Catholic Connection September 2010

VOL. 20, NO. 2 SEPTEMBER 2010

INSIDE

St. Patrick Church to Celebrate 140 Years p.6

JGS School Celebrates 50 Years, p. 9

Diocese Welcomes New Seminarians, p.10

Making a Difference p. 11

Locals take strides to make a difference in their

communities

For a free subscription, address changes or article submissions:EMAIL: [email protected]: Catholic Connection

The Catholic Center 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104

CALL: 318-868-4441 OR 800-256-1542 FAX: 318-868-4609WEBSITE: www.dioshpt.orgThe Catholic Connection is a member of the Catholic Press Association.

Publisher Bishop Michael G. DucaEditor Jessica Rinaudo

Regular Contributors

Featured Contributors

Cathy CobbRev. Charles Glorioso

Kim LongKelly Phelan

Dianne RachalChristine RiversChristie Weeks

John Mark Willcox

The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Diocesan Service Appeal; mailed to every known Catholic household in the Diocese of Shreve-port. Our Mission is to advance knowledge and under-standing of our Catholic Faith among the faithful. We seek to foster the application of Christ’s teachings and our Church’s mission in our daily lives and to encourage our sense of Catholic identity within our family, parish, and diocesan faith community.

Our Diocese is recognized by the Board of Im-migration Appeals as a Non-Profit Organization capable of giving Immigration Legal Advice. We offer Immigration Professional Services to Low-Income Families. To find out if you or someone you know qualifies for an Immigration benefit, please contact Mrs. Rosalba Quiroz at 1-800-256-1542, ext. 265 or 318-219-7265 or email [email protected]

Editorial Board

Bishop Michael DucaKim Long

Missy McKenzieLucy Medvec

Rosalba QuirozDianne Rachal

Fr. David RichterJessica RinaudoChristine Rivers

Sr. Martinette RiversKatie Sciba

John Mark Willcox

Emily NickelsonKelly Phelan

Fr. Mark Watson

Dr. Linda WebsterDr. Betsy Williams

On the Cover: Pablo Ortega and Mike Van Vranken participating in service ministries. (Design by Jessica Rinaudo)

Bishop Michael G. Duca announces the appointment of Reverend Rothell Price

as Vicar General of the Diocese of Shreveport effective August 16, 2010. Reverend David T. Richter will continue full-time in his assignment as Vocations Director for the diocese.

Given on the 2nd day of August, 2010 at the Chancery, Diocese of Shreveport.

Diocese Welcomes New Vicar Generalby Christine Rivers, Chancellor

Catholic Schools Nondiscriminatory School Policy

Catholic Legislative Advocacy

The Diocese of Shreveport School system re-affirms its non-discriminatory policy

on the basis of race, sex, color, national, and ethnic origin in its educational programs, activities, and employment policies in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments, and Sections 4.03 (a) and 4.03 (c) Revenue Procedure 75-50.

All students, faculty members and staff, without exception, are admitted to all rights, privileges, and activities generally accorded or made available at the schools which do not discriminate on the basis of

race, sex, color, national, and ethnic origin in the administration of its employment policies, admission policies, scholarship, and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administrated programs.

• St. John Berchmans Cathedral School, Shreveport• Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy, Shreveport• St. Joseph School, Shreveport• Loyola College Preparatory, Shreveport• Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe• Our Lady of Fatima, Monroe• St. Frederick High, Monroe

The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops (LCCB) is an agency of the Roman

Catholic Bishops of the State of Louisiana. One of the purposes of the Conference is to communicate and interact with local, parish, state and federal bodies. The home page of the LCCB web site (www.laccb.org) customarily tracks bills under consideration by the Louisiana Legislature. The LCCB employs two advocates at the State Capitol during sessions of the Legislature and offers Voter Voice, an electronic advocacy software system. Anyone can sign up for Voter Voice from the LCCB web site. Once registered,

periodic email alerts will be sent regarding legislative bills being tracked. These emails provide a link to talking points to use in an email to your local state representative or senator. The email address of the appropriate legislator is automatically entered based upon your zip code. These emails do have an impact and the legislators often comment about them on the floor of the House or Senate. This system makes it clear that the email sender is a voter in their district. If you are interested in social justice, pro-life or private school issues, you can sign up for Voter Voice at www.laccb.org.

Sept. 1 Prayer & Support Group for Bishops, Montserrat Jesuit Retreat House, Dallas, TX.

Sept. 2 Knights of St. Gregory Mass; St. Michael the Archangel Chapel, Shreveport; 6:00 p.m.

Sept. 3 Friendship Bowl; St. Frederick High School, Monroe; 7:00 p.m.

Sept. 4 Eastern Deanery Priests’ Luncheon; Monroe; 11:30 a.m.

Sept. 4 Mass; St. Joseph Church, Zwolle; 4:00 p.m.

Sept. 4 Mass; St. Ann Church, Ebarb; 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 5 Mass, St. Joseph Church, Zwolle; 11:00 a.m.

Sept. 5 Búsqueda (Search) Retreat Mass; Scottsville Camp & Conference Center, Scottsville, TX; 3:00 p.m.

Sept. 7 Red Mass; St. Matthew Church, Monroe; 1:00 p.m.

Sept. 8 Our Lady of Fatima Back to School Mass, Our Lady of Fatima Church, Monroe; 9:00 a.m.

Sept. 8 Presbyteral Council Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 1:00 p.m.

Sept. 9-10 Gathering of Religious Superiors; Catholic Center

Sept. 20-23 2010 Mission Bishops’ Conference; University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary, Mundelein, IL.

Sept. 23 Ecumenical Gathering in celebration of Sacred Heart Church’s 90th Anniversary; Sacred Heart Church, Rayville; 5:30 p.m.

Sept. 24 St. Catherine Community Center Board Meeting; 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 25 35th Anniversary Mass; St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport; 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 26 140th Anniversary Mass; St. Patrick Church, Lake Providence; 10:30 a.m.

Sept. 28 New Orleans Provincial Council Meeting/Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops Meeting; Immaculata Center, Lafayette; 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Sept. 28-30 Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Program; Wesley Center, Woodworth, LA.

September 2010 Contents

Diocese Welcomes New Vicar General by Christine Rivers ....... 2

Catholic Legislative Advocacy .................................................... 2

Catholic Schools Nondiscriminatory Policy ................................ 2

Bishop Michael Duca’s September 2010 Schedule .................... 3

Bishop’s Reflection by Most Reverend Michael G. Duca ........... 4-5

Decorum at Mass, pt. 2 by Dianne Rachal ................................. 6

St. Patrick Church in Lake Providence to Celebrate 140 Years by John Mark Willcox ......................................... 6

Second Collections by Fr. David Richter .................................... 7

The Calling Circle by Dr. Betsy Williams .................................... 7

Welcome to PSR! by Dr. Linda Webster ..................................... 8

Our Lady of Good Remedy by Kim Long....................................8

Jesus the Good Shepherd School to Celebrate 50 Years by Fr. Mark Watson. ........................... ..9

Diocese of Shreveport Welcomes New Seminarians by Fr. David Richter .........................................10

Economy Down, Volunteerism Up! by John Mark Willcox ..........10

Making a Difference by Kelly Phelan and Jessica Rinaudo ......................................11

Greco Institute Fall Schedule .........................................................15

Hispanic Corner por Rosalba Quiroz .......................................... 18

News Briefs by Catholic News Service ...................................... 19

Around the Diocese ........................................................... ....20-21

Diocese of Alexandria & FDLC to Host Liturgy Day ...................21

Upcoming Events .......................................................................22

40 Days for Life by Emily Nickelson ............................................22

September 2010 Calendar ..........................................................23

Back to School! ............................................................................. 24

1196 14

Bishop Michael Duca’s September Schedule

4 4 Catholic Connection September 2010 5 5 Catholic Connection September 2010

E n la revista Catholic Connection de este mes encontrarás historias de Católicos en

nuestra diócesis que dan su tiempo por medio de servicio activo a los más necesitados. La palabra servicio se usa para describir nuestros actos de caridad Cristiana porque Jesús nos enseña una y otra vez con Sus palabras y acciones que “el Hijo del Hombre no vino a ser servido sino a servir…” (Mat. 20:28) y que el más grande entre nosotros debe servir a los demás. Ayudar a otros, mostrándoles compasión, preocupándonos por el enfermo y trabajando para construir el Cuerpo de Cristo son solo algunas de las cosas que agradan a Dios y que hay que hacer si tenemos el tiempo. El SERVICIO, el dar nuestro tiempo, nuestro talento y nuestro tesoro para aquellos que lo necesitan es un elemento esencial de lo que significa ser un discípulo de Jesús y la más genuina y verdadera prueba de nuestra fe.

