The Church Today, Nov. 12, 2012

CHURCH TODAY Volume XLIII, No. 11 www.diocesealex.org Serving the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana Since 1970 November 12, 2012

O N T H E INSIDE

Special Collection to assist those effected by

Hurricane Sandy

The second collection at all weekend Masses Nov. 24-25 will go to support Catholic Charities and Catholic Relief Services in their efforts to provide services and assistance to those effected by Hurricane Sandy. Read how the Northeast is coping with the recent disaster on page 2.

11 priests in diocese celebrate anniversaries

Congratulations to 11 priests in the Diocese of Alexandria who are celebrating significant anniversaries this year. Find out who on page 6.

The Cookie Jar opens

The Cookie Jar, a bakery and gift shop owned and operated by the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows recently held its grand opening. Check out the Cookie Jar for your holiday parties and gift baskets for any special occasion. See more on page 16.

St. Joseph students learn about their favorite

Saints

ALL SAINTS DAY MASS. 5th and 6th grade students from St. Joseph School in Plaucheville participated in the Nov. 1 All Saints Day Mass by dressing up as their favorite saint.

NOVEMBER 12, 2012 CHURCH TODAYPAGE 2

WORKER SHOVELS MUD FROM GROTTO AFTER FLOODING IN LOURDES. A worker shovels mud from the grotto at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in southwestern France Oct. 21. Hundreds of pilgrims were evacu-ated the day before after heavy rains in the Pyrenees region flooded the shrine and its surrounding town. (CNS photo/ Caroline Blumberg, Reuters)

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Flooding at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes Oct. 20 tempo-rarily closed much of the popular French pilgrimage site and led to the evacuation of several hundred pilgrims.

The shrine church was par-tially open Oct. 21, but the pools where the sick bathe in hopes of spiritual and physical healing were to remain closed indefinite-ly, said Bishop Nicolas Brouwet of Tarbes and Lourdes.

The Lourdes grotto, where Mary is reported to have appeared to St. Bernadette Soubirous in 1858, was to reopen the evening

Lourdes Grotto flooded by swollen riverof Oct. 23 after a major cleanup of mud left behind by the wa-ters of the flooding Gave River. Shrine officials had reported up to four feet of water in the grotto.

Pope Benedict XVI publicly expressed his concern about the flooding Oct. 21 during the recita-tion of the Angelus after canoniz-ing seven new saints and celebrat-ing Mass in St. Peter’s Square.

“We turn to the one who is queen of all the saints, the Virgin Mary, with a thought for Lourdes, struck by the serious flooding of the Gave, which has flooded even the Grotto of the Apparitions,” the pope said.

Pew Research Center: How the faithful voted in the 2012 Presidential election

2012 Presidential Vote by Religious Affiliation and Race

TOTAL

Protestant/Other Christian White Prot/Other Christian Born-again/evangelical Non-evangelical Black Prot/Other Christian

Catholic White Catholic Hispanic Catholic

JewishOther FaithsReligiously unaffiliated

Obama Romney Change% %50 48 -3

42 57 -330 69 -420 79 -644 54 --95 5 +1

50 48 -440 59 -775 21 +3

69 30 -974 23 +170 26 -5

In his re-election victory, Democrat Barack Obama narrowly defeated Republican Mitt Romney in the national popular vote (50% to 48%)1.

Obama’s margin of victory was much smaller than in 2008 when he defeated John McCain by a 53% to 46% margin, and he lost ground among white evangelical Protestants and white Catholics.

But the basic religious contours of the 2012 electorate resemble recent elections – traditionally Republican groups such as white evangelicals and weekly churchgoers strongly backed Romney, while traditionally Democratic groups such as black Protestants, Hispanic Catholics, Jews and the

religiously unaffiliated backed Obama by large margins.

Religiously unaffiliated voters and Jewish voters were firmly in Obama’s corner in 2012 (70% and 69%, respectively). Compared with 2008, support for Obama ticked downward among both Jews and religiously unaffiliated voters in the exit polls, though these declines appear not to be statistically significant.

Both of these groups have long been strongly supportive of Democratic candidates in presidential elections. Black Protestants also voted overwhelmingly for Obama (95%).

At the other end of the political spectrum, nearly eight-in-ten white evangelical

Protestants voted for Romney (79%), compared with 20% who backed Obama. Romney received as much support from evangelical voters as George W. Bush did in 2004 (79%) and more support from evangelicals than McCain did in 2008 (73%).

Mormon voters were also firmly in Romney’s corner; nearly eight-in-ten Mormons (78%) voted for Romney, while 21% voted for Obama. Romney received about the same amount of support from Mormons that Bush received in 2004. (Exit poll data on Mormons was unavailable for 2000 and 2008.)

Compared with religiously unaffiliated and Jewish voters on the left and white evangelicals and Mormons on the right, Catholics and white mainline Protestants were more evenly divided.

Among white mainline Protestants in the exit poll, 54% voted for Romney, while 44% supported Obama. This is virtually identical to the 2008 election, when 55% of white mainline Protestants voted for McCain and 44% backed Obama.

White Catholics, by contrast, swung strongly in the Republican direction relative to 2008. Nearly six-in-ten white Catholics (59%) voted for Romney, up from 52% who voted for McCain in 2008.

Three-quarters of Hispanic Catholics voted for Obama, and Catholics as a whole were evenly divided in 2012 (50% voted for Obama, while 48% backed Romney).

Source:Pew Research Center

NOVEMBER 12, 2012 CHURCH TODAY PAGE 3

Join us onFacebook:

http://on.fb.me/Q5uFFh

Special thanks to:

Gold Chalicesponsor of

Bishop’s Golf Tournament

(CNS) -- Sacred Heart Church in Island Park is in an area of the Diocese of Rockville Centre that experienced the most devastation from Hurricane Sandy, but the pastor urged parishioners not to fret about the material goods they have lost.

"Don't be angry. We lost stuff. We will get other stuff," Msgr. John Tutone, pastor, told the congregation during his homily at Sunday Mass Nov. 4. "We still have each other and the people we love. That's the most important thing."

"There are people on your block that need you. Knock on their doors and offer your help. We have to maintain our souls," he said. "We have to maintain ourselves by helping others."

In the community of 10,000 people in the southwest corner of Nassau County, Long Island, 80 percent of the homes were flooded. The church, too, was flooded with about a foot of water, damaging the floor. Three feet of water was pumped out of the parish center, which is now being used for Masses.

As of Nov. 4, Island Park was still without electricity and the village's mayor, James Ruzicka, announced at the end of Sunday Mass that it would be at least another two weeks before power was restored.

Cellphones weren't working, Msgr. Tutone told Catholic News Service. "(The) worst thing is not having communication."

He shared a story about a stranger's generosity. After

the hurricane, a man in his 70s whom the priest did not know, drove up to the church and saw Msgr. Tutone outside. He was not wearing his clerical garb. The man asked him if he was the parish priest. After Msgr. Tutone said he was, the unidentified man handed him a bank envelope and told him to "rebuild your church" before driving off.

When Msgr. Tutone later opened the envelope, he found $1,500 in cash inside.

In Long Beach, an island just south of Island Park that faces the Atlantic Ocean, 35,000 residents also were devastated by the

hurricane, left without electricity and a working waste disposal system. Portable toilets were spread throughout the city.

St. Ignatius Martyr is a sturdy 88-year-old Lombard Romanesque brick church that sits a block from the ocean. The church survived the hurricane of 1938, the worst storm to hit Long Island until Sandy, but the super storm caused minimal damage to the church, though the rectory basement was flooded to the ceiling.

Nearly 200 people gathered in the cold, dark church for the 10 a.m. Sunday Mass Nov. 4, celebrated by Msgr. Donald Beckmann, pastor, wearing tennis shoes. A 5 p.m. Mass was celebrated the Saturday evening before; two other Sunday Masses were canceled.

Chris and Dawn Hagen attended with their children, son Gerrin, 7, and Tara, 5.

Going to Mass "was important to restore some routine to our lives. We wanted to be with other people in a place that gives us comfort," Chris said. "It's good to come together and pray with people. It's comforting to see our church is here and we can worship."

"We're grateful we are alive and have each other," said Dawn. "We're praying for our friends and our family and our own recovery."

Added Chris: "We'll be fine."Msgr. Beckmann is a

chaplain for the Long Beach Fire Department. When the island was evacuated, he remained in the rectory, he said, because "the fire department stays."

"It was a scary time, especially watching cars float up and down Broadway, watching the water getting higher and higher before it stopped," he said.

"The support of the parishioners, the way they reached out to me, has been heartwarming."

He described his most important tasks after Sandy: "One is to continue the sharing of the sacraments and preaching the Gospel in as normal a way as possible. ... A couple of people said to me, 'It's nice to come back here and see things as normal as possible.' To see the church functioning is important to them. ... The second thing is to do whatever the church can do to help the wider Long Beach community."

