features several several relics of the Passion the water system for the Roman baths adjacent to the Colosseum. A trio of singers serenaded us between every other course of the best Italian dinner we had, with plenty of wine to go around. P.O. Box 5624 Alexandria, LA 71307 Everyone had a great time, including Fr. Chris who ended up 3306 Giamanco Street joining the show! Donald J. Baker, ACF/RF/CF The next 24-hours were Phone: (318) 473-8751 spent on our journey back home CONSULTING FORESTER Fax: (318) 473-4045 to Louisiana. It was a most EMail: [email protected] Licensed Urban Tree Consultant memorable pilgrimage, one that we will cherish all of our lives! PAGE 16 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014

33 pilgrims from St. Mary Church in Winnsboro visit Italy, Vatican 11 Confirmation students, 2 priests, 20 adults visit historical Church sites

Eleven Confirmation stu- can City,” said Sims. “It’s some- priests who are currently study- dents from St. Mary Church in thing the kids (and parents) look ing in Rome. Winnsboro and its mission church forward to during their Confirma- Father Taylor celebrated St. John Chapel in Columbia, tion catechesis.” Mass on the altar at St. Mary Ma- spent the Thanksgiving holidays Among some of the sites the jor and on the hill at Assisi. Fa- (Nov. 21-29) on a 9-day pilgrim- group visited was the Shrine of ther James celebrated Mass on the age to Italy and Vatican City. St. Padre Pio in the San Giovanni altar of St. John Paul II’s shrine. Under the direction of Car- Rotondo, the Shrine of Monte At St. Paul Outside the Walls, the men Sims, director of Youth Min- Sant’ Angelo and the Cave of St. group received a special guided istry and Confirmation teacher at Michael the Archangel, the site of tour by Cardinal James Harvey, St. Mary’s, the pilgrimage group the Eucharistic Miracle in Lan- an American Cardinal from Mil- included the 11 Confirmation ciano, Forum ruins in Rome, and waukee, who is currently serving students, as well as Father James two of the four major basilicas as the archpriest of the Basilica of Nellikunnel, CMI, pastor; Father including St. Mary Major and St. St. Paul Outside the Walls. Taylor Reynolds, vicar parochial Paul Outside the Walls. “We were so fortunate to ex- for St. Rita Church in Alexandria; While at the Vatican, the perience so many sites and visit and 20 adults. It was the fourth group met up with Alexandria with so many special people,” she trip in 12 years for Confirmation seminarian Daniel Hart at the said. “At St. Peter’s Basilica, we students from St. Mary’s. North American Pontifical Col- were able to go on the Scavi Tour, “Every three years, at the end lege and for Thanksgiving, the an archaeological tour of excava- of our 3-year Confirmation class, group shared a meal with Father tions below the Vatican Basilica our parish takes the students on Luke Melcher and Father Peter (not usually open to tourists), this pilgrimage to Italy and Vati- Faulk, both Alexandria diocesan which includes 14 papal crypts.” MASS ON THE HILL IN ASSISI. Father Taylor Reynolds celebrates Mass “on the Hill” in Assisi with 11 students fro St. Mary’s, St. John’s, Menard, and St. Fredrick’s. Assisi is a small medieval town of about 25,000 people perched on a hill in Umbria, the heart of Italy. Famous as the birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi holds religious, historical, and artistic significance.

“It was a blessed trip for all John Mission in Columbia; Aliz- of us,” she said. “But I think it abeth Guillot, AnnaGrace Guil- was particularly impressive to the lot, Anna Claire Romero, Dakota students who could see their faith Stephens, Wyatt Williamson, and brought to life through history.” Aaron Yelverton, from St. Mary Funds for the in Winnsboro; Tristan were provided by a St. Mary’s Kramer from Holy Savior Men- -sponsored golf tournament ard High School in Alexandria; and by a generous donor, who and Elaine Ezell and Callie Ezell matched the funds raised by the from St. Frederick High School in golf tournament. Monroe. Garrett Kramer, from St. The Confirmation students Mary Church in Winnsboro was who attended are Chase Masters unable to make the trip due to the and Derrick Rials from from St. birth of his baby sister. VISITING THE FORUM RUINS. Italian guide Giovanni talks to the pilgrims from St. Mary’s in Winnsboro about the ruins of the Roman Forum. In the 8th century BC, The Forum was the center of Roman public life: the site of triumphal processions and elections; the venue for public speeches, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches.

