Catholic Connection, December 2009

VOL. 19, NO.5 DECEMBER 2009

ChristianService pg.12

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 Writers

Cathy CobbFelicia Gilliam

Rev. Charles Glorioso Kim Long

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 Shreveport. Our Mission is to advance knowledge and understanding 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 Immigration Appeals as a Non-Profit Organization capable of giving Immigration Legal Advice. We offer Immigration Profes-sional 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

Sr. Patricia CairnsMickey Finley

Margie GlennonFr. Charles Glorioso

Jon HutsonKay Kneipp

Lori MainieroRoy PetitfilsKelly Phelan Shirley Rivers

Jerry RoweDotye Sue Stanford

From the Chancellor

On the Cover: Victoria Mainiero stands with an "Angel Tree." Each angel on the tree represenst a person in need. (Photo by Jessica Rinaudo.)

Tuesday, December 8, is the observance of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin

Mary and a holyday of obligation. The Catholic Center is closed.

Friday, January 1, is the observance of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God and a holyday of obligation. The Catholic Center is closed.

The Catholic Center will be closed beginning the afternoon of December 23, 2009. The Catholic Center will reopen on Monday, January 4, 2010.

Advent Reconciliation ServicesWestern Deanery

To live with our sisters and brothers in expectation of great things! This season

of Advent with its “Great Expectations” reminds us of the hopeful possibilities of Christmas. Let us also approach the Sacrament of Reconciliation this year in a way which our attention to Christ and His world may be broadened and deepened.

Monday, November 30 at Holy Trinity Church, Shreveport, 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday, December 2 at Mary, Queen of Peace Church, Bossier City, 6:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 3 at St. Pius X Church, Shreveport, 6:30 p.m.

Monday, December 7 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Shreveport, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 9 at Holy Family Chapel, Barksdale Air Force Base, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 10 at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, December 11 at St. Jude Church, Bossier City, 5:30 p.m. Monday, December 14 at St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 15 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Shreveport, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, December 17 at St. Joseph Church, Shreveport, 6:30 p.m.

(CNS photo/Nancy Wiechec)

December 2009 Contents

From the Chancellor by Christine Rivers ................................. 2

Advent Reconciliation Services ................................................ 2

Bishop Michael Duca’s December 2009 Schedule ................ 3

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

Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Update .............................. 6

We Love Lucy by Kim Long ...................................................... 6

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

Liturgy Lines: Come, Let Us Worship by Dianne Rachal ................................................................ 7

Priest Spotlight: Father Charles Glorioso .............................. 8

Christian and Family Gifts for the Holidays ......................... ..9

School News ......................................................................... 10-11

Year End Giving by John Mark Willcox .................................... 11

Christian Service: Parish Outreach During the Christmas Season by Kelly Phelan & Jessica Rinaudo ..................12-15

Christmas Recipe for Aging by Sr. Martinette Rivers.................15

Plans Underway for Catholic Charities Organization in the Diocese by Sr. Patricia Cairns ..................................... 16

News Briefs by Catholic News Service .................................... 17

Hispanic Corner / Nuestra Página ......................................... 18

Cardinal Praises Vote for Health Reform with Ban on Abortion Funding by Catholic News Service ............ 19

Statement of the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops on Health Care Reform ....................................... 19

Lay Eucharistic Ministers Needed by Jon Hutson.. ........... ....20

What Really Works with Kids by Roy Petitfils ..................... ....20

Around the Diocese .............................................................. ....21

Journey of Faith: The Story of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Published by Shirley Rivers ................... 22

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

December Calendar .................................................................. 23

Run with the Nuns III photos by Raz .......................................... 24

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Bishop Michael Duca’s December 2009 Schedule

Dec. 1 Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting, Baton Rouge, 10:00 a.m. -3:00 p.m.

Dec. 2 Children of Light Prayer Group Mass, St. Michael the Archangel Chapel, Shreveport, 7:00 p.m.

Dec. 6 Society of St. Vincent de Paul Annual Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 11:00 a.m.; followed by luncheon at the Catholic Center.

Dec. 8 Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport, 12:05 p.m.

Dec. 8 Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 9 Church Vocations Board Meeting, Catholic Center, 12:00 p.m.

Dec. 10 & 11 Region V Episcopal Support Day, Abbey Christian Life Center, St. Benedict, Louisiana

Dec. 11 Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass, St. Paschal Church, West Monroe; followed by Mananitas and Reception, 11:00 p.m.

Dec. 13 Mass, St. Terence Church, Toledo Bend, 8:00 a.m.

Dec. 25 Midnight Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 12:00 a.m.

4 4 Catholic Connection December 2009 5 5 Catholic Connection December 2009

La temporada de Adviento es un tiempo de mucha actividad para la mayoría de nosotros.

Por lo regular nos quejamos de que la sabiduría única de Adviento se ha perdido cuando todas las obligaciones de la Navidad nos abruman y todo a nuestro rededor parece tan comercial y secular. Este año las tiendas comenzaron a vender desde antes del Día de Gracias – y nos preguntamos ¿A Dónde se ha ido el verdadero significado del Adviento/Navidad? Detengámonos aquí. Debemos recobrar el sentido central de lo que es nuestra Fe Católica. No puedo enfatizar lo suficiente la importancia de esto.

Podemos estar seguros de que el mundo, la cultura secular que nos rodea, seguirá imponiéndose sobre nosotros, para decirnos, convencernos, invitarnos y retarnos a entrar en su propio mundo de valores y opciones. Nunca encontraremos tiempo para vivir la experiencia llena de fe y la temporada de Navidad y Adviento si solo estamos tratando de acomodar nuestra fe en el tiempo que tengamos libre. Hemos estado reaccionando por mucho tiempo a las muchas obligaciones de este mundo que ya lo hacemos aun sin pensar. Estas frases pueden sonar familiares: ¿Tenemos tiempo de ir a Misa este domingo? No tengo tiempo para la educación religiosa de mis hijos; ya tienen muchas cosas que hacer. ¡No tengo tiempo para orar! Estas son frases que demuestran que simplemente estamos acomodando la fe en el tiempo que no tenemos otros compromisos.

Solamente podremos experimentar

la maravilla espiritual de Adviento y Navidad si PRIMERO escogemos hacer espacio para lo espiritual y DESPUES, escogiendo todo lo demás basado en nuestra Fe. Celebrar el Adviento y ser un buen católico, no es de sentimientos, se trata de vivir una vida que refleje lo que debe ser más importante. De hecho, mi Fe en Cristo y su Iglesia debería de estar primero y moldear el resto de mi vida, basada en mi fe. Si queremos una vez mas descubrir la sabiduría de Adviento y la maravilla de la Navidad, necesitamos restituir a Cristo al centro de nuestros corazones. Necesitamos revisar nuestras acciones en la preparación para la Navidad para que reflejen este profundo misterio de nuestra redención. Las tradiciones son buenas, pero si han perdido su centro espiritual y de amor entonces están muertas y son una carga. El verdadero estrés de la Navidad y Adviento vienen cuando no dejamos que Cristo sea el centro de nuestra vida.

Si queremos que este Adviento sea una verdadera experiencia que cambie nuestra vida, aquí les doy unas cuantas ideas de como cambiar:

• Confíen que una celebración más simple será mucho mejor que una elegante.

• Hagan una Corona de Adviento

para su hogar, recen oraciones, enciendan velas al principio de su cena familiar cada noche durante el Adviento. (Si por lo regular no tienen una cena familiar, comiencen una este Adviento)

• Reflexionen en sus tradiciones Navideñas y consideren cambios que ayuden a su fe Cristiana. Por ejemplo, regalos con más significado y menos extravagancias para que puedan dar más ayuda o dinero a los más necesitados.

Es hora de que dejemos de quejarnos de las prisas y el secularismo de la Navidad y nos demos cuenta de que lo que sentimos es porque hemos permitido que esos valores del mundo dominen nuestras vidas. Si escogemos poner a Cristo en el centro, descubriremos la sabiduría de Adviento y la maravilla espiritual de la Navidad. Las tradiciones se pueden transformar en gozo más que en una carga, y el secularismo como una carga desaparecerá porque no habrá lugar para él en nuestros corazones. Nuestra fe no será lo que hacemos con el tiempo libre, sino lo que transforma todas nuestras vidas.

Que Cristo nazca en sus corazones esta Navidad.

Pueden encontrar información para una corona de Adviento en la página:

http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx/adwreath.html

La Reflexión del Obispo

Children make advent wreath at chuch. (CNS photo/Mike Crupi, Catholic Courier)

por Obispo Michael G. Duca


The season of Advent is a busy time for most of us. We often complain that the unique wisdom

of Advent is practically lost when the demands of Christmas overwhelm us and everything around us seems so commercial and secular. This year retailers began the onslaught weeks before Thanksgiving – and we wonder where the real meaning of the Advent/Christmas season has gone. But here we must stop ourselves. We must stop and recover a central insight into our Catholic Faith. I cannot emphasize how important this is.