Nuestro viaje espiritual para responder al llamado de Cristo a servir al pobre frecuentemente comienza donde sentimos que deberíamos hacer más, entonces haciéndonos voluntarios en la iglesia podemos ser de mucha ayuda. El ser voluntario es más que nada algo que escogemos y ponemos límites en cuanto nos podemos comprometer. ¡El servicio Cristiano es mucho más que eso! Si en verdad nos abrimos a ayudar a otros llegará un momento en que nuestro corazón será transformado. Comenzaremos a preocuparnos personalmente por los que estamos sirviendo, después sentiremos el LLAMADO a involucrarnos más. Uso

la palabra LLAMADO aquí porque será una invitación verdadera. En este momento sabrás que no es ya tu decisión de ayudar sino que ahora debes responder al llamado de Cristo a servir, no en tus propios términos sino en Sus términos.

Cuando respondemos a este llamado de Cristo nos damos cuenta que debemos cambiar. Vemos que tenemos menos tiempo para nosotros mismos y dejamos algunas cosas que disfrutábamos pero que han sido actividades superficiales y que nos permitirán poder tener el tiempo de servir. También veremos que por la gracia dejaremos ir nuestros egoísmos y tentaciones de pecado. Debemos batallar con la hermosa pero temible invitación del Señor a morir a nosotros mismos para poder liberarnos del ego y amar como Él nos ha llamado a amar. Este acto de servicio nos lleva al centro del Evangelio y nuestra fe se aviva en nosotros. Descubrimos que una vida simple nos libera para ser más atentos a otros y no siempre estar tan envueltos en nuestras propias preocupaciones.

Descubrimos el gozo del servicio y también comenzamos a depender más en la oración para ser más fieles al llamado de servir, no como

escogemos, sino como Dios nos ha llamado a servir. Los que regalan toda una vida al servicio por los más necesitados, que escuchan y aceptan la vocación del sacerdocio o vida religiosa en servicio a la Iglesia no son solo voluntarios, sino que son capturados por el llamado de Jesús a dar sus vidas en servicio. Entienden la escritura que dice “no eres tu quien me escogiste, yo te he escogido a ti.” Jn. 15:16)

La sabiduría y profundidad espiritual de este viaje solo puede pasar si dejamos que nuestro Dios amoroso nos dirija y nos abra al servicio de nuestros hermanos y hermanas más necesitados.

Quiero agradecer a toda la gente de la diócesis que son testigos del amor de Cristo cada día de una manera única. Entre más nos abramos cada uno a este llamado de Dios a servir, más poderoso será el testimonio de la Iglesia hacia nuestra fe en Cristo. Yo se que este mes habrá un momento en el que pensarás, “¿será que necesitan ayuda?” o de alguna manera serás llamado a involucrarte un poco más. Responde al llamado de Cristo que te invita a confiar en su llamado de amor y nos enseña que entre más des, mas recibirás.

La Reflexión del Obispopor Bishop Michael G. Duca

El obispo lee con estudiantes en la escuela de Nuestra Señora del Santísimo Sacramento en Shreveport.


In this month’s Catholic Connection you will find stories of Catholics in our diocese who actively give

of their time in service to those in need. The word service is used to describe our acts of Christian charity because Jesus teaches us over and over with His words and actions that “the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve…”(MT. 20:28) and that the greatest among us will be the one who serves the rest. Helping others, showing compassion, caring for the sick and working to build up the Body of Christ are not just nice things to do if we have time, SERVICE, giving our time, talent and treasure for those in need, is an essential element of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus and the truest test of the genuineness of our faith.

Our spiritual journey to answer Christ’s call to serve the poor often begins when we feel that we should do more, so we volunteer at the church to be of help. Volunteering is mostly something we choose and we set limits on how much we commit. Christian service is so much more! If we truly open ourselves to helping others there will come a moment when our heart will be touched. We will begin to care more personally for the ones we are serving, then we will feel the CALL to get more involved. I use the word CALL here because it will be a true invitation. In this moment you will know that it is no

longer just your decision to help, but now you must respond to Christ’s call to serve, not on your terms, but now on HIS terms.

To answer this call from Christ, we find we must change. We may find we have less time for ourselves and we have to let go of some of the more enjoyable but superficial activities in order to have time to serve. We will also be challenged by grace to let go of our sinful and

self-centered temptations. We must struggle with the wonderful and fearful invitation from the Lord to die to our self in order to free ourselves to love as He calls

us to love. This act of service leads us to the heart of the Gospel and our faith becomes more alive to us. We discover that a simple life frees us to be more attentive to others and not always so wrapped up in our own concerns.

We discover the joy of service and also begin to depend more on prayer

to be faithful to the call to serve, not as we choose, but as God calls us to serve. Those who give a lifetime in service to those in need and those who listen and accept the vocation to the priesthood or religious life in service of the Church are not just volunteering, but they are captured by the call of Jesus to give their lives in service. They understand the scripture “you have not chosen me, I have chosen you.” (JN. 15:16)

The wisdom and spiritual depth of this journey can only happen when we let our loving God lead and open us to service of our brothers and sisters in need.

I want to thank all the people of the diocese who witness Christ’s love each day in their unique setting. The more each one of us opens to this call from God to serve, the more powerful will be the witness of our Church to our faith in Christ. This month I know there will be a moment when you will think, “I wonder if they need some help,” or in some way you will be called to get more involved. Answer the call of Christ who invites you to trust his call to love and teaches that the more you give, the more you will receive.

Bishop’s Reflection

by Bishop Michael G. Duca

”...SERVICE, giving our time, talent and treasure for those

in need, is an essential element of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus and the truest test of the genuineness of our faith.”.

Bishop Duca serves at Poor Man's Supper at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church in Monroe. Proceeds from the event benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy.


If I am a master, where is My respect?’ says the LORD of hosts to you.” Mal 1:6

“In the celebration of Mass the faithful form a holy people, a people whom God has made his own, a royal priesthood, . . .They should, moreover, endeavor to make this clear by their deep religious sense and their charity toward brothers and sisters who participate with them in the same celebration.” no. 95 GIRM

Charity toward others during the celebration of Mass includes respect for everyone’s worship of God. This liturgical respect is shown by:

1. Dressing in an appropriate and modest manner so as not to distract others.

2. Arriving and being seated in plenty of time before Mass begins in order not to disrupt the liturgy once it has begun. To come late or leave early breaks the very spirit of the assembly.

3. Silencing all electronic devices. No cell phones, MP3 players, pagers or texting during the celebration of Mass.

4. Not chewing gum—this is discourteous to God and others, and violates the fast before receiving Holy Communion.

5. Respecting a period of silence before Mass to allow everyone to transition from secular time to sacred time, and to adopt a prayerful attitude prior to the start of the liturgy.

6. Participating in the entire Mass until after the dismissal and recessional which sends us forth to be Christ’s presence in the world.

7. Availing oneself of the restrooms before or after the celebration of Mass, not during.

8. Exhibiting hospitality to others by moving to the center of the pew.

Remember to practice good Mass Manners. The Eucharist is a communal celebration, not a private devotion. Be mindful and respectful of the members who join together to form the Body of Christ in worship of the Father.

The land on the northeastern boundary of our diocese is flat and vast, fringed by the

mighty Mississippi and with a floor consisting of the delta’s life-giving nutrient soil. Good soil means good farming and people have been living and farming in East Carroll Parish for a long time. With that in mind it is no wonder the Catholic outpost that is St. Patrick Church has existed for nearly 150 years.

It is a community of Catholics who have seen plenty of history from their doorstep, including a front row seat to the start of U. S. Grant’s famous 1863 Vicksburg Campaign. With Catholic worship services dating back to 1849, the faithful of the area battled the changing currents of the Mississippi and post Civil War conditions until they were finally able to dedicate their newly constructed church to Ireland’s most famous saint in 1870, in honor of the many parishioners of Irish descent at that time.

These early parishioners of St. Patrick fought hard for their Church’s survival, resulting in many generations of Catholics who have sacrificed to maintain a worship community and educate children. A school founded by the

parish operated on and off from the mid 1870’s until 1997. The present church sanctuary was dedicated during the pastorate of the late Msgr. Harry O. Barker in 1976.