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NATCHITOCHES RESIDENTS WILL TAKE $3,400 TO NEPAL FOR EDUCATION OF YOUNG GIRLS. Stu- dents from St. Mary’s School in Natchitoches in grades 6-12 raised $3,400 for an organization, Empower Nepali Girls Foundation. Shaun Wheat, an SMS parent, talked to the student body about this non-profit group that works to educate young girls of Nepal who are usually sold into slavery in order to feed their family. In the coun- try of Nepal, women face an uphill battle in equal rights within the family and community. Empowering women as wage earners within the family affords them status and rights to decide on the welfare of themselves and their SITE OF EUCHARISTIC MIRACLE IN LANCIANO. The students visit the family. Funding one girl’s education for an entire year costs just $150. Every donation goes towards school fees, site of the Eucharistic Miracle in Lanciano, where a consecrated host became books, uniforms, and materials for young girls’ education in the most needed communities in Nepal and food for real flesh and the wine became real blood. The actual flesh and blood is still their family for one year. With money raised, the students will be able to offer 23 scholarships! preserved even after being exposed to the natural elements for 12 centuries. Mrs. Wheat and some other Natchitoches residents, Mike and Patrice Moulton, will be traveling to Nepal dur- ing the Christmas holidays to bring the scholarship money and small gifts to the girls. Each section of religion VISITING WITH CARDINAL HARVEY. U.S. Cardinal James Harvey of Mil- in middle school and high school were challenged to bring in one gift of $10 (or 40 quarters in a small M & M waukee, and now the archpriest of the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, container) so that each section will fund one scholarship. Besides just raising money, the girls in the classes visits with the students when they visited the basilica. wrote encouraging notes that will be shared with the scholarship recipients. The boys in the classes made small friendship bracelets and prepared short videos that will show the young ladies what life in an American school is like.Pictured are Dr. Michael Moulton, Dr. Patric Moulton, high school religion teacher Mrs. Tara Whitehead, middle school religion teacher Mrs. Jennifer Maggio, and SMS parent Mrs. Shaun Wheat.

EOHSJ offering pilgrimage to Holy Land Feb. 4-14

The Equestrian Order of The Vasko, O.F.M., and president of lieutenancy pilgrimage coordina- Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, the Franciscan Foundation for tors, at 318-452-6443 or e-mail Southeastern Lieutenancy, is of- the Holy Land who will be our [email protected] fering a pilgrimage to the Holy spiritual leader throughout the with your name, address, and tele- Land Feb. 4-14, 2015 at a cost of trip. phone number. You can also view $3,456 per person, double occu- Fr. Peter has lived in Jeru- details on our webpage at sleohs. pancy. salem for the past 29 years and com and at the news/events drop- The trip departs Newark, is internationally known for his down, click pilgrimages. New Jersey, non-stop to Tel Aviv work in the Holy Land. You do A group just returned from and includes first class hotels, not need to be a member of the the November pilgrimage and at private motor coach transporta- Order to go on the pilgrimage. no time did they, or any of the tion, breakfast and dinner and all For a brochure covering the pilgrims traveling with them, feel fees and taxes. Upon arrival in Tel pilgrimage in more detail, please threatened or insecure during the Aviv, we will be met by Fr. Peter contact Pierre or Roz Allemond, 10 days in the Holy Land.