He said he was "praying a prayer of thanksgiving for all who have survived. I'm also asking the Holy Spirit to show us the proper way to move forward, our three parishes, the whole community and other religious institutions."

PARISH VOLUNTEERS MOVE WATER DAMAGED ITEMS FROM RECTORY IN LONG BEACH, NY. Parish volunteers remove water damaged items from the rectory basement at St. Ignatius Martyr Church in Long Beach, N.Y., Nov. 4. Long Beach, which remained without electricity Sunday, was one of the worst hit areas of Long Island when Hurricane Sandy swept through the Northeast Oct. 29. (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz)

Diocese of Alexandria

Special collection Nov. 24-25

The second collection at all weekend Masses Nov. 24-25 will go to support Catholic Charities and Catholics Relief Services in their efforts to provide services and assistance to those effected by Hurricane Sandy. Please be generous.

-- Bishop Ronald Herzog

People lost 'stuff,' but still have each other, says NY priestChurches begin clean-up after Hurricane Sandy


tion falls on a Saturday or Mon-day, it presents a challenge to our pastors because a single Mass cannot fulfill both obligations. I will not take time to outline all the possibilities, but, put simply: two obligations means two Masses.

Also on Dec. 8 (the Feast of the Immaculate Conception) the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Natchitoches has been designated as a pilgrim site for the diocese. On this day, you may receive a plenary indulgence by following the proper disposi-tions attached to all plenary indul-gences (see list at left).

Each November the bishops of the country meet in Baltimore. Obviously, I will be attending and that means I will be out of the dio-cese for most of that week.

May you receive great bless-ings during our Year of Faith and prepare for the Advent of a new Church Year!

As we move forward in this Year of Faith, we will have many opportunities for God’s blessings.

The Diocese of Alexandria will celebrate the formal open-ing of the Year of Faith on the last Sunday of the Church year, the Solemn Feast of Christ the King (November 25). It will be held at the Cathedral from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Since it is being held on a Sunday afternoon, it will not be a Mass, but instead a liturgical cel-ebration of song and scripture. I hope to see many of you there.

Many other opportunities will also be scheduled through the coming months. We will keep you abreast of all of the events through the Church Today, and on our website -- www.diocesealex.org.

The first Sunday of Advent takes place on Dec. 2 this year. We will begin the “C” cycle of Sunday readings.

Saturday, Dec. 8, is the Sol-emn Feast of the Immaculate Conception, our nation’s patronal feast. It is a Holy Day of obliga-tion. When a day of Mass obliga-

ONE IN

THE LORDMost Rev. Ronald P. Herzog

Bishop of the Diocese of Alexandria

CHURCH TODAYVolume XLIII, No. 11 • November 12, 2012

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

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

THE CHURCH TODAY (USPS 393-240) is published by the Catholic Diocese of Alexandria, once a month, free of charge to members of the parishes in the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana. Out of diocese subscriptions are $20 a year. The office is located at 4400 Coliseum Blvd., Alexandria, LA 71303. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, LA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The CHURCH TODAY, P. O. Box 7417, Alexandria, LA 71306

The CHURCH TODAY is a member of the Catholic Press Association.

Website: www.diocesealex.org/thechurchtoday

Diocese to celebrate opening of Year of Faith on Nov. 25

Join Bishop Ronald Herzog on Sunday, Nov. 25 (Feast of Christ the King) from 2:30-3:30 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral for a "Celebration of Faith in Word and Song." The service will include Scripture readings on faith, interspersed with songs of faith, and a reflection on the Gospel by Bishop Herzog. Everyone is invited to join in this liturgical celebration of the Catholic faith!

Immaculate Conception is site of pilgrimage on Dec. 8

The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Natchitoches will be open on Saturday, Dec. 8 as a site of pilgrimage and plenary indulgence, as part of the Diocese of Alexandria's celebration of the Year of Faith. Mass will be celebrated at 8 a.m. by Rev. Irion St. Romain, parochial vicar. A plenary indulgence is available on this day for those who fulfill the conditions.

In accordance with the decree issued by the Apostolic Penitentiary on Sept. 14, 2012, special indulgences have been granted for those who take part in this worldwide celebration of faith. To gain the plenary indulgence in the Diocese of Alexandria, which carries with it the full remission of the temporal punishment due to sin for either the person performing the act or for the faithful departed, a person may do one of the following:

1. Visit a basilica, cathedral or church designated by the Ordinary. At this visit, the faithful are to spend time in private meditation, recite the Creed as an Act of Faith, recite the "Our Father" for the intentions of the Holy Father and call on the intercession of the Blessed Mother for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

2. In the Diocese of Alexandria, the following churches are hereby designated as pilgrim sites during the Year of Faith:

• Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches• St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria• St. Joseph Church, Marksville• St. Patrick Church, Ferriday

3. On any day between Nov. 24, 2012 and Nov. 24, 2013, the faithful may visit the Catholic Church of their baptism or reception into the Church. There

the faithful are to spend time in personal meditation, renew their baptism vows by the recitation of the Creed and pray for the soul of the priest who baptized or received them.

4. Participate in a mission for at least three presentations or take part in three lessons on the Documents of the Second Vatican Council or the Articles of the Catechism.

On these occasions, the faithful who are properly disposed may receive a Plenary Indulgence. For the proper disposition, the faithful must be in the state of grace (without grave sin), receive sacramental confession one week prior to or after the activity, receive Holy Communion at Mass one week prior to or after the activity and pray for the intentions of the Holy Father and for the diocesan bishop.

5. Those who are prohibited by grave illness or hospitalization may also receive a Plenary Indulgence on;• Nov. 25 -- Feast of Christ the King• Dec. 3 -- Feast of St. Francis Xavier• Oct. 4 -- Feast of St. Francis of Assisi

by renewing their Act of Faith by the recitation of the Creed, praying the "Our Father" for the intentions of the Holy Father and calling on the intercessions of the Blessed Mother for an increase of vocations to the priesthood and religous life.

Plenary Indulgences for the Year of Faith

YEAR OF FAITH 20122013


Psalms of Praise and

Thanksgiving

The Thanksgiving holiday is an excellent time to rediscover thepsalms of praise and thanksgiving. When you find a quiet moment,sit and relax with your bible. Think of a time when awe and gratitudeoverwhelmed you. Maybe it was a sunrise, or children playing ina park, an inspirational hymn at Mass, a family gathering, or a walkin the woods. Remember how you appreciated that special moment.Then, open your bible to one of the psalms of thanksgiving andrecite it to yourself, like Psalm 118 for instance:

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Listen to the words. Close your eyes. Let the psalm speak to you.Other psalms of praise and thanksgiving you might consider includepsalms 92, 95, 98, 100, 103, 104, 105, 107, 111, 117, 145, and 147.

Whatever psalm you choose for that quiet moment, thank God forthat special time of awe as well as all the good things in your life, andpraise God for his glorious deeds.

Thank you, Lord

For all the beautiful and wonderful things we experience in our life; for the beauty of the earth and its amazing colors;for crisp autumn mornings and sparkling winter nights; for mountains and forests, rivers and seashores.Thank you, Lord

For all the beautiful and wonderful things we experience in our life; for the water that cleanses,the clothes that bring warmth, the food that nourishes and the home that gives comfort.Thank you, Lord

For all the beautiful and wonderful things we experience in our life; for those who love us and care for us;for those who value us for who we are; for those we call family, friends, neighbors.Thank you, Lord

For all the beautiful and wonderful things we experience in our life; for the gift of Christ, your son;for his life, his gospel, his cross, and his Church; for his Eucharistic meal and the promise to be with us always.Thank you, Lord

For all the beautiful and wonderful things we experience in our life; for the time you’ve allotted us,the life you’ve offered us, the opportunities you’ve afforded us, and the miracles you’ve worked for us.Thank you, Lord

For all the beautiful and wonderful things we experience in our life; and for your infinite love that meets our daily needs.May our love, too, be known for its abundance, its readiness to bless and heal, to offer peace and promote justice,and to serve in Jesus’ name.Amen.

From a prayer by Beth CaneteSt. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church, Limassol, Cyprus

December 8

Feast of the

Immaculate Conception

Holy Day of Obligation

This feast is NOT abrogated although it

falls on a Saturday because it is the

Patronal Feast of the United States.

This means that you must attend Mass twice

on that weekend (once for Saturday, once for Sunday).