We can be certain the world and secular culture around us will continue to impose itself on us, to sell us, convince us, invite us and challenge us to enter into its own world of values and choices. We will never find time for the faith-filled experience of the Advent and Christmas season if we are just trying to fit our faith into the cracks of free time in our life. We may have been reacting for so long to the many worldly demands in our life that we do this without even thinking. These statements may sound familiar: Do we have time to go to Mass this Sunday? I don’t have time for religious education for my children; they have too many things to do. I don’t have time to pray! These are all statements that might reveal our faith is simply being fitted into the cracks of time where we have no other commitments.

We can only experience the spiritual wonder of Advent and Christmas by FIRST choosing to make room for the spiritual, THEN choosing everything else in light of our Faith. Celebrating Advent and being a good Catholic is

not about feelings, it is about living a life that reflects what should be most important. In fact, my Faith in Christ and his Church should come first and shape the rest of my life. If we want to once again discover the wisdom of Advent and the wonder of Christmas, then we need to restore Christ to the center of our hearts. We need to review our actions in preparing for Christmas so they reflect this profound mystery of our redemption. Traditions are good, but if they have lost their spiritual and loving centers then they are lifeless and a burden. That we choose to live without Christ at the center of our lives giving guidance and meaning to our actions is the real source of our stress at Christmas and Advent.

If we want this to be a truly life changing Advent then here are a few ideas on how to change:

• Trust that a simpler celebration will be truly better than a more expensive one.

• Create an Advent wreath for your home and say the prayers and light the candles at the beginning of your family meal each night in Advent. (If you

don’t normally have a common meal, start during Advent).

• Reflect upon your Christmas traditions and consider changes in light of your Christian faith. For example, more thoughtful and less extravagant gifts so more or some money can be given to help those in need.

It is time that we stop complaining about the rush and secularism of Christmas and realize we are feeling it because we allowed these worldly values to take over our lives. If we choose to put Christ at the center, we will discover the wisdom of Advent and the spiritual wonder of Christmas. Traditions can be transformed into a joy rather than a burden, and secularism as a burden to us will disappear because there will be no place for it in our hearts. Our Faith will not be what we do with time left over, but what transforms the whole of our lives.

May Christ be born in your hearts this Christmas.

Information on an Advent wreath can be found at:

http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx/adwreath.html

Bishop’s Reflection

Grandmother makes advent wreath with her granddaughter. (CNS photo/Mike Crupi, Catholic Courier)

by Most Rev. Michael G. Duca


On November 3-6, Bishop Duca was joined by 27 priests from the Diocese of Shreveport at

Cypress Bend for the first of many Good Leaders, Good Shepherds education days. The program aims to help priests with leadership skills. This particular course was an introduction to the program, focusing on self preparation.

“The curriculum of the process is challenging, but also enriching as one begins to understand the direction of the facilitators, who used lots of hands-on techniques. Our priests were amazingly interactive on all this, so I assume they, like me, were learning about themselves,” said Fr. Pike Thomas, Coordinator of Continuing Education for Clergy.

Fr. Phil Michiels, also in attendance, agrees, “This program has much to offer each priest and the presbyterate as a whole. Even though we have

only finished the introductory segment, I see the offering of wonderful tools to both recognize our strengths and to meet our personal challenges in self-awareness and communication with others. This will be very fruitful for our ministry in the parish and diocese. This also is a wonderful opportunity for the priests and the bishop to share a common language and purpose of ministry in the diocese.”

In addition to the valuable learning material the priests gleaned from this retreat, they also got to spend time together – an opportunity that doesn’t come often.

“The several days together with our

brother priests were a reminder of how much we need this connection, I found myself truly “liking” several brothers with whom I had not spoken previously. We really have a terrific group of men to work with,” said Fr. Pike.

The next Good Leaders, Good Shepherds retreat will take place January 5-7, 2010, and focus on Leadership in the Self Context.

St. Lucy, sometimes called Santa Lucia, grew up in Sicily and she died in 304 during a persecution

of Christians. Lucy’s mother

tried to arrange a marriage for her with a pagan. Knowing her mother wouldn’t be swayed by a simple statement that she had vowed her life to Christ, Lucy devised a plan to convince her mother that Christ was a more desirable partner in life. Through prayers at the tomb of St. Agatha, her mother’s long illness was cured miraculously. Her mother, now very grateful, turned a different ear to Lucy’s plea for the consecrated life and was ready to listen to the Holy Spirit who directed her to give money to the poor and commit her life to God. The rejected suitor did not take Lucy’s rejection well and gave her up to the

authorities as being a Christian. Lucy’s faith saw her through this time of persecution.

Her feast day is December 13 and she is one of the most popular

martyrs in the Church. Her name means light, clear, radiant and understandable. And what’s not to love? She had a clear understanding of the love of Christ and she followed that light all the way to her death. Her image can be a bit grisly though – she is almost always shown holding a dish and, if you look closely, there are eyes in the dish. She is the patron saint of those suffering with eye ailments. Two legends exist about the loss of

her eyes. One says Diocletian put them out as part of his torture and that God restored them. The other says St. Lucy tore out her own eyes and they were miraculously restored.

In Sweden, girls dress in white gowns with red sashes and a crown of candles to deliver sweet rolls to their families on St. Lucy’s feast day.

One way to honor St. Lucy’s sacrifice

is to ask ourselves, “What am I blind to? How can I bring the light of Christ to those around me – to those in my family, parish, work place and beyond?”

On December 13 stop all the hurrying, take a package of cinnamon rolls and brew a cup of tea or coffee, gather your family, light your Advent wreath and ask St. Lucy to pray with you and your family for the clear understanding that the light of Christ brings to all situations, and for the courage to follow that light. St. Lucy is a terrific saint whose story calls us out of ourselves in the Advent season as well as all the seasons of our lives. Below is a simple prayer in honor of St. Lucy.

“Dear Saint Lucy you lived in light and love and despite persecution never turned a blind eye to the will of God in your life. We ask you to pray for the needs of our family, ourselves, our world and for all those who are this very minute suffering in some type of darkness. Thank you for your example, your commitment, and your dedication to Christ. We ask through your intercession for the gift of spiritual sight in order to live our lives in the light. AMEN”

– Kim Long, St. Mary of the Pines

We Love Lucy!

Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Update

Bishop Duca, priests and program leaders gather for a free evening sponsored by St. Joseph Church, Zwolle during the Good Leaders workshop.


Retirement Fund for ReligiousAnnouncement Dates: Nov. 29 & Dec. 6

Collection Dates: Dec. 7 & 8

Going back to the early days of the United States, Catholic religious orders of women and men have had a good influence on the lives of many, especially

in schools and hospitals. Sisters, brothers and religious order priests contributed to the growth of the immigrant church of the 1800’s and helped ground it in the faith. Moving into the twentieth century, the stipends, tuition, or fees paid to religious institutions or their ministries were reinvested in ministry or in the educations of members. Younger members cared for the frail, elder members. Today most religious orders are in decline with few to support the elders. The Retirement Fund for Religious, built up by your contributions in these last years, helps ensure good care for those who have given their lives in service.

Diocese of Shreveport Infirm Priests FundAnnouncement Dates: Dec. 14 & 21

Collection Dates: Dec. 24 & 25

Medical care for sick and infirm priests has been the focus for the Christmas second collection for many years now. We are very familiar with

the costs of health care today, the size of the premiums for health insurance, and the knowledge that there are high deductibles. As you consider what charities or organizations you will contribute to during the Christmas season, please give a thought to the needs of priests who have served our diocese faithfully and with generosity over the course of several decades. May God bless you in this holy season.

How well did the diocese do?

Home Missions Appeal $ 20,904.71

Peter’s Pence $ 25,138.82

– Fr. David Richter, Vicar General

Introduction to the New Translation of the Roman MissalLiturgy Lines: Come, Let Us Worship

Second Collections

5. Changes to the Nicene Creed Current Text New TextWe believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty I believe in one God, the Father almighty,maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen. maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages.God from God, Light from Light, true God God from God, Light from Light, true Godfrom true God, begotten, not made, from true God, begotten, not made,one in Being with the Father. consubstantial with the Father;Through him all things were made. For us men Through him all things were made. For us menand for our salvation he came down from heaven: and for our salvation he came down from heaven,by the power of the Holy Spirit he was born of and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius For our sake he was crucified under PontiusPilate; he suffered, died, and was buried. Pilate, he suffered death and was buried,On the third day he rose again in fulfillment of and rose again on the third day inthe Scriptures; accordance with the Scriptures.He ascended into heaven and is seated at the He ascended into heaven and is seated at theright hand of the Father. He will come again in right hand of the Father. He will come again inglory to judge the living and the dead, and his glory to judge the living and the dead and hiskingdom will have no end. kingdom will have no end.We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the Father and the Son he is the Son, who with the Father and the Son worshipped and glorified. is adored and glorified,He has spoken through the Prophets. who has spoken through the prophets.We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. And one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church.We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness I confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sinssins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and I look forward to the resurrection of the deadand the life of the world to come. Amen. and the life of the world to come. Amen.