Current Pastor Fr. Zacharias Prakuzhy is proud of his parish of 11 years, “This is a celebration of the fidelity and devotion of all those wonderful people, those ‘living stones’ who have supported this church and made it an embodiment of God’s unconditional love. I have been privileged to experience the mutual solidarity and unity of this church family and I pray this celebration will help our community to renew this wonderful heritage bequeathed by past generations.”

Celebration plans call for a Rosary and Mass on Friday afternoon celebrated by Rev. Joe Puthuppally, September 24, 2010, followed by a special 10:30 a.m. anniversary Mass which will be celebrated by Bishop Michael Duca at St. Patrick Church on Sunday, September 26, 2010. Commenting on the occasion Bishop Duca remarked, “This is a remarkable parish full of special people and I am pleased to be a part of this special celebration in recognition of so many years of service to the people of this area.”

St. Patrick Church in Lake Providence to Celebrate 140 Yearsby John Mark Willcox, Director of Development

Decorum at Mass, pt. 2by Dianne Rachal, Director of Worship

St. Patrick Church, Lake Providence, LA. (John Mark Willcox)

“


Second Collectionby Fr. David RichterAnnouncement Dates: September 12 & 19 Collection Dates: September 25 & 26

The Black and Indian Mission collection can be traced back to 1884 when the U. S. bishops at the Plenary Council of Baltimore ordered that assistance be given

for this great need in our nation. Very soon afterward, the missions gained a strong advocate in the young woman who was the daughter of a wealthy banker named Drexel in Philadelphia. Katharine Drexel, now a canonized saint, petitioned Pope Leo XIII in 1887 to send missionaries to help her cause in the American West. The Pope replied, “Why don’t you become a missionary?” The later Mother Katharine did just that, founding the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament in 1891 in New Mexico.

This annual collection brings the hands of Christ to reach out to troubled hearts, to heal those suffering in various ways, and to support the preaching of the Gospel where priests and religious are few. I invite you to take part in this important work by your generous engagement.

On a more personal note, I thank you for your attention and generous response to the needs brought to you by the monthly second collections. After eight years in the office

of the Vicar General, I am now assigned to devote additional time to vocations work. Fr. Rothell Price, the new Vicar General, will promote second collections in the diocese as one of his duties. He will soon be communicating with you. Again, thank you for the charity you have exhibited toward those who are in much need.

How well did the diocese do?Peter’s Pence $ 28,031.67

Isaiah 43:1 - …“I have called you by name; you are mine.”

As a Christian, I find comfort in knowing that I have been called to a journey where I belong

and I have the opportunity to answer the call to serve. However, when we receive a call, and we answer that call, we have the responsibility to prepare ourselves in different dimensions of our humanity. We reach out to learn, to understand, and to allow the spirit to form us to prepare for servanthood.

I have been truly blessed with these opportunities; not just for my own personal growth, but to be able to watch others grow and “do service.” One of these “blessed” opportunities is being a part of the Diaconate Formation program that will begin this Fall. It is a great and humbling privilege to be called to work with these prayerfully eager men in their spiritual formation. These men are being called to discern, study, understand, and embrace ministry as Jesus and His disciples did thousands of years earlier. They will be provided the tools to form their intellectual dimension, pastoral dimension,

and their spiritual dimension by many individuals from our diocese and from outside our diocese. The educational piece will be provided by the University of Dallas, the pastoral dimension will be provided by the many individuals who provide services throughout our diocese, and the spiritual dimension will be provided by many spiritual directors and teachers who will walk with them as they discern the direction of their call.

The formation of these prayerfully eager men is not just an isolated discernment process. As they accept the call to explore becoming a permanent deacon, they will be calling upon their past experiences and how these experiences have formed

them as they are today. There will be individuals who have influenced them, particularly in their young spiritual formation. Perhaps this individual is a religion teacher who accepted the call to assist in the understanding of church teaching and the spirituality of God’s love. It is like a circle, a “calling circle;” a person is called to become a religion teacher to assist in the intellectual and spiritual formation of someone who is called to serve the teacher as a pastoral or spiritual leader of the church.

For those of you who are discerning the call to become a permanent deacon, remember you will have the opportunity to learn and grow through the offerings of the University of Dallas, those who walk in pastoral ministries, and spiritual directors and teachers who will guide you in discernment of your ministerial path. As an added gift, the religion teachers have a great opportunity to expand their call by registering for the academic formation of the program. This offering is a great way of acquiring more knowledge of church teaching and more understanding of the spirituality of the church. Please contact Clary Nash at the Catholic Center for more information, 318-868-4441.

The Calling Circleby Dr. Betsy Williams


As the excitement builds toward the start of a new school year, it’s important that we look to the

“welcome” mat as the primary focus of our work as catechists.

Anyone coming to the Church for instruction should be so comfortable, so welcome that they can’t wait to come back. From the pre-K classroom all the way up to every adult catechetical encounter, each participant should be met with personal greetings and heartfelt words of welcome. To be greeted by name and enfolded in the joy of the group meeting together should transcend the content of the meeting.

In other words, we need lesson plans and we need to cover material in order

to understand our faith, but each of us needs even more to be valued and included.

The very best classes I’ve observed have some things in common. There is book work, of course, and there is faith sharing. Many excellent catechists can lead group prayer with passion and fervor; sometimes there’s even singing! But the very best catechesis occurs where the PSR volunteers light up as each child comes into the room, greeting the child by name and including that child in whatever activity is going on during the gathering portion of the session.

“Gathering” doesn’t usually fill a large part of any lesson plan. It may seem to be wasted time. With about 30 class meetings each year and maybe 75 minutes per meeting, there just isn’t much time to “get through” the material in the book, to prepare for sacraments, to do special feast celebrations and all of the other busy-ness of class work.

But what good does all of that content-related class work do if a child feels unwelcome or confused or rushed? What if PSR is just another day of school that is a lonely, unhappy experience?

Experienced catechists plan gathering meticulously, spending much more time

doing welcoming activities at the start of the year or whenever a new student joins the group. For example, children should be greeted as they enter the room and be escorted to an activity area that will allow ALL of the children in the classroom to participate as they arrive. “Escorting” means getting their name, talking to them, walking with them to the activity, and making a place for them at the activity.

This is easy to envision for first and second grade classrooms, but it works just as well for teenagers. Why? They don’t have a choice to sit away from the group or to be physically isolated. You can’t force someone to color or to play a game, but you CAN have them be part of the group in some fashion.

There is nothing sadder than to see a child sitting alone at a table during a class activity because seating is assigned and no one else from that table showed up for PSR. Managing inclusion and deliberately moving children into groups that are welcoming and engaging should be rule #1 for catechists.

Children do not come to PSR to be taught. They come to learn. And it’s important they learn how pleased we are to see them and to welcome them to the faith.

Recently I purchased an ornament of the Blessed Mother and the child Jesus. I was taken in by the

regal image, Mary and Jesus complete with crowns and Mary’s cloak a deep blue and her gown a rich red. I didn’t recognize the image; none of the titles I knew fit this. I did a little research and found that she is known as Our Lady of Good Remedy.

The composition is based on the ancient tradition of Byzantine Catholic Iconography. In the tradition, Mary wears a red outer robe symbolizing her humanity, and a blue inner garment, symbolizing her sanctity. In the tradition, Jesus wears the opposite - a blue outer garment for his divinity and a red inner garment for his human nature.

About 800 years ago Christians were being captured and sold into slavery by the thousands. In 1198, St. John of Matha founded the Trinitarians to go to the slave markets, buy the Christian

slaves and set them free. To carry out this plan, the Trinitarians needed lots of money. They placed their fundraising efforts under the patronage of Mary. They were so successful that, over the centuries, the Trinitarians were able to free thousands of people and return them safely home. In gratitude for her miraculous assistance, St. John of Matha honored Mary with the title “Our Lady of Good Remedy.”

The Trinitarian religious whose primary duties are to worship the Triune God with a special devotion, and aid the needy and those who suffer by performing works of mercy, have honored the Virgin Mary under the title “Mother of Good Remedy” from the very beginnings of their order. A singular love for the Mother of God flourished among these religious orders throughout the ages, for she continually healed the sufferings of her supplicants;

indeed, it still flourishes among them today. The title under which the order

venerates Mary perfectly expresses her relationship with us: she is the Mother of Good Remedy. After all, her son, Jesus is the “remedy” for our world. When in need, for whatever reason but especially where you have had difficulty obtaining help, invoke the aid of Our Lady of Good Remedy.