Seminary BursesOctober

Knights of Columbus Council #9217 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10.00 Father Adrian L. Molenschot BurseMr. and Mrs. Philip Heiman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25.00 Father Basil Burns BurseMr. and Mrs. Philip Heiman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25.00 Father Bartholomew Ibe BurseMr. and Mrs. Philip Heiman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25.00 Father Jack Michalchuk Burse Deacon and Mrs. Rodrick B. Broussard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50.00 Msgr. Milburn Broussard Burse Dr. Joseph Landreneau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Msgr. Henry Beckers BurseMs. Felicie Richardson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 (In memory of Mr. Jack Richardson) Father Bernard Zagst Burse Mr. and Mrs. Robert O. Miller. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $200.00 Father Daniel Corkery BurseThe Harold Beridon Family. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250.00 Msgr. John Timmermans BurseThe Harold Beridon Family. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250.00 Harold and Lillie Beridon BurseAngelo D'Angelo.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000.00 Angelo R and Ena F. D'Angelo Burse

Total this month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$2,035.00

A Seminary Burse is an invested sum of money, the interest of which is used in perpetuity to help fund the education of men to the priesthood. A Seminary Burse may be named for anyone – bishop, priest, religious, or lay person – by the original donor, and can be added to and allowed to grow. A burse is completed when it reaches $15,000.00 but another burse of the same name can be started. Contributions to any of the burses or to establish a new burse should be sent to:

The Chancery Office, P. O. Box 7417

Alexandria, Louisiana 71306-0417

60 YearsMsgr. Timmermans

55 YearsRev. Thompson

40 YearsRev. Pookkattu

35 YearsRev. Miller

30 YearsRev. Young

15 YearsRev. Soares

15 YearsRev. Kuligowski

15 YearsRev. Rabalais

10 YearsRev. Pallipparambil

Priests in Diocese of Alexandria celebrate ordination anniversaries

Eleven priests in the Diocese of Alexandria are celebrating ordination anniversaries in 2012. They are:

60 years, Msgr. Johannes Timmermans, ordained Dec. 20, 1952, retired in Mansura.

55 years, Rev. August Thompson, ordained June 8, 1957, retired in Alexandria.

50 years, Rev. Clemente Mauricio, ordained July 28, 1962, retired in Leesville.

40 years, Rev. George Pookkattu, ordained April 23, 1972, pastor of Our Lady of

Lourdes in Vidalia.35 years, Rev. Bruce Miller,

ordained May 6, 1977, pastor of Sacred Heart in Pineville and judicial vicar for the diocese.

30 years, Rev. Robert Young, OFM, ordained Sept. 11, 1982, national priest director for Radio Maria.

20 years, Rev. Victor Vead, ordained May 30, 1992, chaplain of a federal correctional facility in Texas.

15 years, Rev. Stephen Soares, ordained April 13, 1977, parochial vicar of Sacred Heart in

Pineville.15 years, Rev. Peter

Kuligowski, ordained Mary 24, 1977, pastor of St. Joseph in St. Joseph.

15 years, Rev. Rusty Rabalais, ordained May 31, 1977, pastor at St. Joseph in Marksville.

10 years, Rev. Binochan Pallipparambil, ordained Sept. 5, 2002, pastor of St. Louis in Glenmora.

A special Mass celebrating the priests' jubilees was held May 11 at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Alexandria.


NEW JOSEPHINUM RECTOR INSTALLED. The Pontifical College Josephinum formally installed its 16th Rector/President, Msgr. Christopher J. Schreck, PhD, STD, on Oct. 23. Bishop Herzog, who serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees, attended the installation Mass. Pictured are (l to r) Bishop Gregory Hartmayer, OFM Conv. (Savannah); Bishop Ronald Herzog (Alexandria); Msgr. Christopher Schreck; Bishop Frederick Campbell (Columbus); Bishop Daniel Flores (Brownsville); Bishop Terry LaValley (Ogdensburg); and Bishop Roger Foys (Covington).

ST. JULIANA MASS. Deacon Benny Brous-sard, Father August Thompson, and Fa-ther Remi prepare for Mass at Maryhill Re-treat Center where the parish gathered for a Family Picnic. The day started out with Mass, followed by a day of food, fun, and fellow-ship. See related pic-tures of parishioners on page 10.

ALEXANDRIA SEMINARIANS RECEIVE MINISTRY OF ACOLYTE. Diocese of Alexandria seminarians Dale Meade and Brian Seiler received the ministry of Acolyte Nov. 4 at the Pontifical College Josephinum. Acolytes, who are second-year theologians, are entrusted with the duties of attending to the altar, assisting the deacon and priest at Mass, and distributing Holy Communion as an extraordinary minister. Pictured are (l-r): Dale Meade; Msgr. Christopher Schreck, rector; Most Rev.Timothy Broglio, Archbishop of the Military Services; and Brian Seiler. (Photo by seminarian Josh Altonji, Diocese of Birmingham.)


WASHINGTON—The Cath-olic Church marks the 50th anni-versary of the opening of the Sec-ond Vatican Council by Blessed Pope John XXIII on October 11. The Council ran from 1962-1965, producing 16 documents over the course of four sessions. Over 2,000 bishops from around the world participated. The Coun-cil introduced major reforms and stands among the most significant religious events of the 20th Cen-tury.

To honor this anniversary, as well as the twentieth anniver-sary of the publication of the Cat-echism of the Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI called for a Year of Faith, beginning Oc-tober 11 and ending November 24, 2013, to strengthen the faith of Catholics and draw the world to faith by their example. Arch-bishop Gregory Aymond of New Orleans, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Divine Worship, offers “10 Ways Vati-can II Shapes the Church Today” to help Catholics appreciate the Council and how it relates to the Year of Faith:

1. Renewed vision of 'The Church'

Vatican II presented a re-newed vision of what it means to be the Church. The Council document Lumen Gentium on the nature of the Church called the Church a light for the world and the source of salvation. The document Gaudium et Spes on the Church in the modern world said the Church shares the joys and sufferings of the world. Both documents refer to the Church as the People of God, reflecting a new appreciation of lay people that surfaced repeatedly at the Council.

2. Called Eucharist the'summit of the faith'

It called the Eucharist the source and summit of the faith. The Council’s document on the liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium, describes Holy Communion as the main source of God’s grace for Catholics. In the Eucharist, Catholics encounter the person of Christ. In this way, it is truly the foundation of the Church.

3. Reformed the LiturgyIt reformed the liturgy. The

changes to the Mass, perhaps the most well-known conciliar re-form, promoted “full and active participation,” which led to the Mass being translated into the vernacular, or local language, and celebrated as a dialogue between the celebrant and the congrega-tion.

4. Called all Catholicsto be missionaries

It said every Catholic is called to holiness and to be a missionary. The document on missionary activity, Ad Gentes, expanded the view of how the Church evangelizes. Missionar-ies were no longer sent just to re-

mote areas of the world to spread the Good News; now all Catho-lics play a role in evangelizing through their lives.

5. Emphasized theimportance of the family

5. It emphasized the impor-tance of the family. According to Lumen Gentium, the family is the “Domestic Church.” While the faith of the Church flourishes in parishes, dioceses and nations around the world, before all else is the family. It is the family that provides a strong foundation for each believer.

6. Reshaped relationshipwith other Christians

6. It reshaped the Church’s relationship with other Christians and other religions. At Vatican II, the Church adopted a spirit of re-spect and dialogue toward other faith traditions. Ensuing dialogues have built bridges of understand-ing and strengthened relation-ships with Orthodox Christians, Jews, Muslims, Protestants and others.

7. Encouraged collaborationIt promoted collaboration.

The document Christus Domi-nus encouraged “collegiality,” or collaboration within the Church. Bishops, priests, religious and lay people all work together in a way that didn’t in the past. Bish-ops collaborate through episcopal conferences like the U.S. Con-ference of Catholic Bishops and state-level Catholic Conferences. The Council also encouraged “subsidiarity,” by which author-ity is divided up and decisions are made at the appropriate level.

Archbishop Aymond: 10 ways Vatican II shaped the Church todayUpdated the Church

8. It updated the Church… John XXIII saw Vatican II as a chance for renewal in the face of the “signs of the times” and said he called the Council to open a window and let in fresh air. This resulted in reforms that made the Church more accessible to the modern world, such as Mass in the vernacular and dialogue with other believers, and the open-ness of the Council was reflected in the presence men and women religious, lay people and even non-Catholics among its official observers.

9 Returned the Church to its roots

9. …but it also returned the Church to its roots. Vatican II also reformed the Church through a back-to-basics approach. This meant renewed appreciation for Scripture, the Church Fathers and

the restoration of ancient tradi-tions such as the permanent dia-conate and the multi-step process for adults joining the Church.

10. Pope Benedict played a significant role

Then-Father Joseph Ratz-inger (now Pope Benedict XVI) played a significant behind-the-scenes role. The bishops at Vati-can II were assisted by brilliant theologians. These assistants, or periti, included Joseph Ratz-inger, who assisted Cardinal Jo-sef Frings of Cologne, Germany. Father Ratzinger was involved in drafting speeches, shaping docu-ments and defining the overall tra-jectory of the Council.