‘I believe’ is the traditional liturgical usage by Christians in both Greek and Latin, and is consistent with the Apostles’ Creed. ‘Things visible and invisible’ comes from Scripture, Col 1:16. ‘Consubstantial’ is a theological term adopted by the Council of Nicea in 325 AD. ‘Incarnate’ expresses better than ‘born’ how the Word was made flesh. – Dianne Rachal, Office of Worship


Fr. Charles GloriosoPriest sPotlight:

In this the year of the Priest, I give thanks to Almighty

God for calling me to the priesthood of Jesus Christ. It is indeed a privilege and an honor to serve God, the church, and his holy People.

I was raised in Shreveport and attended St. John’s Elementary and Jesuit High School. While at Jesuit High the priests there told me I had qualities that would be conducive to priestly ministry. When I was 17, they asked me to consider joining the Jesuit novitiate, but I told them it was not for me. I was going to college, getting married, raising a family and, of course, becoming rich and famous. Priesthood was for someone else.

As time went by, life had many ups and downs and the “calling” resurfaced, but I put it on the back burner. Sometimes life has a way of really getting your attention, especially when you find yourself in a cloud of confusion. It was then prayer helped the most. “Our Lord help me, I need your assistance, and can’t you see that I am troubled? Please, help me out of this situation.” The Lord was always there for me. Soon after the Lord got me going again, the Lord went back to the back burner. It was not that I did not pray, I did, but there were too many things I wanted to do other than being a priest.

As time went by, life presented bigger issues and challenges. It was at this time that life put me into the darkness of the abyss. So, I began to pray with more energy than ever before. “Lord help me.” No response, silence. “O Lord please help me out of this darkness.” Again, silence. “O Lord can’t you see I am being swallowed by this abyss, please help me.” And there was more silence. When you are really desperate you will say just about anything to get help. I said, “Lord if you help me this time I’ll do what ever you ask of me.” And the Lord

did help.Sometime after

recovery from the darkness, while I was in prayer, the Lord said to me, “Charles did you not say that if I helped you, you would do anything?” “Yes, Lord I did. What do you want me to do?” The Lord said to me, “I want you

to become a priest.” I said to the Lord, “I am a sinful man, I am not worthy of your priesthood, I can’t be a priest,” but the Lord said to me “so was St. Peter, he denied me three times but he was the rock foundation on which I built my church. Don’t worry about your worthiness.”

After much prayer and discernment, I applied to the diocese and was accepted as a seminarian, but there was still doubt. I was now 37 and faced five years of studies and formation. I asked the Lord for a sign. “Lord if this is really what you want of me please give me a sign.” No sign.

I was informed by the Bishop that I was going to attend St. Mary’s Seminary and University in Baltimore, MD. It is about 1200 miles from Shreveport and takes about two full days of driving to get there, giving me lots of time to pray and discern, always looking for a sign. Approaching Baltimore from the west on Interstate 70, I took a wrong turn on the beltway in Baltimore and got lost. Could this be the sign? After getting my directions, I proceeded to the proper exits and got lost again. I was sure this was the sign I had prayed for. However, I had driven for two days; I wanted to see St. Mary’s.

As I approached the seminary, I saw St. Mary’s,

which is a large white limestone building. It was beautiful. I drove into the parking lot and walked to steps where a reception group met me and asked for my name. They told me they would help me move my things into my room, but asked me to come in and have some refreshments in the hospitality suite. The day was very bright, and sunny. It was 2:30 in the afternoon August the 29th when I followed the seminarian into the doors of St. Mary’s. As I entered, my eyes had not yet adjusted to the interior of the building when the man said, “This way.” At that moment my eyes were attracted to the light that gleamed down from the atrium that led into the chapel. Located in the atrium was a 20-foot tall statue of Mary. It was then God gave me the sign I had prayed for. The statue of Mary said to me, “My Son has been expecting you,” and at that instance a perfect peace and calm came over me, and I knew that the Lord had called me to the priesthood of Jesus Christ.

I share this story with you because we are all called to serve God as each of us are created in his image and likeness to love one another. My priestly call has been the joy of my life and with each passing year the knowledge and love of God continues to manifest in me through service to Church and you, the holy people of God.


Christian & Family Gifts for the Holidays

1. Trans-Siberian Orchestra music, The Christmas Attic, $9.00, Walmart.

The music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra makes an excellent Christmas gift. The Christmas Attic takes the listener on a journey of the human soul through the eyes of an angel who helps a child believe in the Spirit of Christmas. Energetic and inspiring, The Christmas Attic is a great addition to one’s Christmas music collection. – Lori Mainiero, St. Mary of the Pines Church

2. Kneeling Santa Claus with Baby Jesus, Catholic Company, $45.95, but there are many versions, even books out now where the price ranges from $10 and up.

As a young person I always liked to think that Santa was God dressing up to come down and visit. It made God more fun and approachable for a little child trying to put things in order. The first time I saw a Kneeling Santa, I had a young family of my own and it became such a beautiful connection between the birth of our Savior and Santa. So many people try to take Santa out of the Christmas season thinking it will help bring the Christmas Spirit back to its true meaning. For me, the true spirit of Santa is in the giving, sharing, caring and loving, all tributes that emanate from our wanting to be more like Christ in everything we are. – Margie Glennon, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church

3. "You Are Special Today" Plate, www.redplatestore.com, $32.95.

This is a perfect gift for Christmas. I have given them to families on their first year together or when a new child has been added during the year for many years. With the "Special Plate" every occasion becomes

a celebration and continues to give happiness as a wonderful tradition is passed along. – Mickey Finley, St. Joseph Church, Shreveport

4. Joseph and Chico; Max and Benedict, books by Jeanne Pergo, Ignatius Press, $15.26 each.

These beautifully illustrated books tell the life of Pope Benedict XVI through the perspective of Chico the cat during Pope Benedict's young life, and from a bird in Rome after his election as Pontiff in 2005. Both are approved by the Vatican as authorized biographies of the pope for young people. Although great for children, they are loved by people of all ages. – Dotye Sue Stanford, St. Joseph Church, Shreveport

5. A Continual Feast by Evelyn Birge Vitz, St. Mary of the Pines Gift Shop, $19.95.

If you ever wished you had a guide to cooking your way through the feasts and holy days of the church year, look no further. The author invites us to look at the year through the kitchen! This book is fun, recipes are good (I have gone through two copies!), and the price is right. Paperback, available locally from St. Mary of the Pines and Jacob’s Well. Buy two, one to give and one to enjoy at home! – Kim Long, St. Mary of the Pines

6. Saint Basil Coffee, Jesus the Good Shepherd Church following all Masses on the first Sunday weekend of each month, or www.saintbasilcoffee.com, $13.00.

Saint Basil Coffee is a nonprofit coffee company whose proceeds promote social justice and provide help for impoverished

people in Latin America. The company was started by a group of Catholic lay people working with priests.

Saint Basil Coffee targets social justice by purchasing the coffee beans from small farmers in Latin America at a fair trade price, which helps them save their farms and provide for their families. All proceeds from Saint Basil Coffee help provide job training for adults, education of children, food relief and assistance in establishing small family businesses. – Kay Kneipp, Jesus the Good Shepherd Church

7. Nativity Advent Wreath, www.christianbook.com, $19.99.

I think this is a great combination for our Catholic faith - Advent candles for the home and the Nativity scene of Jesus. It reminds us of the weeks of preparation for the coming of our Savior as well as his humble birth. It also connects our home to the Advent wreath placed in our church, keeping our family in unity with our church community. – Jerry Rowe, Holy Trinity Church

8. Holy Spirits Wine, www.holyspiritswine.com, $14.95

Holy Spirits Wine was developed by Fr. Roscioli for two important reasons: to rekindle an interest in the saints and to support Next Step, a program that helps children over the age of 15 who have life threatening illnesses.

Additionally, groups, individuals and parishes can purchase the wines to benefit their charitable organizations. Fifteen percent of the total profits return to the organization and the remaining profits go to Next Step and the wine company. – Kelly Phelan, St. Joseph, Shreveport

by Parishioners of the Diocese of Shreveport

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SCHOOL NEWS

OLBSA Second Step Success!

