CHURCH TODAY

Volume XLVI, No. 9 www.diocesealex.org Serving the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana Since 1970 September 21, 2015

O N T H E Welcome to America, INSIDE Pope Francis! Pope Francis simplifies annulment process Pope to visit Washington D.C., New York, Philadelphia Sept. 22-25

Pope Francis has reformed rules for marriage annulment cases, -- making the process free, briefer, and more simple. The reforms came in response to calls that bishops from around the world have been making since before the 1980 Synod of Bishops on the family convoked by St. John Paul II. See page 3.

Bishop Herzog ‘seals’ door to Cathedral

Bishop Ronald Herzog pre- sided at a special Vespers Ser- vice Sept. 14 at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, where he blessed and “sealed” the east interior door in anticipation of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy that starts Dec. 8, 2015. See page 7.

ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

In this year of 2015, several LARGE MURAL OF POPE FRANCIS IN NEW YORK CITY. A 225-foot tall Catholic groups, ministries, mural featuring an image of Pope Francis is seen in New York City Sept. 3, and churches are celebrating the day painters put the finishing touches on the artwork. The mural, which significant anniversaries. Check took 10 days to paint, faces Madison Square Garden, where Pope Francis out pages 14-18 for stories will celebrate Mass on Sept. 25. (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz) about each of these special anniversaries and how they are each celebrating. PAGE 2 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 Pope’s 5-day visit to U.S. is short, but packed full of events

Beginning tomorrow, (Tues- “World News Tonight” anchor day, Sept. 22) Pope Francis will David Muir, a practicing Catho- arrive in Washington D.C. for his lic. In addition to the group at Sa- first visit to the United States. cred Heart Parish in McAllen, the His visit will include stops in pope also conversed with home- Washington D.C., New York, and less families in Los Angeles and Philadelphia. with students at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School in Chicago, which Wednesday serves low-income families. On Wednesday morning The event aired Sept. 4 dur- (Sept. 23) Pope Francis will ing a one-hour special edition of meet with President Obama in “20/20.” The event was staged in the White House, followed by a anticipation of the pope’s trip to prayer service with the bishops. the U.S. Since the pope is visiting Later in the day he will canonize only Washington, New York and Father Junipero Serra at the Ba- Philadelphia, the virtual town hall silica of the National Shrine of gave him a chance to speak with the Immaculate Conception. people in places he wouldn’t be able to visit. Thursday During the virtual town hall meeting, Pope Francis spoke with On Thursday morning (Sept. a 19-year-old man, who shared 24), the pope will address a Joint his experience as an immigrant. Session of the Congress. The me- He told the pope that he is grate- dia is expected to focus on how ful to work and attend college so Catholic lawmakers react to his that he can help support his par- remarks. In late morning, he will ents and siblings because of the visit St. Patrick in the City and ABC VIRTUAL TOWN HALL MEETING. David Muir, anchor of ABC’s “World News Tonight,” talks with Pope Francis Deferred Action for Childhood Catholic charities of the Archdio- at the Vatican during a virtual town hall meeting with Catholics in Chicago, Los Angeles and McAllen, Texas, Aug. 31. Arrivals program. cese of Washington. He departs The meeting via satellite link was arranged and hosted by ABC News. (CNS photo/courtesy of ABC News) A woman from El Salvador, to JFK later in the day and will who was wearing an electronic lead evening prayers at St. Pat- monitoring device around her rick’s Cathedral, New York. Saturday McAllen, Texas has ABC town time was 4 p.m., appearing by ankle, asked for a blessing for her hall meeting with Pope Fancis satellite and speaking to the peo- Friday The pope’s last stop is Phila- toddler son, who has problems delphia on Saturday where he will (CNS) -- At Sacred Heart ple in McAllen was Pope Francis with his vision. Friday morning (Sept. 25) preside over the World Meeting of Church in McAllen, members by means of a “virtual town hall” A young girl from El Salva- marks the Holy Father’s U.N. ad- Families. He will say Mass, visit of the community, most of them arranged by ABC News. dor, who traveled 26 days with dress. Expectations will be high Independence Mall, and attend volunteers at a respite center for “We are thrilled to have been her mother to the U.S., cried as he is likely to push for climate the Festival of Families event. immigrants at Sacred Heart par- a part of this morning’s conversa- when remembering how she and change reforms. Then he will ish hall, were invited to a special tion with Pope Francis via satel- her mother were subjected to attend an ecumentical service at Sunday event held Aug. 31 at 9 a.m. by lite,” said Brenda Nettles Riojas, threatening moments during the the World Trade Center. Later in His last day (Sunday), allows ABC News, but were not in- communications director for the journey. She drew a large picture the day, he will visit a church in him to meet with bishops, visit a formed in advance of just how Diocese of Brownsville. for Pope Francis that said, “Te East Harlem, followed by Mass at prison, offer a concluding Mass, special that event would be. The audience was moder- amo Papa” (“I love you Father”) Madison Square Garden. and thank the event’s organizers. In Rome, where the local ated from inside the Vatican by and showed it to him on camera.

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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. SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 3 Pope simplifies annulment process; urges that it be free Reforms in cost, speed, and simplicity of procedures will lift ‘oppressed shadow of doubt’ By Jeannie Petrus, CT editor dria, after a determination was or longer in some cases.” and combined CNS reports made by the diocesan Tribunal, Worldwide, cases can take the mandatory and automatic ap- “not less than two years and up Pope Francis has reformed pellate review had to be sent to to five years, but sometimes 10 rules for marriage annulment New Orleans, taking as long as years.” cases, -- making the process free, six months. That second review, In the reforms, Pope Fran- briefer, and more simple. The re- now, will no longer be necessary. cis provided a set of brand new forms came in response to calls procedures in which the diocesan that bishops from around the Urging process to be free or as bishop alone can make the deci- world have been making since close to free as possible sion about nullity of marriage before the 1980 Synod of Bish- consent. Then, if anyone feels ag- ops on the family convoked by The U.S. bishops’ website grieved by the bishop’s determi- St. John Paul II. notes that the fees vary from dio- nation, the case can be appealed Pope Francis said the re- cese to diocese within the United to the metropolitan archbishop. forms are designed not to make States with several dioceses al- The new rules spell out spe- it easier to obtain an annulment, ready waiving all fees. cific conditions when a bishop nor does it promote the nullity of “Most tribunals charge be- can issue a declaration of nullity marriages, but to reform the “cost, tween $200 and $1,000 for a for- after an abbreviated process. speed and simplicity” of the pro- POPE FRANCIS BLESSES MARRIED COUPLE. After a year’s work by a mal case depending on how much Those conditions include: cedures so that Catholic couples special legal commission, Pope Francis has approved a reform of the Code of the diocese subsidizes the work • when it is clear that one or both are not “oppressed by the shadow Canon Law to simplify and streamline the marriage annulment process. The of the tribunal,” the bishops’ web- parties lacked faith to give full of doubt” for prolonged periods. new rules were presented at the Vatican Aug. 18 and were laid out in two brief site says. consent to a true marriage; Catholic marriage tribunals papal letters. The changes will go into effect Dec. 8, the opening day of the According to the Statistical • when the woman had an abor- do not dissolve marriages, but as- Year of Mercy. Yearbook of the Church 2013, a tion to prevent procreation; sess whether or not a valid mar- Vatican-published catalogue of • remaining in an extramarital re- riage was present from the begin- statistics, just over 26 percent of lationship at the time of the wed- ning. ments: (1) the spouses are free to Eastern code. The reformed pro- the cases in the United States are ding or immediately afterward; According to Father Bruce marry; (2) they freely exchange cesses were drafted by a special heard for free; close to 30 percent • one partner hiding knowledge Miller, J.C.L., Judicial Vicar for their consent; (3) in consenting committee Pope Francis estab- require partial payment by the of infertility, a serious contagious the Diocese of Alexandria, nei- to marry, they have the intention lished a year earlier. The reforms petitioner; and in 44 percent of disease, children from a previous ther the marriage itself nor the to marry for life, to be faithful to include: the cases, the petitioners pay all union or a history of incarcera- good will of the parties is ques- one another and be open to chil- costs. tion; and tioned or erased at the time the dren; (4) they intend the good of Removing requirement of a In the Diocese of Alexandria, • when physical violence was marriage was entered. each other; and (5) their consent second panel of judges effective immediately, no fees used to extort consent for the “Thus, the children remain is given in the presence of two for any tribunal process will be marriage. legitimate by church law,” Father witnesses and before a properly Among the criteria that requested or received. The costs Pope Francis also encour- Miller said. “Nothing can change authorized church minister.” guided their work, the pope listed will be funded by the Annual Di- ages bishops in dioceses that do that.” The need to reform the an- first, the possibility of there being ocesan Appeal. not have a tribunal office to train Catholics whose first unions nulment process and cut the costs “only one executory sentence in personnel who can handle mar- are declared “null,” are free to was supported by an overwhelm- favor of nullity” when the local Establishing a brief process riage cases. marry in the church and receive ing majority of bishops -- about bishop or judge delegated by him for some cases For more information about the sacraments, including recon- 90 percent -- at last year’s Ex- had the “moral certainty” that the annulments or the new reform ciliation and Communion. traordinary Synod of Bishops on marriage was not valid. Previous- According to the U.S. bish- process, contact the Diocesan According to the website of the family. ly an appeal was automatic and a ops’ website, the time it takes to Tribunal Office at 318-445-6424, the U.S. Conference of Catho- The new rules replace canons declaration of nullity had to come complete the annulment process ext 261 or go to http://www.dio- lic Bishops: “A valid Catholic 1671-1691 of the Code of Canon from two tribunals. “can vary from diocese to dio- cesealex.org/offices-ministries/ marriage results from five ele- Law and canons 1357-1377 of the In the Diocese of Alexan- cese, often taking 12 to 18 months tribunal. How can I find out more about getting an annulment?