More information on the Year of Faith is available online: www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/how-we-teach/new-evangeliza-tion/year-of-faith/index.cfm

POPE JOHN XXIII CARRIED ON CHAIR DURING OPENING SESSION OF SECOND VATICAN COUNCIL. Pope John XXIII leads the opening session of the Second Vatican Council in St. Peter’s Basilica Oct. 11, 1962. The council’s four sessions and its 16 landmark documents modernized the liturgy, renewed the priesthood and religious life, enhanced the role of lay Catholics, opened dialogue with other churches and non-Christians, and identified the church as the “people of God” attuned to the problems and hopes of the world. The 50th anniversary of the opening of the council will be marked by Pope Benedict XVI when he kicks off the Year of Faith with an Oct. 11 Mass in St. Peter’s Square. (CNS photo/L’Osservatore Romano)


Brigitte Paul Kelso Insurance, LLCBrigitte KelsoOwner/Agent

2918 S. MacArthur Dr.Alexandria, La. 71301

Phone: 318.448.2226Fax: [email protected]

4.7 miles to St. Philomena Shrine

• Floor Finishing• Hardwood Floors

• Ceramic Tile Floors• Reseal Tile Floors

Daniel LacombeFloor Finishing

404 Bordelon Rd., Hessmer, LA 71341Specializing in installation

Ph: (318) 563-4753 • Cell (318) 305-0241

10

AmericanSaints

St. Isaac Jogues, SJ1607-1646

French Canadian MissionaryCanonized in 1930

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, MSC

1850-1917Founded schools, hospitals,

orphanagesCanonized in 1946

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, SC1774 - 1821

First US-born saintCanonized in 1975

St. John Neumann, CSsR1811-1860

First American Bishop saintCanonized in 1977

St. Katherine Drexel, SBS1858 - 1955

Founder of Xavier UniversityCanonized in 2000

St. Mother Theodore Guerin, SP1798 - 1856

Advocate for educationCanonized in 2006

St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, RSCJ

1760 - 1852First Catholic school for Native

American girlsCanonized in 1988

St. Damien de Veuster, SSCC

1840 - 1889Ministered to lepers in Hawaii

Canonized in 2009

St. Marianne Cope, OSF1838 - 1918

Ministered to lepers in HawaiiCanonized in 2012

St. Kateri Tekakwitha1656 - 1680

First Native American saintCanonized in 2012

By Cindy WoodenCatholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) --

Proclaiming seven new saints -- including St. Kateri Tekakwitha and St. Marianne Cope from North America -- Pope Benedict XVI said they are examples to the world of total dedication to Christ and tireless service to others.

An estimated 80,000 pilgrims from the U.S., Canada, the Philippines, Italy, Spain, Germany and Madagascar filled St. Peter's Square Oct. 21 for the canonization of the holy women and men who ministered among their people.

The pilgrims applauded the proclamation of the new saints, who included: Kateri, an American Indian who was born in the United States and died in Canada in 1680; Mother Marianne, a Sister of St. Joseph who traveled from Syracuse, N.Y., to Hawaii to care for people with Hansen's disease and died in Molokai in 1918; and Pedro Calungsod, a teenaged Philippine catechist who was martyred in Guam in 1672.

The other new saints are: French Jesuit Father Jacques Berthieu, martyred in Madagascar in 1896; Italian Father Giovanni Battista Piamarta, founder of religious orders, who died in 1913; Sister Carmen Salles Barangueras, founder of a Spanish

religious order, who died in 1911; and Anna Schaffer, a lay German woman, who died in 1925.

The pope also spoke about each new saint individually, giving a short biographical outline and highlighting a special characteristic of each for Catholics today.

Pope Benedict called St. Kateri the "protectress of Canada and the first Native American saint," and he entrusted to her "the renewal of the faith in the First Nations and in all of North America."

The daughter of a Mohawk father and Algonquin Christian

mother, St. Kateri lost her parents and baby brother from an outbreak of smallpox when she only 4 years old. She survived, but was left weakened, badly scarred, and partially blinded.

Raised by her two aunts and one uncle, Kateri grew into a sweet, shy girl, who was kind and generous to everyone.

When a Jesuit missionary came to her village, Kateri was fascinated by his stories she heard about Jesus Christ and wanted to know more about Him.

She was baptized at age 20 and received First Communion at age 21.

But her village scorned her for abandoning the tribal customs and for following her new faith. She left her village and fled 200 miles away to a mission in Canada, where she lived the remainder of her days following and teaching about Christ.

When she died at the age of 24, her last words were "Jesus, I love you." Moments after dying her, her scarred and disfigured face was miraculously made beautiful by God.

"May her example help us to live where we are, loving Jesus without denying who we are," the pope said.

Speaking about St. Marianne of Molokai in his homily, Pope Benedict said that a time when very little could be done to treat people with Hansen's disease, commonly called leprosy, "Marianne Cope showed the highest love, courage and enthusiasm."

At the age of 24, St. Marianne joined the Franciscan Sisters order and began teaching German immigrants. Soon she was appointed the superior general of her order and was asked to govern St. Joseph's hospital. At age 45, she willingly volunteered to minister to the lepers (Hanson's disease) in Hawaii.

She founded and ran a school for the care and education of girls and boys who suffered from leporsy. She died at the age of 80.

TWO NEW AMERICAN SAINTS. St. Kateri Tekakwitha and St. Marianne Cope, OSF, were two of the seven new saints canonoized Oct. 21, 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI in Rome. Both are examples to the world of total dedication to Christ and tireless service to others.

Pope Benedict canonizes 7 new saints Oct. 21


Special thanks to:

Platinum Chalicesponsor of


Special thanks to:

Platinum Chalicesponsor of


E.L. GREMILLION

ST. JULIANA PARISH PICNIC. More than 200 parishioners attended the St. Juliana Parish Picnic held recently at Maryhill. The day included the celebra-tion of Mass at 10 am; followed by a delicious “finger-licking-good” barbeque ribs and chicken dinner, catered by Jackie’s Catering; bingo games, card games, arts and crafts, waterslides and a dunking booth. Thanks to the St. Juliana Love Choir (above) and to Father Remi for all his support and spiritual guidance and for being such a great sport in the dunking booth!

ST. JOSEPH CHURCH (Cheneyville) INSTALLATION MASS. Trustees and members of the parish and finance councils from St. Joseph Church in Cheneyville were installed during a Mass Aug. 19, celebrated by Bishop Ronald Herzog. Trustees are Dan Vanderlick and Henry Vanderlick. Parish Council members are Thomas Vanderlick, Paul Beaver, Charlotte Brown, Mary Polito, Will Bollich, and Mary Vanderlick, chairperson. Finance Council members are Celia Halbert, chairperson; Bruce Brown, Della Chartier, Juliette Linzay and Kelly Helen.

SACRED HEART CHURCH CRACKLIN CREW: It took lots of dads and other volunteers to help cook 900 pounds of pork skins (aka 'cracklins') and 180 pounds of "cush" (pork) meat during the Sacred Heart Church Fall Fair recently. Pictured are James Dismer, Lee Weston, Wade Chatelain, Grady Coco, John Soldani, Maurice Mayeaux.


Special thanks to:


Bishop’s Golf TournamentGold Chalice

sponsor of Bishop’s Golf Tournament

ST. RITA PARISH VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR -- CHARLES THIELS. Father Craig Scott presents to Charles Thiels (standing with his wife, Janet) the Kathy Holt Volunteer of the Year Award. The staff honored all of their volunteers on Sunday, Sept. 30 at the annual Volunteer Luncheon. Thiels has volunteered at St. Rita parish and school for many years and continues to do so to this day. Thank you Mr. Thiels for all that you do for St. Rita!!

ST. MARY'S WALK/RUN CHALLENGE. Hundreds of friends, family members and supporters turned out Oct. 6 for the 7th annual Walk/Run Challenge for St. Mary's Residential Training Facility. This year's event, held in downtown Alexandria, paid special tribute to Faither August Thompson, a retired priest of the diocese. Father Thompson has dedicated his life to the people of the diocese and has ministered to some of God's most vulnerable people, including the children of St. Mary's. One of the community homes in Alexandria is named after him.

ST. JOSEPH (Marksville) ROSARY RALLY. Participating in the annual America Needs Fatima Rosary Rally, a group of people prayed a public Rosary on the steps of the Marksville Courthouse on Oct. 13, the feast of Our Lady of Fatima.

Join us on

Facebook:http://on.fb.me/Q5uFFh


ST. FRANCES CABRINI SCHOOL RECEIVES AMERICAN FLAG. Mrs. Linda Kieffer, VFW Post 1736 Ladies Auxiliary President presents a new American Flag to Mrs. Jessica Waits, sixth grade teacher at St. Frances Cabrini School. Also pictured, Principal Joseph Wiederholt and sixth grade students

and . Sixth grade students are responsible for raising and lowering the American Flag at the school each day.

ST. ANTHONY (Bunkie) STU-DENTS VISIT PETTING ZOO.