Jesus the Good Shepherd School Collects Donations

Our Lady of Fatima School Celebrates Veterans

St. Joseph School Takes Part in “Pennies for Peace”

St. Frederick High School Students Go Visiting

St. John Berchmans School Cardinal Bots for Success

This year, a new program is being launched at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy.

The 2nd Step Program aims to provide children with a creative outlet for their emotions. Students engage in singing, music play and puppet shows to learn how to express all of their emotions in an age appropriate way. They also learn how to show empathy for others and personal safety.

JGS students recently collected supplies and stuffed animals for the children of Saltillo, Mexico.

JGS church takes an annual mission trip to the Saltillo area to deliver supplies and celebrate Mass with the citizens of this impoverished area. JGS school students support this very important mission each year.

OLF School had a Veteran’s Day project where children sent in names of family members

who have served our country and made cards to send to them. Also, the Veteran’s Day Mass was dedicated to our vets and small gifts were given to those in attendance. The names of the deceased veteran family members were read aloud during the service.

St. Joseph School recently participated in a coin drive among its students to raise almost $1,500

for the Central Asia Institute, a non-profit organization who promotes education in remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Assistant Principal Nia Mitchell served as advisor for the project. Mitchell said, “I think at a very high level it gave them an awareness of how much our students have and how much they can help. They also learned that even as kids they can contribute and even a penny has value.”

Recently Seventh Graders at St. Frederick Catholic School visited The Oaks Nursing

Home in Monroe as a class service project. The students and residents were able to play bingo and enjoy each other’s company. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed spending the day with one another.

SJB’s new robotics team has already tasted the sweetness of victory at their first competition

November 7th. The Cardinal Bots placed second in Teamwork at the 2009 Sci-Port First Lego League (FLL) Local Tournament and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) career fair; this enables the students to look forward to the 2009 FLL Tournament in New Orleans on November 21st.


Loyola College Prep ACT Scores Continue to Soar This past year has been one

of tremendous challenge as economic conditions have

made it necessary for most to make careful choices about how to spend, save, and give of their resources. Now, more than ever, you may find that quality time spent considering how to make your year-end gifts can help you to be a better steward of your charitable dollars. By choosing the best property and giving in the most effective manner, you may discover you can help the Church in ways you never thought possible.

As this year draws to a close, those who make charitable gifts may wish to structure the amount and timing of their year-end gifts to make the best use of tax incentives that remain available this calendar year. With proposed changes in federal tax laws, giving within this year may never save you more relative to charitable gifts to the Church before December 31, 2009.

Deciding What To GiveCash

Most give to the Church in this way by the form of cash or personal checks. When you itemize your tax deductions, up to one half of your Adjusted Gross Income or AGI can be positively affected by gifts of this nature. You may enjoy state income tax savings as well.

seCuritiesGifting individual stocks, bonds or

mutual fund shares has long been a wise option by those seeking to make charitable donations. Gifts of such property are generally deductible for tax purposes at full value if owned longer than twelve months. In addition, no tax is due on any gain and gifting securities can help diversify investments.

If you have investments that are currently worth less than they cost, consider selling them and making a

charitable gift of the proceeds. This creates a loss you may be able to deduct from other taxable income.

Other Ways to GiveGiftinG throuGh Your Will or livinG trust

Recent legislation has proven beneficial to those wanting to leave more to their loved ones tax free. You can also give more for charitable purposes, in the present day and as part of your long-range financial plans. Once loved ones have been provided for, you can include a gift to the Church for a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, a certain property or the residue of the estate.

life insuranCe GiftsYou may own an insurance policy

that has accumulated cash value but is no longer needed for its original purpose. You have the option of gifting the value of that policy to the Church and benefitting from welcome income tax savings this year and possibly over several years.

Your aCtion Can Provide Benefits

If you want to take advantage of the strategies listed above, the month of December is the time to act. See your trusted advisors and accountant to provide you with your specific needs and spend time right now to decide on how best to make your year-end gifts work best for you and the Church you love.– John Mark Willcox, Dir. of Development

Year End Giving

Loyola College Prep recently received good news from ACT: the school’s average composite score

has gone up nearly two points in the past five years, and almost 1.5 points in the past year.

Loyola’s average of 24.2 on the ACT is four points above the state average (20.1) this year and three points above the national average (21.1).

“Five years ago, the counseling staff made a goal to increase our ACT average,” Karen Dill, Loyola’s Academic Asst. Principal said. “We felt that our students’ scores on the test, while above the state and national averages, did not reflect their true academic aptitudes. With scores on college entrance exams becoming increasingly more important, we felt that anything we could do to strengthen this portion of our students’ applications would be in their best interest.”

These goals were addressed in several ways.

•Classroom teachers all took the part of the test in their own subject areas. They adapted classroom practices that would help students become familiarized with the test. Loyola began to offer an in-house test prep course in each semester.

• LCP also sought out additional test prep options including national organizations such as Kaplan and Princeton Review, which now regularly conduct courses on our campus.

•Finally, Loyola emphasizes test prep when PLAN and PSAT scores are returned to our sophomores and juniors each January.


by Kelly Phelan and Jessica Rinaudo

Parish Outreach During the Christmas SeasonCover Story

“ f there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or

tightfisted toward your poor brother.” Deuteronomy 15:7

The people of the Diocese of Shreveport have taken this message to heart during the Christmas season. Parishes across the diocese embrace ministries to help those less fortunate. From donating gifts and supplies to those in need, to providing food and good company, the love of the Christmas season is well and alive in the hearts of local Catholics.

Angel Treesngel Trees are one of the most popular parish Christmas ministries because they allow families to help others in a very direct way during the season. How churches accept donations and

the people those donations benefit vary from parish to parish, but the basic idea is the same. Churches hang angel-shaped tags with the needs of a child or family printed on them on a Christmas tree. Parishioners take an angel, purchase the needed items and deliver them to the church for distribution to the child or family in time for Christmas.

Parishes determine recipients of the angel tree gifts. Some churches, like St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, work with local organizations that serve children. This year, they will take names from Community Support Programs and Volunteers of America of Northwest Louisiana. Others, like St. Jude Church, St. Mary of the Pines Christ the King and Jesus the Good Shepherd Church identify families in need within their parish or through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and take requests from the family.

Although toys are popular donations, families and individuals also request items like diapers, clothes, toiletries and books.

Cathy Cobb at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church sees this as a personal ministry for families. “Often families will seek the name of a child who is similar in age to their child or grandchild. The wish lists are quite simple, and it is not difficult to make a child’s Christmas wish come true. Our parishioners enjoy buying gifts knowing they will go to someone who will truly be grateful. We are privileged to support the work of these agencies who do such good work with disabled and at risk children right here in our own community,” she said.

Kim Long, Director of Religious Education at St. Mary of the Pines,

Images from top: Angel Tree at St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church; Canned food drive at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy; Student participates in Loyola College Prep's FAiTH program to aid the hungry.


agrees. “St. Mary’s is a loving, kind, and giving parish. No one here wants to see a child not have something to open on Christmas morning. We are trying to bring the love of Christ to people in a tangible way.”

Holiday Meals & Baskets

n conjunction with the Angel Tree ministries, several parishes and schools

gather food and gift items for baskets they deliver to people in need throughout the Christmas holiday season. The St. Vincent de Paul Society ministers to the poor continuously throughout the year, of course, but they get a lot of much-needed extra help during Christmas. St. Catherine of Siena, Holy Trinity, Knights of Columbus and Loyola College Prep always participate, as does St. Jude Church in Bossier. Marcie Rankins of St. Jude said, “Last year, we gave food baskets to 150 families in need. If they have children 18 years and under in the family, we take a gift request for each child. This year we will fill 175 baskets.” Parishioners at St. Jude answer the call for help with great enthusiasm. “Our parishioners love to participate in this ministry, as it is helping the people in our own parish and community,” Rankins said.

At Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, the children’s Sunday school class learns the joy of helping others through their program called “Kids CAN Make a Difference.” Throughout the months of November and December, kids collect canned goods, which they then give to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, who packages and distributes them in holiday meal baskets. Similarly, the Cathedral School Jr. Beta Club hosts a canned-food drive for the St. Vincent de Paul Society. PreK4 teacher Tina McCaa is coordinating her

class’s seventh annual Operation Giving for Christus Schumpert’s Adult Day Care Center. The class collects socks, toiletries, gloves, scarves, stationary and candy for the men and women at the Center.

Homeless Donationsonations of food, clothing, toiletries and other necessities to the homeless

are a big part of Christmas ministries. St. Joseph Church, St. Paschal Church and the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans are just three of the parishes who contribute vital goods and services to the least fortunate during the cold winter months surrounding the holiday season.

Parish Outreach During the Christmas Season

Continued on page 14.

St. Joseph Church Youth collect food and items for the homeless during the Christmas holidays.