Daniel Lacombe Louis Lowrey, M.A. Like us on Facebook Floor Finishing Licensed Professional Counselor 404 Bordelon Rd., Hessmer, LA 71341 Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Specializing in installation • Floor Finishing • Ceramic Tile Floors Offices located at 207 Church Street, Natchitoches • Hardwood Floors • Reseal Tile Floors (318) 332-8422 • Pager (318) 252-2945 [email protected] Ph: (318) 563-4753 • Cell (318) 305-0241 Mail: 109 Royal Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457 Diocese of Alexandria PAGE 18 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014 Plan now to attend Louisiana Life March in either BR or S’port

Join the Louisiana Right to Life Federation in January at ei- ther the Louisiana Life March SOUTH held in Baton Rouge or the Louisiana Life March NORTH in Shreveport-Bossier. Pro-Life Camps

Louisiana Life March North available for high Bossier City school students The Louisiana Life March North will be held Saturday, Jan. Louisiana Camp Joshua 17 from 10 a.m. - noon begin- (LCJ), a weekend pro-life camp ning at the Louisiana Boardwalk to train high school students to be in Bossier City and ending at pro-life leaders, Shreveport’s Festival Plaza. Dates for Camp Joshua 2015: At Festival Plaza, nationally- • Baton Rouge: March 13-15 known speakers and local music • Baton Rouge: April 10-12 groups will lead prayer and pre- • Covington: May 1-3 sentations. After the gathering, a • Shreveport: May 15-17 “Life Ministry Mobilization” area At Camp Joshua, you will will plug you into all the pro-life experience top-notch workshops, efforts in your communities. classes, and activities, and you’ll The LLM North is a chance learn from the nation’s leading for the citizens of Shreveport, pro-life experts. You’ll also make Bossier City, Ruston, Monroe, 2014 LOUISIANA LIFE MARCH SOUTH. Thousands marched down the streets in Baton Rouge toward the Louisiana great pro-life friends and have Natchitoches, and all of North State Capital during last year’s Louisiana Life March South including KC Council #8029 from Our Lady of Prompt Suc- a ton of fun! More than just lis- Louisiana to stand together for an cor Church in Alexandria. This year’s march in January is expected to draw even larger crowds. tening and observing, you’ll get abortion-free Louisiana. hands-on interaction and experi- The march from the Board- ence in pro-life work. walk to Festival Plaza is 1.2 Pete Maravich Assembly Center. gin, concluding at the Pete Mara- try and a renewed sense of moral Some of the Camp Joshua miles. The Life March South is vich Assembly Center at 11:30 purpose. activities include Workshops, For those that cannot make usually held in downtown Baton a.m. By partnering with The Re- Pro-life persuasion, True Color, the march, please gather at Festi- Rouge with a rally at the state At that point participants will sponse Louisiana, Louisiana Abortion 101, Abortion 201, val Plaza. Capitol, but due to construction march into the Maravich Center, Right to Life has a great opportu- The Impact of Abortion, The Limited transportation will at the Capitol, as well as The Re- and Life March South will merge nity to further spread the pro-life Importance of Pro-life Leader- be available to return people from sponse Louisiana event already with The Response Louisiana and message and unite with thousands ship (Legislator Talk) , Pro-life , Festival Plaza to the north lot of planned the same day on the LSU begin a 15-minute prayer for life. of other Louisianians in prayer. Pro-Chastity, as well as Games/ the Boardwalk. campus, Life March South is The Response Louisiana is While Life March South Activities, LCJ Coffee House, moving there, too. being sponsored by Gov. Bobby officially ends following the and Field Trips to the Governor’s For more information, Activities connected with Jindal, who has called Louisiana 15-minute prayer for life, we Mansion or State Capitol (Baton call our Shreveport office at Life March South will begin at and the nation to a day of prayer hope participants will remain in Rouge only), Crisis Pregnancy 318.300.3533. You can also re- 8:30 a.m. at the LSU Greek The- for America. The event is from the Maravich Center for The Re- Center, and an LCJ Night Out on quest promotional materials to be ater, located on Dalrymple Drive 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and people of sponse Louisiana event. the Town. sent to your church or group. next to the College of Music and all ages, denominations and eth- For more information about More questions? Contact Dramatic Arts. The Rally for Life nic and racial backgrounds will either march, go to www.prolife- Kandace Landreneau of LA Right Louisiana Life March South will begin at 10 a.m., and at 11 gather to fast and pray for a his- louisiana.org to Life, at 1.866.463.5433 or kan- Baton Rouge a.m. the March for Life will be- toric breakthrough for our coun- [email protected]