Diocese of Alexandria Lighthouse Catholic Media USCCB Website Website CD titled: For Your Marriage Diocesan Tribunal Office Catholic Teaching on www.foryourmarriage.org http://www.diocesealex.org Marriage and Annulments Annulments and /offices-ministries/tribunal An initiative of the U.S. the Catholic Church 318-445-6424 ext 261 www.lighthousecatholicmedia.org Conference of Catholic Bishops www.amazon.com

The Lighthouse Catholic Media CD and the book on Annulments and Catholic Church are good resources for what the Church teaches about Marriage and Annulments, but were produced prior to the latest annulment reforms. Check out the websites for the USCCB and the Diocese of Alexandria for up-to-date information on the reforms. PAGE 4 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015

As we experience the his- many of you at the five regional Extraordinary Jubilee Year of torical visit of Pope Francis to the forums. Many good questions and Mercy. Throughout the world, the United States this week (Sept. 22- comments were expressed, which doors are normally sealed shut 27), there will be much to watch ONE IN were very helpful. I also want from the inside so that they can- and learn as the world and nation- to thank those of you who made not be opened. The doors will be al media covers his every move. THE LORD time for personal interviews re-opened Dec. 8, marking the I encourage you (as well as with the Steier representatives. I beginning of the Jubilee Year of your spouse, children and grand- Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog will receive the observations and Mercy, when pilgrims can enter childen) to take some time this Bishop of the Diocese of Alexandria recommendations of the Steier through those doors again to gain week, to watch the media cover- Group in the near future. Please the plenary indulgence connected age of this event by both the na- continue to pray for the guidance with the Jubilee. tional media and the Catholic me- of the Holy Spirit during these May the Lord bless you and dia (EWTN). Use this event as a comes the first pope ever to ad- him in your prayers that he will days. your family as we welcome Pope learning tool for yourself, and as dress a Joint Session of the U.S. remain safe and maintain his Last week, on the feast of Francis this week and as we pre- a “teaching tool” for your chil- Congress, or include in conversa- health for such busy days. the Exaltation of the Holy Cross pare to enter the Extraordinary dren and grandchildren. tions, the compassion of the pope, The planning study for the (Sept. 14), at the request of our Jubilee Year of Mercy Dec. 8. Discuss with your spouse or as he visits U.S. schools, prisons, proposed diocesan capital cam- Holy Father, we sealed the Holy children the impact of the Catho- and immigration centers. paign has been moving forward. Door at St. Francis Xavier Ca- lic Church, as Pope Francis be- But most of all, please keep It was great to be able to join thedral in preparation for the The sin of abortion has always been forgiveable When Pope Francis issued sin in the confessional. easier for anyone who seeks it Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities, women and men, for anyone who a statement Sept. 1 that priests Bishop Edward B. Scharf- with a truly penitent heart,” he said it has been frustrating for her suffers from involvement with throughout the world would have enberger of Albany, New York, said. to see reports about Pope Francis’ abortion, to tell their story, have the authority to absolve women called the pope’s statement, a Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley action in the secular media that someone listen and be relieved for the sin of abortion during the “wonderful gesture.” of Boston, chairman of the U.S. perpetuate “the false notion that of all the emotional, spiritual and upcoming Jubilee Year of Mercy, “The priests of the Roman bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life the church excommunicates any- psychological pain they are ex- a lot of people were confused. Catholic diocese throughout the Activities, said his “hope and one” who has an abortion. periencing from abortion,” Mc- Does that mean that anyone United States have ... had the fac- prayer is that all those carrying “They are making it sound Clusky said. who had an abortion could not ulties (authority) to lift the sanc- the burden of an experience of like something new,” she said, Project Rachel, which has receive absolution from a priest tion of excommunication for the abortion would turn to the church “but the church has welcomed all existed since 1975 and was taken through the sacrament of recon- sin of abortion for more than 30 and her sacraments and experi- sinners since the time of Jesus. ... under the umbrella of the bish- ciliation? years,” he said. ence the Lord’s mercy and love.” It is at the heart of what it means ops’ conference in 2005, provides The key word is worldwide. “Any woman who has had He directed all those in- to be a priest to extend that for- “opportunities for group healing” The sin of abortion incurs an an abortion, any person who has volved with an abortion -- “wher- giveness.” through support groups or retreats automatic ‘latae sententiae’ ex- been involved in an abortion in ever a person might be in their In addition to the sacrament as well as referrals to licensed communication for anyone who any way, can always seek God’s healing journey” -- to look into of reconciliation, the U.S. church mental health professionals if willingly procurs or assists in forgiveness through the sacra- the resources offered by Project offers through Project Rachel “a needed, she said. But confession an abortion. In the United States ment of reconciliation, if they are Rachel or a similar post-abortion confidential and safe place for is at its heart, she added. and Canada, priests have been truly sorry for their actions,” he healing ministry in their dioceses. delegated by their bishops to lift said. Contact information for most dio- the excommunication and grant Several prelates, including ceses is available at www.hope- absolution. Archbishop Charles J. Chaput afterabortion.com (in Spanish at CHURCH TODAY However, in some parts of of Philadelphia, emphasized that www.esperanzaposaborto.com) Volume XLVI, No. 9 • September 21, 2015 the world, a bishop can retain this Pope Francis’ action “in no way or through the national toll-free authority to himself. This means diminishes the moral gravity of number, 888-456-HOPE. P. O. Box 7417 • Alexandria, LA 71303 the priests under the authority of abortion.” Mary E. McClusky, assistant [email protected] 318-445-6424 those certain bishops, would not “What it does do is make ac- director of Project Rachel minis- have the authority to forgive the cess to sacramental forgiveness try development in the USCCB 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 Association. Website: www.diocesealex.org To receive a free subscription, call 318-445-6424, ext 255 or e-mail [email protected] SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 5 3 easy ways to participate in 40 Days for Life campaign

40 Days for Life, the hugely It is a peaceful and educa- successful, international pro-life tional presence. Those who are campaign, will be held Sept. 23 - called to stand witness during Nov. 1. this 24-hour-a-day presence send Prayer to End 40 Days for Life is a commu- a powerful message to the com- nity-based campaign that takes a munity about the tragic reality of Abortion determined, peaceful approach to abortion. It also serves as a call to showing local communities the repentance for those who work at Lord God, I thank you today consequences of abortion in their the abortion center and those who for the gift of my life, own neighborhoods, for their patronize the facility. and for the lives own friends and families. It puts In Louisiana, there are four of all my brothers and sisters. into action a desire to cooper- cities that have abortion centers ate with God in the carrying out Sept. 23, 2015 or clinics. Pro-life groups in each I know there is nothing of His plan for the end of abor- - Nov. 1, 2015 of those four cities plan to partici- that destroys more life tion. It draws attention to the evil pate in the 40 Day campaign. If than abortion, of abortion through the use of a you as an individual, or you with Yet I rejoice three-point program: a group of friends or as a mem- • Prayer and fasting ber of a group or organization, that you have conquered death • Constant vigil wish to participate in one of these by the Resurrection of Your Son. • Community outreach and fasting. The two go hand in People of faith are also in- peaceful vigils, go to www.pro- The mission of the campaign lifelouisiana.org and find orga- hand. Prayer keeps us rooted vited to fast throughout 40 Days I am ready to do my part is to bring together the body of in the fact that it is our desire for Life. Christ said there are de- nized vigils in New Orleans, Ba- Christ in a spirit of unity during to carry out God’s will. Fasting mons that can only be driven out ton Rouge, Shreveport/Bossier, in ending abortion. a focused 40 day campaign of is a sacrifice that helps us reach by prayer and fasting. A fast is not and Lafayette. Today I commit myself prayer, fasting, and peaceful ac- beyond our own limitations with a Christian diet; it is a powerful never to be silent, tivism, with the purpose of repen- Community Outreach God’s help. means of drawing closer to God never to be passive, tance, to seek God’s favor to turn Each day during 40 Days for by blocking out distractions. During 40 Days for Life, hearts and minds from a culture Life, individuals, churches, fami- Fast from certain foods. Fast the message is take proactively never to be forgetful of death to a culture of life, thus lies and groups will be asked to from television. to every corner of your commu- of the unborn. bringing an end to abortion. join together in prayer for a spe- Fast from apathy and indif- nity. Media outreach is conducted cific request so the entire Body ference. Fast from whatever it is through carefully targeted news I commit myself to be active Prayer and Fasting of Christ can unite around a com- that separates you from God. stories, talk shows, editorials Want to end abortion? If you mon focus. These specific prayer We believe that when God’s and opinion pieces so you get the in the pro-life movement, do, the first thing you must do is requests will seek God’s help for: people fast with a broken, repen- message out to people who would and never to stop defending life pray. Prayer is at the center of 40 • Women who are at risk of hav- tant and contrite spirit, our heav- never see the inside of a church. until all my brothers and sisters Days for Life. ing an abortion enly Father will hear from heaven Church involvement begins are protected, During each campaign, we • Innocent children who are at and heal our lives, our churches, by meeting with local pastors, are calling on people of faith risk of perishing our communities, our nation, and other church leaders, and mem- and our nation once again across the nation … and around • Men and women who carry the our world. bers of different congregations. becomes a nation the world … to fall on their knees pain of a past abortion experience The Body of Christ is invited to with liberty and justice before the Lord, asking Him to • Workers at Planned Parenthood Constant Vigil pray together and participate in not just for some, but for all. hear our plea and heal our land. facilities and abortion centers The visible, public center- 40 Days for Life, uniting in one Through Christ our Lord, Amen! Pray outside an abortion fa- • Local, regional, and national piece of 40 Days for Life is a focused mission that can save cility. Pray at church. leaders focused, 40-day, non-stop, round- lives and make an eternal impact. Pray at work. Pray in the car. • Revival and renewal in our the-clock prayer vigil outside a A door-to-door petition and Rev. Frank Pavone Pray at home with your family. churches single Planned Parenthood center education drive reaches out to Christ told us some demons • Repentance and healing or other abortion facility in your can only be driven out by prayer throughout our nation community. Continued on page 20 PAGE 6 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 Fatal accident gives seminarian a taste of what it means to be a priest