, and oth-er 1st and 2nd graders at St. Anthony School in Bunkie, had the experience of a lifetime while visiting the pet-ting zoo at the Louisiana School of Agriculture and Science (LaSAS) in Avoyelles parish. Sponsored by the FFA Club at LaSAS, the event fea-tured all sorts of animals.

ST. JOSEPH (Plaucheville) SCHOOL FAIR. St. Joseph School held its an-nual Fall Fair Oct. 13-14. The fair included food and game booths, pony rides, inflatable slides and a couchon de lait.

SACRED HEART SCIENCE PROJECT. Mrs. Carla Moreau's 4th grade students at Sacred Heart School recently completed a unit on plant and animal cells. Each student was assigned to make a sample cell and then teach the class the cell's function. Pictured are (sitting)

.

ST. MARY’S DUKE IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM. Congratulations to the 22 students at St. Mary's School in Natchi-toches for their excellent performance on the Stanford Achievement Test, which qualified them to participate in the highly selective 4th - 7th Grade Talent Search sponsored by Duke University Identification program. As a participant the students will have the opportunity to access online enrichment opportunities, enjoy publications written just for them and submit their work for possible publication, enter the annual writing contest to win prizes and take advantage of the optional above-level EXPLORE test. Pictured are (front row)

.


SMS GIANT PUMPKIN. of Cottonport kneels next to his 59-lb pumpkin he planted from a seed when he was a kindergarten student last May in Mrs. Megan Parra's class at St. Mary's Assumption School. The students were told to bring their pumpkin plants home and try to grow them. planted his at home and it grew to a whopping 59 lbs. Good job, Beau!

OLPS PUMPKIN DECORATING CONTEST. Our Lady of Prompt Succor held its annual pumpkin decorating contest in the 4th grade classes. Winners of the Look Alike- division are (l-r) , "Yoda"; , "Miss Piggy" and , "Roger the Angry Bird"

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL (Bunkie) HALLOWEEN POSTER WINNERS. St. Anthony students in Ms. Lise's 4th grade French class participated in a Halloween poster contest. Winners are

. Not pictured are

ST. JOSEPH (Marksville) YOUTH GROUP earned community service hours for Confirmation this Halloween by setting up a booth in the Town Square and giving out candy to trick or treaters and painting faces.

ST. MARY'S (Natchitoches) STUDENTS VISIT PUMPKIN PATCH. Mrs. Sharon Leone’s students visited the Pump-kin Patch on October 19. Pictured are Mrs. Leone,


Alexandria Business Machines

5527 Coliseum Blvd.Alexandria, LA 71303-3708

Copiers • Printers • Printer SuppliesFaxes • Office Supplies

Cost Management for your Business

SAVE up to 40% with

318-443-0435Gold Chalice

sponsor ofBishop’s Golf Tournament

Serra Club

Special thanks to:



Special thanks to:

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL (Bunkie) SAINTS. Students in the classes of Sr. Judiann Derhake, SLW, and Sr. Jeannette Daniel, S.L.W., show off their hard work on discovering the saints in celebration of All Saints Day. Pictured are (front row)

.

ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL (Plaucheville) ALL SAINTS DAY MASS. 5th and 6th grade students at St. Joseph School in Plaucheville participated in the All Saints Day Mass Nov. 1 by dressing up as their favorite Saint.

ESSAY WINNER , reads her winning Respect for Life Essay at the 5 p.m. Youth Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Marksville.

attends CCD at St. Joseph and is a 10th grade student in Mr. David Theriot’s class. All CCD students in grades 8 - 12 were asked to write an essay on Respect for Life. Four winners were chosen:

-Grade 8, - grade 8, and

- grade 9. All 4 winners read his/her essay at Masses Oct. 27-28 at St. Joseph Church, Marksville.


PetrusF E E D & S E E D

2914 N. Bolton Ave. • Alexandria, LA

442-2325

P.O. Box 5624Alexandria, LA 71307

3306 Giamanco Street

Phone: (318) 473-8751Fax: (318) 473-4045EMail: [email protected]

Donald J. Baker, ACF/RF/CFCONSULTING FORESTER

Licensed Urban Tree Consultant

Office of Religious Formation and TrainingNew staff in RFT works on new plans for religious education, youth programs

A lot of positive changes are taking place in the Office of Religious Formation and Training as a result of three priests being assigned to that ministry.

Rev. Joy Retnazihomoni, will serve as director of the Office of RFT; Rev. Jose Robles-Sanchez, coordinator of the New Steubenville South; and Rev. Blake Deshautelle, chaplain of campus ministry.

Other staff members include Emily Ann McCullough, coordinator of catechesis; Luc Noel, coordinator of young adults; Lynn Ray, coordinator of campus ministry; Morgan McCullough, assistant; and Cathy Norris, administrative assistant.

"I feel that this is a big blessing and I am deeply honored to serve in this office," said Father Joy.

"I, too, am excited to be in this office and start what we are now calling "the New Steubenville South," said Father Jose.

Father Joy has only been in the office a few weeks and he already has met with his staff on numerous occasions to create a new vision for the future.

With many plans in mind, Father Joy says the first major focus will be on strengthening the training of all catechists (people who teach catechism)

in the diocese. A catechetical conference will be held Feb. 1-2 for all CCD teachers, all Catholic school teachers, RCIA instructors, and youth ministers.

Throughout the year, he and his staff plan to offer individual workshops for grade-specific teachers only.

"For example, when we host

a workshop for all first grade religion and CCD teachers in the diocese, we will talk about what they should be teaching, how they should be teaching it, and what resources are available to help them teach the material. We will hold these type of workshops for teachers of each grade," he said.

The second focus will be to

promote reading and learning the Bible and to create a deeper understanding of the Bible. He plans to achieve this by offering adult Scripture Study classes on a deanery level. Father Joy says that ultimately, he would love to establish a "Catholic Bible Institute" here in Alexandria.

"I believe that the key to

evangelization is education," he said. "In so many of the Pastoral Planning reports that the parishes did a few years ago, adult religious education and youth programs rated near the top of every list.

In the New Steubenville South office, Father Jose says he hopes the options and new venue of the Catholic youth conference this coming summer will create a new excitement among the participants and their chaperones.

The youth conference will move this year to the Alexandria Riverfront Center, where the accommodations will be a slightly smaller, but the options for meeting places and the environment itself will be more of a campus-like atmosphere.

Father Jose said he encourages all local youth groups to make reservations early to attend since he believes the 2013 will fill up quickly.

Registration for the 2013 New Steubenville South Youth Conference opened Nov. 5. The event is scheduled for June 21-23, 2013.

For more information, call the ORFT office at 318-445-6424, ext 221 or go online to register for Steubenville at www.steubenvillesouth.com

OFFICE OF RELIGIOUS FORMATION AND TRAINING. Staff members in the diocesan Office of Religious Formation and Training are (from left) Lynn Ray, campus ministry; Emily Ann McCullough, catechesis, Cathy Norris, administrative assistant; Luc Noel, young adult ministry; Father Joy Retnazihomoni, director; Morgan McCullough, ORFT assistant; and Father Jose Robles-Sanchez, Steubenville South coordinators.

Beautiful music crafted for your special celebration!

Scott Atkinson, violinDarla Jefferson, violin

Kristine Joubert, violaMargaret Waring, cello

318.792.5061 or [email protected]

Owner: LeMon-Sat 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

2102 MacArthur Dr. • Alexandria, LA • 318.445.6447

• Solar Nails• Solar Pink & White• Spa Pedicure• Acrylic

• Eyebrows• Spa Manicure• Gel Sealer• 3D Design

• Permanent Makeup (Lip, Eyeliner, Brow)• Eyelash Extension• Facials

Professional Services

10%disc. when you bring

in this ad!

Job Opening

SECRETARY/BOOKKEEPER Mary, Mother of Jesus Church in Woodworth seeks a part-time secretary/bookkeeper (12 hours/week). Must have excellent computer skills, including proficiency in Word and QuickBooks. Excel and Microsoft Publisher would also be helpful. Salary commensurate with experience. No benefits.

Send resume to P. O. Box 408,

Woodworth, LA 71485, or call 445-7554 or 487-9894.


OLS Cookie Jar offers homemade cookies, breads, gift baskets

OLS COOKIE JAR BAKERS. Sister Linda Norsworthy, OLS, head of the Cookie Jar stands in the old kitchen with Charlotte and Leanne after making a batch of fresh cinnamon rolls. The new location of the Cookie Jar opened Nov. 5.

By Jeannie PetrusCT editor

Hmmm... hot, fresh-baked cinnamon rolls right out the oven!

That's probably what will arouse your senses the minute you walk into the OLS Cookie Jar, a new bakery owned and operated by the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows, who also own and operate the OLS Community Homes, Inc, located at 347 Browns Bend Road.

Sister Linda Norsworthy OLS, cookie entrepreneur and Job Coach at the OLS Community Homes, never imagined the one request for baking some peanut butter cookies for a meeting six years ago would have lead to such a booming business.