The Louisiana Life March South will be held Saturday, Jan. 24 from 10 a.m. - noon beginning at the LSU Greek Theater on the LSU campus and ending at the

VIRTUS

• Jan. 22 (Thursday) - 6 p.m., St. Joseph Catholic Center, Alexandria

To pre-register, go to virtus.org, and click on Registration (on left side of screen). For more infor- mation, call 318-445-6424 x 213. DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 19

Bishop Herzog Fr. Chad Partain

Dale Deperrodil Kelly Lombardi Ignite Confirmation Rally ST. JAMES CELEBRATES WORLD YOUTH DAY. Father Gabrield Uzondu, pastoral administrator for St. James Memorial Church in Alexandria, celebrated World Youth Day in October with a special World Youth Day Mass. to be held Jan. 24

The annual Ignite Confirma- minister, and music worship lead- tion Rally, sponsored by the Of- er; and Dale dePerrodil, youth fice of Religious Formation and ministry conference host. Training will be held Saturday, All confirmation candidates Jan. 24 from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. and their parents and/or sponsors at Holy Savior Menard High are invited to attend. A parent/ School. sponsor session with candidates Presenters include Bishop will be held at 3 p.m., followed by Ronald Herzog, Father Chad Par- the celebration of Mass at 4 p.m. tain, pastor of St. Frances Cabrini The cost of registration is Church in Alexandria; Cooper $20 per person by Jan. 5 and $25 Ray, popular musician, worship after Jan. 5. Lunch is included. leader and retreat facilitator, who To register, go to www.dio- also serves as director of Youth cesealex.org/youthministry. Par- Ministry for the Diocese of Baton ishes must provide one chaperone Rouge; Kelly Pease Lombardi, per eight candidates. For more popular Christian singer, music info, call 318-445-6424, ext 221.

Successions • Probate • Wills Attention Attorney All Church Choirs Larry Minton, in the Diocese of Alexandria An experienced, compassionate attorney who can help you Please Send us a photo of your choir! make difficult decisions after the death of a loved one.

The Church Today is planning to feature the choirs in our diocese in the January 2015 issue. If you would like to have your choir pictured in this special section of the Church Today, please send a good clear, high quality picture of your choir to [email protected] or mail to Church Today, 4400 Coliseum Blvd., Alexandria, LA 71303. The last day you can submit a picture is Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015.

Many choirs will be performing special programs during the upcoming Christmas season. What a perfect time to dress up in your choir robes and have a special group picture taken of your choir. (318) 487-0115 Please find your own photographer to take the picture. to schedule a free consultation Send it to us anytime, but we must receive it no later than Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015.

5515 John Eskew Blvd., Alexandria, LA 71303 If you have any questions, please call 318-445-6424, ext 255 or email [email protected] PAGE 20 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014 Christian children’s books make perfect gifts for giving at Christmas