Catholics have always turned to Mary as our

spiritual mother. Especially in these trying times we should pray with the faith of the Trinitarians and St. John Matha to Our Lady of Good Remedy, after all her son is known as the Great Physician. Quite a dynamic duo!

Her feast is celebrated on October 8. We can celebrate this by praying a novena in her honor, attending Mass or making an offering to the Trinitarians, as well as praying to God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Welcome to PSR!by Dr. Linda Webster, PhD

Our Lady of Good Remedyby Kim Long, St. Mary of the Pines


This year we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Jesus the Good Shepherd School. As we begin

this celebration I have a wonderful sense of thanksgiving for all who brought our school to where we are today. The strength of our school is a tribute to all of the principals, pastors, teachers and staff who have served our families over the last 50 years. I would like to especially thank Lisa Patrick who, for over nine years, has provided excellent leadership for our school.

After careful study Bishop Greco saw the need to establish a church and school on the north side of Monroe. By official decree this establishment was made final on June 20, 1958. The first Masses of the new parish were held in the auditorium of the Knights of Columbus Hall on Sunday, July 6, 1958. On April 13, 1959 the church purchased a 10 acre tract of land from the Cole Estate. Herbert H. Land was chosen as the architect to design an elementary school to handle six grades and kindergarten, a church to seat at least 350, a rectory to house two priests and a convent for five nuns. Ground breaking ceremonies were held September 13, 1959. The Daughters of the Cross of St. Matthew School and St. Vincent Academy in Shreveport provided the original staff for the school.

On September 1, 1960 classes began with an enrollment of 230 students. On September 11, 1960 the school was dedicated and blessed by Bishop Greco.

Sister Mary Fideles was the first

principal, followed by Sr. Mary Louise Parisy in 1964.

Rev. Dave Dabria was the first pastor of JGS Church and School. He called the purchase of adequate land and the construction of a church, school, rectory and convent all at once by a new parish without a large grant of money an impossible dream.

“At first thought, many agreed but on second thought, after much prayer, evaluation and consideration of all the circumstances, it was considered a worthy and acceptable challenge for one and all. Msgr. Marsh of St. Matthew’s offered to transfer their elementary school and nuns. And within two years of its existence, a church, school, rectory and convent were built on ten acres of land. And just less than eight years later, on May 26, 1968, a gymnasium, library and kindergarten were added and blessed. Yes, thanks to the vision, generosity and hard work of its parishioners and all concerned, Jesus the Good Shepherd would have a thriving school of its own. God has blessed the parish so much by its school,” said Dabria.

Sr. Maria Smith, D.C. taught fourth grade for five years and sixth grade for two years at JGS School, and was principal from 1980-1997. Teaching children whose parents she had taught and having students return as teachers gave her a feeling of joy and family. She remembered the love parents and grandparents had for the sisters. The students thought school was a good place to be as they felt welcomed, loved, secure and respected. They

showed a determination to excel in academics, sports and religious activities. Mass attendance on Fridays, the Crowning of Mary in May and the Advent wreath ceremony were events the staff, pupils and parents anticipated and reflected upon for years afterwards.

Charlynn Leehy was a student, and is now a teacher at the school. Charlynn wrote, “Jesus the Good Shepherd School holds a very special place in my heart. I attended JGS from first grade until my graduation in 1977. Coming back to JGS as a teacher has allowed me to reconnect with my childhood memories in an unusual and special way. In fact, I teach third grade in the same classroom that I occupied as a third grader. By having the opportunity to return to JGS as a teacher, I have had a unique opportunity to witness many positive changes in our school. As a result, JGS has experienced tremendous growth in its student body and we continue to provide a strong Catholic education for our students.”

Father Moore has most shaped both our parish and school. Its families have become his family. In 1973 Fr. Moore became the pastor of JGS Church and School. His love and dedication to both are shown in the amount of time he spends at the church and school.

“It’s good to have the children around. I like to watch them grow up,” said Fr. Moore. He also spoke about the decrease in class size from 35 students per class to 25 students and the change from one to two sections per grade level. As a result of time spent at the school, Fr. Moore continues to have an important place in the lives of the students.

Throughout this school year JGS Church and School will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the school. The celebration began at the 11:00 am Mass on August 29. Bishop Duca was the chief celebrant. In honor of the 50th Anniversary, a Memory Garden is being constructed outside of the new school building.

May God continue to bless our principal, faculty, staff, students, parents and myself as we continue to spiritually, academically and physically shape the lives of JGS students.

Jesus the Good Shepherd School Celebrates 50 Yearsby Fr. Mark Watson. Pastor of Jesus the Good Shepherd Church

Jesus the Good Shepherd School's 1962 Kindergarden graduates.


I am very happy to announce that our Diocese of Shreveport has two new seminarians entering their

studies for the priesthood. They are Jerry Kohlman, who is a student at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans and Jacob Wells, who is studying at St. Joseph Seminary College in St. Benedict, LA.

Jerry Kohlman, 49, is a graduate of Jesuit/Loyola in Shreveport. He brings a variety of work experience with him including horse training, sales, and a founding partner in a swimming pool installation company. He has been an active parishioner at Mary, Queen of Peace Church in south Bossier City. Jerry has been a lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, instructor in RCIA, sacristan and usher. In the first years of the seminary, Jerry will concentrate

on philosophy courses as a preparation for theology. He is in his first year of pre-theology.

Jacob Wells, 19, was raised first in Shreveport but now lives in Texas. Both sides of his family are from Louisiana and he wants to make the Diocese of Shreveport his future home as a priest. Jacob, like our other seminarians, has a strong Catholic background. He also has an uncle who is a priest, Fr. John Pardue. Jacob participated in sports and scouting while in high school. He has taken part in the life of the church parish, having both attended and taught religious education classes, taken part in social ministry and has been an altar server. Jacob has taken a few college courses. He is a first year college seminary student.

Seminarians John Bosco Nyrienda and Jerry Daigle, Jr. continue to study

for our diocese, both attending Notre Dame Seminary.

As you pray for vocations, which are very much needed in our diocese, please pray also for our individual seminarians. It is not an easy decision to answer a call to the priesthood today; they need our spiritual support to resist the voices of self-seeking and discouragement in the light of all the obstacles they face before ordination. Make a commitment to pray daily for them.

This summer, The Chronicle of Philanthropy published an article of interest that documents a

rapid rise in the number of Americans who volunteer to assist causes they believe in. The story was based on a report by the Corporation for National and Community Service and it flies in the face of conventional wisdom which has for years dictated that community activities suffer during an economic downturn.

Remarkably this last year has seen the most dramatic jump in American volunteer activity since 2003, confirming the fact that people of our nation remain willing to assist charitable causes, even when it demands even more personal sacrifice. Part of this increase can be attributed to jobless people who serve volunteer hours to gain valuable work experience and that too can be seen as a wonderful pro-active solution to

unemployment.2009 saw 27 percent of

the American populace volunteer over 8 billion hours of service to charitable causes in the United States. This staggering number of volunteer hours is equivalent to nearly $170 billion in fiscal value to those charities which benefitted from our inherent giving nature. It is also important to note that the vast majority of these volunteers also gave monetarily to the causes they believe in.

Geographically, the American Mid-West led the way in volunteerism with a high average of around 35% of residents giving volunteer time to charitable causes. The Ohio Valley followed with slightly lower numbers and Louisiana joined the Deep South with approximately 25% participation levels in volunteerism. Naturally, the Church remains a top beneficiary of volunteer efforts across the nation.

Interestingly in Louisiana, our state

ranks number one in the nation in organ donors through driver’s license registration. Over 64% of Louisiana drivers have registered for organ donation, a number twice the national average and a testament to the giving nature of the Bayou State!

Despite dark news about the state of our economy, it remains comforting to know the giving nature of the American psyche seems to remain not only intact, but on the rise. For more details about this study visit the Corporation for National and Community Service’s website at www.nationalservice.gov.

Diocese of Shreveport Welcomes New Seminariansby Fr. David Richter, Director of Vocations

Economy Down, Volunteerism Up!by John Mark Willcox, Director of Development

Jerry Kohlman Jacob Wells

Volunteer serves guests coffee at New York soup kitchen. (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz)


Making a Difference

Locals take strides to make a difference in their

communities

When he was in eighth grade, Mike Van Vranken felt God call

him during a silent retreat. “I had one of the best days of my life. And I knew that day I wanted to do Church work,” said Van Vranken.

That call was realized in 2003, when Mike began searching for ways to improve his religious education. After talking to Fr. Pat Madden, Mike was directed to the University of Dallas. Through their School of Ministry, he was able to eventually obtain a Masters Degree in Theological Studies.