Carol Gates at the Cathedral said they are sponsoring a collection of items, including socks, caps and gloves, for Hub Ministries, which delivers them to the homeless at Providence House and other locations. A parishioner who has a passion for outreach suggested this ministry to the Cathedral. Hub Ministries’ philosophy is, “Our desire is to see the homeless in Shreveport taken care of. Our end is to love them, feed them and point them in the direction of Jesus Christ, all the while helping them get back on their feet and hopefully into a thriving life.”

“We also encourage parishioners to use their talent to help others, for example, by inviting them to join our Prayer Shawl Ministry. Members are knitting and crocheting throws and shawls for our shut-ins and others in need. The second week of December, we hope to bless and deliver by Christmas about 10 shawls – that is a great number for this new ministry!” Gates said. The Cathedral also hosts Blanket Drives for the Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission.

She added, “We continually work to find ways to feed the spiritual life of our parishioners so that they in turn can do the same for others and at the same time help feed the physical needs of others in our midst.”

Choral Ministryhoral ministry is another way local parishes share

joy during the holidays. Area

parishes and Catholic schools visit local nursing homes, hospitals and youth prisons to share the joy of the season. Through their singing, these students and adults hope to bring joy and the spirit of the season to those who need it most.

Students from St. John Berchmans Cathedral School began their ministry this year on November 22 at Azalea Estates Assisted Living and Retirement Community. They plan to continue caroling throughout the Christmas season, visiting Christus Schumpert Adult Daycare and Shriners Hospital.

To add to the joy of their ministry, St. John Berchmans students also bring handmade greeting cards and encourage those they are visiting to sing along.

Similarly, St. Joseph Church in Shreveport will join Mary, Queen of Peace Church on December 12 to visit and sing Christmas carols to those at WARE Youth Prison. They plan to bring Christmas snacks to add joy to the visit.

Tookie Barr at the Cathedral School feels this ministry is just as important to the singers as those whom they visit. “The children realize that they are helping others feel better, and it gives them a sense of being the ‘hands of Christ’ in visiting the sick and shut-in,” she said.

This program has been a part of the school for many years due to its continuing success. “This is such a successful ministry in our school due to the ongoing outreach/ambassador feeling among our students. We have a call to share our gifts with others in song and music,” said Barr.

Continued from page 13.

Photos from top: Our Lady of Fatima students and teachers at the annual KARD television station Christmas Food Drive; Gerry May of KTBS works with Holy Trinity Church to bring food to those in need; FAiTH drive at Loyola; Fr. James McLelland sings to Christus Schumpert's Adult Day Care Class.


Christmas Recipe for Aging

Make this Christmas a great aging experience and let your light shine as if you are the

star on top of the tree. Our aging personality should be filled with the light, love and wisdom of the Lord, shining brightly for all to see. I have divine specialness that can only be communicated to others by me. God did not create me to be Mona Lisa, Beethoven or Mother Teresa, just His very own Christmas Star. The secret is how to be the oldest and brightest star on the tree.

Slowing down and living in a reflective manner permits me to see the sacredness of aging. Aging is only a new dimension of my spirituality. Don’t bother trying to stop or reverse its process; it simply won’t happen.

Our Christmases haven’t changed all that much, have they? Although the years have rolled past, our memories of all the Christmases will last if they were filled with the spirit of love.

Once the Christmas tree is decorated it needs power to show its colors and creativity. The Creator will place the star in its place because He alone is the power in my life. His power of prayer can change everything, and although our days will not always be filled to the brim with laughter and joy, we can empower ourselves knowing in our hearts that God is in control and my light continues to shine.

Every recipe has its own story to tell, and my Christmas one is no different. The ingredients have to be beyond just being good as I add loads of kindness and buckets filled with love. I must whisk together patience with a pinch of imagination until I have the right consistency of positive attitude. Stir in the flavor of listening and caring so I can acquire a new dimension of aging spirituality. Soften it with heart and fill it up with the spirit of love and creativity.

We can certainly still capture the power of imagination and find not only the joy in Christmas, but the sacred and mystical as well.

The best part of my Christmas

recipe is meditation. Sit down in a quiet place and engage yourself fully in the Holy Season. It is Christmas time and we need to hang the following ornaments on our spiritual tree: love, peace, joy, light, hope, forgiveness, harmony and, of course, wisdom. As the song says,“Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.” Day by day let my life reflect all of the above. Reflect, think or meditate on how you as an elder of the Lord can make every day Christmas.

“It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you.” –Blessed Teresa of Calcutta

Reflect on Psalm 23:6 “I know that your goodness and love will be with me all of my life.” During 2009, you have daily accepted God’s love and blessings and even now, God’s goodness flows abundantly into our lives. How does this Psalm apply to my youth, my elder years, my past, my present and into the future? Get in touch with the most noble parts of your life in ways you couldn’t in your younger years. Remember you are being coached by God.

Look at ways to revamp your future as a New Year emerges. While in prayer, thank God for the many blessings received, not only during this season, but during the past 11 months. During this season, show our love and grow closer to God. When that happens, we have even more reason to celebrate the Birth of the New Born Babe. We are truly fulfilling the psalmist’s words, “Let us be happy, let us celebrate.” Psalm 118:24.

– Sr. Martinette Rivers

Continuing Ministry

here are many many more ministries parishes take part in besides the ones listed. St. Paschal

Church in West Monroe collects baby items for “Life Choices,” a pro-life organization that supports women. St. Joseph Church youth donate socks for the elderly, wrap them and bring them to the Caddo Council on Aging.

Others participate in a combination of ministries. St. Lucy Church in Hodge visits a nursing home that has a high number of residents who do not have family visit them on Christmas for many different health reasons. The parishioners at St. Lucy Church combine their angel tree with visiting.

“Our parishioners adopt the residents and try to provide a ‘Little Merry Christmas’ for all. Gifts are provided, but more than gifts, our presence and love are given at a time when many others have more than enough presence and love in their lives without even having to ask for that gift. Upon leaving, our parishioners are always thanked so gratefully and we, in return, have to try to convince the residents that they are the ones who have blessed us, not we who have given to them,” says Alece Walsworth, a parishioner at St. Lucy Church.

The outpouring of service during the holiday season truly embodies Christian service. Parishes, schools and organizations eagerly share what they have with those less fortunate to make the season brighter and full of hope. But perhaps one of the most heartwarming and inspiring things is the number of parishes who take part in outreach ministries year round, not just during the Christmas season. The people of the Diocese of Shreveport are truly a people of God, living to serve those less fortunate. •


The Diocese of Shreveport is currently moving ahead with establishing a Catholic Charities

organization in the diocese. The following is an interview with Sister Patricia Cairns,csj, who is spear-heading the project for the diocese.

Q. Sister, Bishop Duca has asked you to research the question regarding the establishment of a Catholic Charities in the diocese. What background do you bring to the project?

A. I’ve worn many hats during my lifetime, but the most satisfying role I was blessed to play was Executive Director of two Catholic Charities, one in Lafayette, LA, and the other in Pittsburgh, PA. In both situations, thousands were served and the Gospel of Love was communicated. I credit most of this to the dedicated staffs with whom I worked. Academically, my background is in social research and theory, which I taught at the College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY for a number of years.

Q. What were some of the things accomplished during your tenure as Executive Director of Catholic Charities?

A. I have a huge concern that everything we do for the poor be done with the greatest integrity and professionalism. We need to hire only those who are competent to do the job well. This means people have to be professionally qualified to carry out their tasks, and committed to Jesus’ call to serve the least among us with

compassion. In Lafayette, we were able to renovate

St. Joseph’s Shelter for Men and St. Joseph’s Diner, set up two family shelters, purchase the Boustany property in anticipation of a healthcare clinic and office complex, and renovate a five-story hotel in Opelousas for homeless women and children with an emphasis on education. This Opelousas project won a HUD blue ribbon award.

In Pittsburgh, we purchased our downtown office building, sponsored a medical mission to Mexico, initiated an international adoption program, revamped our technology and development programs, renovated a large former market into a futuristic senior center called Challenges: Options in Aging, renovated 12 apartments to house incoming refugees, and drew up plans and raised funds for a medical clinic which is now in operation.

Even during hard financial times, the funds necessary came through to make all these and many other initiatives possible. I cite these few accomplishments to show what is possible if you have the support of many, a bit of courage and adequate humility to realize that you can’t do it alone.

Q. What exactly is Catholic Charities?A. Catholic Charities is a professional

social service agency which operates largely within a diocese under the leadership of the diocesan bishop. Usually it is a corporation of the diocese and the

bishop functions as Chairman of the Board. It serves all without discrimination. There are, I believe, 171 diocesan Catholic Charities operating throughout the United States. Most diocesan Catholic Charities affiliate with Catholic Charities USA. This association is very helpful, and it would be my recommendation that we link with the national office as one of the early steps in process of setting up a Catholic Charities here in Shreveport.