Reviewed by Regina Lordan tickle the imagination of young Catholic News Service children and adults alike. The book will allow readers to revisit (CNS) -- The following their favorite fairy tales and think books are suitable for Christmas about them in a new way. This is giving: one of those books that will be pulled from the shelf time and “Bambinelli Sunday: A again. Ages 5 and up. Christmas Blessing” by Amy Welborn, illustrated by Ann Kis- “The Prayer of St. Francis” sane Engelhart. Franciscan Me- illustrated by Giuliano Ferri. Pau- dia (Cincinnati, 2013). 33 pp., list Press (Mahwah, N.J., 2013). $15.99. 34 pp., $12.95. “Bambinelli Sunday” tells a Christmas tale of a lonely little This children’s picture book boy who finds joy in his fam- is the St. Francis’ prayer depicted ily and in sharing the baby Jesus in soft illustrations of a fox treat- with others. Beautifully illustrat- ids, Mich., 2013). 256 pp., $8. wonderful introduction to histori- “Grumbles From the For- ing his furry friends with kind- ed scenes of water-colored Italian When an entire village moves cal fiction that will teach young est: Fairy Tale Voices With a ness, forgiveness and love. Al- streets will keep the attention of to a new community to help build readers about the crossroads of Twist” by Jane Yolen and Re- though the prayer actually was little readers, and the Christian a free Tanzania, conflict arises. tradition and modernization, cul- becca Kai Dotlich, illustrated by written long after the beloved lesson is appropriate for all ages. But are the problems the result ture and science. Readers will fall Matt Mahurin. WordSong (Hon- saint died, this simple and beauti- Ages 4-8. of evil curses from disgruntled in love with the main character, esdale, Pa., 2013). 40 pp., $16.95. ful prayer along with the book’s ancestors or is something -- or a spunky young girl who teaches This collection of poems pictures will help young children “A Girl Called Problem” someone -- else causing the dis- her village that when girls are al- dedicated to beloved fairy tales is learn about St. Francis’ mission by Katie Quirk. Eerdmans Books ruption? Set in mid-1960s Tanza- lowed to go to school, an entire witty and smart. Enchanting illus- and what they are called to do as for Young Readers (Grand Rap- nia, “A Girl Called Problem” is a community benefits. Ages 10-14. trations and charming poems will children of God. Ages 3-5. Authors explore theological, populist roots of Christmas traditions

Reviewed by Mitch Finley tree (“to recover the tree of para- book written only for academics. Catholic News Service dise, which was restored by the Most reasonably well-educated tree of Calvary”); and giving gifts readers will find it an informa- “Joy to the World: How (“because God has given himself tive and intriguing page-turner. Christ’s Coming Changed Ev- to us as a gift, wrapping his divin- If there is anything to be known erything (and Still Does)” by ity in true humanity.”) about Christmas you will find it Scott Hahn. Image (New York, here. 2014). 192 pp., $23. “Christmas: The Sacred to Moore writes that her book In his slim volume, “Joy to Santa” by Tara Moore. Reaktion explores “how past generations the World,” Scott Hahn reflects Books (London, 2014). 224 pp., have felt about Christmas, how on the meaning of Christmas. $30. people in the same neighborhood Masterfully leaving behind Christmas has histories both might look at it in different ways, the academic theologian’s techni- sacred and secular, and you can and how a simple birth in Beth- cal language and tendency to ask learn a great deal about both from lehem continues to make waves questions the average person is Tara Moore’s “Christmas: The across the continents.” likely to find boring, Hahn speaks Sacred to Santa.” In fact, priests Topics the author addresses from his own experience and to and deacons looking for material include how Christmas came to the experience of the average per- to liven up a Christmas homily be dated on Dec. 25; what the son. At the same time, in every- Scripture scholars, theologians, original meanings of such com- would be wise indeed to read this earliest Christmas celebrations day English he shares with read- preachers and popes including mon Christmas traditions as bak- book. looked like; how Christmas has ers insights from his many years Pope Leo XIII, Pope Benedict ing Christmas cookies (“because Moore teaches in the writing been portrayed in art and in vari- of study--biblical and theological. XVI, and, yes, the the Messiah has come to lead us program at Penn State York, and ous cultures; when Christmas was “Joy to the World” explores Rev. Billy Graham. into a land flowing with milk and her academic credentials are evi- outlawed; and the commercializa- the personages who populate the Hahn even reminds us of the honey.”); decorating a Christmas dent in this book. Still, this isn’t a tion of Christmas. Gospels’ narratives about the birth and meaning of Jesus. These include, of course, Joseph, Mary, Herod, angels and the Magi. But Hahn also draws on insights from the letters of St. Paul and the Jo- hannine literature. He helps the reader see that the entire New Testament, not just the infancy narratives of Matthew and Luke, is about the meaning of Christ- mas. Hahn also draws upon and quotes the works of other DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 21 Exodus: Gods and Kings fails to give God credit for miracles Visual effects are great, but writers should have stayed true to Bible facts