Inspired by his education, Van Vranken realized his call was to teach others. The more he meditated on teaching, the more Mike began to think of the small Church he grew up in that doesn’t have a pastor or any educational programs. Mike decided he would teach to any one who would listen, but he especially wanted to focus on these small parishes.

Mike got in touch with Fr. Pat Madden and the Greco Institute and became a professor. Teaching everything from Old and New Testament to Sacraments and the Theology of Paul, Mike found a way to help educate Catholics. In addition to his Greco teaching, Mike has also given parish missions and spoken to groups on the importance of Stewardship.

“What I want to do is mainly for Catholics, but I also want to be available to people who aren’t Catholic that don’t know who we are,” said Van Vranken. To further this mission of teaching, Mike has set up a ministry corporation.

His gift of teaching has touched the lives of many people. At one mission Mike gave, one man in particular reached out to him. “A man came up and sat next to me. I was in the back pew and he started crying and he started telling me the issues going on in his life. And it made me realize this isn’t just a hobby, this is real and there are real people who are going to be touched and I have to make sure I remember that,” said Van Vranken.

Mike has continued to see his teaching light a fire in others. He hopes that others are instilled with the same “itch” to keep learning he feels.

Being with people and educating them has left its mark on Mike. “I enjoy what I’m doing, but that isn’t why I’m doing it. I’m doing it because people have need and people are lonely, people are heartbroken, people are hurting and people are unemployed and they’re looking for something to fill that void. And it’s God and it can only be God,” said Mike. “And I’m going to have the opportunity to bring that to people. It’s very humbling.”

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” So says Hebrews 13:16, and Catholics throughout

the Diocese of Shreveport take these words to heart and put them into practice in their daily lives. The Catholic Connection sent out an inquiry about people who make a difference in the lives of others, and the response was overwhelming. Here, we’ve profiled just a few of the many special people who make life better for those around them.

Except that they share a common faith, they’re a very diverse group that includes a former educator, students, mothers and fathers from different walks of life. What unites them is a desire to benefit their respective parishes, spread the Catholic faith, positively impact others with their ministries and encourage everyone to lend their hands in these good works.

Catholicism has a long history of sacrifice and service. Catholic Relief Services helps over 130 million people in more than 100 countries and territories across the globe. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul numbers about 950,000 in some 132 countries worldwide. And more than 1,700 agencies, institutions and organizations make up the Catholic Charities network, which is responsible for everything from advocacy to financial support to disaster response.

If you’re interested in becoming involved in any of the ministries, projects or missions you read about here, please contact your church office or the Catholic Center at (318) 868-4441.

by Kelly Phelan and Jessica Rinaudo

Mike Van VrankenSt. Joseph Church

Shreveport

”


An advocate of youth and music ministry, Pablo Ortega shares his musical talents throughout

the Diocese of Shreveport to bring the Hispanic community together. Currently an Engineering student at Louisiana Tech in Ruston, Pablo and his sister Andrea have worked hard during their three years in the Diocese of Shreveport.

Pablo Ortega lived in Mexico and Arkansas before moving to Ruston to attend Louisiana Tech. Ortega was quick to find ways to connect with the local young, Catholic Hispanic community when he arrived in the diocese.

“He wanted to know what kind of Hispanic programs we had for the youth,” said Rosalba Quiroz, Director of Hispanic Ministries. “When he saw we did not offer much for youth in Spanish, he started a choir in Ruston. Then he invited us to go to Arkansas and see if we could bring the youth program 'Búsqueda' (Search) to our diocese.”

Ortega has continued spreading his love for God and music throughout the diocese.

“He and his siblings, an older sister and a younger brother go to our parishes with Hispanic presence and help in strengthening the choir if there is one, or start one if there is not one already,”

said Quiroz.This effort has met with great success, as

evidenced at Christ the King Church in Bossier City. There Pablo and his siblings started a program called “Caminando las tardes con Jesus” (Walking in the Evenings with Jesus) that meets every week. Their goal is to have this program at every parish.

Ortega was encouraged to share his faith with others starting at a young age.

“My family is what started me in my ministry,” said Ortega. “Since I was a child I remember my whole family helping in the Church and always trying to strengthen their faith.”

He has since seen that music can help young people strengthen their own faith.

“Some of the positive impacts that I’ve seen my ministry make is to see God act through music,” said Ortega. “I’ve seen several adolescents open their heart because of a song they liked, after that, the change is amazing. God acts through the music he lets me play.”

And he believes that his music ministry will help bolster the faith and enthusiasm of Catholic youth.

“I’ve heard it said that the youth are the future of the Catholic Church,” said Ortega. “I think that we’re not the future but the present. The youth have all the energy and enthusiasm to do something amazing for our faith. We just need the right tools.”

There’s that story about the man walking by the poor man lying by his door, day after day and never

seeing him,” said John Bradford, Society of St. Vincent de Paul president at the Cathedral. “I have learned to see and understand people in need. You can’t help but be more compassionate.”

John Bradford’s introduction to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul came in 1999 during his RCIA class. During a presentation on the Society, Bradford was struck by how much the Society’s approach made sense.

“You try to help people help themselves, rather than depending on the government to do it or something else. It's a one-on-one contact, a person-to-person thing and that appealed to me,” said Bradford.

Now the president of his parish conference, Bradford is in charge of a number of things, including group motivation and organization. Over the years, he has gone with other Society members to visit the homes of the poor, help pay bills and work to get people back on their feet.

Bradford said the primary mission of the Cathedral society is to respond to requests, most of which come through a city-wide help line. While this approach has been successful, it is also very daunting as there are not always enough volunteers to go around. “We can’t respond this afternoon to a call this morning, most of the time,” said Bradford. “Our people all are fully

employed at their own jobs. We do what we do in our spare time.”

But the spare time of a few has made a huge improvement in the lives of many. While most requests are small, ranging from help getting power back on, to help with the next rent payment, the Cathedral Vincentians have taken on the occasional big case.

“Our biggest challenge in the last year was something we had never ever done because we didn’t have the man power or the means,” said Bradford. “But we got involved with a man who was disabled, couldn’t work and was being evicted and had nowhere to go. His family had written him off and he was going to

be under a bridge.”The Cathedral Vincentians felt like they couldn’t abandon the

man, and over the course of six months, they were able to find him temporary shelter, help him appear in court and receive his disability judgment, and eventually find permanent housing. This incident was tough on the resources of the Cathedral’s Society, but Bradford was glad they were able to help.

“He’s fine now, and that’s the beauty of it,” said Bradford. “We helped him through the process that he could never really have completed on his own.”

Bradford is quick to emphasize the important roles of all the members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. He is constantly amazed by their work and unswerving commitment to help others help themselves. “Everybody in St. Vincent de Paul works hard,” said Bradford. “We’ve got seven or eight groups in Shreveport and three in Bossier. There are many of those guys who work harder than I do.”

Pablo OrtegaSt. Thomas Aquinas

Ruston

John BradfordCathedral of SJB

Shreveport

”


When St. Catherine Church in Noble,

LA, closed five years ago, Rose Procell and her family began attending St. Joseph Church, Zwolle with Father Tim Hurd. Right away, Hurd asked her to get involved in some areas of the church that were in need of extra hands, and Procell jumped right in. Ever since, when she sees something that needs doing, she doesn’t wait for someone to ask her; she just gets busy working.

Her former pastor, Father Ken Williams, said, “You can name it, and Rose has done it!” Procell said, “That’s all the Lord asks of you, is just to be good to one another and to help one another.”

Retired from working with handicapped children, Procell now devotes most of her time to church service, particularly with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the international Roman Catholic volunteer organization dedicated to overcoming poverty. She said, “Every second Tuesday, we stock groceries, and every third Tuesday, we hand groceries out. We always have over 200 families, [including] a lot of elderly. I love helping elderly people. All this extra food, it’s just a great help to them.”

Procell also belongs to the Council of Catholic Women (CCW), a group that responds to the needs of others, especially their churches, with prayer and action. With them, she cleans the church each week and before special events.

At St. Joseph, many of the female parishioners organize themselves into five “circles,” groups that serve at funerals, clean the church and hold monthly bingo fundraisers. Procell is a member of St. Helen’s Circle, and she cherishes the opportunity to help her fellow Catholics at some of the most difficult times in their lives. “Every funeral, [we prepare] a great big meal for the family,” she said, “and it helps them out a lot.”

