February 4 - The Catholic Commentator

19 Pages·2014·12.2 MB·English

t h e C a t h o l i C
C
ommentator
Wintry weather
creates havoc
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February 7, 2014 Vol. 51, No. 26 Serving the DioceSe of Baton rouge Since 1963 thecatholiccommentator.org
life support
Deacon Johnson
answers rare call
By Barbara Chenevert
The Catholic Commentator
Growing up, Deacon Josh Johnson didn’t think
black people became priests or religious.
He went to public school. Most of his friends
were Protestant. And he had no religious role
models.
“As a biracial
Catholic, one of
the challenges
of growing up
and discern-
ing a vocation
was the reality
that I did not know any black priests or religious
brothers,” Deacon Johnson said.
When he is ordained to the priesthood in May,
he will be one of only three native son blacks to be
ordained as a diocesan priest for the Diocese of
Baton Rouge. Bishop Shelton Fabre of New Roads
and the late Father Louis Oubre of Vacherie were
the others.
“It is a reality that I will be the only ‘native’ bi-
racial priest in the diocese. This reality motivates
Pilgrims from the Diocese of Baton Rouge march with their signs and chant and pray during March for Life on Jan. me on many levels to be a joyful witness of the
22 at Washington, D.C. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator priesthood so that I may encourage other men
of color to discern if they are being called by our
Lord to this gift of a vocation,” he said.
Youth speak out for unborn at U.S. Capitol
Deacon Johnson is the son of a father, who is
black and a faithful Methodist, and a mother, who
is white and a faithful Catholic.
By Debbie Shelley ture of life. How do we get it? Prayer ments about themselves, and peo- Priesthood was also not on his list of potential
The Catholic Commentator and sacrifice.” ple guessed who it was and which careers “because of the lack of attraction I had
The 24-hour-plus bus ride in- were the truths and which one was toward the Catholic Church as a child.” Although
Nine buses packed with young cluded numerous activities to en- a lie. Additionally, the youth prac- his parents agreed to raise their children Catho-
people, adult chaperones, youth courage bonding among the par- ticed a flashmob dance to the tune lics, “My brothers and I were more interested in
leaders, priests and seminar- ticipants: Irish fire drills, in which “Kung Fu Fighting,” via a video fea- the things of the world growing up, so we would
ians departed Jan. 18 from various youth were instructed to move at turing Deacon Joshua Johnson. often try to skip Mass and hang out with our
parts of the Baton Rouge Diocese Technology played a role dur- friends instead.”
“What do we want? A
to Washington, D.C., to join in the ing the trip. One bus leader, Jason Deacon Johnson said all that changed after he
Jan. 22 March for Life to speak out Romero, confirmation and youth received the sacrament of confirmation. He was
culture of life. How do
for the life of the unborn. Each of director of Our Lady of Mercy invited on a retreat, and during his time before the
the buses had a nickname and pa- Church in Baton Rouge, shared Blessed Sacrament, he “realized the emptiness in
we get it? Prayer and
tron saint. tweets. One was from Pope Fran- my heart and the way in which it was never satis-
The theme of the pilgrimage was cis: “I join the March for Life in fied by anything the world had to offer me. While I
sacrifice.”
“Made for Christ,” based on St. Au- Washington with my prayers. May knelt before our Lord in the Eucharist, I perceived
gustine’s saying, “And our hearts God help us respect all life, espe- his intimate and infinite love for me, and I knew
are restless until they rest in you.” least seven seats away from where cially the most vulnerable.” In not- that only he would satisfy my longings. At the
Bishop Robert W. Muench, who they were currently sitting so they ing the progress that the pro-life same time I felt the call to priesthood.”
later joined the pilgrims at the na- can sit with someone new; re-writ- movement is having in stopping But he still faced another obstacle. How was he
tion’s capital, welcomed and blessed ing the lyrics to “You’ve Got a Friend abortion, he also shared a tweet, going to tell his friends he was going to the semi-
the travelers leaving from the Cath- in Me,” from the movie “Toy Story” including a web link, by Planned nary? “It took a me a long time before I was able
olic Life Center in Baton Rouge. to reflect a more pro-life message; Parenthood, which he said he does to share my calling with my friends. I thought
The youth then practiced a rallying playing “Two Truths and a Lie,” not follow: “Why it’s getting harder they would think I was crazy … and many of them
chant that they used for the rest of in which people wrote down two to access an abortion in America – did not find out about me applying to the semi-
the trip: “What do we want? A cul- factual and one non-factual state- See Capitol Page 9 See Johnson Page 20
2 The Catholic Commentator February 7, 2014
| |
IN THIS ISSUE DID YOU KNOW
Voice of African-American Catholics
AreA pro-life supporters speAk BlAck history month should be a
out regarding time of celebration and unification, not
New York an opportunity to advance racial beliefs. Did you know that of Baton Rouge: St.