(Editor’s Note: After Holly- wood’s latest ill-attempt of recre- ating a Bible story in Aronofsky’s MOVIE Noah earlier this year, Christians are hesitant to recommend any- thing Hollywood has to say about REVIEWS its interpretation of the Bible. Exodus: Gods and Kings is no exception. lead his people out of slavery. Once again, Hollywood fails Here is the film’s most con- to give God credit for doing any- troversial choice, for God ap- thing miraculously, so it has to pears to Moses as a fierce child. come up with a “reasonable ex- Although this may offend some planation” for how some of the devout viewers, it’s actually far events could have happened -- the more interesting than the boom- Nile turns red as a result of sav- ing offscreen voice that DeMille age crocodiles attacking humans used in his version of the story. and the parting of the Red Sea is This divine child seems angry the result of a raging storm. and vengeful rather than a benign God is depicted as a spoiled, Buddha figure, but one could ar- cruel, and unforgiving child who gue that this is in keeping with the prefers widespread acts of geno- Old Testament God of wrath. cide over compassionate dis- The film hits its peak in course. Literally, he’s depicted as the sequence recounting the 10 a small boy in the film. EXODUS: GODS AND KINGS. Joel Edgerton is Ramses and Christian Bale is Moses in the epic adventure of Exo- plagues. The savage crocodiles While the special effects dus: Gods and Kings. Rated PG-13 for violence including battle sequences and intense images. were not in the Old Testament, have received great reviews, the but as they attack humans as well “creative liberties” that the writ- as fish, they turn the Nile blood ers injected into the script, make more controversial than that pious royal court. We eventually learn ceeds his father on the throne. But red, which is at least an inge- it less acceptable to Christians. 1956 opus. Spectacularly filmed the backstory of how the Jewish the friendship between the two nious explanation of how the Below is a review of Exodus: and intermittently well acted, child managed to find a home soldiers is not well established river might have turned to blood. Gods and Kings, but it’s from a though not quite as much campy among the kings, but we’re intro- in the opening scenes, so the film Frogs, boils and locusts are truer Hollywood perspective, not a fun as the DeMille version, the duced to him as a warrior and best stumbles out of the gate. to the text and are rendered in lus- Christian. It’s the best I could do picture looks likely to attract a friend of Ramses (Joel Edgerton). Four writers — Adam Coo- cious visual detail. without having seen the movie substantial audience even if some The first part of the movie per, Bill Collage, Jeffrey Caine The climactic chase to the myself.) religious leaders voice protests. cribs rather shamelessly from and Oscar winner Steven Zaillian Red Sea is equally spectacular. Scott did a great job reviving Gladiator, which began by — are credited with the screen- Although The Ten Command- by The Hollywood Reporter the Roman sand-and-sandals epic sketching the rivalry between the play, and they haven’t been able ments won the Oscar for its vi- when he made the Oscar-winning emperor’s son and his favorite to craft an elegant narrative from sual effects, the parting of the 2014 marks the resurgence of Gladiator. This Egyptian saga is warrior. Here the aging Pharaoh, the biblical text. The dialogue is Red Sea in DeMille’s film was the Old Testament at the movies. not quite in the same league, but played by John Turturro, prefers often cringe-worthy, as when a laughably tacky. Scott comes up After Darren Aronofsky turned to it confirms the director’s flair for his adopted son Moses to his own surly Moses tells God, “Nice of with a somewhat more credible Genesis to unleash Noah, Ridley widescreen imagery. Exodus has son Ramses. you to come.” portrayal of how the Israelites Scott moves forward to the Book the added kick of 3D technology, An early battle scene against When Moses learns his true managed to cross the sea before of Exodus to revisit the story of and it has enough eye-popping set the Hittites, modeled very closely identity, he is reluctant to play a monumental storm drowned the Moses. pieces to please adventure fans. on the climactic battle scene be- the role of savior, and he finds a Egyptians. Exodus: Gods and Kings is Unlike the DeMille render- tween Arabs and Turks in Law- comfortable home in a remote vil- This sequence is visually this century’s answer to Cecil B. ing, this one does not begin at the rence of Arabia, suggests that lage, where he marries and has a thrilling. The movie should have DeMille’s The Ten Command- beginning but plunges us into the Moses is the superior warrior, son. But his destiny calls when he ended there, but Scott and the ments, but it already looks to be middle of the action, with Moses which prepares for his eventual comes upon the famous burning writers seem to have felt obliged (Christian Bale) as an adult in the banishment once Ramses suc- bush and is approached by God to to include a few of the later parts of the story, including the deliv- ery of the Ten Commandments and a scene of an aged Moses fi- nally arriving near the land of Ca- naan. But while these events are integral to the biblical story, they come off here as the worst kind of anticlimax. Don’t expect any acting Mary’s Heart Catholic Gifts nominations for the picture. Bale 2018-C Gus Kaplan Dr. • Alexandria, LA • (318) 443-2135 garbles a few too many of his M-F 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. • Closed Sunday lines, but he has an imposing physical presence. PAGE 22 CHURCH TODAY DECEMBER 15, 2014