Though her duties (she is also a Eucharistic Minister) come with a lot of hard work, Procell rises to any occasion when she sees an opportunity to serve. She credits Fr. Hurd and Fr. Williams with encouraging her to get involved in her church and the diocese in these capacities. “Father Ken has inspired me so much,” she said. “I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

About a year ago, the Catholic Connection spotlighted JoAnn Crone’s work with the St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy in Monroe, the only free pharmacy north of

Alexandria and east of Shreveport. In her interview, Crone said she felt God call her to open a pharmacy to serve the uninsured, underinsured and working poor, so that’s exactly what she did.

Crone still hears God’s call to help those less fortunate, and He’s calling her to more opportunities than ever before. In addition to her ongoing work with the St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy, she’s also involved in a program that helps the children of prisoners and their caregivers. She said, “A lot of people ask us why we don’t send Easter baskets to Angola, but there are plenty of people who need our help right here in Monroe.”

The group, comprised of parishioners from Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, mentors, comforts, tutors, plays with and provides for the children of incarcerated parents while helping their guardians – usually grandparents or great-grandparents – provide for their physical wellbeing.

Crone told the story of one elderly woman in Monroe who has 19 people living in her home, 14 children and five adults. One of the woman’s great-grandchildren, a girl with whom Crone developed a special friendship, has both a mother and a grandmother who are in prison. For the child’s birthday, Crone took her to get a manicure and a pedicure.

One of their projects also involves building bunk beds and providing mattresses and covers for the children. Recently, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana nominated Crone for their Angel Award, the prize for which is $10,000 for the winner to spend on him- or herself. “When I found out about that, I wanted to win so bad!” Crone said. “Not to spend it on myself, but to buy more bedding!”

A member of Jesus the Good Shepherd Church for 30 years, Crone recently finished packing 200 backpacks for schoolchildren in Monroe, and we’re certain she’ll find many more ways to share her gift of service in the years to come.

Jo Ann CroneJesus the Good

Shepherd,

MonroeRose ProcellSt. Joseph Church

Zwolle


Born in Opelousas, LA, Shirley Henderson grew up in Holy Ghost Catholic Church. She moved to

Grambling in 1949 to accept a teaching position for which her employers decided she was qualified even though she’d had only two years of college. At that time, she started attending St. Benedict the Black Church. After she graduated in 1953, she returned to Grambling permanently and officially joined the church, thus making her their second-oldest member with almost 60 years of membership.

Henderson views her service as a matter of course, not a sacrifice. “We were a small congregation and still are, and everybody had to do something,” she said. “We knew that it needed to be done and just fell in.” She sewed aprons and crocheted and embroidered items to sell at the church fair to raise money. She also joined the Catholic Circle, a group of volunteers who served the church in a myriad of ways.

Henderson, who taught in a laboratory elementary school

on Grambling’s campus until she retired in 1996, belongs to several organizations in the community that promote education. In nominating her for inclusion in this article, the staff at St. Benedict the Black called her “an outstanding educator who still reaches out to students by tutoring some at her home after school. Her…contributions are immeasurable.”

Asked how she thinks her efforts might help spread the Catholic faith, Henderson said,

“[They] show an unselfishness and that we’re living out what our church teaches, which is helping others in more ways than one, whether they’re Catholic or not.”

After her many years of service to the church, Henderson isn’t shy about asking her fellow

parishioners to roll up their sleeves and get involved. “What we have tried to do is find out what a person does well and make use of the talents a person has,” she said.

Jeanette Kennedy, fondly known as “Ms. Jeanette,” has become a reliable presence at St. John the

Baptist Church in Many. A transplant from Gautier, Mississippi following Hurricane Katrina, Ms. Jeanette has settled in as a fixture of parish life, despite her age and health problems.

“Whether she is sick or doesn't feel well does not matter, Mrs. Kennedy volunteers to help with everything,” said Shirley Rivers, “She's in her 80's, never complains, attends Mass daily, and is an inspiration to us all.”

Each year, Ms. Jeanette works with RCIA students as a teacher’s helper, passing out books, answering questions and teaching prayers.

“It does me good as much as it does the children,” said Ms. Jeanette. “I go to RCIA class and I’ve been doing that for several years because I’m still learning. It seems like each year I learn a little more from these children’s lessons.”

Ms. Jeanette also serves at the parish’s Vacation Bible School, working in the kitchen to prepare snacks for the attendees.

“I get a few things in there with them and if it’s nothing but

washing dishes, that’s ok, just as long as I’m there to help,” said Ms. Jeanette.

One of the most important ministries Ms. Jeannette feels called to is visiting and serving shut-ins. She has three people she visits on a regular basis. During her visits, she brings Communion.

“It’s rewarding to help give somebody communion or take somebody communion who otherwise wouldn’t be able to get it. It’s not me, it’s the Holy Spirit that leads me,” said Ms. Jeanette.

Ms. Jeannette said those she visits are happy people, and she knows the visits make a difference to them. Because she doesn’t have a husband or children to take care of at home, Ms. Jeanette said it’s easy

and a joy for her to make these regular visits.Quick to dismiss any praise for herself, Ms. Jeanette thanks

God for her motivation. “I get the pleasure from it, but I know also that it’s not me. If it wasn’t for the Holy Spirit, I couldn’t do that. So it just makes you feel closer to your brothers and sisters and also closer to God too. He gets all the credit as far as I’m concerned. I’m just His feet and His mouth,” said Ms. Jeanette.

In addition to her roles in RCIA, Vacation Bible School and shut-in ministry, she also serves as a Eucharistic minister, lector and member of the Ladies Altar Society.

Shirley HendersonSt. Benedict Church

Grambling

Jeanette KennedySt. John the Baptist

Many

"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”

Hebrews 13:16





Todos Construimos el Futuro

Cuando servimos al prójimo, aún al más pequeño, especialmente al más pequeño, le servimos a

Jesús pues Él se hace presente en el mundo en cada uno de nosotros, en el más pequeño así como en el más grande.

Este mes la diócesis menciona a personas que hacen una diferencia ofreciendo sus servicios a beneficio del prójimo. Personas que construyen un mejor futuro para la iglesia y para el mundo.

A todas las personas que en el pasado han trabajado en nuestra diócesis para que ahora tengamos un ministerio fuerte y un futuro lleno de esperanzas les enviamos un sincero agradecimiento y a todos los que en el presente ponen sus dones al servicio del prójimo ¡ánimo, sigan sembrando! que Dios que conoce el fondo de su corazón los premiará a ustedes y a sus generaciones.

Cuando pensé en nombrar a alguien en particular me fue difícil escoger a una sola persona que regala su tiempo, esfuerzo, oraciones y recursos a beneficio del prójimo; me sentí mal de pensar que tenía que dejar fuera a muchas personas que merecen también reconocimiento público. Por eso, a todos ustedes los adjunto en un solo nombre el del Sr. Francisco (Pancho) Trejo. El Señor Francisco (Pancho) Trejo es uno de muchos feligreses que hacen una diferencia en la iglesia. Con su humildad, buen humor y plena disposición de ayuda el Sr. Trejo es un

ejemplo a seguir. Recuerden que no importa la cantidad que demos sino con qué cantidad de amor la damos.

Esto es lo que comparte el Sr. Trejo: “Yo comencé a trabajar en el ministerio porque me invitaron ya que aun siendo católico toda mi vida casi no participaba. Sin embargo, cuando vi el esfuerzo de la iglesia y la gran necesidad de ayuda, sentí que yo podía hacer una diferencia; me siento orgulloso de lo mucho que hemos avanzado en los últimos diez años, al ver todos los servicios que ofrece la diócesis en nuestro idioma. No me arrepiento de haber comenzado a ayudar porque

me siento parte de este crecimiento. Sé que hemos traído y seguimos trayendo al norte de Luisiana una gran riqueza con nuestra cultura, nuestra expresión de fe y nuestras raíces, las mismas que ahora también ya están echando raíces”.

Pancho visita con frecuencia a los niños hospitalizados, apoya eventos parroquiales y diocesanos y está

dispuesto a dar apoyo en lo que se necesite. Disfruta participar de clases religiosas, retiros y en muchas es él mismo quien nos prepara los alimentos. Gracias Pancho y a todos los voluntarios de nuestro ministerio porque “juntos construimos el Reino de Jesús”.