Q. So, Bishop Duca tapped you to look into the question of a Catholic Charities in Shreveport?

A. Yes. The Bishop is a man with a big heart. He is concerned that the diocese does not have a formal outreach to the poor. The diocese currently supports many charities. The St. Vincent DePaul Society works diligently to meet needs but has limited resources. Bishop Duca thinks now is the time to consider formalizing the diocesan effort to help the poor. He asked that a study be conducted to get a sense of what the people think about this move.

Q. Where are we on the study?A. The study is completed and there is

overwhelming support indicated. Ninety-two percent of those interviewed said that they supported the idea. The study identified areas of social need throughout the diocese. We’ll be working with these findings as we move forward.

Q. What are the next steps?A. With the approval of Bishop Duca,

a planning committee has been set up. The bishop has directed this committee of leaders to come up with a communications plan, a social service plan, a fundraising strategy, bylaws for a new corporation, and materials for an executive search. Of course, we’ll have to develop a timeline to meet these objectives without delay.

Q. How do you feel about all of this?A. I am excited about the possibilities

of a Catholic Charities here in Shreveport. Bishop Duca has been so supportive. I think this is because of his great concern for the many poor who live among us. He wants to do as much as he can to help others. I believe a Catholic Charities operation in the Diocese of Shreveport will help bring new life to the diocese by providing opportunities for many more to get involved in service to the poor. After all, isn’t this Jesus’ directive to all of us?

Plans Underway for a Catholic Charities Organization in the Diocese

Sr. Patricia Cairns, csj and Bishop Michael Duca head up a planning committee meeting for a future Catholic Charities organization in the Diocese of Shreveport.


News Briefsby Catholic News Service

Archbishop Dolan appointed moderator of Jewish affairs for USCCB

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York has been named moderator of Jewish affairs for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, succeeding

Cardinal William H. Keeler, retired archbishop of Baltimore, in that role. Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, USCCB president, made the appointment, which is effective Nov. 11 and is for five years. In announcing the appointment Oct. 23, Cardinal George noted the New York Archdiocese’s “long history of cooperation and friendship between Catholics and Jews.” “Since the Second Vatican Council, important strides in this relationship have been made through dialogue and collaboration in countering racism, anti-Semitism and other offenses against human dignity,” Cardinal George said in the letter of appointment. “Our episcopal conference, through the leadership of your predecessors in New York, and especially through the tireless and generous service of Cardinal William Keeler, has sought to contribute to the work of reconciliation between the church and the Jewish people after centuries of mutual estrangement,” he told Archbishop Dolan in the letter.

Pope names Ghana’s Cardinal Turkson head of justice, peace council

VATICAN CITY (CNS) --During a special synod dedicated to peace and justice in Africa, Pope Benedict XVI named African Cardinal Peter Turkson as head of the Vatican’s

justice and peace council. When the Vatican spokesman, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, announced the appointment Oct. 24 at the start of a synod press conference, the 61-year-old cardinal smiled broadly and giggled as journalists applauded. The personable and enthusiastic cardinal told the press that he accepted the new post with humility and thanked the pope for giving him the opportunity to serve the church in this new role. The pope also announced the appointment later that day during a special luncheon with bishops attending the synod. The former archbishop of Cape Coast, Ghana, succeeds 76-year-old Cardinal Renato Martino, who has retired as president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. Cardinal Turkson, Ghana’s first cardinal, enjoyed a high profile during the Oct. 4-25 second special Synod of Bishops for Africa. He served as the synod’s recording secretary -- a key role many had already seen as a clear sign of papal favor.

U.S. Anglican-Catholic consultation welcomes Vatican action

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- The Vatican’s Oct. 20 announcement on the creation of personal ordinariates for Anglicans who want to be in

full communion with the Roman Catholic Church was among the topics discussed during the 66th meeting of the Anglican-Roman Catholic Theological Consultation in the United States. The gathering Oct. 26-27 at the Washington Retreat House welcomed the Vatican’s action to reach out to Anglicans who wish to enter the Catholic Church while “preserving elements of the distinctive Anglican spiritual and liturgical patrimony.” Members from both churches also examined immigration reform in the United States and discussed Pope John Paul II’s 1993 encyclical “Veritatis Splendor” (“The Splendor of Truth”), which outlined fundamental elements of Catholic moral teaching. The meeting marked the third round of the dialogue considering the theme “Ecclesiology and Moral Discernment: Common Ground and Divergences.” In particular, members of the consultation welcomed the Catholic Church’s acknowledgment of a substantial overlap in faith and the legitimacy of many Anglican traditions. They said the recognition comes from more than 40 years of official dialogue between the two churches.

Cardinal Turkson Celebrates Eucharist During Closing Mass of Synod. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

Episcopal Nuns Received into Catholic Church in Baltimore in September (CNS photo Owen Sweeney III, Catholic Review)

Archbishop Dolan Attends Prayer Service with Jewish Leaders in New York. (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz)


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

Farmerville: Our Lady of Perpetual Help600 E. Water Street, FarmervilleSábado 7:00 p.m.Representante: Maria Lopez Tel: 318-285-9145

Mansfield: St. Joseph305 Jefferson Street, Mansfield 2do

Domingo 2:00 p.m. y 3er Martes 6:30 p.m.Representante: Teresa PérezTel: 318-871-8037

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

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

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

Shreveport: St. Mary of the Pines1050 Bert Kouns Ind Lp., ShreveportDomingos 1:00 p.m.Representante: Carmen BradfordTel: 318-671-9111

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

Rosalba Quiroz, Directora Interina del Ministerio Hispano 318-219-7265 • Blanca Belaire, Secretaria 318-219-7257Rev. Al Jost, Coordinador de La Vicaría del Este • 318-243-0115

Hispanic CornerNuestra Página

Protección y Amor a Los Hijos

Hay un momento difícil para los padres, en toda familia, y es el de dejar que los hijos tomen

sus propias decisiones y sigan sus propios caminos. En un país distinto del de nuestro origen esto se complica incluso más porque nos da miedo que nuestros hijos se alejen de los valores y tradiciones hispanas que tanto queremos. Tendemos a protegerlos en exceso o los desamparamos en esta sociedad exigente. La verdad es que la línea entre protegerlos debidamente y dejarlos vivir su vida es muy fina.

Se habla mucho hoy en día de crear una “cultura vocacional”, tener un ambiente religioso, familiar y social en que se considere aprender mas de la vocación y que la familia anime a los jóvenes a buscar sus caminos, y luego respete y apoye sus decisiones. ¡No es muy fácil! A menudo los padres creen que saben lo que es mejor para sus hijos. O, comprensiblemente, quieren que sus hijos triunfen y tengan éxito- según los estándares de los padres. Lo importante aquí es escuchar con atención y apertura a los deseos y posibilidades más íntimas de los propios jóvenes. Ayudarlos a ver por donde los podría estar llamando Dios, aunque no sea exactamente lo

que soñado para ellos. María y José pasaron por lo mismo, buscando desesperadamente a Jesus por Jerusalén. La respuesta de Jesus, sencilla y clara es la respuesta que tendríamos que esperar y aceptar de nuestros propios hijos: “Estaba ocupándome de los asuntos de Dios”. Es decir, estaba haciendo lo que Dios quiere de mí. Solo así podrán ser felices y estar realizados y encontrar una vida plena. Solo así sabremos que la familia ha cumplido el encargo de Dios.

Para Reflexionar: 1. ¿Tengo sueños para mis hijos,

pero no he comprobado si es lo mismo que quieren ellos?

2. ¿Intento a veces convencerles de mi visión, aunque ellos expresen su deseo de ir por otro lado?

3. ¿Respetaría la Vocación en vida religiosa, sacerdocio, o como laico de alguno de mis hijos?

Artículo sacado de Nuestra Parroquia Noviembre 2009

Que como José y María, perfecto ejemplo de amor y servicio, veamos y apoyemos la vocación de nuestros hijos y que así como Jesús se ocupó de las cosas de su Padre, nuestro Señor y dueño de la vida, nuestros hijos sean obedientes y sigan las enseñanzas de Jesús.

– Rosalba Quiroz

Calendario y Celebraciones del mes de Diciembre 3 Novenario a la Virgen de Guadalupe

3 San Francisco Javier

8 La Inmaculada Concepción (Obliga Misa)

12 Ntra. Sra. De Guadalupe

16 Comienzan Las Posadas

25 Navidad

27 San Juan Evangelista

27 La Sagrada Familia

24 dec - 4 enero, Centro Católico Cerrado

Photo by Anissa Thompson (www.sxc.hu)


Cardinal Praises Vote for Health Reform with Ban on Abortion Funding

The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops recognizes the need to reform access to health care in the United States.