Gov. Andrew pAge 16 both the U.S. Confer- Augustine in New
Cuomo’s | ence of Catholic Bish- Roads; St. Benedict
comments in the next issue ops and the Diocese of the Moor in Bertrand-
taking aim Baton Rouge have of- ville; St. Francis Xavi-
at abortion fices designated as the er, St. Paul the Apos-
opponents and supporters of the Second official voice of the Af- tle and Immaculate
Amendment. pAge 3 rican-American Cath- Conception in Baton
olic community? Rouge; St. James in
Bishop Shelton Fab- St. James; St. Cather-
Lent is rapidly approaching. The
re, a native of New Roads and bishop of the ine of Siena in Donaldsonville; and Most
Catholic Commentator will feature the
Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, chairs US- Sacred Heart in Gramercy.
annual special section, Lent 2014, filled
CCB’s Subcommittee on African-Ameri- The majority of African-American
with recipes, fasting and abstinence regu-
emotions gripped young people can Affairs. Memphis Bishop Terry Steib, church parishes are located in the South
lations, fund raisers, retreats and opportu-
from the Diocese of Baton Rouge during a a native of Vacherie, is also a member of and on the East Coast, the USCCB said.
nities for spiritual renewal.
recent visit to the United States Holocaust that subcommittee. About 76 percent of African-Amer-
Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. | Locally Deacon Alfred Adams heads ican Catholics are in diverse or shared
pAge 7 index the Office of Black Catholics for the Dio- parishes and 24 percent are in predom-
cese of Baton Rouge. inately African-American parishes, ac-
Classified ads 18
lsu junior According to the USCCB, there are cording to the USCCB.
sArAh hill Coming events 18 3 million African-American Catholics Five U.S. dioceses are headed by Afri-
had her hope entertainment 14 in the United States, out of a total black can-American bishops, one in Louisiana:
renewed in family life 5 population of just more than 36 mil- Houma-Thibodaux which is lead by Bish-
the cause of international/national neWs 4 lion. op Fabre. There are 250 African-Amer-
supporting Of the Catholic Church parishes in ican priests, 437 deacons, 400 religious
letter to tHe editor 16
life after this country, 798 are considered to be sisters and 50 religious brothers. Sev-
spirituality 7
attending primarily African-American. Eight of enty-five men of African descent are in
March for Life vieWpoint 16 those are located within the Diocese See african-americans page 3
in Washington, D.C. pAge 13 youtH 12
|
Pray for those who Pray for us
S U
end S Please pray for the priests, deacons and religious women and men in the Baton Rouge Diocese.
Feb. 10 Rev. J. Cary Bani Feb. 17 Rev. Matthew S. Bonk CSsR
Dcn. Larry J. Melancon Dcn. Ricky P. Oubre
Y L
oUr enten Sr. Penny Prophit OSF Sr. Thérèse St. Pierre CSJ
Feb. 11 Rev. Frank B. Bass Feb. 18 Rev. Jules A. Brunet
Dcn. James J. Morrissey Dcn. Stephen Paul Ourso
e Sr. Maria Rabalais CSJ Br. Lincoln Sigwald SC
Spiritual Renewal! ventS Feb. 12 Rev. M. Jeffery Bayhi Feb. 19 Rev. Gerald H. Burns
Dcn. Jodi A. Moscona Dcn. Ricky A. Patterson
Sr. Anne Michelle Ramagos CSJ Sr. Lucy Silvio CSJ

and Feb. 13 Rev. Mark B. Beard Feb. 20 Rev. John J. Callahan SJ
Dcn. Leon Roy Murphy Jr. Dcn. Curles P. Reeson Jr.
Sr. Geraldine Riendeau CSJ Sr. Camille Simoneaux CSJ
r ! Feb. 14 Rev. Gary Belsome Feb. 21 Rev. Peter J. Callery SJ
ecipeS
Dcn. Donald J. Musso Dcn. Frank W. Rhodes Jr.
Br. Marcel Riviere SC Sr. Mary Hilary Simpson OP
Feb. 15 Msgr. Robert H. Berggreen Feb. 22 Rev. Joseph M. Camilleri
Issue Date: February 21; Deadline: February 12 Dcn. Roger A. Navarra Dcn. Alfred J. Ricard Jr.