MisasBossier City: Christ the King425 McCormick St. Bossier CityDomingo 3:00 p.m.Marilú Rodriguez Tel: 318-286-1492

Farmerville: Our Lady of Perpetual Help600 E. Water Street, FarmervilleSábado 7:00 p.m.Rev. Al Jost Tel: 318-243-0115

Mansfield: St. Joseph305 Jefferson Street, Mansfield 2do

Domingo 2:00 p.m. y 3er Martes 6:30 p.m.Juanita Ibarra Tel: 318-872-5390

Minden: St. Paul410 Fincher Road, MindenViernes 7:00 p.m.Margarita Bratton Tel: 318-377-9684

Oak Grove: Sacred Heart201 Purvis St, Oak GroveDomingo 5:00 p.m.Feliciano y Rosa Alviso Martinez Tel: 318-428-2137

Ruston: St. Thomas Aquinas810 Carey Ave, Ruston2do y 4to Domingo 2:30 p.m.Soledad Broyles Tel: 318-243-1958

Shreveport: St. Mary of the Pines1050 Bert Kouns Ind Lp., ShreveportDomingo 1:00 p.m.Carmen Bradford Tel: 318-455-2300

West Monroe: St. Paschal711 N 7th Street, W. MonroeDomingo 2:30 p.m.Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136

Rosalba QuiRoz, DiRectoRa Del MinisteRio Hispano 318-219-7265 • Rev. al Jost, cooRDinaDoR De la vicaRía Del este • 318-243-0115

Hispanic Cornerpor Rosalba Quiroz

Calendario Diocesano del Mes de Septiembre1 Reunión de Directores Diocesanos con el Obispo, Centro Católico.

3-5 Retiro Juvenil Búsqueda, Scottsville, TX

17 Reunión de los directores de Ministerio Hispano del estado de Luisiana. Centro Católico.

22 Sesión de entrenamiento para mantener a nuestros hijos seguros, Parroquia de Cristo Rey 6 p.m.

28-30 Los Sacerdotes de la diócesis estarán en su clase de Buenos Pastores, Buenos Líderes.

Pancho Trejo


Knights to Supply Prosthetics to Injured Haitian Children

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- The estimated 800 Haitian children who lost an arm or a leg because of the country’s violent earthquake Jan. 12 will get prosthetic limbs and therapy courtesy of the

Knights of Columbus. The effort, called Hope for Haiti’s Children, was first announced by Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson as he gave his annual report Aug. 3 during the organization’s convention in Washington. More details of the two-year program were announced at a Washington news conference Aug. 4. Estimated to cost at least $1 million, the Knights are partnering with the University of Miami’s Project Medishare for Haiti to make the prosthetic devices available. Each child will receive three prosthetics and all necessary therapy during the two-year period. Earlier this year, the Knights teamed up with the California-based American Wheelchair Mission to deliver more than 1,000 wheelchairs to Haiti for people who suffered crushing injuries in the quake. The wheelchairs were donated to patients at a field hospital at the Port-au-Prince airport operated by the University of Miami.

USCCB Issues Guidelines for Use of Social Media

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a set of guidelines for using social media, especially as social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter

continue to gain in popularity. “Social media are the fastest growing form of communication in the United States, especially among youth and young adults,” the guidelines say. “Our church cannot ignore it, but at the same time we must engage social media in a manner that is safe, responsible and civil.” Said Helen Osman, USCCB secretary for communications, in a July 19 interview with Catholic News Service: “My hope is that they’ll be a useful resource to people, especially to dioceses and parishes that are interested in using social media.” The guidelines, which Osman said were posted on the USCCB’s website in early July, can be accessed by going to www.usccb.org/comm/social-media-guidelines.shtml. “The church can use social media to encourage respect, dialogue, and honest relationships -- in other words, ‘true friendship,’” said the guidelines, quoting from Pope Benedict XVI’s 2010 World Communications Day message. “To do so requires us to approach social media as powerful means of evangelization and to consider the church’s role in providing a Christian perspective on digital literacy.” The guidelines point to visibility, community and accountability as three principal areas where the church can make a positive mark in social media.

News Briefs Church Agencies Step Up Relief Work as Pakistan Struggles With Flood

BANGALORE, India (CNS) -- Church charities in Pakistan stepped up their efforts Aug. 12 to distribute vitally

needed relief supplies to some of the millions of people affected by the worst flood in the South Asian nation’s history. The response gained momentum as Pope Benedict XVI expressed his condolences in a telegram to Archbishop Lawrence Saldanha of Lahore, head of the Pakistan bishops’ conference. “The Holy Father commends the deceased to the Almighty” and “prays for all involved in providing assistance to the victims,” the pope said in his message. Cooking equipment, hygiene kits and bedding were being delivered Aug. 11 to severely hit areas, but workers said devastating conditions were hampering the efforts of relief workers. “Access to a lot of the affected areas is still impossible, and it’s hard to organize distribution amid the panic,” said John Joseph of Caritas Islamabad-Rawalpindi. He spoke in the compound of Holy Name Church in Nowshehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where distribution began after prayers and blessings from Father Amir Yaqub, the parish priest. Caritas Internationalis, the Vatican-based umbrella agency for national Catholic charities, launched an appeal Aug. 12 asking member agencies for $5.5 million to fund Catholic relief efforts in Pakistan over the next three months. “The situation grows increasingly desperate,” the appeal said, adding that more than 1,600 people had died and about 14 million people were directly affected by the flooding.

A woman carries 10-year-old Rose Michel in Leogane, Haiti. The girl lost both her legs when the orphanage she was living in collapsed in the Jan. 12 earthquake. (CNS file photo/Paul Jeffrey)

by Catholic News Service

Man leads donkey through floodwaters in Pakistan.(CNS photo/Akhtar Soomro, Reuters)


Around the Diocese

1. Susan Skidmore Made First Profession of Vows

Susan Skidmore made her First Profession of Vows with the

School Sisters of Notre Dame community on July 31. What a blessing to know that our prayers have helped Susan along her journey. However, the journey is far from over and Sister Susan will continue to need our prayers. During the August 3 Vocation Prayer Service at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Susan shared her story. Pictured left to right: Fr. Al Jost, Susan Skidmore, Fr. Matthew Long and Fr. Mark Watson. 2. Region V Stewardship Meeting

Directors of Stewardship and Development from nine various

dioceses located in Louisiana,

Mississippi and Tennessee spent the last week of July meeting at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. Presenters on stewardship included Mike Van Vranken.

3. Karen Dill Recognized for Service on Vocations Board

Loyola College Prep Assistant Principal Karen Dill receives an

acrylic memento for the almost 10 years she spent as a chairwoman and member of the Church Vocations Board. Holding the memento with her is Fr. David Richter, Director of Church Vocations. Karen was also a frequent volunteer for the screening committee set up to extensively interview candidates for the seminary. Her education, experience, and insight have been much valued. She received the memento on the August 4 memorial

of St. John Vianney, patron saint of priests.

4. Antioch Youth Group Enjoys Bayou Bash in Baton Rouge

Antioch, the youth group at St. Matthew Catholic Church in

Monroe, recently returned from an overnight trip to Baton Rouge called “Bayou Bash.” This event was an opportunity for youth to go to Blue Bayou Water Park. The following morning, Antioch attended Mass at the Cathedral of St. Joseph. Fr. Paul Counce, the pastor of the Cathedral, gave a brief tour and answered questions before Mass began. Most Rev. Robert Muench, Bishop of Baton Rouge, celebrated Mass, mentioning Antioch and our diocese during his homily. Bishop Muench also posed for photos with the group

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and cracked a few jokes too. In all, 30 participants helped make Bayou Bash a success.

5. Students Interview Bishop Michael Duca

Ryan Raburn and Will Robichioux interviewed Bishop Michael

Duca at St. Joseph School in honor of his second anniversary as bishop of the diocese. The interviews were done through the school’s TV station KJOE.

6. Louisiana Hispanic Leaders Meet

On August 17, Hispanic Ministry leaders from across the state

gathered for a meeting with priests and Bishop Duca at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. During this quarterly meeting, directors discuss issues affecting their ministy, such

as immigration reform and ways to reach out to the Catholic Hispanic community.

7. St. Jude Youth Attended Steubenville on the Bayou

St. Jude Church in Bossier City is thrilled to report a record

breaking 58 youth attended this summer’s Steubeunville on the Bayou Youth conference. There they gathered with thousands of other young Catholics on fire for their faith to celebrate, pray, learn, praise and attend Mass every single day of the conference.

Many youth experienced Eucharistic Adoration for the first time, which was a powerful experience at Steubenville. As one youth said, “I wish I could live every day, or at least every weekend, like the Steubenville weekend.”