Traffic crawled by on Hwy. available at the precise moment the church to souls. 165-S, between Olla and Pollock, needed? Our diocese needs more on Thursday, Aug. 13 around 5:20 In this moment of despair the priests. Families who need the p.m. Guest presence of a priest was a grace presence of a priest in times of The sound of plastic and for those who were facing dark- joy and grief need young men to glass crunching beneath tires was Editorial ness. It was a sign to those pres- say “yes” to God and minister to only deafened by the sirens and ent and those passing by that God them. By Thomas Kennedy, Diocesan Seminarian the distress of family and friends was with his people. We need brave men who are St. Joseph Seminary, Covington who gathered near a mangled car Emergency responders were not afraid to run toward danger. that had come to rest in the me- unable to do anything for this If you, or any young man dian. young girl. No police training, you know feels an attraction to EMTs, police, firefighters, or medicine or fire-fighter tools the priesthood, and would like and a Catholic priest stood ad- south. friends began to arrive at the were able to save this life on this to have an opportunity to dis- jacent to the car where a 7-year Little did we know this scene and their grief spread. day. cern whether he is being called, -old girl had just died from inju- would not be our only or most I remained close and prayed The only person who was I encourage you to speak with ries sustained when her father fell important stop. a Rosary and three Divine Mercy present who could actually do the Director of Vocations for the asleep at the wheel and clipped We stopped in Columbia at Chaplets. something for this young soul Diocese of Alexandria, Father the rear of a semi-trailer truck. a gas station to get a cold drink Despite the plans for each was a Catholic priest. A priest, Louis Sklar. He will be happy I stood by watching and pray- on the hot day before continuing of us that day, all of our lives in- through the rites of the Church, to help you in your discernment. ing for all involved. south. As we passed Olla, Chase tersected in this one moment of was able to present the soul to The seminarians of the diocese Masters, one of our newest semi- tragedy. We learned from a neigh- God. are also available to answer any The day had started out nor- narians, called. Chase told Father bor of the young girl that her first The ministry of the priest is questions you may have. mally for each of us. In my case, Sklar that he was traveling north, day of school for the year would not an occupation. It is a voca- Many may inquire where Je- I was with my family in Monroe he saw us on the adjacent road, have been the following day, and tion. A priest gives his entire self sus is in tragic times such as this. sharing a final few hours with and warned us there had been a they had been getting her clothes to the service of others. In this In that incident, I could point and them before Father Louis Sklar horrific collision ahead. He ad- ready. moment the ministry of the priest say, he is right there, in the midst came to pick me up in anticipa- vised that a priest might be need- What if we had not been de- makes eternal difference. of his people, through the minis- tion of my return to the seminary ed. Shortly thereafter, we arrived layed by the lid flying off of my For priests, it is not op- try of a priest. Pray for priests, for the next day. on the grim scene. box, or stopped at the gas station, tional to help souls in distress. more vocations, and also for the As we left Monroe, one of Father Sklar inquired wheth- or Chase had not seen and called They must go where angels fear family and friends who suffered the lids on the boxes that I had er a priest was needed and a Sher- us? Would we have been able to to tread, run toward danger, and loss in this tragic accident. packed, flew out of the truck. My iff Deputy indicated that a young be there for this tragic moment? bravely bring the sacraments of brother Joseph was following us girl was still in the vehicle and a Would another priest have and he called to say he saw the lid priest may be needed. been passing by to anoint the fly off. I thanked him as that par- Father put on his collar, cas- young girl? Would I have been ticular box had my first-class rel- sock, and purple stole and walked present to pray for the victim, her ics of St. Pope Pius X, St. Thom- to the car where he anointed the family, and the emergency crew? Seminarian Burses as, and Blessed Francis Xavier victim. Her father was inconsol- Had Sts. Pope Pius X, Thom- Seelos in it. We pulled over, se- able and was suffering from in- as, and Blessed Seelos intervened August Donations cured my luggage and continued juries himself. Other family and to slow us down so we would be

Knights of Columbus Council #9217...... $25.00 Father Adrian Molenschot Burse Father Jose Palathara, C.M.I. dies at age 74 Deacon and Mrs. Rodrick B. Broussard...... $50.00 Monsignor Milburn Broussard Burse Chethipuzha, India — Christ at Prayer Town Emmanu- Carmelite of Mary Immaculate el; in hospital ministry at Baptist- Bayou Chateau Nursing Center...... $100.00 priest Father Jose Palathara, St. Anthony’s Hospital; as paro- Floyd LaCour Burse who served in the Diocese of chial administrator at Immaculate Tri-Community Nursing Center...... $100.00 Alexandria from 2007 to 2013, Heart of Mary Church, Groom; Floyd LaCour Burse passed away Aug. 29, 2015. He and, as sacramental minister at Mr. and Mrs. Dan F. Vanderlick ...... $100.00 was 74 years old. Our Mother of Mercy Church, Gerald Flynn Burse A Mass of Christian Burial Wellington. Mr. and Mrs. Dan F. Vanderlick ...... $100.00 was celebrated Sept. 3, at Sa- After his departure from the Danny O’Quinn Burse cred Heart Monastery, in Chet- Diocese of Amarillo, Father Pal- Mr. and Mrs. Robert O. Miller...... $200.00 hipuzha, India. athara served in the Diocese of Fr. Daniel Corkery Burse Jose Palathara was born on Alexandria, La., from 2007-2013. Mr. Gery Keran...... $1,000.00 Sept. 12, 1940 in Kerala State, His assignments included Maria S. Keran Burse India. He was ordained to the serving as parochial vicar at St. priesthood for the Diocese of Michael the Archangel Church Total...... $1,675.00 Changanacherry, India on May in Leesville; pastoral administra- Father Jose Palathara, CMI 17, 1970. tor and later pastor at Our Lady 1940-2015 A Seminary Burse is an invested sum of money, the interest of which is He served in the Diocese of Prompt Succor in Mansura and used in perpetuity to help fund the education of men to the priesthood. Con- of Amarillo, Texas from 2001 Our Lady of Sorrows in Moreau- Diocese of Alexandria for tributions to any of the burses or to establish a new burse should be sent - 2007. His assignments there ville; and pastor at St. Joseph health reasons and returned to to: Diocese of Alexandria Chancery Office, P.O Box 7417, Alexandria, LA included serving as chaplain for Church in Cheneyville. India. 71306-0417 the Disciples of the Lord Jesus In June of 2013, he left the SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 7 Bishop Herzog seals door to Cathedral in anticipation of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy starting Dec. 8, 2015

Bishop Ronald Herzog pre- diocese are “sealed only before a sided at a special Vespers Service Jubilee Year, which occurs only Sept. 14 at St. Francis Xavier once every 50 years. Cathedral, where he blessed and The Holy Father has declared “sealed” the east interior door in a Jubilee Year of Mercy to begin anticipation of the Extraordinary December 8, the Solemnity of the Jubilee Year of Mercy that starts Immaculate Conception, in order Dec. 8, 2015. to more deeply contemplate and Participants at the Vespers avail ourselves of the Father’s in- Service, which included about finite mercy. 40 members of the Equestrian As part of this Jubilee, the Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Pope Francis has decreed that Jerusalem, as well as about 100 each diocesan Cathedral should other laity, remained in the pews have a Holy Door, a Door of Mer- while Bishop Herzog, Father cy, which will serve as “a sign Chad Partain, Father Jim Fergu- that mercy is also a goal to reach son, and deacon candidates Law- and requires dedication and sac- rence Feldkamp and Luke White rifice” (Misericordiae Vultus, 14). processed down the aisle to the SEALED. The side interior door of This will help pilgrims searching interior door. St. Francis Xavier Cathedral will be for mercy to find the strength to Bishop Herzog said a prayer closed until Dec. 13, when it will be embrace the forgiveness of God of blessing and sprinkled the des- re-opened to welcome pilgrims seek- through sacramental confession, ignated Holy door with holy wa- ing an indulgence during the Jubileee and help all of us “to dedicate ter. For the next three months to Year of Mercy. ourselves to being merciful with interior door to the Cathedral will others as the Father has been with be closed. us” (ibid.). Bishop Herzog will open the which was instituted by Pope al- Therefore, in order that these Diocesan Holy Year Door on Dec. exander VI in the Jubilee of 1500, Holy Doors may be opened, they 13, 2015 as a sign of welcoming although the earliest account were first sealed on Sept. 14 and Bishop Ronald Herzog leads the Vespers Service Sept. 14 at St. Fran- and entering into the Jubilee Year seem to be that of Pope Clement will remain closed until Dec.13, cis Xavier Cathedral with Father Jim Ferguson and Father Chad Partain. of Mercy. VI in 1350. when all cathedral doors will All of this describes a rite Doors of a cathedral of a open throughout the world.

Order of the Fleur de Lis

John Tuminello (on left) and Father Bruce Miller, (on right) stand with Bishop Ronald Herzog after being inducted Aug. 22 into the Order of the Fleur de Lis in Chattanooga, Tenn. The Order of the Fleur de Lis, is a not-for-profit Catholic service organization, to promote patriotism, love of country and good citizenship; to encourage public morality; to advance the concept of unselfish service to God and country; and to support and defend the Holy Catholic Church and its teach- ings. In order to be a member of the Fleur de Lis, you must be a Catholic male who has contributed significantly to the Catholic faith through his actions or ac- complishments. No more than four new members are presently accepted every other year. Members of the Fleur de Lis from the Diocese of Alexandria include Bishop Ronald Herzog (2005), Rev. James Ferguson, JCL (2011), Patrick Moore Chase Masters (2013), Rev. Bruce Miller, JCL (2015), Gus Agosto (2010), John Tuminello (2015), St. John Chapel, Columbia, LA Lucian Laborde (1997), and Walter J. Laborde (1995). Seminarian Chase Masters, a 1st year philosophy student attending the Pontifical College Josephinum, is a parishioner at St. John Chapel in Columbia, La. In the August issue of the Church Today, it was incorrectly reported that he was from another parish. Another seminarian, Austin Burns, a 2nd year theology student at the Josephinum, is also from St. John Chapel in Columbia. It is amazing that not just one -- but two -- seminarians come from a small mission church, with only 28 registered families! PAGE 8 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015

ST. JULIANA EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF THE HOLY EUCHA- RIST. Eighteen members of St. Juli- ana Catholic Church in Alexandria were installed Sept. 6 as Extraordi- nary Ministers of the Holy Eucharist after pledging the Oath of Service and Fidelity. Pictured are (front row) Patricia Hicks, Mary Finely, Patricia Wells, Lynn Lemott, Father Remi Owuamanam, SMMM (pastor), Jan- ice Reed, Gwen Milo, Betty LaCour, and Catherine Metoyer. Back row: Joseph Rachal, Donald Metoyer, Al- lie Metoyer, Mary Roque, Margaret Johnson, Kimberly Boswell, Sylvia Martin, Winston Bell, Ruth Davis and Donald Davis. Not pictured is Margie James.