Holy Spirit Teen, Young Adult Retreat DIOCESAN The Catholic Charismatic Renewal of New Orleans (CCRNO) will sponsor its annual Holy Spirit Teen and BRIEFS Young Adult Retreat, better known as January Retreat, Jan. 2-4, 2015 at the Landmark Hotel in Metairie. The re- treat will include talks, skits, music, worship, Mass, con- Bible Quiz Bowl questions are ready fessions, and fellowship. Speakers include Fr. Tim Hedrick, Fr. Jonathan Hemelt, Questions and answers for the third annual Catecheti- Sr. Tracey Dugas, Timmy McCaffery, Matt Bourgeois, cal Quiz Bowl that will be held on Saturday, March 14, are Alex Lorio, Deacon Larry Oney and Chantelle Hudachek. now available from the Office of Religious Formation and Music will be provided by Leslie Bertucci and NoLoud- Training at the Diocese Center. To receive a copy of the Rocks. study questions and anwers, call (318) 445-6424 ext. 251 This is a great retreat for Confirmation preparation. or email [email protected]. Cost is $170. To register, visit www.ccrno.org or contact ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL CHURCH (Leesville) cel- The questions and answers are made available to CCRNO at [email protected] ebrated a Day of the Dead Mass. teams early, so that students may begin studying. The quiz will consist of questions from the books of Genesis and Holy Spirit Women’s Retreat Matthew in the Bible. entertained by Christmas music in various languages, as A parish or school can have any number of teams. the show highlights Christmas traditions around the world. Sister Briege McKenna, OSC, and Fr. Kevin Scallon, A team is made up of four members, 6th, 7th, and/or 8th Donation offerings accepted. CM, will be the featured speakers at the annual Holy Spirit grade students from Catholic Schools and from Parish Women’s Retreat from Jan. 16-18, 2015 at the Hilton Ho- CCD programs. tel in Lafayette. The theme is “I Thirst.” This retreat is The cost to register is $10 per team, which includes sponsored by the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of New lunch. First place winners will receive a cash award of St. Martin Orleans (CCRNO). Weekend and Saturday commuters are $500 and a trophy and second place winners will receive welcome. Register online at www.ccrno.org or call (504) $200 and a trophy. Cookbook 828-1368. for Sale Christmas Concerts St. Martin Church in Lecompte is selling its parish cook- • Dec. 16: Red River Chorale will perform Celebrating book titled “...and these Thy gifts.” It makes a great gift Christmas at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Alexandria at idea for Christmas. It includes 980 recipes, 458 pages in a 7:30 p.m. Admission: $15 for adults; $5 for students hard-bound, ring binder. Cost is $25. To purchase a copy, call the church office at 318-776-9480, Tuesday - Thurs- • Dec. 17: Our Lady of Prompt Succor (Alexandria) adult day, between the hours of 8 a.m. - noon. and youth choirs will perform Lessons and Carols at OLPS Church, 2120 Elliott Street, Alexandria at 6:30 p.m. Retrouvaille Marriage Help Admission: Free. Retrouvaille (announced retro-vi) has helped tens of thou- Sacred Heart Christmas production sands of couples at all stages of disillusionment or misery in their marriage. This program can help you too. For Enjoy the talents of the students from Sacred Heart School confidential information about or to register for the pro- CONFIRMATION, ST. PATRICK , Ferriday. Dalton Hopkins in Moreauville as they present a special Christmas pro- gram to be held on Jan. 23-26 at Maryhill Renewal Center and Tayman Stampley were confirmed in July by Fr. Bruce Mill- duction of The Greatest Gift of All on Thursday, Dec. 18 in Pineville, call 1-800-470-2230 or visit: www.HelpOur- er. Also pictured is Deacon Bill Shaidnagle and Fr. Louis Sklar. at 6 p.m. at the Mari Center in Marksville. Prepare to be Marriage.com