Sr. Brendan Mary Ronayne OSF Sr. Linda Songy SCSC
LEnt begins this year March 5 and ends April 18. The Catholic
Feb. 16 Rev. Donald V. Blanchard Feb. 23 Rev. John Carville
Commentator will publish its annual Lenten section in print and Dcn. Angelo S. Nola Dcn. Thomas M. Robinson
online at thecatholiccommentator.org Sr. Cynthia Sabathier CSJ Sr. Mary Ann Sullivan CSJ
Lent 2014 will feature:
• Opportunities for Spiritual Renewal
• Lenten Retreats
• Seafood/Lenten Recipes
• Fasting & Abstinence regulations in the Baton Rouge Diocese thecatholiccommentator.org | Facebook.com/TheCatholicCommentator
• Fund raisers sponsored by churches, schools and Catholic
Bishop Robert W. Muench Publisher Wanda L. Koch Advertising Manager
organizations Father Than Vu Associate Publisher Penny G. Saia Advertising Sales
Richard Meek Editor Lisa Disney Secretary/Circulation
For advertising opportunities call 225-387-0983.
Debbie Shelley Assistant Editor Barbara Chenevert Staff Writer
Email recipes to: [email protected]
The Catholic Commentator (ISSN 07460511; USPS 093-680)
FAX: [phone]; or Published bi-weekly (every other week) by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge,1800 South Acadian Thru-
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Rouge, LA 70898-4746.
February 7, 2014 The Catholic Commentator 3
Pro-life supporters react to governor’s comments
By Richard Meek abortion. the right to bear arms and (sup- it seem he believes “conservatives believe that.”
The Catholic Commentator Van Haute said she hopes the port) traditional marriage, your should leave New York. The gover- Catholic News Service con-
comments were not timed so as opinions and beliefs are too ex- nor did not say that, nor does he tributed to this report.
Danielle Van Haute, the direc- to distract from the march but if treme” for the governor, he said.
tor of the Respect Life Ministry for so, then “they simply helped to Cuomo, a Catholic, made his
the Diocese of Baton Rouge, said further motivate those involved in comments in a Jan. 17 interview
she and other south Louisiana the pro-life movement. on the public radio show “Capitol
pro-life supporters were stunned “I think it’s a prime example of Pressroom.” In it the governor
at the recent comments of New intolerance towards people that criticized some Republican can-
York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who do not conform to the governor’s didates running for office on their
said that abortion opponents and ideals.” opposition to the SAFE Act, a
other “extreme conservatives” Given the opportunity to speak measure that among other things
have “no place in the state of New with Cuomo, Van Haute said she requires universal background
York.” would point out how alienating his checks on gun purchases and
Cuomo defined extreme con- comments were, especially to the bans assault weapons.
servatives as individuals who are Catholic Church. Cuomo said “moderate Repub-
“right to life, pro-assault weapons, “Change is not going to hap- licans” voted for it but the Repub-
anti-gay. If they are the extreme pen, in any situation, unless there licans who oppose it have a “prob-
conservatives, they have no place is more meaningful dialogue lem.”
in the state of New York. Because and less extremist comments,” “Their problem is not me and
that is not who New Yorkers are.” she said. “Success in the pro-life Democrats. Their problem is
Van Haute expressed “shock movement is not about changing themselves,” he said.
at how direct the comments were. laws but hearts and minds. That is His remarks prompted Dennis
It’s very disappointing.” why dialogue is so important.” Poust, communications director
“I understand that the com- Nationally, pro-life supporters for the New York State Catho-
ments were made off-the-cuff but and members of two Republican lic Conference, to tweet a mes-
I think they are very telling,” she organizations asked Cuomo to is- sage the same day: “My governor
added. “Other pro-lifers have also sue a formal apology for his com- thinks there’s no place in NY for
shown shock and disappointment. ments. people like me. Can I get a state
Instead of being discouraging, the Cuomo, a Democrat, “is in- grant to relocate?”
comments were just another mo- sisting that political and religious On Jan. 19, Cuomo issued an
LOUISIANA LIFE MARCH – Approximately 2,500 pro-life sup-
tivator to stand up and defend life conservatives should leave New open letter to the editor regard-
porters gathered for the annual Louisiana Life March, which
and human dignity.” York state,” said Phil Orenstein, ing the New York Post’s coverage
featured a march from the Old State Capitol to the current State
The comments came days be- 71, president of Queens Village of his remarks. The story had the
Capitol on Jan. 18. Supporters were vocal in their opposition of
fore the annual March for Life Republican Club, the nation’s old- headline “Gov. Cuomo to conser-
a proposed Planned Parenthood in New Orleans. Several speak-
Rally held in Washington, D.C., est Republican group, founded in vatives: Leave NY.”
ers addressed the crowd on the steps of the Capitol. photo by mor-
the anniversary of the day of the 1875. Cuomo’s letter said the Post
gan Kelley | The Catholic Commentator
Supreme Court decision legalizing “So if you’re pro-life, support “distorted” the interview, making
LOST YOUR SPOUSE?