EQUESTIAN ORDER OF THE HOLY SEPULCHRE OF JERUSA- LEM. Members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Je- rusalem gathered Sept. 14 for the Vespers Service, where the Bishop sealed an interior door of St. Fran- cis Xavier Cathedral in preparation for the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy. The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem is the only lay institution of the Vatican State charged with the task of providing for the needs of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and for all the activities and initiatives which are necessary to support the Christian presence in the Holy Land. The contributions made by its members throughout the world are therefore the Patriarchate’s insti- tutions’ main source of funding. The Order’s support for the Christians in the Holy Land does not just take the form of financial contributions and prayers, impor- tant though we recognize that these FORMER SOCIAL SECURITY JUDGE are. All of the Order’s Lieutenancies arrange formal pilgrimages, in the PETER J. LEMOINE course of which members do not sim- Social Security Disability Law ply view and explore the Holy Sites, but also have the opportunity to meet Offices in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Cottonport the people whom they are supporting and assure them that they are not Adjunct Professor (1994-1997), Northwestern State University forgotten. 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 Like us on Bar Association). Facebook PUBLISHED ARTICLES: “The Worn-Out Worker Rule Revisited,” “Significant Work-Related Limitations of Function Under 12.05C,” “Questionable Retirement and the Small Business Owner,” “Crisis of Confidence: The Inadequacies of Vocational Evidence Presented∲ at Social Security Disability Hearings.”

Diocese of Alexandria 318-876-3174 SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 9 St. Rita offers MyParish app St. Anthony Church St. Rita Church in Alexan- ing parishioners to reply to the B U N K I E dria now has its own parish app messages or RSVP for events. available to download on iPhone The app includes many great and Android smart phones. features including daily Mass Theresian Family Fete The new app will allow the readings, Catholic news, prayers parish to send its parishioners and prayer reminders, quick ac- useful and important messages cess to online giving, confession Ocober 24-27, 2015 throughout the week regarding reminders, and the weekly bul- parish life and events, and allow- letin. To download the app, you have to download the MyParish app first, which is available at St. Anthony parish in Bunkie to host the App Store on iPhones or by visiting myparishapp.com. Once you have downloaded the MyPar- Theresian Family Fete Oct. 24-27 ish app, search for the parish you want by typing in the name of the St. Anthony of Padua Church of the Child Jesus will be erected Louisiana Avenue. All families church (St. Rita). When you see in Bunkie will host a four-day in the church for the final days of and friends of the parish are in- the name displayed, click on it, Theresian Family Fete Oct. 24-27 the event. vited. and you’ll be looking at the St. First class relics of St. Later that day, a special Rita app. at the parish church. Therese of the Child Jesus and showing of the critically-ac- For more information, con- The celebration will fol- of Blessed Louis and Blessed Ze- claimed movie Therese will take tact Etta Ohrt at 445-7141, ext low Pope Francis’ participation lie were recently secured by the place in the church at 3 p.m. This 210. in the General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops set for Oct. nuns of the Carmelite Monastery 90- minute presentation will be 4-25 in Rome, where he will can- of Mary, Mother of Grace in La- followed by questions and an- SAVE up to 40% with onize Blessed Louis and Blessed fayette, in special preparation for swers about the life of the Martin Azelie-Marie “Zelie” Martin, the the parish Fete. The relics will be family. The public is invited to parents of St. Therese of Lisieux. received and placed at the shrine attend. The recognition of holiness on the weekend of Oct. 24 and 25 On Monday and Tuesday, among both parents and their and will remain until Oct. 27. Oct. 26 and 27, a special one- sainted child will form the focus A Procession of Roses will hour mission will be offered from of the Bunkie event. take place before all weekend 6 -7 p.m. The topics will high- Masses, as children and families light the life of Saint Therese as Alexandria Business Machines Beginning Monday, Oct. 19, a nine-day novena to St. Therese present bouquets in celebration of a child, daughter, and sister and Copiers • Printers • Printer Supplies will be offered before daily Eu- the event. the life of a husband and wife Faxes • Office Supplies charist. Sacramental Reconcili- On Sunday, Oct. 25 follow- who lived saintly lives as a father Cost Management for your Business ation will be available before all ing the 10:30 a.m. Mass, the par- and mother to their family of five 318-443-0435 Masses. The novena will center ish will host its annual Fall Sun- daughters. on family evangelization, unity, day Covered Dish Dinner at the For more info, call St. Antho- 5527 Coliseum Blvd. and peace. A shrine of St. Therese Knights of Columbus Hall on ny Church at 318-346-7274. Alexandria, LA 71303-3708

PAGE 10 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015

NATIONAL MERIT SEMI-FINALIST. CENLA FOCUS AWARDS. Our Congratulations to Holy Savior Men- Lady of Prompt Succor School re- ard Central High School senior cently received the Cenla Focus who has been selected Reader’s Choice Award for the “Best as a semi-finalist in the National Elementary School in Cenla” and Merit Scholarship Program. The pro- a 6th grader at OLPS, gram screens more than 1.5 million received the Cenla Focus Reader’s students each year through the pre- Choice Award as a “Super Student.” liminary SAT test. Those who exhibit 2015 marks the 10th Anniversary of high test scores and an outstanding the Best of Cenla Reader’s Choice academic record are chosen to move Awards. Over the last decade, the further in the competition. local magazine has honored the best who scored a 220 out of a possible in food, service, events, shows, and 240 on the test is now ranked among more from across Cenla as voted on the top 1% of all U.S. high school se- by its readers. niors. Congratulations !

CELEBRATING MASS. Father Taylor Reynolds, chaplain at Holy Savior Menard, celebrated First Friday Mass at 7:10 NOW RUNNING FOR LSU! Former Menard Cross Country runners Hannah a.m. in the chapel Sept. 4 with the football team, cheerleaders and danceline members for a successful football season. Deworth, Mallory Bartow, and Mallory Robichaux, traded in their Menard run- The Eagles beat the Bolton Bears that night by a score of 53-0! ning uniforms after graduation last year for brand new LSU uniforms. The girls are super excited to be running cross country now for LSU!

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With school and CCD now in prog- We specialize in forest, recreation, and agriculture properties. ress, please be reminded that every adult who works/volunteers with chil- dren/youth in the Diocese of Alexan- dria’s churches/schools must attend the VIRTUS™ Protecting God’s Daniel Lacombe Children sexual abuse awareness Floor Finishing training -- and that ongoing-training, 404 Bordelon Rd., Hessmer, LA 71341 (once a month essays to read online) Specializing in installation must be maintained in order to stay • Behavior Modification • In home, Individual, and certified. • Floor Finishing • Ceramic Tile Floors • Obedience and Therapy Group Sessions Available Pet Training • Phone Consultations To register, go to www.virtus.org • Hardwood Floors • Reseal Tile Floors • 30-day Money Back Guarantee and Phone Assessments Click on ‘Registration’ Ph: (318) 563-4753 • Cell (318) 305-0241 For more information, contact Pam 985.226.6458 • www.felinecaninecoach.com Delrie at 318-445-6424, ext. 213 SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 11 Fall Festivals

October 2-4 October 16 3218; or at [email protected] or Michel Holy Ghost/St. Richards Church Fair Taste of Creole Night Morgan 318-201-8233; [email protected]. 8 a.m.: Race begins. Holy Ghost/St. Richards will host their church fair Oct. St. Juliana Church in Alexandria will host the 11th an- 7 a.m.-2 p.m.: Life Share Blood Centers will also be 2-4 in Marksville. The schedule is as follows: nual Taste of Creole Night on Friday, Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. holding a blood drive for Justin Roy (alumni of SHS) in • Friday, Oct. 2 at the Church Activity Bldg. (900 Daspit St, Alexandria). Lacour Hall behind Sacred Heart Church. 7 a.m. - 12 noon: Garage Sale Join us for a night of Creole food tasting, entertainment, 1 p.m.: Registration for Motorcycle Poker Run 7 p.m.: Bingo at the school gym and fun for the whole family. Tickets are $15 per person. 2 p.m.: The first bike is out at 2 p.m. and the last bike in • Saturday, Oct. 3 For more info, contact Pat Jeanpierre-Hicks at 318-446- by 5 p.m. Entry Fee $20.00 per bike. Extra Hand: $10. 7 a.m. - 12 noon: Garage Sale 8700. **Early Bird registration: All entries received before Oct. 7 a.m. -7:45 a.m.: Registration for 5K Run/1 mile Walk. 15 will receive an extra card! Entry fee is $25. Awards for males and female in differ- October 17-18: 4 p.m.: Outdoor Mass on SHS grounds ent age group categories Sacred Heart School 5 p.m.: Fried catfish dinner will all the trimmings. $8 8 a.m. Race begins at 8 a.m. 50th Anniversary Fall Fair per plate. 5:30 p.m.: Bingo at the school gym 5:30 p.m.: Winners announced. Great door prizes! Con- • Sunday, Oct. 4 tact Kim Adams 318-306-3457 9 a.m.: Bake Sale Come to Sacred Heart School in Moreauville Oct. 17-18, when they will be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of 7 p.m.: Live music, provided by Southwind, begins. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.: Garage Sale Booths will include: silent auction, homemade cakes, 11 a.m. -1:30 p.m.: A pork and chicken dinner. $8 per their annual Fall Fair. • Saturday, Oct. 17 candied apples, pralines, country store, homemade plate preserves, games for the children, BINGO and lots of 3 p.m.: Bingo and raffle drawing 7 a.m.: Registration for the 5K Run and Fun Walk. Eng- try fee is $20 and includes a t-shirt on race day. Early family fun. Run package pick-up is Friday, Oct. 16 from 3-6 p.m. inn October 3 the SHS cafeteria. For more information about the 5K • Sunday, Oct. 18 Prompt Succor School Fall Festival Run/Fun Walk, contact Michelle Daigrepont - 337-344- 9 a.m.: Mass inside the church 10 a.m.: A traditional Cochon de Lait dinner with all the Join us on the OLPS playground on Saturday, Oct. 3 trimmings. $9 per plate. from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. for the 2015 OLPS Fall Festival. 10 a.m.: All booths and activities open. Lots of food, games and entertainment all day, plus a 1 p.m.: Silent Auction closes Silent Auction. We’ll close the festival with an outdoor Mass at 4 p.m. Sponsorships for 5k run t-shirt, Poker Run, and silent auction welcome! Sponsorships are due no later than October 9-11 Oct. 2. For more information contact Karen Moreau, Director of Development and Stewardship, 985-2772 or St. Augustine Fair, Isle Brevelle 359-1943 or [email protected]