"I thought the experience of baking cookies would be a great life skill lesson for my clients," she said.

For her "clients" -- adults with developmental disabilities, some of whom are former residents of St. Mary's Training Facility, who now live in community homes -- baking cookies would mean shopping for the ingredients, following a recipe, measuring and mixing, cleaning the kitchen, and delivering.

But after that one batch of cookies was delivered for the meeting, things began to happen. Everyone at the meeting loved the cookies, so they placed an order. Then the people at the

next meeting fell in love with Sister Linda's cookies, and they requested more and ..... it began to snowball.

Before Sister Linda knew it, she was in the cookie-making business and her clients loved helping her.

But the kitchen at the OLS office was small and not much room for many helpers. There was only one oven and a very small work area. But the cookie orders were coming in so fast, that Sister Linda mentioned to Sister Carla Bertani, OLS (former administrator of the OLS Community Homes and of St. Mary's, and present Superior

General of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows) that they could do so much more if they only had a little more space.

"We'll see," said Sister Carla in her usual non-chalant way.

Before Sister Linda knew it, plans were underway to

build not just a larger kitchen, but another building. The new building, located behind the OLS Community Home Office, includes a store front where

baked cookies are displayed for purchase, a prep room, a large commercial kitchen with stainless steel commercial appliances, and a spacious walk-in pantry. Two

NEW COMMERCIAL KITCHEN FOR THE COOKIE JAR. A new spacious commercial kitchen for The Cookie Jar will mean more room for food prepping and more space to accommodate more St. Mary's clients as they learn to bake cookies, muffins, and cinnamon rolls. The baked goods are sold by the dozen or can be arranged in beautiful gift baskets for the holidays or for any special occasion. To order, call 487-8897.


Let us help your family manage your financial goals.

*Education FundingFamily Risk ManagementSmall Business Planning

*Retirement Planning*Mutual Funds*Annuities

*Securities offered through HD Vest Investment ServicesSM, Member: SIPCAdvisory services are offered through HD Vest Advisory ServicesSM

6333 North State Highway 161, Fourth Floor, Irving, Texas 75038, 972-870-6000

Oestriecher Financial Management Services is not a broker/dealer or independent investment advisory firm.

4641 Windermere Place, Alexandria, LA 71303318-448-3556 • www.o-fms.com

Anne Oestriecher, CPA, CFP®Emile P. Oestriecher, III, CPA

Budget DJParties • WeddingsOver 30,000 songs

J.P. Louviere318-419-4487

The Music Don't Stop til the Last One Drops!

PAINT • FLOORING • WINDOW COVERINGS

318.443.844395 Bolton Ave. • Alexandria, LA

[email protected]

BRUNCH WITH THE BISHOP AWARD RECIPIENTS. Dr. and Mrs. Jose Garcia recipients of the St. Vincent de Paul Humanitarian Award, and 12 recipients of the Distinguished Service Award, were the honored guests at the Brunch with the Bishop held Oct. 27 at the Comfort Inn Suites Convention Center in Pineville. Pictured are (front row) Donna Culotta, Peggy Smith, Carol Hirchak, Vivian Garcia, Dot McWhorter, Laura Clark, Anna Beauxis, and Aggie Neck. Back row: Robert Hirchak, Dr. Jose Garcia, Bishop Ronald Herzog, Amos LaBorde, Rudy Mitchel, and John Tuminello. More than 400 people attended the event .

Bishop Herzog honors volunteers for their service in the Church

other rooms provide work space for bulk mailing and shredding projects, which also are done by the clients.

Sister Carla secured funding for some of the project and other funds were generated by fundraisers, friends of OLS and parents of the clients.

"The parents of the clients are very supportive of the project because of the skills and independence it gives the clients," said Sister Linda.

An Open House was held Nov. 10 to show off the new facility, but to also introduce the menu items and gift baskets available for the holidays and throughout the year.

"We make 20 varieties of cookies, 12 assortments of breads, muffins, and cinnamon rolls, starting at $6.00 a dozen," she said. "Orders must be placed two days in advance, and we can deliver or ship orders."

Gift baskets are made for any theme or special occasion. For more information, call 318-487-8897 or visit us on the web at www.olscookiejar.com.

Visit www.diocesealex.org

for the latestin diocesan news


Four easy ways to involve your children in Advent/Christmas

• Take cans of food to Manna House. Talk about feeding the hungry.

• Put money in the Salvation Army bucket. Talk about not having a place to sleep at night.

• Call grandma to say I love You and sing her a Christmas song.

• Sing "Away in a Manger" and talk about what it means.

• Set up Nativity scene in your home. Let them act out the story.

• Decorate the Christmas tree and talk about symbols of Christmas tree.

• Bake Christmas cookies together. Take cookies to grandma or neighbor.

• Visit nativity scene at church or a drive-thru nativity if there's one locally.

• Watch "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and discuss the true meaning.

• Color a picture of Mary and Jesus going to Bethlehem.

• Sing Christmas songs around Advent wreath or the Christmas tree.

• Drive around town looking at Christmas lights.

• Read the Christmas story.

• Feed the birds outside and talk about helping all God's creatures.

• Make popcorn garland or homemade ornaments for the tree.

• Make Happy Birthday card for Jesus or sing Happy Birthday to Jesus.

• Pick out, wrap, and donate a toy to local needy family.

For most kids, the weeks before Christmas are spent choosing gifts they want "Santa" to bring them, decorating the tree, and eating a surplus of homemade Christmas treats.

So, how can a family, who would like to instill the true meaning of Christmas in their kids, compete with Santa and all of the bright lights of Christmas?

Granted, it's not easy. The temptations to commercialize the season are everywhere. But there are ways. Parents just need to look for the opportunities and then make the time to teach them about Christmas, by involving them in fun experiences.

Advent WreathOne of the easiest ways

is through an Advent wreath. Whether you make a wreath out of paper, florist foam, or real candles and evergreen branches, making an Advent wreath can be a fun experience for the whole family.

Place the wreath in the center of the kitchen table where it can be seen daily, and print out Advent prayers from the Internet, to say together as a family, every evening.

Jesse TreeA Jesse tree is usually a

branch (can be painted) secured in a base, and decorated with biblical ornaments throughout the season. For each day, read part of the Christmas story and then make an ornament for the tree. The ornaments can be simple -- from colored drawings on paper to simple designs using felt fabric.Use paper clips to hang the ornaments.

Advent CalendarThere are so many Advent

calendars already on the market (and those can work), but most of them focus on "receiving gifts" each day and not on anything else.

Making an Advent calendar is easy. If you're not feeling crafty or creative, go online. The Internet offers thousands of ways to create a calendar, some even with videos to show you how.

Advent ChainA favorite Advent project

among families today is an Advent Chain. So easy to do, and even easier to make a lasting impression on your young ones.

The Advent Chain links 23 strips of paper (one for each day of Advent). Each link contains an activity to do with your children. Some things are quick and easy to do (good for a busy weeknight) while other activities may take longer to do (good for a weekend).Each day pull away one link from the chain and so whatever activity is listed.

At right, there are a few ideas for activities listed, but be creative and think of other ideas that are more age appropriate for your children. The idea is to engage your children in activities that will teach them about the birth of Jesus, thinking and giving to others, and enjoying family fun together.

All you'll need is some construction paper, a little glue or scotch tape, and a list of age appropriate ideas for involving your children in Advent.

Cut strips of construction paper 1/2 inch wide by 3-4 inches long. Attach an activity to each strip. Link the strips together to make a chain. Each day, have your chilld remove one strip and complete the suggested activity.

Hint: -- When linking the chain, keep in mind busy week nights. Link the activities that are quick and easy for week nights, and the more time consuming activities for the weekend.


NOV. 17-18 ST. FRANCES CABRINI CHRISTMAS SHOP. The Sanctuary Society of St. Frances Cabrini Church will host its annual Christmas Shop Nov. 17-18. Saturday, from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., there will be crafts, sweet shop, frozen foods, gift store and knit shop. Sunday, the events will continue and a pork dinner will be served from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. for $7 a plate.

NOV. 30 CHRISTMAS DANCE. St. Martin, Lecompte will host a Christmas Dance on Friday, Nov. 30 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. featuring "Ronnie Bryant and Friends. A cash bar and free hors d'oeuvres will be available. Admission is $25 a couple or $15 single. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Come join us for an evening of fun. For more information you may call the Church Office at 776-9480.

NOV. 30 'FOLLOW THE STAR' – “Follow the Star," the story of Christ’s birth, will be

acted out at the Martin Performing Arts Bldg on the campus of Louisiana College from 6 - 8 p.m. Admission free – Call 487-7194.