The Catholic Church has been and continues to be an advocate for health care reform that provides medical care for all in an accessible and affordable manner.

According to church teaching, health care is not merely a privilege, but a basic human right. In Pacem in Terris, Pope John XXIII stated that “rights are universal and inviolable, and therefore altogether inalienable.” These include, but are not limited to, the “right to medical care,” and “to be looked after in the event of ill health.” The New Testament Scriptures further reveal an apostolic duty, commanded by Jesus, to heal the sick while proclaiming the Gospel (MT 10: 7-8).

For centuries, Catholic hospitals have served and ministered to the sick and the dying. Other Catholic institutions have welcomed and served the elderly, handicapped, expectant mothers, newborns, and others with physical, emotional or spiritual needs. This is an important expression of our respect for the innate dignity that lies within every human being, regardless of race, nationality, religion, political opinion, or social class.

This respect for life and dignity directs us to urge congress to support reforms that: Exclude public health care monies for abortion; Prohibit any form of euthanasia; Protect the right of conscience of a health care professional or institution; and Respect the right of a physician and a patient to decide treatment for the healing of that patient without interference.

Finally, in shaping public policy on access to health care, we appeal to congress for a plan that ensures basic affordable medical care for all, including legal immigrants, and a plan that protects the role of personal and private entities in carrying out their health care mission.

The bishops urge that any health care plan embraces all of these principles, and invite all Catholics to pray for all legislators that they will be enlightened by God to know what is good for our society and particularly those in need.

–Louisiana Conference of Catholic BishopsBaton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 344-7120

Statement of the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops on Health Care ReformWASHINGTON (CNS) --

Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, president of the

U.S. bishops, praised the House for approving a reform bill that provides “adequate and affordable health care to all” and “voting overwhelmingly” for a prohibition on using federal money to pay for most abortions.

An amendment to ban abortion funding sponsored by Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Mich., and other House members passed 240-194, and led to passage of the Affordable Health Care for America Act in a 220-215 vote.

In a statement issued late Nov. 9, the cardinal lauded the Nov. 7 vote and urged the Senate to follow the House’s example.

The House “honored President Obama’s commitment to the Congress and the nation that health care reform would not become a vehicle for expanding abortion funding or mandates,” he said.

The Senate is expected to take up its version of health care reform later this month. The House and Senate bills differ significantly, so any version the Senate passes will have to be reconciled with the other, and each body will vote again on the final legislation. The Senate bill does not include language on abortion similar to the Stupak amendment.

Cardinal George said the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops “will remain vigilant ... to assure that these essential provisions are maintained and included in the final legislation.”

Cardinal George said the Catholic Church is concerned about how health reform “affects the poor and vulnerable, and those at the beginning and end of life.”

“We will continue to insist that health care reform legislation must protect conscience rights,” he said. “We support measures to make health care more affordable for low-income people and the uninsured. We remain deeply concerned that immigrants be treated fairly and not

lose the health care coverage that they now have.”

Cardinal George had been among those in contact with members of Congress as they moved toward a vote on the legislation; for instance, he urged Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., Nov. 6 to allow Stupak’s amendment to come to the floor for a vote.

In a series of letters leading up to the vote, the bishops who head the USCCB’s committees on Pro-Life Activities, Migration, and Domestic Justice and Human Development had pressed House members to back Stupak’s amendment, and expressed their pleasure that it was going to be brought to a vote.

In a letter issued the day of the Nov. 7 House vote, Bishop William F. Murphy of Rockville Centre, N.Y., domestic policy chairman, and Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia, pro-life chairman, said the amendment would add “crucial provisions that maintain the current protections against abortion funding and mandates.”

“We also welcome the wise decision of the House leadership to take this important procedural step which we believe will help pass much needed health care reform,” they said.

–Catholic News Service

Cardinal Francis George, President of the USCCB. (CNS Photo)


What Really Works With KidsLay Eucharistic Ministers Needed In Sue Monk Kidd’s best selling

novel, and now movie, The Secret Life of Bees, 14 year-old

Lily Owens escapes her abusive father and finds refuge in the home of the wise, matriarchal August Boatwright and her beekeeping sisters.

One evening after saying prayers, Lily and August head off to the bee yard. As Lily is donning her protective white suit, August offers her a lesson in bee yard etiquette.

... the world is really one big bee yard, and the same rules work fine in both places: Don’t be afraid, as no life-loving bee wants to sting you. Still, don’t be an idiot; wear long sleeves and long pants. Don’t swat. Don’t even think about swatting. If you feel angry, whistle. Anger agitates, while whistling melts a bee’s temper. Act like you know what you’re doing, even if you don’t. Above all, send the bees love. Every little thing wants to be loved.

I have found these rules helpful in my ministry with young people.

Don’t be afraid, as no life-loving bee wants to sting you. There will be young people who hurt us, sometimes intentionally. Most often they lash out in an attempt to protect their fragile, emerging and understandably insecure sense of self.

Still, don’t be an idiot; wear long sleeves and long pants. Set healthy boundaries to avoid burning out. Do your inner work so that you don’t look to kids to meet your emotional needs for intimacy, affirmation and love. Be grounded in prayer so that your sense of self is anchored deeper than the shifting sands of satisfaction that comes and goes in ministry.

Don’t swat. Don’t even think about swatting. Don’t be defensive. It’s probably not about you. The young people you are raising or working with are changing rapidly in every way. Most of us have forgotten about the “work” of growing up. Kids go through all sorts of

things—most of which we’ll never know about and have nothing to do with us.

If you feel angry, whistle. Anger agitates, while whistling melts a bee’s temper. If you feel angry, ask more questions and spend more time listening. I have yet to meet a young person who doesn’t soften when they feel heard and understood.

Act like you know what you’re doing, even if you don’t. Remember the old saying: “God doesn’t call the qualified—he qualifies the called.”

Above all, send the bees love. Every little thing wants to be loved. I’ve learned countless tactics, tricks

and tools for relating with kids. And while so much of that has been helpful to me, what I’ve seen “work” and “stick” is a healthy and prayerful adult who generously loves and accepts young people.

Let us pray that in the ever swarming nature of life, kids will discover in our imperfect, and at times inconsistent love for them, a deeper, more abiding affection from the ever perfect and consistent God who created them.

(For more quotes from The Secret Life of Bees and to see the Bee Yard Etiquette clip from the movie, go to www.roypetitfils.com)

– Roy PetitfilsRoy Petitfils is a counselor at St.

Cecilia School in Broussard, LA and Pax Renewal Center in Lafayette,

LA. He can be reached by email at [email protected].

We are now seeking LEM’s to bring Communion to patients, and those who wish to receive the Blessed

Sacrament, at LSU Medical Center. One hour a month is all the time needed to bring spiritual nourishment to those who may be incapacitated and not able to receive such vital sustenance from their home parish. Fr. Rothell Price, pastor of St. Mary of the Pines, is the Catholic Minister to LSU-MC and is the impetus behind this rewarding experience. This is a wonderful and enriching service to God and to fellow Catholics, allowing those who participate to become spiritually connected with those who are in need of care and comfort. The St. Mary of the Pines pastoral council has been given the mission of coordinating and implementing this grace-filled effort. Everyone who becomes involved will receive training to become a volunteer chaplain.

The chaplain at LSU-MC, Pastor Seaberry, will conduct the training on being a volunteer chaplain. HIPPA laws require the volunteers who serve at the hospital and receive private patient information to understand the importance of discretion and maintaining the patient’s privacy. Volunteer chaplains will receive an LSU-MC badge in order to access the information containing the religious affiliations of the patients. Training will be conducted at St. Mary of the Pines on January 18, 2010, at 6:00 p.m. in Vandegaer Hall. Any concerns may be addressed during the training.

Everyone wishing to become involved in such a spiritually uplifting experience should contact Jon Hutson (318) 688-4497 or email [email protected].

– Jon Hutson


Christ the King Celebrates Priesthood Sunday

Christ the King celebrated Priesthood Sunday in October. Parishioners and many church groups prayed for both Fr. Charles Glorioso and Fr. Rigoberto Betancurt prior

to our celebration on Oct. 25th. The prayers were written in cards and letters and placed in a decorative box, creating a Spiritual Bouquet for both priests. A gift from the parish was also purchased – a “Flock of Hope” from Heifer International. The chicks purchased will be given in Fr. Charles’s and Fr. Rigo’s names to a family who is struggling with poverty. The chicks and the eggs they provide will help the family with nourishment and financial security. In return, the family passes on chicks to other poor families and the entire community will be strengthened.