• Friday, Oct. 9 October 24 6 p.m.: Fish dinner, $9 a plate 8 p.m. - midnight: Dance in the hall, featuring Rusty St. Rita Mini Fall Festival Metoyer and the Zydeco Krush and DJ Butchie Wooch- ie. $10 per person. St. Rita Church in Alexandria will host a Mini Fall Festi- • Saturday, Oct. 10 val on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 9 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.: Crafts, games, prizes, bingo, and 4 p.m.: Chicken and sausage gumbo. $6 a bowl delicious homemade Creole cuisine all day. 5 p.m.: Halloween costume contest for children 6 p.m.: Music on grounds by Doc Couty 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Carnival booths and games • Sunday, Oct. 11 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.: Bingo 11:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.: Food, games, and fun Good food, games, and fun for the whole family!

Sept. 29: Feast of the Archangels Oct. 2: Feast of the Guardian Angels PAGE 12 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015

Celebrating Patriot Day & Day of Prayer for Louisiana Law Enforcement

FLAG OF HONOR. Taylor Reed, Riley Chenevert (standing behind the flag) and Hayden Wright from Sacred Heart School in Moreauville, hold the Flag of Honor that has names of all of the people, who tragically lost their lives on 911 and those who died trying to save them, printed on the flag. Sacred Heart School would like to thank all of the firefighters and law enforcement personnel who protect and serve our parish and country daily.You remain in our thoughts and prayers as you put your lives on the line for us! God Bless and keep you safe!

911 REMEMBRANCE PARADE. St. Anthony preschool students waved and held their signs high as firetrucks and police cars passed by on Sept. 11 in remembrance of 9/11.

STATE POLICE DAD. Proud to stand with their dad and the work he does ev- ery day are Menard students , Angela Hawthorne (mom), Kenneth Hawthorne (dad), .

ST. FRANCES CABRINI SCHOOL REMEMBERS 911. Students and faculty at St. Frances Cabrini School gathered around the flagpole Sept. 11 to say the pledge and to remember the people who lost their lives and the heros who died trying to save others. SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 13 First OLPS Wild Kidz Triatholon builds strong bodies and raises $20,000 for school technology fund

They swam. They biked, They ran. Even if they used floaties, boogie boards, training wheels, or help from their parents, children as young as 3 years old participated in the first Wild Kidz Triatholon at Our Lady of Prompt Succor School Sept. 5. Each age group had different goals to complete. At the end of the finish line, each student was congratulated on by Principal Jo Tassin and Father Dan O’Connor, pastor. At the end of the day, OLPS raised more than $20,000 for their school technology fund. But most of all, the kids, parents and grandparents had a lot of fun! PAGE 14 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 1940-2015: St. Rita Church celebrates 75th Anniversary

The overcast skies threaten- Rev. B. A. Scallan (1956-1964). ing a slight chance of rain didn’t St. Rita parish flourished seem to put a damper on the during the long pastorate of Msgr. spirits of the approximately 180 Joseph M. Susi, who served as parishioners and friends who at- pastor from 1964 until his retire- tended the 75th annivesary out- ment in 1991. As the parish grew, door Mass of St. Rita Church, on Msgr. Susi made many improve- Sept. 1, 2015. ments to the church and other par- Father Craig Scott, pastor; ish buildings, including building Father Taylor Reynolds, parochi- a parish hall and a gymnasium. al vicar; and Deacon Ray Gibson, A tragic fire severely dam- celebrated Mass on a temporary aged the original church on N. altar stratigically located on the 17th Street in November of 1994. approximate spot of the altar in Shortly thereafter, Bishop Sam the original church built in 1940. Jacobs announced that a new St. Among those attending were Rita Church would be built at a group of charter members of 4401 Bayou Rapides Road. the original parish, as well as a The Diocese of Alexandria large group of former altar boys donated 6.6 acres of land to the who served Mass at the original people of St. Rita. Under the church back in the 60s. ST. RITA LONG TIME MEMBERS. Some of the long time members present at the 75th anniversary Mass held Sept. leadership of then pastor Rev. Ronnie Mayeaux, a former 1 pose for a picture with (from left) Father Taylor Reynolds and Father Craig Scott (pastor). Bruce Miller (1991-2002), a new altar boy who lived only a block church was built and dedicated on from the church back then, re- Oct. 26, 1996. members well the early morning Some of the other former al- ed in 1940 for a predominantly St. Rita School which offered With expanded programs commitment to serve daily Mass tar boys agreed. As young boys, working-class immigrant com- hundreds of families a quality and ministries, the parish contin- at 6 a.m. they never forgot the precisely munity. Bishop Daniel Desmond Catholic education for 60 years. ued to grow, and welcomed more “Living only a block away, timed route it took to reach the bought a piece of land on what The parish continued to grow and more families to this “Loving I had it figured out to the sec- altar before Father Dube realized was called the “Race Track Ad- through the pastorates of Rev. Family in Worship, Learning, Ac- onds, how long I could sleep you were late. dition” of Alexandria to build St. William Hopp (1954-56) and Continued next page before rolling out of bed, throw- The ‘good ole’ days were Rita Church. The first Mass was ing on my clothes, and walking the sentiments echoed by many celebrated on Sept. 1, 1940. to church in order to make it on who recalled fond memories of Rev. Hermel Dube, who had time,” said Mayeaux. “In fact, serving at Mass, attending St. a particular devotion to St. Rita, I think maybe the exact location Rita School with the Sisters, and “the Saint of the Impossible,” be- of the altar (make-shift for the making friendships that lasted a came the first pastor in July 1941 event) could be off a few feet. I lifetime through their association and served until 1954. When the distincly remember how exactly with their church family mem- parish was founded it consisted of how many steps it took from the bers. approximately 60 families. side back door to the altar.” St. Rita parish was found- In 1948, the parish opened St. Rita Church today, built in 1996.

Deacon Ray Gibson, Father Craig Scott (pastor) and Father Tay- An estimated crowd of 180 people attended the 75th Anniversary Mass Sept. 1, 2015, celebrating Mass on the approximate site of lor Reynolds (parochial vicar) begin the Mass celebrating the 75th the original altar, where the first Mass was celebrated in the original church on Sept. 1, 1944. A reception was held in the original anniversary of St. Rita Church. rectory (red building in background) that still serves as the priest rectory. SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 15

tion,” Fr. Miller’s chosen parish motto. In June of 2002, Rev. Craig Scott became the sixth pastor of St. Rita Church. Under his lead- ership, in 2003, the debt on the St. Rita Middle Elementary Science Fair Winners in 1971. Winners are (from new church was retired after only left) Greg Lachney, Lisa Robichaux, Diane Brouilette, Mike Wilmore, Mark seven years. LaCaze, Butch Maddox, and Nancy Williams. A successful capital cam- paign was conducted in 2006 which led to the construction of the foyer addition to the church and the Holy Family Center, a parish life center with meeting rooms, a choir and bride’s room, grand hall, and full-service kitch- en. The Holy Family Center was dedicated by Bishop Ronald Her- zog in January of 2008. Presently the parish consists of approxi- mately 1,500 families. The traditions of active min- istry, a well-rounded liturgical music program, and engaging liturgies, in addition to the wel- coming and friendly nature of St. Rita’s people, remain at the heart Msgr. Joseph Susi waits for a taste of Mrs. Loretta Metoyer’s cooking. Mrs. of who we are in Christ. This par- Metoyer served as “chief cook and bottle washer” at St. Rita for more than 40 ish community strives to reflect years. In 1970, an estimated 500 priests ate meals cooked by Mrs. Metoyer at its current motto: “Be the Hands the rectory. Everyone back then agreed, she was the ‘best cook’ ever! Father William Hopp in front of St. Rita Church in 1956. and Heart of Christ.”