DEC. 1 NATCHITOCHES FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS. A day of parades, entertainment and famous fireworks show kicks off the 86th Festival of Lights in Natchitoches. For a complete schedule of events in Natchitoches for December, go to www.christmasfestival.com

DEC. 2 HOLIDAY ORCHESTRA CONCERT. Enjoy holiday selections

performed by the Rapides Symphony Orchestra, 2:30 p.m., Cough-Saunders Performing Arts Center, $25 for adults, $15 for seniors, $10 for students. Call 318-442-9709.

DEC. 2 LIVE NATIVITY – A Drive-thru Live Nativity featuring music, candle light and live animals will be presented Dec. 2 from 6 - 8 p.m. at First United Methodist Church on Jackson Street. Admission free –takes about 15 minutes to drive through. Call 443-5696

DEC. 4 LESSONS AND

A number of family-oriented events fill the Christmas calendar

CAROLS (Natchitoches). The NSU Chorale will present Lessons and Carols at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Natchitoches, 7:30 p.m. Free. Call 318-352-3422.

DEC. 5 OLPS LESSONS AND CAROLS (Alexandria) – The Prompt Succor Adult Choir, St. Cecilia Choir, Joyful Noise Singers, Teen Choir and Youth Band, Young Adult Youth Ministry and will perform a combination of carols, hymns, readings and choir music at OLPS Church, at 6:30 p.m. Admission free. Call 443-0614.

DEC. 7 PINEVILLE CHRISTMAS PARADE –Parade of floats and entertainment. 7 p.m. from Pineville High School to Main Street in Pineville. Admission free. Call 449-5650

DEC. 9 ALEXANDRIA CHRISTMAS PARADE. Parade of floats, bands, and groups, 2 p.m., from Frontage Road to Jackson Street in Alexandria. Free. Call 318-623-7359.

DEC. 11 RED RIVER CHORALE CHRISTMAS CONCERT. A festive celebration of the season in a variety of fresh and traditional choral music at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral –at 7:30 pm. Cost: $10 in advance, $15 at door. Call 484-4463.

DEC. 16 A CALVARY CHRISTMAS. An adult choir, student choir, children's choir, praise team, band and orchestry will weave a mixture of carols, timeless classics and new inspiring worship songs that lead us to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria, $5. Call 318-445-5640.

It won't take long to fill your calendar with events and parities of the season. Look for the family oriented events that help bring out the true meaning of Christmas.

Mobile App for Year of Faith called for by Pope Benedict XVI

This app, which went live Oct. 11, is titled “My Year of Faith.” The Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Ind., says that with its

mobile app, it is answering Pope Benedict XVI's call to use new

media and technology as part of a faith-building initiative. (CNS photo/Diocese of Fort Wayne-

South Bend)


Joyful Meditations for Every Day of Advent and the 12 Days of Christmas: Years A, B, and C

Christian joy is the constant awareness of the loving presence of Jesus, the Son of God, in our hearts.

Advent is a time when we open our minds and hearts to search for the light of love, compassion, and peace in the Word of God. It is a time set aside for more intentional reading of the Word of God-reading that leads to personal reflection, prayer, contemplation, and humble service to others.

Advent challenges us to remove the barriers of arrogance, sadness, selfishness, and greed that hinder us from welcoming Christ with joy and living in communion with him and our brothers and sisters.

The true meaning of Advent and Christmas finds its voice in Joyful Meditations for Every Day of Advent and the 12 Days of

Welcome Baby Jesus: Advent and Christmas Reflections for Families

Advent is a season almost forgotten by the secular world. With new toys & electronics out there, why should we focus on

Daybreaks: Daily Reflections for Advent and Christmas

All who seek escape from the commercial distractions of the holiday season will find a welcome spiritual retreat in the pages of Daybreaks. These daily reflections open the door to the wonder and beauty of Advent and Christmas and lead to the true peace that only Christ can give.

By Bishop Robert Morneau ISBN: 9780764819322 Size: 5.5" X 8.25 Inches, 48 pagesPrice: $1.25

Christmas. From the First Sunday of Advent through Christmas and Epiphany for each liturgical year (A, B, and C), this book will help prepare for and deepen our experience this holy season.

Opening each daily reflection is a Scripture quote from the day's readings. The reflection then reaches out to us in our busy lives to consider what God's Word has to offer us during the holidays.

Next, a thought to ponder brings home the message for you-to really apply the reading and reflection to your life. Now say a Prayer, an offering and petition to the Lord in our anticipation of his arrival; finally a practice, a chance to change your daily routine in simple ways to bring God's love to your life this joyous season.

To order, go to Liguori Publications at www.liguori.org

By Rev. Warren J. Savage, and Mary Ann McSweeny ISBN: 9780764819407Size: 4.125" X 7" Inches, 128 pagesPrice: $8.99

this time of anticipation? Sarah A. Reinhard designed

Welcome Baby Jesus for you and your family to capture some of what's intended by the liturgical season of Advent. Each day has a Scripture quote from the Sunday gospel readings, a brief reflection, and an action to complete.

With each passing Sunday, your Advent Wreath will grow brighter, your family's faith stronger, and the true meaning of this season will be discovered.

By Sarah A. ReinhardISBN: 9780764819971 Size: 5.5" X 8.25" X .1", 48 pagesPrice: $1.99

Liguori Publications offers Advent reflections for all agesPreparing for Advent with

daily meditations or reflections is an easy way to grow in your faith during this holy season.

Browsing the Internet for Catholic publishers will produce a number of excellent sites filled with resources for Advent and Christmas, that is sure to meet the needs of all ages in your family.

Liguori Publications is one of many Catholic publishers found on the Internet. Selected below from their website-- www.liguori.org -- are a few of the many resources available.


Here Comes the Boom extols Christian virtue, self-sacrificeBy Joseph McAleer

Catholic News Service

NEW YORK (CNS) -- Perseverance pays off big time in "Here Comes the Boom" (Columbia), the unlikely yet inspiring tale of an ordinary man who goes to extraordinary lengths to help others.

Directed by Frank Coraci and starring Catholic actor Kevin James -- who also co-wrote the screenplay with Allan Loeb -- "Here Comes the Boom" is that Hollywood rarity, a film which extols Christian virtue. In this case the quality being showcased is self-sacrifice as James' character displays the altruism needed to turn around a failing public school.

Scott Voss (James) is a washed-up biology teacher at fictional Wilkinson High School in Boston. A decade ago he was "Teacher of the Year"; today, he's uninterested and bored -- more baby-sitter than educator. The wicked Principal Betcher (Greg Germann) runs Wilkinson like a business, cutting salaries and activities at will.

Scott can't even get the girl; Bella (Salma Hayek), the aptly named school nurse, repeatedly turns down his requests for a date.

What rouses Scott from his personal and professional slumber is the beautiful music

MOVIE

REVIEWNow Playing at

Grand 14 TheatreAlexandria

• Alex Cross (PG-13)• Here Comes the Boom (PG)• Hotel Translyvania (PG)• Pitch Perfect (PG-13)• Skyfall (PG-13)• Taken (PG-13)• Wreck-It Ralph (PG)

• Cloud Atlas (R)• Flight (R)• Paranormal Activity 4 (R)• Silent Hill Reveltion (R)• Sinister (R)• The Man with the Iron Fists (R)

being made in the classroom next door by his colleague Marty Streb (Henry Winkler) and Marty's student orchestra.

Marty's zest for teaching -- and life in general -- stirs something in Scott. So when Principal Betcher announces that the music program is to be

eliminated -- along with Marty's job -- Scott rises to the occasion, pledging to raise the $48,000 necessary to keep the activity in place.

At first, Scott tries to raise the funds by conventional means, moonlighting as a tutor for immigrants seeking to become

U.S. citizens. One of his students, Niko (Bas Rutten), is a former mixed martial arts fighter (as is Rutten in real life). There's big money to be had by entering the cage, Scott discovers, and taking on the sport which combines boxing, kickboxing, karate, judo and wrestling.

A one-time college wrestler, Scott decides to channel his inner "Rocky" and become a cage fighter. Despite being beaten to a pulp in each bout, Scott inspires his students and co-workers -- especially Bella, who tenderly patches up his wounds.

Amid some extreme cage-fighting violence, "Here Comes the Boom" offers up a few welcome Christian references.

A crucifix hangs above Scott's bed. He gathers his support team together in prayer before the big fight. And around the dinner table, his fellow fighters discuss the Bible, admiring Jacob's all-night wrestling match with the angel as recounted in Chapter 32 of the Book of Genesis. Jacob lost that battle -- but ultimately won out through faith in God and submission to his will.

"Here Comes the Boom" reaches a similar resolution, albeit with more humor and a much louder soundtrack.

The film contains realistic martial arts sequences, a brief scene of gross-out humor and

CATHOLIC ACTOR KEVIN JAMES IN SCENE FROM MOVIE 'HERE COMES THE BOOM'. Kevin James is pictured in a scene from the movie "Here Comes the Boom." The Catholic actor, who played Doug Heffernan for nine seasons on the CBS sitcom "King of Queens" and has since branched out into movies, says he no hesitation about discussing his faith and values and how that affects his career. (CNS photo/Sony)

one instance of crass language. The Catholic News Service classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

McAleer is a guest reviewer for Catholic News Service.