FORMER SOCIAL SECURITY JUDGE PETER J. LEMOINE Social Security Disability Law

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

PUBLISHED ARTICLES: “The Worn-Out Worker Rule Revisited,” “Significant Work-Related Limitations of Function Under 12.05C,” 3 ways to listen: “Questionable Retirement and the Small Business Owner,” “Crisis of Confidence: The Inadequacies of Vocational Evidence Presented∲ at 580 AM Social Security Disability Hearings.” 89.7 FM radiomaria.us 318-876-3174 DECEMBER 15, 2014 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 23 December - January

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

NSU Choirs Lessons & Carols 15 16 176:30 p.m. 18 19 20 21 Red River Chorale OLPS Choirs Christmas Festival Trinity Episcopal, 7:30 p.m. Lessons & Carols 9:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Natchitoches St. Francis Xavier 6:30 p.m. Natchitoches Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Cathedral, Alexandria Alexandria Sacred Heart School Production 6:00 p.m. Mari Center, Marksville

PRAY FOR FR. J. RYAN PRAY FOR FR. C. SCOTT PRAY FOR FR. R. SHOURYPRAY FOR FR. P. SIERRA POSADAPRAY FOR FR. L. SKLAR PRAY FOR FR. S. SOARES PRAY FOR FR. I. ST. ROMAIN 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Diocesan Offices closed

SOLEMNITY OF THE NATIVITY of the LORD FEAST of the (CHRISTMAS) FEAST of ST. JOHN HOLY FAMILY of (Holy Day of Obligation) CHRISTMAS EVE FEAST of ST. STEPHEN the APOSTLE JESUS, MARY, JOSEPH PRAY FOR MSGR. S. TESTA PRAY FOR FR. J. THOMAS PRAY FOR FR. A. THOMPSON PRAY FOR MSGR. J. TIMMERMANS PRAY FOR FR. E. TIRKEY PRAY FOR FR. A. TRAVIS PRAY FOR FR. G. UZONDU

29 30 31 JANUARY 1 2 3 4

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SOLEMNITY of MARY, Holy Spirit Teen & Young Adult Retreat -- New Orleans THE HOLY MOTHER of GOD SOLEMNITY of the FIRST SATURDAY EPIPHANY of the LORD NEW YEAR’S EVE (Holy Day of Obligation) FIRST FRIDAY PRAY FOR FR. A. VARGHESE PRAY FOR FR. V. VEAD PRAY FOR FR. A. VELEZ PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG PRAY FOR FR. N. VIVIANO PRAY FOR FR. J. XAVIER PRAY FOR FR. R. YOUNG 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

FEAST of the BAPTISM of the LORD (End of Christmas season) PRAY FOR FR. K. ZACHARIAH PRAY FOR FR. A. AELAVANTHARA PRAY FOR FR. T. ALLEN PRAY FOR FR. S. BRANDOW PRAY FOR FR. D. BRAQUET PRAY FOR FR. J. BROCATO PRAY FOR FR. A. CATELLA 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Holy Spirit Women’s Retreat -- New Orleans

PRAY FOR FR. S. CHEMINO PRAY FOR FR. D. COOK PRAY FOR FR. D. CORKERY PRAY FOR FR. J. CUNNINGHAM PRAY FOR FR. W. DECOSTE PRAY FOR FR. D. DEJESUS PRAY FOR FR. J. FERGUSON