St. Rita Church Pastors

Father Hermel Dube 1941-1954

Rev. William Hopp St. Rita Church and Rectory, before the Church burned in 1994. 1954-1956 (At left) Fr. Bruce Miller inspects the damage to the church after a fire in 1994. Rev. B. A. Scallan 1956-1964

Msgr. Joseph M. Susi 1964-1991

Rev. Bruce Miller 1991-2002

Rev. Craig Scott 2002-preseent

In 2007, ground was broken for the new Holy Family Center. PAGE 16 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 Manna House celebrates 25 years of feeding the hungry

While delivering a homily in particular church, diocese, orga- January 1990, Father Gerard Fol- nization. ey wanted to make an impression Hot, balanced, nutritious on his congregation at St. Fran- meals are served every day to ces Cabrini Church about feeding anyone who walks in the door -- the hungry; no questions asked. There are no “When I was hungry you forms to fill out, no need for an gave me food.” (Matthew 25:35) ID, or even to sign in -- just pick At the end of his homily, he up a plate and go through the line. challenged whoever was inter- Feeding several hundred ested in doing something about people daily, 365 days a year, re- it, to come to a meeting the next quired an army of dedicated vol- evening. unteers to collect the food, pre- A small group of 15 parish- pare and cook the food, and wash ioners met and decided to start dishes and clean up. some type of soup kitchen, but It takes 10-15 volunteers ev- Father Gerard Foley, founder did not know where the money would come from, where it could CUTTING THE RIBBON on the newly renovated Manna House are Mayor be located, where the food would Roy, John McClure, and Olla Rae Chicola. come from, or who would do the work. With the next few meet- ings that followed, the volunteers ery day (including weekends and missed one single day of serving and the enthusiasm quickly in- holidays) 3-6 hours to transform meals. creased. donated food items into hot, deli- On March 26, 2014 a ribbon- After the third meeting, cious meals for the poor and hun- cutting ceremony was held at the 60 parishioners of St. Frances gry in the community. site of the renovated building Cabrini Church, and their pastor, After renting the building with Manna House staff, volun- Fr. Gerard Foley, made a decision from the Chicola family for 23 teers, and city officials present. to commit themselves to starting years, Manna House was finally To date, almost 2.4 million Manna Hose. purchased in January of 2012. meals have been served at Manna On May 1, 1990, Manna Shortly after, a group of local House and the numbers continue House opened its doors at 2655 business and community leaders, to rise. Lee Street. Nineteen people spearheaded by Thomas David What started out as a small showed up to eat a free meal. and others, organized an effort to ministry of Father Foley and the By mid-summer, 1990, Manna renovate the building and orga- parishioners of St. Frances Cabri- House was feeding almost 400 nize a campaign to generate the ni Church in 1990, is now a to- people a day. money for the project and for fu- tally ecumenical ministry. People Today, Manna House con- ture operations. from almost every denomination tinues to rely on volunteers and After a temporary relocation have volunteered to help serve or donations to keep the ministry of Manna House to the corner of collect food for Manna House. going. It gets no financial assis- Third and Broadway Streets in The Manna House is a per- tance from the federal, state, or Alexandria, the renovation proj- fect example of what happens local government, or from any ect was complete. Throughout the when a community pulls together renovations, Manna House never do God’s work.

Come celebrate with us!

25 Years of Feeding the Hungry of Central Louisiana since 1990

Thursday, Oct. 8 at 5:30 p.m. Coughlin Saunders Performing Arts Center

A special documentary featuring a tribute to our many volunteers will be previewed at 6:30 p.m.

FAITHFUL VOLUNTEERS AND STAFF MEMBERS. Some of the volunteers and cooks who have worked at Manna Refreshments will be served House since almost the beginning. SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 17 Radio Maria establishes its home in Alexandria 15 years ago

It was a sign from heaven. Lake Charles, La. was Actually, it was two signs the first priest director from heaven, that convinced a RADIO ROAD for Radio Maria, and Philadelphia stranger in 1999 to may have been the first locate a new Catholic radio sta- to say “Welcome listen- tion -- Radio Maria -- in Alexan- ers to the first broad- dria, Louisiana 15 years ago. BAYOU MARIA cast of Radio Maria -- a The stranger was business- Christian Voice in Your man Joe Bertel, and at the time, Home!” the national president of Radio Since that first Maria. There was already a Span- broadcast, Radio Maria ish and an Italian RM station has added a total of nine located in NY, but the time had frequencies in Louisi- come to establish an English sta- ana, Texas, Mississippi, tion. chance meeting with Art Viscon- Ohio, Wisconsin, New York and Bertel was on his way to te, a devout local Catholic with a Pennsylvania. Beaumont, Texas in search of a strong devotion to Our Blessed Today, Radio Maria is part of high frequency radio tower that Mother. the World Family of Radio Ma- could be purchased to start a Ra- After learning of his quest ria, the largest radio network in dio Maria station, when he kept for a radio station to purchase, the world. It is listener-supported hearing a voice say “Alexandria.” Visconte led him to a radio tower and operated by volunteers. It in- He stopped in the Central Loui- located in rural Pineville that was cludes stations in 65 countries and siana city, which happened to be up for sale. Upon seeing that the is broadcast in 15 different lan- on his way, and stumbled on a tower was located on the corner guages. Radio Maria can be heard of Radio Road and Bayou Maria, on the Internet at radiomaria.us. the signs seemed providential, so and a mobile app is available for Alexandria became the site of the Blackberry, Android and iPhone first English-speaking Radio Ma- users. ria station in the U.S. Broadcasting 24-7, the pro- On May 25, 2000, the first gramming consists of prayer, cat- broadcast of Radio Maria on echism, social issues, and human EMMANUEL FERRARIO, the founder of the World Family of Radio Maria in KJMJ 580 AM was made from development. The Mass is cel- Milan, Italy in 1983 visits the Alexandria station with Father Robert Young, the small refurbished studio on ebrated daily at 8 a.m.; the Rosary priest director from 2012-2015. (Below) The ofice staff and volunteers have a Washington St. Father Theophi- and Chaplet of Divine Mercy is business meeting over lunch. Danny Brou (far right) and Frank Hare (far left) Father Theophilus Herlong lus Herlong, from the Diocese of prayed three times a day. have been at Radio Maria since almost the very beginning.

NATCHITOCHES VOLUNTEERS, who have prayed the Rosary on the air every Thursday for the past 15 years.

FATHER DUANE STENZEL, who was director of Radio Maria from 2002-2011, sits with his staff in the main office of Radio Maria, located at 601 Washington Street in downtown Alexandria. PAGE 18 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015

St. Juliana Love Choir celebrates 40 years

St. Juliana Catholic Church in Alex- andria hosted a delicious dinner Aug. 23 in honor of the 40th Anniversary of the St. Juliana Love Choir. Pic- tured are (front row) Paul Desselle, Jr. (choir director for the past 40 years), Carol Stull, Mary Roque, Vel- da LaCour, Mae Rose Nash, Sylvia Martin, Betty LaCour, Valerie Bandy and Flora Mays. Back row: Elias Wil- liams, Charles Johnson, Audrey Day, Norman Nash, Gail Blade, Sylves- ter Jones, Linda Monette, Elizabeth Coleman (organist) and Margaret Johnson. Not pictured are Sylvia Da- vis and Emily Boswell. Fete Dieu du Teche: 250th anniversary of Acadians’ arrival in S. La.

The 250th anniversary of of Sorrows Retreat Center, orga- ment. te Acadians’ arrival and settle- nized and led the Eucharistic pro- The young and the old, all ment in South Louisiana was cel- cession down Bayou Teche. gathered in adoration of the Most ebrated Aug. 15 with a beautiful It all began with Holy Mass Blessed Sacrament. The people Eucharistic procession in boats in Leonville followed by a Eucha- fell to their knees as they disem- floating down the historic Bayou ristic procession by boat down barked the boat with the Mon- Teche. the Bayou Tech. Fifty boats lined strance at each location. In 1765, a group of French- in procession led by two boats They were greeted by the speaking Catholics who were which rang the bells, announcing Knights of Columbus, and young expelled from Canada, travelled the arrival of the Most Blessed ladies adorned the ground with down the Mississippi River and Sacrament (Corpus of Jesus) in a rose petals. The smell of sweet settled along the river banks of massive and golden monstrance. incense and Latin hymns filled Bayou Teche. (Between 2,500 The boat following the the hot summer air. and 4,500 years ago, Bayou Blessed Sacrament held a beauti- Catholicism is a rich part of Teche was part of the Mississippi ful, life-size statue of the Blessed the history in Louisiana and is River until it changed its course Virgin Mary at the bow of the just as prevelant to this day as and branched away from it.) boat. This day also marked the displayed here in this fine cel- To commemorate this his- Feast of the Assumption of the The procession went along Breaux Bridge and St. Martinville ebration of “Fete Dieu du Teche” toric event, Rev. Michael Cham- Blessed Virgin Mary in the Cath- the banks of the Bayou Teche for the Holy Rosary and benedic- lovingly translated as Festival pagne, CJC, director of Our Lady olic tradition. stopping in Arnaudville, Cecilia, tion of the Most Blessed Sacra- God, Teche.

Brigitte Paul Kelso Insurance, LLC Brigitte Kelso Owner/Agent 2918 S. MacArthur Dr. Alexandria, La. 71301

Congratulations Radio Maria! Phone: 318.448.2226 Fax: 318.448.2280 May 25, 2000 - May 25, 2015 [email protected]

2914 N. Bolton Ave. • Alexandria, LA 442-2325 SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 19 Eleven cardinals uphold maintaining church teaching regarding marriage