334 Acton Road • Marksville, LAOffice Hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Available 24-7

Jason Aymond, Manager(318) 240-7188

Affiliated with Kilpatrick Life Insurance Co.since 1932


DIOCESAN

BRIEFS

WINNER OF SAINTS TICKETS. Carol Feldcamp (left) present-ed two tickets to the Nov. 11 Saints game in New Orleans, to Carre' Soileau. Carre' won the tickets in a raffle held recently by the St. Frances Cabrini Sanctuary Society.

Louis Lowrey, M.A.Licensed Professional Counselor

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Offices located at 207 Church Street, Natchitoches(318) 332-8422 • Pager (318) 252-2945

[email protected]

Mail: 109 Royal Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457

MENARD RELIGION FACULTY AT UD MINISTRY CONFER-ENCE. Members of Holy Savior Menard’s Religion Department visit with the newly retired Cardinal of Los Angeles, His Emmi-nence Roger Cardinal Mahoney, after his keynote address at the annual UD Ministry Conference in Irving, TX. Pictured are Derek Ducote, Cardinal Mahoney, Jessica Evans, John Fryer, and Christine Gormsen (in back).

VirtusTraining

• Thursday, Nov. 29, 6 p.m., St. Anthony of Padua Church, Bunkie To pre-register, attendees should go to www.virtus.org and click on Registration to begin the registration process. For more info, call 445-6424, ext. 213

Native American Mass

Native Americans from around the Diocese of Alexandria will participate at the 4 p.m. Mass on Saturday, Nov. 17 at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. Bishop Ronald Herzog will be the celebrant at this annual Mass. All are invited.

Training Program for CCD and DREs

The Johannes Hofinger Conference (an outstanding training program for DREs and CCD teachers) will be held Jan. 3-5 in New Orleans. It also includes a clergy day as well. If anyone from the diocese would like to attend, please contact Emily Ann McCullough at 445-6424, ext 251 by Nov. 29. If we register as a group, we can receive a discount. For more information, go to www.hofingerconference.org. -- Fr. Joy, director of RFT office.

Holy Spirit Retreat

The annual Holy Spirit Women's Retreat will be held Jan. 25-27, 2013 at the Lafayette Hilton. The theme is "Woman, Great Is Your Faith" to highlight the Pope's call for a Year of Faith. Leading the retreat will be Deacon Larry Oney, Michelle Moran, and Fr. Joe Krafft of Notre Dame Seminary. Register online at www.ccrno.org or call 504-828-1368. This retreat is sponsored by the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of New Orleans and has been held for over 25 years, drawing hundreds of women from the Gulf South.

Cookie Jar Fundraiser

Don't miss the OLS Cookie Jar's evening of Louisiana food, music, and fun Dec. 1 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the St. Rita Family Life Center. For only $25 per person, enjoy a cajun chicken and sausage gumbo dinner, dance to the music of a live cajun band, and participate in a silent and live auction. You could own one of the many autographed LSU and Saints items or the chance to win $500! Sponsored by the Our Lady of Sorrows (OLS) Cookie Jar. For more information, call 487-8897.

In Your Face

St. Frances Cabrini Church will host In Your Face 2012 on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. for all high school youths. Michael Gormley, from St. Laurence Catholic Church in Sugarland, Texas, will be the featured speaker. His ministry's focus is the spiritual, moral and intellectual formation of youth. Paul Hood will also be a featured guest. Registration by Nov. 19 is $20; registration after Nov. 19 is $25. For more information, call Gennie Ashy at 445-4588 or email [email protected] or go to www.cabrinichurch.com

Miracles of the Eucharist Exhibit

The Eucharistic Miracles of the World Exhibit is being shown at several places in the diocese. The exhibit consists of 142 plasticized panels featuring 126 miracles, 17 poster maps that show where the miracles are located in each country and two historical European maps. The exhibit will be held at:

• Nov. 15-18 Bunkie: St. Anthony of Padua Church in Bunkie will host the Eucharistic exhibit Nov. 15-18. Hours are Thursday-Saturday (Nov. 15-17) from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday (Nov. 18) from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. The exhibit will be on display at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 106 S. Louisiana, in Bunkie. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

• Dec. 4-9 Plaucheville: Mater Dolorosa in Plaucheville will host the Eucharistic exhibit Dec. 4-7, from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. in the KC Hall. On Saturday, Dec. 8, from 2-6 p.m. and on Sunday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. The exhibit is free and open the public.

(For more information on bringing the exhibit to your parish, call Emily Ann at 445-6424, ext. 251.)

ST. JOSEPH CDA (Marksville) LITES LUMINARIES FOR ALL SOULS DAY. Court Van de Putten C.D.A. St. Joseph Church. Marksville held its first annual All Souls Memorial Luminary Lighting. Approximately 300 personalized Luminary bags were displayed in the form of a huge cross on the lawn of St. Joseph's Church Office. Following the All Saints Day evening Mass, a prayer service was conducted by Fr. Rusty Rabalais, Pastor and Fr. Rumji Shoury. The bags were lit and the names of each personalized bag of deceased loved ones were read aloud. The Memorial Luminary bags remained lit through the night for All Souls Day.


November -- December

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Lessons & Carols7:30 p.m.Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches

Lessons & Carols6:30 p.m.Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Alexandria

VIRTUS Training6:00 p.m.St. Anthony of Padua, Bunkie

Pineville Christmas Parade7:00 p.m.

In Your Face Rally9:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.St. Frances Cabrini, Alexandria

Cookie Jar Gumbo Dinner6:00-9:00 p.m.St. Rita Holy Family Center, Alexandria

Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Pilgrimage site

Adult Formation Program Series10:00 a.m.St. Francis Xavier Cathedral Convent Bldg, Alexandria

Year of Faith2:30-3:30 p.m.St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria

PRAY FOR FR. J. O'BRIEN

PRAY FOR FR. J. PALLIPURATH

PRAY FOR FR. C. RAY

PRAY FOR FR. R. SHOURY

PRAY FOR FR. D. O'CONNOR

PRAY FOR FR. J. PARDUE

PRAY FOR FR. J. RETNAZIHAMONI

PRAY FOR FR. P. SIERRA-POSADA

PRAY FOR FR. C. OGBONNA

PRAY FOR FR. C. PARTAIN

PRAY FOR FR. J. ROBLES-SANCHEZ

PRAY FOR FR. L. SKLAR

PRAY FOR FR. W. OKOT

PRAY FOR FR. T. PAUL

PRAY FOR FR. E. RODRIGUEZ

PRAY FOR FR. S. SOARES

PRAY FOR FR. R. OWUAMANAM

PRAY FOR FR. G. POOKKATTU

PRAY FOR FR. J. ROY

PRAY FOR FR. I. ST. ROMAIN

PRAY FOR FR. J. PALATHARA

PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG

PRAY FOR FR. J. RYAN

PRAY FOR MSGR. S. TESTA

PRAY FOR FR. R. RABALAIS

PRAY FOR FR. C. SCOTT

PRAY FOR FR. K. TEXADA

DECEMBER

FIRST SATURDAY

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

PRAY FOR FR. B. PALLIPPARAMBIL

Christmas Dance8:00-11:00 p.m.St. Martin Church, Lecompte

FIRST FRIDAY

Rapides Symphony Holiday Concert2:30 p.m.Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center, Alexandria

Alexandria ChristmasParade2:00 p.m.

Red River ChoraleChristmas Concert7:30 p.m.St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria

Adult Faith Formation Series6:30-7:30 p.m.St. Joseph Church, Marksville

Native American Mass4:00 p.m.St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria

PRAY FOR FR. J. MONTALBANO PRAY FOR FR. C. MORGAN PRAY FOR FR. P. NADAMKUZHY PRAY FOR FR. C. NAYAK PRAY FOR FR. J. NELLIKUNNEL PRAY FOR FR. M. NOEL PRAY FOR FR. K. OBIEKWE

Miracles of the Eucharist Exhibit -- St. Anthony Church, BunkieVETERANS DAY

THANKSGIVING

FIRST WEEKADVENT

SECOND WEEKADVENT

THIRD WEEKADVENT

SOLEMNITY of theIMMACULATECONCEPTION(Holy Day of Obligation)

FEAST ofOUR LADY ofGUADALUPE

MEMORIAL ofST. FRANCIS

XAVIER

FEAST OFCHRIST THE KING

St. Frances Cabrini Christmas Shop

Diocesan Offices closed

Miracles of the Eucharist Exhibit -- Mater Dolorosa, Plaucheville

Miracles of the Eucharist Exhibit -- Mater Dolorosa, Plaucheville