Anniversary Mass scheduled Feb. 23
by either death or
divorce/separation
By Richard Meek celebrate couples in our diocese we welcome you to join us in
Beginning Experience Weekend
The Catholic Commentator that have reached 25, 50, or 65 this special Mass with Bishop
plus years of marriage,” said Muench.” can give you a new start!
Couples who have been mar- Shannon Baldridge of the dioc- The families of the honored
ried 25, 50, 65 years or longer esan Office of Marriage & Fam- couples are also invited to at- For Information Contact:
are invited to participate in the ily Life. “The many years of joys tend the liturgy and reception, Ms. Armand Cahill [phone]
annual Mass honoring their and struggles these couples have Baldridge said.
Ms. Michele Benoit [phone]
years together scheduled Feb. 23 gone through together are a trib- Couples celebrating these
at 3 p.m. at Our Lady of Mercy ute to their perseverance, love specific wedding anniversaries
Church in Baton Rouge. and sacrifice. are invited to register through
Bishop Robert W. Muench “They also stand as a monu- their church office. Because of
will celebrate the Mass, which ment to God’s grace, which al- limited resources, the Office of
will be followed by a reception in lows us all to accomplish great Marriage & Family Life is ask-
the activity center. things beyond our capabilities. ing couples not to register unless
“We are eager to once again In celebration of these couples, they are planning to attend. Thinking about a will?
Request a free Wills Kit from CRS.
african-americans: Integration of the culture
Learn what you need to know
From page 2 ministry, evangelization, social socio-cultural dimension of the before you see an attorney.
seminary formation for the justice, worship, development of African-American Catholic com-
priesthood, according to the US- leaders and other areas of con- munity and identify or create 1-800-235-2772
CCB. cern,” according to the USCCB resources that would allow for
The USCCB subcommittee website. It also seeks to be a re- an authentic integration of the CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES
“attends to the needs and aspira- source for the bishops and the richness of African-American
Giving hope to a world of need.
tions of African-American Cath- Catholic Church in the United Catholic culture and the Catholic
olics regarding issues of pastoral States. It aims to articulate the Church in the United States.
4 The Catholic Commentator national | international February 7, 2014
2015 celebration of religious life won’t ignore problems, officials say
VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Pope Fran- represented the breath of the Holy Spir- living through,” he said. “We consecrat- Commemorating the Second Vati-
cis has called for a special yearlong focus it not only for the entire church, but in ed people, thanks be to God, are part of can Council during the Year for Conse-
on consecrated life, asking the church’s a particular way for consecrated life,” the societies of this world.” crated Life will not mean ignoring “the
religious sisters, brothers and priests to Cardinal Aviz said. In October, the archbishop wrote shadows,” but it also will not mean wal-
“wake up the world” with their testimo- “We are also convinced that in these that from 2008 to 2012, the congrega- lowing in them, the archbishop said.
ny of faith, holiness and hope, a Vatican 50 years, consecrated life has followed tion for religious issued 11,805 dispen- “We believe the council was a breath
official said. a fruitful path of renewal – certainly sations, releasing men and women from of the Holy Spirit and the point of de-
“Consecrated men and women are not without difficulties and struggles,” their religious vows. Other religious re- parture for a profound renewal of con-
aware that besides recounting the great the cardinal said. “In this year, we want ceived dispensations from the congre- secrated life, which retains its evangeli-
stories they have written in the past, to recognize and confess our weakness- gations for the Doctrine of the Faith, cal significance,” he said.
they are called to write a no-less-beau- es, but we also want to show the world for Bishops and for Clergy, bringing “It’s sad when a consecrated person
tiful and great story in the future,” said with strength and joy the holiness and to about 3,000 the average number of leaves, just as its sad that many families
Cardinal Joao Braz de Aviz, prefect of vitality that are present in consecrated perpetually professed religious who left break up, but this is part of the reality
the Congregation for Institutes of Con- life.” each year. of grace and sin that exist in the church
secrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Responding to questions about the The figures, he said, work out to be and every human reality,” he added.
Life. huge numbers of religious who have about 2.5 dispensations annually for Cardinal Aviz said a key challenge of
At a news conference Jan. 31, the left consecrated life since the council, every 1,000 consecrated men and wom- being Christian and being a religious is
cardinal spoke about plans for the 2015 Archbishop Jose Rodriguez Carballo, en with perpetual vows. The Vatican’s looking toward the future with hope.