Msgr. Carson LaCaze Receives Alumni Award

Msgr. Carson LaCaze entered the Josephinum in September 1951 after completing minor seminary studies in Louisiana, and was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Alexandria on

May 25, 1957 at the Josephinum by Amleto Cardinal Cicognanni. At the Pontifical College Josephinum, Columbus, Ohio, October 8, 2009, Msgr. Carson LaCaze was presented with the Alumnus of the Year award. It is a new recognition presented annually to a deserving alumnus. The award was given to Msgr. LaCaze because of his dedication to hosting four of the 52 class reunions and strengthening the fraternity in the priesthood among the 22 ordained.

St. Paschal Church Wins Awards for Participation in Heart Walk

St. Paschal Church in West Monroe participated in the American Health Association’s annual Heart Walk on October 17th, 2009. St. Paschal was one

of 15 teams that included area businesses and over 600 walkers. At the awards ceremony, St. Paschal's was honored to accept both the Spirit Award and the award for the team with the largest number of walkers. They are proud to add these awards to their previous recognition in the past 10 years. They are the Heart Walk’s first area church to participate in these events.

Bishop Meets with Medical Students

M onday, November 2, Bishop Michael Duca

went to LSU Health Science Center in Shreveport to have lunch wtih the Catholic Medical Students Association.

Around the Diocese...


November 29-December 1: Advent Mission at St. John the Baptist

Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Many will be hosting its Advent Mission on November 29-30th and December 1st beginning each evening at 7:00 p.m. and lasting until 8:00 p.m. with a social

afterwards. The Rev. James Sichko of the Diocese of Lexington, KY will be the presenter. His talks are entitled: “Let Us Prepare for the Lord!” Known for his story-telling, Fr. Jim weaves every day life experiences with the rooted messages which lie within the Gospel. He currently serves as Pastor of St. Mark Parish in Richmond, KY. Fr. Jim is also the assistant to the Bishop for Special Projects and serves as the Diocesan Spiritual Director for the Cursillo Movement. Everyone is invited to attend this event. For more information, contact the church office at 318-256-568.

December 7-9: Cathedral Parish Welcomes Fr. Michael Joly for Advent Mission The theme for our Advent

Mission is “Spiritual Real Estate: The House of Fear or the House of Love.” Fr. Mike, Pastor of St. Joan of Arc Parish, Yorktown, VA and Priest Campus Minister at the College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA

invites all the faithful, young and mature, to put themselves into the shoes of those who have moved from the interior house of fear to the House of Love where joy lives. Fr. Mike, a priest blind since childhood, uses contemporary Christian music, humor and faith to help us move from the house of fear to the house of Love, Christ! Mission dates: Monday - Wednesday, Dec. 7 - 9, 7:00 p.m. Mission following the 5:30 p.m. Holy Day Masses (Dec 7 & 8) and

the Wednesday Holy Hour (Dec 9); Thursday, Dec 10, 5:30 p.m., Cathedral Advent Penance Service. All are invited! For more information call the Cathedral Office, 318-221-5296.

December 20: Applications Under Way for Christus Schumpert Clinical Pastoral Education Course

Applications are currently being taken for a unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), which will be sponsored by CHRISTUS Schumpert Health System beginning in January 2010. Seminars will be held on Thursdays, from January to early June 2010 at the St. Mary campus of the health system.

CPE is a program which provides training to people interested in ministry in a specialized setting such as healthcare. The program is accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) and supervised by Rev. David Jenkins, a certified supervisor.

The program requires participants to be on campus each Thursday, 8:30 am – 2:00 pm for seminars, group work and discussions.

Tuition is $250 and the deadline is December 20. To apply, contact Bonnie J. Burnett at 681-6962.

January 16: 2010 Diocese of Shreveport Liturgical-Catechetical Conference Keynote speaker Rev. Msgr. James P.

Moroney is the rector of the Cathedral in St. Paul, Worcester, Former Executive Director of the Secretariat for the Liturgy of the USCCB, Past Chairman of the FDLC and a Consultor for the Congregation of Divine Worship

and the Disciple of the Sacraments. Msgr. Moroney will speak on the New Translation of the Roman Missal. The conference will last from 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. and take place at the Catholic Center. For more information or to register, contact Dianne Rachal in the Office of Worship at 318-868-4441.

Upcoming EventsJourney of Faith: The Story of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Published

Rev. James Sichko, Diocese

of Lexington

Rev. Michael Joly, Yorktown,

Virginia

Rev. Msgr. James Moroney,

St. Paul, Worcester

The history of a church can never be truly completed, for the church is constantly developing and

changing. However, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Many is proud to announce a collection of the parish’s history into a book: Journey of Faith: The Story of Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church. The book details the history of St. John’s Church and School and aims to capture the spirit and chronicle the determined efforts of the men and women who, over the years, remained proud of their faith and their part in the church.

Author Shirley Rivers is thrilled about the completion of this book. “At last, the project is done. I never realized how much work would be involved and how much help I would need from members of the parish.”

The 200 page book contains 11 chapters and over 500 photographs, including reproductions of documents. Rivers added, “Researching the history of our parish has brought alive to me people whom I have never met, but to whom we all owe a great deal. They not only ensured that our church was built, but they also laid the foundations of the parish community of which we are now a part.”

Although not intended as a fundraiser, Fr. Joe Martina, pastor of St. John the Baptist Church, announced that any profits made will go towards helping send youth to The Pines Catholic Camp next summer. Because of increased publication costs, the book sells for $49.99. Limited copies are available. Interested persons may call or write the church to order a copy: 1130 East San Antonio Ave., Many, LA 71449; 318-256-5680. Books may also be ordered online at www.blurb.com/books/916062.

– Shirley Rivers


All events are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

December 2009 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Francis Xavier, priest John of Damascus, priest & doctor

St. Juan Diego, hermitSecond Sunday of Advent

Ambrose, bishop & doctor

Damascus I, pope Hanukkah Begins

Third Sunday of Advent

Fourth Sunday of Advent Peter Canisius, priest & doctor

John of the Cross, priest & doctor

Stephen, first martyr

Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas

Thomas Becket, bishop & martyr

Seventh Day in the Octave of Christmas

Sylvester I, popeSixth Day in the Octave

of ChristmasHoly Innocents, martyrs

John of Kanty, priest

Second Collection: Infirm Priest Fund

Christmas Eve

Catholic Center Closes Until Jan. 4,

2010

Nativity of the Lord CHRISTMAS

Second Collection: Infirm Priest Fund

Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

New Years Eve

Catholic Schools Close for Christmas Holidays

Until Jan. 2, 2010

Winter Begins

Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops

Meeting, Baton Rouge

World AIDS Day

Advent Reconciliation Service, Mary, Queen of Peace Church, 6pm

Advent Reconciliation Service, St. Pius X Church, 6:30pm

St. Vincent de Paul's Mass and Dinner,

Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 11am

Second Collection: Retirement for

Religious

Catholic Connection Deadline for January

Advent Reconciliation Service, Sacred Heart Church, Shreveport

6:30pm

Advent Reconciliation Service, Holy Family

Chapel, Barksdale Air Force Base, 5:30pm

Advent Reconciliation Service, St. Jude Church, 5:30pm

Immaculate Conception of the

Blessed Virgin Mary

Collection: Retirement for Religious

Catholic Center Closed

Principals' Meeting, Catholic Center

Advent Reconciliation Service, Cathedral

5:30pm

Our Lady of Guadalupe

Fr. Job Edathinatt Scaria, CMI's 15th Anniversary to the

Priesthood

Advent Reconciliation Service, St. Joseph Church, Shreveport,

6:30pm

Lessons and Carols, St. Joseph Church, Shreveport, 3:30pm

Advent Reconciliation Service, St. Mary of the Pines Church,

6:30pm

Advent Reconciliation Service, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church,

6:30pm

ADVENT WREATHAdvent, a season of joyful

expectation before Christmas, begins Nov. 29 this year. The Advent wreath, with a candle

marking each week of the season, is a traditional symbol of the period.

(CNS photo/Nancy Wiechec)

24 24 Catholic Connection December 2009

D I O C E S E O F S H R E V E P O R T3500 Fairfield Ave. • Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

KnightsofColumbusPrepareforRedMassatHolyTrinity.PhotobyJessicaRinaudo.

Msgr. Earl V. Provenza and Bishop

Michael G. Duca bless the bikes as they

leave for the motorcycle run.

Sr. Sharon Rambin hugs one of the

Run with the Nuns participants.For its third consecutive year, Run with the Nuns was a huge success!

The motorcycle run established in 2007 to raise money for Cara Center, which aids neglected and abused children, continues to grow every year.

The Sisters of the Destitute from Christus Schumpert were in attendance, as well as Sr. Sharon Rambin, Bishop Michael Duca and Msgr. Earl Provenza, who blessed the bikes.

Run with the Nuns III

Photos by Raz fromwww.razphoto.comMsgr. Provenza, Sr. Sharon Rambin, Sisters of the Destitute & Bishop Duca watch the bikes leave.

Documents

Catholic Connection, December 2009