By Cindy Wooden ment or that promise of sexual Catholic News Service abstinence. In the 1970s, he was appoint- SEPT. 26: A FAMILY THAT PRAYS: A RETREAT FOR MARRIED COU- VATICAN CITY (CNS) ed secretary of a task force set up PLES AND THEIR CHILDREN (7-17 years old) -- Eleven cardinals, at least four by the bishops of Germany, Swit- A Family That Prays is a powerful weekend designed to enrich marriages, of whom will participate in the zerland and Austria to find what faith and family. Spouses will grow closer in their sacrament while their chil- world Synod of Bishops on the he described as a “loophole of dren will explore a deeper understanding & encounter with God. The retreat is family in October, have urged mercy.” The experience, he wrote, held on the grounds of the St. Joseph Abbey in Covington, LA and begins on fellow church leaders to main- proved that even “theological and Saturday, Sept. 26 at 8 a.m. and ends after lunch on Sunday. Space is limited. tain the church’s rules regarding canonical acrobatics” cannot de- The donation, which is suggested and not required, is $325 for a family of 3 marriage and strengthen Catho- fend giving those couples Com- and $75 for every additional child. To register, call Jason Angelette at (504) lic education about marriage and munion while effectively teach- 830-3716 or visit www.faithandmarriage.org. family life. ing that marriage is indissoluble. Their book, “Eleven Cardi- Dutch Cardinal Willem Ja- OCT. 10-11: MARRIED COUPLES RETREAT nals Speak on Marriage and the cobus Eijk of Utrecht, who was The Office of Religious Formation and Training will host a Married Family,” was released in English elected to the synod, said it is Couples Retreat Oct. 10-11 at Maryhill Renewal Center (Ducote Hall). Mario in the United States Sept. 15 by the family Oct. 4-25. neither pastoral nor merciful for Sacasa, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and director of counseling Ignatius Press, which provided Italian Cardinal Carlo Caf- the church’s ministers to pretend services at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans, LA, will speak on “Living copies in advance to the media. farra of Bologna, who was not that without an annulment a civil the Gift of Marriage.” Cost is $120 per couple, which includes one night stay With the contributing cardi- elected by his peers to attend the remarriage is anything other than with linens and meals. For more information, call 318-445-6424, ext. 221 or go nals coming from Europe, Asia, synod, said showing mercy to “a form of structured and institu- to www.diocesealex.org/young adult ministry. South America and Africa, the es- such couples without requiring tionalized adultery.” says include personal pastoral re- their conversion -- demonstrated But one change in church OCT. 30-NOV. 1: WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER WEEKEND flections as well as urge extreme by at least refraining from sexual practice absolutely must occur, he What have you done for your marriage today? Successful marriages caution in considering any plan to relations with the new spouse said. After decades of weak cat- don’t work on automatic pilot – at least not for long. Like a garden, they require readmit to Communion Catholics -- “is the mistaken pity of an in- echesis, “true pastoral ministry” constant attention: fertilizing, watering, and weeding. Join us for a Worldwide who have divorced and remarried competent and/or weak physician means presenting church teach- Marriage Encounter and discover God’s plan for joy, romance and passion in civilly without having received who contents himself with ban- ing, “transmitting and explaining your marriage. The next available WWME weekend is at the Tracy Center in an annulment. daging wounds without treating its foundations more adequately Baton Rouge Oct. 30-Nov. 1. For more information or to register go to LAMS- While several of the cardi- them.” and clearly than we have done in WWME.org or call Jack & Angel LaBate, 470-297-8560 or at jackandangel@ nals insist that the media in gen- German Cardinal Paul the last half century.” bellsouth.net eral and many church leaders Cordes, the retired head of the All of the cardinals empha- mistakenly tried to make it appear Pontifical Council “Cor Unum,” sized the importance of marriage that the situation of the divorced knows for a fact how long some preparation and the fact that it and remarried was the primary fo- church leaders and theologians cannot be just a weekend of talks cus of 2014 extraordinary Synod have been seeking a possible a few months before the wed- Louis Lowrey, M.A. of Bishops, most of the 11 essays penitential process or other pro- ding. It begins in the family with also discuss the problem. The is- cedure that would allow the di- real examples of love, care, self- Licensed Professional Counselor sue is expected to be raised again vorced and remarried to receive sacrifice, sharing and celebrating Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at the world Synod of Bishops on Communion without an annul- together. Offices located at 207 Church Street, Natchitoches (318) 332-8422 • Pager (318) 252-2945 [email protected] Mail: 109 Royal Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457 PAGE 20 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 Check out these great Christian books and booklets to order

The Final 30 Days with Hope-Full Confrontation St. Elizabeth Living

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The Final Confrontation 30 Days with St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Hope-Full Living A Free Booklet on Divine Mercy Words of faith and courage Daily Devotions for Christian Seniors

Many years ago, Pope St. John Paul II said, “We are now stand- “God longs that we abide in his house and in his heart. That The daily devotions in Hope-Full Living help to inspire God’s se- ing in the face of the greatest historical confrontation human- same God desires that we open our hearts and our homes to our niors with the assurance that “This very day, I have a body, a ity has ever experienced...the final confrontation between the fellow pilgrims.” mind, a spirit and a message-God’s rejuvenating Gospel mes- Church and the anti-church, between the gospel and the anti- sage to and through me-to share with my world, my friends and gospel, between Christ and the antichrist. The confrontation lies Here are Mother Seton’s own words, combined with scripture my Lord.” within the plans of Divine Providence. It is, therefore in God’s verses, prayers and suggested practices, to inspire teachers, Plan, and it must be a trial which the Church must take up, and catechists, youth leaders, parents and all who work to build up Hope-Full Living has something new for you each day! face courageously...” the faith in a contemporary world. A daily reading from Scripture In this booklet, Ralph Martin takes a look at what Scripture says This wonderful, pocket-sized booklet can help readers discover Upbeat reflections by older adults for older adults about the final confrontation and the work of the Evil One. He the wisdom of a courageous and fascinating woman who saw A prayer and an activity suggestion exposes the lies of the enemy and the truth about Divine Mercy. afflictions as “steps to heaven.” Affordably priced for parish and Additional Bible verses for each day He also identifies what we must do to face the present trials with school distribution. Hope-Full Living makes suggestions for putting hope in action courage. and is printed in a convenient large-print text ISBN: 9781627850940 Visit us online at www.renewalministries.net Visit us online at www.pastoralplanning.com Visit us online at www.hopefulldevotions.com

40 Days for Life Continued from page 5

every household in your town or city. Informational flyers are distributed in neighborhoods to raise awareness about the lo- cal crisis of abortion. Citizens are invited to sign a petition of support for the sanctity of human life, and people are given the op- portunity to visibly show their support for 40 Days for Life by wearing wristbands, placing signs in their yards, or displaying bum- per stickers on their vehicles. This one activity alone can help a community rapidly iden- tify hundreds, or even thousands, of pro-life supporters during the 40 days. These people can then be encouraged to pray and join local pro-life efforts. If your community has a col- lege campus, many students can be impacted through an intense 40-day campus outreach. This can consist of flyers, public witness, petition drives, and displays. SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 21 90 Minutes in Heaven gives very little glimpse of ‘heaven’

By Joseph McAleer Catholic News Service MOVIE NEW YORK (CNS) -- As its title suggests, a trip to the pearly gates and back is the highlight of REVIEW “90 Minutes in Heaven” (Samuel Goldwyn). Writer-director Mi- system of family and friends -- chael Polish’s drama is based on who organize around-the-clock the true story of a Baptist minister prayer vigils -- to restore Don’s and his near-death experience. will to live. Don Piper lived to tell the A feisty hospital volunteer, story of his celestial journey in Jay (Fred Dalton Thompson), a 2004 memoir, which has sold doesn’t mince words. “You’re 7 million copies. The screen ver- denying others the right to help,” sion of his best-seller underlines he tells Don. “Let them in! Peo- the power of Christian spirituality ple are God’s hands to meet your and the rewards of perseverance. needs and answer your prayers.” As portrayed by Hayden They do, and eventually Christensen (light years removed Don decides to share his “sacred from his starring turn in the “Star secret.” But here, “90 Minutes” Wars” prequels), Don is an ear- departs from a similar faith-based nest and sincere pastor. He’s also movie, 2014’s “Heaven Is for a loving husband to spouse Eva Real.” (Kate Bosworth) and an attentive 90 MINUTES IN HEAVEN. Trevor Allen Martin and Hayden Christensen star in a scene from the movie “90 Minutes By contrast with that earlier father to his three children. in Heaven.” The Catholic News Service classification, A-II -- adults and adolescents. Motion Picture Association of title’s lively stories concerning In 1989, returning home af- America rating, PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (CNS 4-year-old Colton Burpo and his ter speaking at a prayer meeting, photo/Giving Films) “visits” with Jesus, we learn pre- Don has his date with destiny. On cious little of Don’s observations. a rain-swept bridge, an 18-wheel- The mere glimpse of “heaven” er plows into his car, crushing song of praise over the supposed the greatest family reunion of the emotional toll on his family given us in this movie is, ulti- the vehicle. Don is pronounced corpse -- and then, inexplicably, all,” Don says. even greater. mately, unsatisfying. dead, and his car -- with Don still Don stirs to life. However, just as he is about Over four months in the Nonetheless, “90 Minutes” trapped inside -- is covered with a Don himself is bewildered to pass through the portals of hospital and 34 surgeries, Don does offer an inspiring lesson for tarp, awaiting removal. and bemused, for he has spent the paradise -- approached, oddly is wracked by his supernatural adults and older teens about faith, As the eponymous time pe- past hour-and-a-half in ecstasy enough, via a yellow brick road experience, telling no one of his hope and persistence. Despite riod passes, Dick Onarecker (Mi- above the clouds. In keeping with -- Don is returned to earth. vision. “Survival was going to be some hints at underlying theo- chael Harding), a fellow minister, other near-death reports, heaven What follows is Don’s per- difficult, because heaven was so logical differences, moreover, approaches and asks permission is portrayed as a place bathed in sonal Calvary, a torturous and glorious,” he admits. He longs to considered as a whole, the film’s from law enforcement to pray golden light, where loved ones protracted journey to recovery return to the afterlife, rather than evangelical viewpoint on prayer over the body. He proclaims that approach to greet the new arrival. from devastating injuries. The stick around on Earth. and the promise of eternal life is Don’s sins are forgiven, sings a “Heaven was, without a doubt, physical pain is unbearable, and It is up to Eva and a support mostly consonant with Catholic doctrine. The film contains disturbing images and some mature themes. The Motion Picture Association Successions • Probate • Wills of America rating is PG-13 -- par- ents strongly cautioned. Larry Minton, Attorney An experienced, compassionate attorney who can help you make difficult decisions after the death of a loved one. Diocesan Directory

The 2015-2017 Diocesan Directories are in now and most have been distributed. If you would like to purchase a copy, come by the St. Joseph (318) 487-0115 Catholic Center, Monday- to schedule a free consultation Thursday, 8:00 am-12 noon; 1:00 pm-4:30 pm. 5515 John Eskew Blvd., Alexandria, LA 71303 $20 per copy PAGE 22 CHURCH TODAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2015

Diocesan Choir Center in Pineville. Guest speaker Maria Vadia is active DIOCESAN in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of the Archdiocese The Alexandria Diocesan Liturgical Commission is orga- of Miami and has spoken at many charismatic confer- nizing a Diocesan Choir. This choir would provide musi- ences throughout the U.S. and at least 10 other countries. cal leader-ship at several diocesan Masses during the year BRIEFS She has also authored seven books. Registration begins celebrated at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. There are no at 8:30 am; the conference at 9 a.m. and ends after the auditions or vocal requirements needed. A desire to praise 4 p.m. Vigil Mass. A $60 non-refundable registration fee God in song is all that is required. Please contact Fr. Paul includes a continental breakfast at 8 a.m. and lunch. Reg- LaPalme at (318) 487-9894. istration deadline is Sept. 23. For more info, contact Diane Ardoin @318-419-1547 or email [email protected] or Mary Wilson at 318-359-7735 or email at cenlamagnifi- Fall Adult Faith Series [email protected]