Year for Consecrated Life, which Pope congregation secretary, said: “In con- Statistical Yearbook reported that at “We want to see these crises not as an
Francis announced in November. secrated life, there are lights and shad- the end of 2011, there were more than antechamber of death, but as a ‘kairos,’
The congregation hopes Pope Fran- ows, and recognizing this is an exercise 903,300 religious priests, brothers and a favorable occasion for growth” and
cis will celebrate the year’s opening of lucidity and courage. There are lights sisters in the world; however, that figure the Year for Consecrated Life should be
Mass Nov. 21, when the church marks and shadows, just as in every area of includes those with temporary vows. a further push for doing so, he said.
a day of prayer for cloistered religious. the life of society and of the church.”
The events would conclude one year lat- The archbishop said he had no prob-
Temptation is a fact of life; no one
er on the 50th anniversary of the prom- lem talking about, and even publishing
ulgation of the Second Vatican Council in the Vatican newspaper, the number
decree “Perfectae Caritatis” on the re- of priests, brothers and nuns who leave
is immune to sin, pope says
newal of religious life. religious life each year.
“We are convinced that the council “It’s part of the crisis that society is
VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Temptation the sin” of adultery, the pope said, “but

is a normal part of life’s struggle, and how David behaves.” He doesn’t see what
anyone who claims to be immune from it he’s done as a sin, but as a problem to fix,
ReseRve youR table today for a
is either a little angel visiting from heav- the pope said.
Romantic Candlelight and White Linen en or “a bit of an idiot,” Pope Francis said. In the “Our Father,” Christians pray
The biggest problem in the world, in to the Lord “thy kingdom come,” he said.
Dining Experience! fact, isn’t temptation or sin, rather it is But when people lose all sense of sin, he
people deluding themselves that they’re said, they also lose the sense that God,
not sinners and losing any sense of sin, his glory and kingdom must be at the
he said Jan. 31 during his early morning center of their daily life.
♥ For Starters: Fried Green Tomatoes Mass in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, What emerges instead is a vision of
where he lives. man as “super powerful, in which ‘I can
or Fried Eggplant with Grilled Shrimp or
“All of us are sinners and all of us are do anything.’”
crabmeat
tempted; temptation is our daily bread,” “Salvation will not come through our
♥ Surf-n-Turf with Grilled/Blackened/Fried Shrimp he said, according to Vatican Radio. cunning, our shrewdness” or savvy in
♥ 20-oz Angus Handcut Ribeye “If someone tells us, ‘Well, I have nev- wheeling and dealing, he said. “Salva-
er been tempted,’” that person is either “a tion will come from the grace of God”
♥ 8-oz. Filet topped with Lump Crabmeat
cherub or a bit of an idiot, right?” he said. and praying daily for that grace.
♥ Trout Almondine The battle against sin and temptation Many people like Uriah end up paying
♥ Pecan Redfish/Suzy-Q's Redfish “is normal in life,” he said, because the a high price for other people’s pride and
devil is always up to something “and he for Christians who are too self-assured
♥ Crawfish & Lump Crabmeat Elegante over
wants victory.” to see and confess their sin, he said.
Angel Hair Pasta
The pope reflected on the day’s read- “This human pride, also when I see
♥ Louisiana Seafood Platter, Broiled or Fried ing from the Second Book of Samuel, the danger that it’s happening to me, the
in which David commits adultery with danger of losing the sense of sin, it’s good
♥ PDudesdsienrgt so: r Bcahoiloesye's oWne hoitfe oCuhro 4c0ol aHteo mBermeaadde resPtlaeuarsaen tv aienwd ocuart efurilnl g BUartiahhsh tehbea H aitntdit et, hkeilnle dh ains bhaetrt leh uassb aa lnadst, ftohrr omuge htoou tth ihniks taobryo,u tt hthe e mmaannyy UUrriiaahhss
Cheesecakes cafeammeenruic oaninlirnees ta.ct om. rheasvoirntg tiom parveogidn attreodu Bblaet hwshitehb aU.riah for wmheod iotcordiatyy wsuhffener wfer olmos eo uthr e Cshernisseti aonf
“The most serious problem in this sin and let the kingdom of God fall,” the
reading isn’t so much the temptation and pope said.
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February 7, 2014 family life The Catholic Commentator 5
March for Life best lesson about protecting unborn
By Debbie Shelley for the importance of life based Luke, who was on his fourth pil-
The Catholic Commentator only on technical, medical defi- grimage. “It is very information-
nitions about when life begins al and has made me even more
Better than speaking to chil- and the development of life with- pro-life.”
dren about the importance of a in the womb. Instead, he allows Luke participates in Camp
topic is to immerse them in ex- his children the experiences of Joshua, which teaches youth
periences related to it so it be- taking the pilgrimage to Wash- how to be leaders in the pro-life
comes part of who they are. ington, D.C. and gathering with movement.