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Diocese of Alexandria and the FDLC to Host Liturgy Day

On October 9, the Diocese of Alexandria, in conjunction with the Federation of

Diocesan Liturgical Commissions, will host a Liturgy Day. This meeting will follow the 2010 National Meeting of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions, Oct. 4-8.

Liturgy Day will feature a keynote address by Msgr. Andrew G. Varga, who will speak on how those who attend Mass participate in the liturgy. Additionally, the day will feature three workshops, all of which will provide information on the new translation of the Roman Missal.

Featured topics will include, “What’s the New Roman Missal All About?” “The New Roman Missal: What Does It Have to Do with Me as a Catechist?” and “Liturgical Music and the New Missal Translations: Challenges, Opportunities and Resources.”

Exhibits will also provide resources to assist in preparing for the implementation of the third edition of the Roman Missal.

Registration is $35 before September 15, and $50 after.

Additionally, a Seminar for Priests and Diocesan Leaders is being offered October 4-5 on “Welcoming the New Roman Missal.” Fee is $125. (www.usccb.org/romanmissal/)

For registration forms, contact Dianne Rachal at 318-868-4441 or [email protected].

For more information on this event, contact the FDLC National Office at 202-635-6990 or [email protected]

Msgr. Andrew G. Varga


SEPTEMBER 21: POOR MAN'S SUPPER The Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd will host a Poor Man’s Supper to benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy, which has been open 10 years and has given out $8.1 million in prescription medication to those in need. This much needed community service is largely funded each year by the Poor Man’s Supper. Tickets are $10. The event will begin at 6:00 p.m. For tickets or more information, call 318-381-9670 or stop by the church office.

SEPTEMBER 23: ECUMENICAL GATHERING AT SACRED HEART, RAYVILLE Sacred Heart Church is

hosting an Ecumenical Gathering as part of their 90th anniversary celebration. The focus will be on spirituality and building relationships. Guest speakers will include Bishop Michael Duca, Jerome Vascocu, Dr. Georgia Ineichen, Chief Willie Robinson and Mayor Lynn Lewis. The event will take place in Flynn Hall at Sacred Heart Church at 6:00 p.m. RSVP to Laure Burnette 318-728-2494.

SEPTEMBER 25: ST. MARY OF THE PINES 35TH ANNIVERSARY St. Mary of the Pines Church will celebrate the 35th year of laying the cornerstone in Vandegaer Hall formally establishing St. Mary’s as a parish. Bishop Michael Duca will celebrate Mass at 4:30 p.m. and bless and rededicate the entire

facility which God has granted to us. Everyone is welcome. We especially invite any charter members of the parish to join with us in celebrating our anniversary!

SEPTEMBER 27-30: MISSION AT ST. JOSEPH CHURCH, SHREVEPORT St. Joseph Church in Shreveport will host a Fall Mission with Fr. Simeon Gallagher, 6:30 p.m. Contact the Church Office, 318-865-3581.

OCTOBER 16: ST. PIUS REDEDICATION St. Pius X Church in Shreveport will have the dedication of its new sanctuary at 10:00 a.m. with Bishop Michael Duca. Reception will follow. For more information, call 318-222-2165.

Upcoming Events

The first Saturday of every month for the past eight years, faithful members of VITA, St. Joseph’s

pro-life ministry, have gathered to pray outside Hope Medical Group for Women, Shreveport’s abortion clinic. Calling upon our Lord to bring an end to the destruction of innocent lives and to comfort those facing crisis pregnancies, VITA members’ prayerful presence brings God’s love to this place of unspeakable suffering and sorrow. Their unwavering dedication and steadfast faith should inspire us all.

This fall, from September 22 to October 31, Christians of all denominations in our community will unite with others in hundreds of cities in our nation and abroad in prayer for an end to abortion during the 40 Days for Life campaign. Paralleling Biblical history and calling on God’s power to transform our world through 40-day periods, the campaign involves 40 days of prayer and fasting, 40 days of peaceful vigil outside Hope Medical Group for Women, and 40 days of community outreach. More than 2,800 lives have been saved and women spared the heartache of abortion through the compassionate response of 40 Days for Life participants during previous campaigns.

Through my experience counseling women facing crisis pregnancies, I have learned the desperate need for a woman to be loved and supported in her critical moment of decision. Our prayerful presence outside abortion clinics is a sign of encouragement and hope for women tempted to believe the false promise that abortion is a solution to an unplanned pregnancy. And our presence can save lives, as campaign volunteers have reported some women are looking for a sign from God not to have an abortion.

Abby, the former director of Planned Parenthood in College Station, TX, left her job during the fall 2009 campaign after witnessing an ultrasound-guided abortion. Knowing she would find love and support, Abby turned to local pro-life leaders for help. Now a pro-life advocate, Abby speaks for 40 Days for Life, encouraging volunteers to pray for those working in the abortion industry.

You can get involved this fall from September 22 to October 31 by committing to pray and fast for an end to abortion, participating in the peaceful prayer vigil, and spreading the word about 40 Days for Life. Visit the campaign website at www.40DaysForLifeSB.com for further details and to find out how you can share God’s love with those who need it most this fall.

40 Days for Lifeby Emily Nickelson, 40 Days for Life Shreveport-Bossier

First Annual Bishop’s

Pro-Life Banquetwill be held on

Respect Life Sunday,October 3rd, 7:15 PM

at St. Joseph ChurchFamily Life Center

211 Atlantic AvenueShreveport, LA

Speaker isBishop Michael G. Duca

To make reservations, please call the St. Joseph Church Office, telephone 318-865-3581, or email the diocese at chancellorsoffice@

dioshpt.org. A donation of $30 is requested to support pro-life ministry. For more information contact Roxie Tabor, phone 318-773-1027, or email roxietabor@

bellsouth.net. Please join in celebrating the Shreveport

Diocese Pro-Life Focus.


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SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

Saint John Chrysostom, bishop and doctor of the Church

Ecumenical Gathering for Sacred Heart Church, Rayville's 90th Anniversary, 5:30pmSaint Pio of Pietrelcina, priest

Presbyteral Council Meeting, Catholic Center, 1pmThe Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Red Mass, St. Matthew Church, Monroe, 1pm

Saint Gregory the Great, pope and doctor of the Church

Saint Andrew Kim Taegon, priest and martyr, and Saint Paul Ching Hasang, martyr, and their companions, martyrs

Saint Vincent de Paul, priest

Good Leaders, Good Shepherds, Woodworth, LASaint Wenceslaus, martyr; Saint Lawrence Ruiz, martyr, & his companions, martyrs

Saint Michael, Saint Gabriel, and Saint Raphael, archangels

Saint Jerome, priest and doctor of the Church

Poor Man's Supper, Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, 6pmSaint Matthew, apostle and evangelist

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Our Lady of Sorrows Saint Cornelius, pope and martyr, and Saint Cyprian, bishop and martyr

2nd Collection: Black and Indian Missions35th Anniversary Mass; St. Mary of the Pines Church, 4:30pm

2nd Collection: Black and Indian Missions140th Anniversary Mass; St. Patrick Church, 10:30am

Hispanic Ministry First Búsqueda Retreat, Scottsville, TXEastern Deanery Priests Luncheon, Monroe, 11:30am

LABOR DAY Catholic Center and Catholic Schools Closed

Saint Robert Bellarmine, bishop and doctor of the Church

Vocations Board Meeting, Catholic Center, 12pmGathering of Religious Superiors, Catholic CenterSt. Peter Claver, priest

Deadline for the October Catholic ConnectionGathering of Religious Superiors, Catholic Center

Photo: Poor Man's Supper at Jesus the

Good Shepherd Church.

24 24 Catholic Connection September 2010

D I O C E S E O F S H R E V E P O R T

3500 Fairfield Ave. • Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Back to School!

Dr. Bill Rankin speaks to faculty

and staff of Catholic Schools on

Digital Learning.

Awards were presented to

faculty and staff for years of

service in Catholic education.

Teachers and principals gathered over the summer to learn about new technology.

School representatives were given candles representing the Diocese of Alexandria's 100th Anniversary.

St. Joseph School teachers learned

how to use flip cameras during a

summer technology meeting.

Before school starts each year, faculty and staff from Catholic

schools in the diocese gather together for a time of learning and preparation for the upcoming year. This year Dr. Bill Rankin spoke to the group on “A New Vision of Digital Learning.” Faculty and staff were also presented with service awards.

Earlier in the summer, principals and teachers gathered at the Catholic Center for a technology meeting. There they learned more about operating new technology items like flip cameras for use in the classroom.

Documents

Catholic Connection September 2010