The Adult Faith Series on “The Christian Experience of God in our Daily Lives” continues at St. Joseph Church in Oct. 6: Win a new car! Marksville, on Thursday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Office Bldg. A Bible is needed for the sessions. Please Holy Savior Menard is raffling off a chance to win $10,000 contact St. Joseph Office (253-7561) to sign-up. or a brand new car. The proceeds from this year’s Eagle Raffle will help the school purchase a new exterior sign. Sept. 24 Experience the Mystery of Being The drawing for this year’s raffle will be Oct. 9 at 2 p.m. Oct. 1 Yahweh will be your Everlasting Splendor Tickets are $100 each. For more information or to pur- Oct. 8 Experience of Fullness of God & Sharing chase tickets, call Tamara at 318-445-8233 ext. 227 or Oct. 15 Announcing Gospel of Jesus t h r o u g h [email protected]. Lifestyle Oct. 22 Experience of God through Devotions John Morovich, representing the Fourth Degree Knights, gives Oct. 12: Bishop’s Golf Tournament Oct. 29 Unconditional, Radical Following of Christ one of three checks recently donated to Bishop Ronald Herzog Nov. 5 Synthesis of Experience of God for the Seminarian Education Fund. The 20th annual Invitational Bishop’s Golf Tourna- ment, benefiting the Seminarian Education Fund will be Sept. 21-25: Dr. Stanley to speak held Oct. 12 at Oakwing Golf Course in Alexandria. The 4-person scramble, which includes green fees, cart, mul- Dr. Tom Stanley, a pediatrician from Jacksonville, Fla., is Sept. 26: Ladies Day Retreat ligans, range balls and refreshments, is $135 per person or active in the nationwide Value of Life project, a ministry $540 per team to enter. Sponsorships, ranging from $100- that brings the pro-life message to young children. Dur- The St. Rita Church Catholic Daughter Court #1459 will $2,500, are available by calling Sandi Tarver at 318-445- ing his talk to all the Catholic schools in our diocese, he sponsor a Ladies Day Retreat on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 6424, ext 209. will distribute an animated DVD titled Fantastic Voyage 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the St. Rita Holy Family Center. Fr. Lou- to every 2nd grader. Dr. Stanley’s talk is sponsored by the is Sklar is the keynote speaker and Sister Judith Gomila, Oct. 17: White Mass Catholic Medical Association of Alexandria, made up of MSC is the special guest. Register by Sept. 22 by calling a group of local Catholic medical doctors. For more in- Ona Wilson at 640-2159 or the St. Rita office at 445-7120. A “White Mass” for all healthcare professionals will be formation about Dr.Stanley, go to www.lumen.tv/dr-tom- Enjoy a day of spiritual enrichment. celebrated Saturday, Oct 17 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis Xavi- stanley. er Cathedral. The Mass is associated with St. Luke, the Sept. 26: Menard Cheer & Dance Clinic patron of physicians and surgeons. His feast day is Oct. Sept. 23: Mass of Thanksgiving 18. The Menard Golden Eaglettes will host a Cheer and Dance A special Mass of Thanksgiving for the canonization of Clinic Sept. 26 from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Menard Gym, Menard Football Blessed Junipero Serra will be celebrated Wednesday, for children ages 4 and up. Cost is $60 per child with a $5 Sept. 23 at 6 p.m. at St. Frances Cabrini Church in Alex- discount for siblings. Free Cheer/Dance t-shirt included. Holy Savior Menard’s Eagle Alumni Association would andria. All are invited to attend. Participants will perform for parents at end of clinic, as like to invite you to kick off football season with us! well as perform Oct. 2 at the Menard football game. To Tailgate with us from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Menard Sept. 24: Miss Heart of the USA Contest register, email [email protected] or soes- Alumni House before each home game. To RSVP, visit [email protected], no later than Sept. 25. www.holysaviormenard.com and click on the ‘alumni’

Sacred Heart Church in Pineville will host a Miss Heart tab. There are four home games at Menard in October: of the USA contest on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 10 a.m. in Sept. 29- Oct. 7: Pro-Life Novena Oct. 2 Tioga the Sacred Heart Activities Building. This unique event Oct. 9 Rosepine (Homecoming) is a pageant and a canned food drive that teaches girls the The multi-national Pro-Life Novena for Unborn Babies Oct. 23 Bunkie importance of giving back to their community. Admission will be held Sept. 29- Oct 7. During this annual novena, Oct. 30 Pickering to attend is $10. All proceeds and donated cans from the Masses will be offered and Rosaries will be prayed for the event will go to the Sacred Heart food pantry and to the following intention: For the protection of unborn human Pilgrimage to Holy Land: Dec. 27 - Jan. 6 homeless veterans at the Salvation Army. For more infor- persons. Participants are asked to do one or both of the mation, go to www.missheartoftheusa .com. following: Join Father Martin Laird on an 11-day pilgrimage to the • Have at least one Mass offered during the Novena for the Holy Land, Dec. 27-Jan. 6, for $3,799 per person (plus Sept. 24: WRC Celebration of Life Gala protection of unborn human persons. tips & taxes of approximately $795) Experience this once- • Pray one Rosary on each day of the Novena for the pro- in-a -lifetime opportunity to sail the Sea of Galilee, to sing tection of unborn human persons. For more information, Michele Pillar will be the guest speaker for the annual Christmas carols in Bethlehem, carry the cross on the Via go to www.SaintMichaelTheArchangel Organization.org Women’s Resource Center Celebration of Life Fundrais- Dolorosa, and so much more! Mass will be offered daily ing Gala, to be held Thursday, Sept. 24 at the Natchitoches in the holiest places in the world with opportunities for Events Center in Natchitoches. All proceeds from the Gala Oct. 3: Catholic Charismatic Conference confession, healing prayer, and spiritual counsel. For more will benefit the Women’s Resource Center, a Pregnancy information, visit www.goholyland.info, or call Cyndi at Help Medical Clinic in Natchitoches. For more informa- The 10th Annual Women’s Catholic Charismatic Confer- 214-882-7262, or email her at lucky@crossroadsinitiative. tion visit www.wrcfriends.com ence will be held Saturday, Oct. 3, at Maryhill Renewal com. SEPTEMBER 21, 2015 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 23 September - October

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Adult Faith Ladies Day Series Retreat 21 22 23 6:30-7:30 p.m. 24 25 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.26 27 VIRTUS Training Forty Days for Life begins St. Joseph Church, St. Rita Holy Family 6:00 p.m. Marksville Center, Alexandria St. Mary’s School, Mass for Canonization of Miss Heart of the USA Natchitoches Blessed Junipero Serra Women’s Preganancy 10:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. Resource Center Gala Sacred Heart of Jesus St. Frances Cabrini Church, Natchitoches Events Ctr. Church, Pineville Alexandria Family That Prays Together Retreat -- Covington, LA PRAY FOR FR. K. TEXADA PRAY FOR FR. J. THOMAS PRAY FOR FR. A. THOMPSON PRAY FOR MSGR. J. TIMMERMANS PRAY FOR FR. A. TRAVIS PRAY FOR FR. G. UZONDU PRAY FOR FR. A. VARGHESE OCTOBER Women’s Catholic Charismatic Conference 28 29 30 VIRTUS Training 1 2 8:30 a.m. 3 4 Novena for Unborn Babies 6:00 p.m. Maryhill Renewal Center begins St. Joseph Catholic Center, Alexandria Fall Festival 10:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Adult Faith Series OLPS School, Alexandria 6:30-7:30 p.m. St. Joseph Church, Holy Ghost/St. Richard’s Fall Festival -- Marksville Marksville FIRST FRIDAY FIRST SATURDAY PRAY FOR FR. V. VEAD PRAY FOR FR. A. VELEZ PRAY FOR FR. N. VIVIANO PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG PRAY FOR FR. J. XAVIER PRAY FOR FR. K. ZACHARIAH PRAY FOR FR. A. AELAVANTHARA Manna House 25th Anniv. Celebration 5 6 7 5:30 p.m. 8 9 10 11 Coughlin Saunders Center, Alexandria

Adult Faith Series 6:30-7:30 p.m. St. Joseph Church, St. Augustine Church Fair -- Isle Brevelle Marksville Married Couples Retreat -- Maryhill Renewal Center PRAY FOR FR. W. AJAERO PRAY FOR FR. T. ALLEN PRAY FOR FR. J. ANTONY PRAY FOR FR. S. BRANDOW PRAY FOR FR. D. BRAQUET PRAY FOR FR. J. BROCATO PRAY FOR FR. S. CHEMINO

VIRTUS Training 12 13 14 6:00 p.m. 15 16 17 18 Bishop’s Golf Tournament St. Alphonsus Church, Taste of Creole White Mass for healthcare 11:00 a.m. Hessmer 6:00 p.m. professionals Oakwing Golf Course St. Juliana Church, 10:00 a.m. Illuminated Rosary Alexandria St. Francis Xavier 7:15 p.m. Cathedral, Alexandria St. Joseph Church, St. Augustine Church Fair Marksville Sacred Heart Fall Fair -- Moreauville -- Isle Brevelle 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. B. DESHAUTELLE PRAY FOR FR. J. DESIMONE

Adult Faith Series 19 20 21 6:30-7:30 p.m. 22 23 24 25 St. Joseph Church, Mini Fall Festival Marksville 4:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. St. Rita Church, Illuminated Rosary Alexandria 7:15 p.m. St. Joseph Church, Marksville

PRAY FOR FR. P. FAULK PRAY FOR FR. J. FERGUSON PRAY FOR FR. T. FEY PRAY FOR FR. A. FIGREDO PRAY FOR FR. R. GARRIONE PRAY FOR FR. J. GOOTEE PRAY FOR FR. W. GEARHEARD