This seems to be a philosophy thousands of other passionately Luke further stated, “Consid-
of Dr. Rob Chasuk, who through pro-life people and making their ering abortion? Talk to us about
the years has brought his chil- own statements. it. Let us know so you can have
dren on the annual pilgrimage He accompanied the youth as the right information. There are
to March for Life in Washing- a doctor. He said he was there to a lot of people who have wrong
ton, D.C. This year he made the give his sons advice and share information.”
trip with his sons Luke, 16, and time with them on the trip, but Mark, who made his third
Mark, 14. otherwise seemed happy to be pilgrimage to the march, said
Chasuk is a family physician “the doctor in the house.” He he particularly enjoyed the Matt
Dr. Rob Chasuk, center, pauses in front of the United States Supreme
and fertility consultant and uses spoke to the people on the bus, Maher concert on the eve of
Court with his sons, Mark, left, and Luke, during the 2014 March for
Natural Procreativer Technol- as well as played the harmonica the March for Life, as it put a
ogy (NaPro) to address whole according to the teachings of the perience and is now a student at for them. prayerful tone to what the youth
women’s health issues to help Catholic Church. The Chasuks St. Thomas Aquinas College in “It’s a wonderful formation in were to do the next day. He was
a married couple achieve preg- have five children. Sant Paula, Calif., and partici- your faith as well as your faith amazed by how many people
nancy. Chasuk, who made his eighth pated in the Walk For Life West formation as a citizen,” said rallied around the cause of pro-
“I’m a pro-life doctor,” said pilgrimage this year, took his Coast this year. Chasuk. moting life.
Chasuk, who said the sanctity of first March for Life Trip with a Through his medical prac- He and his sons talked about Despite the gravity of the is-
life is from birth to its end. He group out of New Orleans with tice, Chasuk grew deeper in his their insights from their march sue that brought the Chasuks to
is medical director of St. James his son, Sam, who was home- appreciation for the sanctity of experiences. “It’s good to see the Nation’s Capitol, the legaliz-
Place Wellness Center. Chasuk schooled, when Sam was in life. He encountered women, them go to a deeper level,” Cha- ing of abortion in 1973 through
and his wife, Patti, teach couples eighth-grade. Chasuk then in- who, even though facing dire suk said. the upholding of Roe v. Wade,
the Natural Family Planning troduced the idea to St. Agnes circumstances, chose to give His sons seemed to have the Chasuks found the trip to
Method, a fertility awareness Church in Baton Rouge of their their babies life and have gone picked up on the pro-life mes- also be a celebration of life.
model which helps married cou- youth making the trip. on to better their own lives. sage. “Know the good time you will
ples achieve or delay pregnancy Sam was impacted by the ex- Chasuk could make his case “It’s a great experience,” said have,” Mark said.
Success is at hand at any age
M
any of you, like me, success may pass them by. cessful and they worked to turn create a baking soda volcano.
have grown up being In 1997, Tara Lipinski be- that ability into a skill to achieve Talent is not equal, but unequal
told that success is came the youngest U.S. figure what they knew was possible. talent can bring equal joy.
only possible after many years skating champion when she was They realized that work is If you enjoy what you do, it
of hard work. You must pay your just 14 years old. Later that year, the key ingredient for success at shouldn’t matter whether you’re
dues. You must climb the ladder she won the world champion- any age. By working hard, they the best in the world, as long as
of success. There are no short- ship. Once again, she was the realized the common definition you’re the best in your world.
cuts. To reach the top, you must youngest ever to win the title. of success has a major flaw. It Identify the paths that you’d
start at the bottom and climb The following year, she earned says that time is necessary in most enjoy traveling and identi-
one rung at a time. a place on the U.S. Olympic order to succeed. fy your definition of success. If
I never liked that definition team. At the Winter Olympics in That’s incorrect. you do that, you will always find
of success. I never believed it Nagano, Japan, she won the gold Success isn’t a constant. It’s contentment.
was true. I still don’t. medal. a goal we should each measure That’s the ultimate success
That’s not to say that many At 31, she is retired from the Coming Of Age differently. no matter what you do.
people don’t find success in that sport and remains the youngest Some work as hard as possible
manner. They attend college, individual gold medalist in the and they become Olympic cham- Rommel, a freelance writer in
Eric Rommel
graduate and get a job. Slowly, Olympic Winter Games. pions or Nobel laureates. Others Toms River, N.J., is a syndicat-
they ascend to a position of It’s not just athletes who grab work just as hard and fail to ed columnist for Catholic News
respect and recognition. success as soon as it becomes received the 1933 Nobel Prize in balance on skates or successfully Service.
In some fields, that journey is available. There are phenoms in Physics for advances in atomic
necessary and many who follow countless other fields, regard- theory, along with Erwin Schro-
Honor Those We Love.
it are happy with the life they less of age. To hold them back dinger.
create. But to assume it’s the because of the year of their birth Mairead Corrigan organized
only way to be successful leads would deny the world the benefit peace protests in Ireland. She GARDENS OF MEMORY & FUNERAL HOME - CREMATORY - MAUSOLEUMS
to pain and disappointment for of their brains. received the Nobel Peace Prize
those meant to follow a different Frederick Banting is the Tara in 1976 when she was 32.
road. Lipinski of medicine. He and his Each of these people earned
Sometimes, those who find mentor, John Macleod, received some of the highest honors in
the greatest success and the the 1923 Nobel Prize in Physiol- the world at an age many profes-
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greatest recognition do so by ogy or Medicine after discover- sionals would consider young.
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choosing a different path. They ing insulin. Banting was 32. They didn’t wait for their turn. www.ResthavenBatonRouge.com
realize if they wait for their turn, Paul Dirac was 31 when he They had the ability to be suc-
2x2”Rest.small.honor.those’13
6 The Catholic Commentator February 7, 2014
Daughter joined Protestant church; is the church anti-Islamic?
Q
I am a lifelong my daughter love and Referencing the Second Vatican Coun- Her husband is not a Catholic and doesn’t
Catholic. My support as she plans her cil, the Catechism of the Catholic Church understand. What can I say to encourage
wife was raised wedding, even though I points out in No. 819 that the word of God her that the Catholic Church as a whole is
Lutheran and convert- am hurting inside. I don’t and the life of grace can be found in other not anti-Islamic? (St. Louis, Mo.)
ed to the Catholic faith want to damage our rela- religions and that “Christ’s spirit uses
A
after we were married 35 tionship nor do anything these churches and ecclesial communities The Second Vatican Council in
years ago. We raised our that would spoil her big as means of salvation.” 1965 said this in “Nostra Aetate,”
four kids in the Catholic day. Any advice would I would forego, certainly, for now, any No. 3: “The church has also a high
Church. be appreciated. (St. Paul, attempt to talk your daughter out of her regard for the Muslims. ... They strive
Our daughter, who is Minn.) religious choice. You’ve made your feelings to submit themselves without reserve to
24, joined a Protestant known. She is an adult and has made her the hidden decrees of God. ... Although
A
church about a year ago. Like you, I believe decision. not acknowledging him as God, they
She met a young man at that the Catholic If I were you I would be comforted, venerate Jesus as a prophet, his Virgin
church, and they recent- Question Corner Church is the true even excited, by the fact that she is actively Mother they also honor. ... They highly
ly became engaged. It church, that for all its hu- putting her faith to work and that she is esteem an upright life and worship God,
breaks my heart that she man faults it is – among living out her moral convictions. I am especially by way of prayer, alms-deeds
Father Kenneth Doyle
will not be married in the the Christian religions – confident that she is on the path to heav- and fasting.”
Catholic Church. (I voiced the closest approximation en, so you can peacefully leave the rest in Fast-forward nearly 50 years and hear
my concerns to her before they became to what Jesus came to establish and thus God’s hands and sleep soundly while you Pope Francis in his first apostolic exhorta-
engaged.) My wife is more understanding, (especially because of the sacraments) the continue to show your daughter the love tion “Evangelii Gaudium.” In No. 253, we
since she was raised a Lutheran. most effective way to salvation. and respect for her that you clearly feel. read that “our respect for true followers of
I have to admit that my daughter Daily I thank God that I am a Catholic. Islam should lead us to avoid hateful gen-
Q
and her fiance are very involved in their Like you, I would be deeply saddened if I I have been encouraging my sister, eralizations, for authentic Islam and the
church – in fact, they lead Bible studies. had a daughter and she decided to leave a lapsed Catholic, to start going proper reading of the Quran are opposed
They made the decision not to live togeth- the embrace of the Catholic Church. to Mass again, especially now to every form of violence.”
er before being married because of their At the same time, the church acknowl- that she has a young son. Recently she Tell your sister that you would give the
deep moral convictions. edges that there are elements of sancti- moved and attended a new church close to nod to the council and to the pope over
I grew up during the era when we were fication and of truth in other religions, her home in northern Kentucky. But the a priest from northern Kentucky and
taught that the Catholic Church was the including non-Christian ones. That is to priest’s sermon, she said, was all about the continue to suggest that she try a different
only church. So I toss and turn at night say, it is possible that people can reach negative qualities of Islam, with a bit of parish.
and struggle every day with how to show heaven without being Catholic. anti-Mormonism thrown in at the end.
She said that his hateful words caused Father DOYLe is chancellor for public in-
her to question her Catholic identity formation in the Diocese of Albany, N.Y.
Diocese of further. While we discussed the possi- Send questions to askfatherdoyle@gmail.
bility of her trying a different parish, I’m com and 40 Hopewell St., Albany, NY
Baton Rouge afraid this will stand as another setback. 12208.
and
Loyola Institute for Ministry
invite you to join us for refreshments and a presentation
as we honor
the 1987-1989 Graduates
of Loyola Institute for Ministry
Thursday, March 13, 2014
6 p.m. Refreshments
Gilbert Ruiz, Ph.D.
6:45 p.m. Presentation
Evangelizing in Today’s Multicultural World

Many Cultures, Many Meanings: Biblical Interpretation and Spirituality Today
Dr. Ruiz, associate professor of Scripture at Loyola Institute
for Ministry, will engage us in how being conscious of today’s
complex multicultural work can affect the way we study the
SCHOOL SURPRISE – Louisiana’s First Lady Supriya Jindal talks with kinder-
Bible and interpret it to inform the way we live our lives and take
Catholic Life Center, Borders Dining Room gartners at St. Alphonsus School on Jan. 23. Jindal was at the school to present
action in our ministries.
a “School Surprise” of classroom enrichment tools to three kindergarten class-
1800 South Acadian Thrwy., Baton Rouge
es. The “School Surprise” program is sponsored by the Supriya Jindal Founda-
tion and Albermarle Foundation to enhance student learning in math, science
Please RSVP by March 3 to
and writing. Photo by Barbara Chenevert | The Catholic Commentator
Tammy Vidrine at 225-336-8760 or [email protected].
February 7, 2014 spirituality The Catholic Commentator 7
Youth find abortion another Holocaust at museum
By Debbie Shelley in Germany and Hitler’s rise to
The Catholic Commentator power. The third floor, “The Final
Solution,” examines the wartime
Youth from the Diocese of Ba- evolution of Nazi policy toward
ton Rouge attending March for the Jews, from separation to
Life in Washington, D.C., on Jan. ghettos to inhalation.
22 saw what the power of evil can The sight and smell of the
do. Then they faced the question, shoes exhibit seared the mem-
“What is your responsibility, now ories of the teens. The 4,000
that you’ve seen, now that you shoes on display were found at The Hall of Remembrance at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum prompts visitors to remember
know?” during a visit to the Unit- Majdanek Concentration Camp the lessons from the Jewish Holocaust. File Photo
ed States Holocaust Memorial in Poland. Shoes were among the
Museum. personal items that were confis- of people who were not able to responding to the Holocaust in there – abortion.
The museum, which states cated by the Nazis. speak out for themselves.” the face of mass indifference. “Just like the Germans didn’t
in one of its informational bro- “It was so stirring to see what Other displays which touched This is where the youth said they think it could happen to these
chures, “This museum is not those people went through. The the youth included the tower of began to make the connection people (the Jews) people today
an answer, it is a question,” has room with the shoes put a human photographs of Jewish people that evil spreads because people don’t think that abortion is kill-
screens and barriers so that visi- face on those people who were who died during the Holocaust. don’t speak out against it. ing people,” said Murphy.
tors can “leave behind” the busy- killed,” said Kameryn Sadler. “You can see the faces of so “The German people got so Comparing the lives of the
ness of the city and fully experi- “The shoes were such a small many people. They are all differ- used to it,” said Megan Rodri- Holocaust victims to the un-
ence the atrocity of the killing of amount from the number of the ent and of different ages,” said guez. born who are killed by abortion,
6 million European Jews by Nazi people who went there,” said Katie Pierce. In the Hall of Remembrance, Landry said, “I think there were
Germany. Kayleigh Murphy. She added, The photographs of children the exhibit, “From Memory to a lot of people who didn’t have
Pilgrim Joseph Marcantel “I couldn’t understand how one and their toys and information Action: Meeting the Challenge someone to speak out for them.”
noted that the exhibits descend person who disagrees with oth- about these Jewish children of Genocide,” shows how people Several pilgrims said the mu-
from top to the bottom floor. ers can have such an impact.” killed during the Holocaust are still being persecuted and seum visit was a call to action on
“It’s like going down into the Tyler Acaldo said, “I was look- deeply moved Ben Toups. He said enfiladed for their ethnic back- behalf of the unborn for them.
pit of hell,” Marcantel said. ing at those shoes and thinking it is hard enough for children to ground, faith and beliefs, using Afton Rosenbloom said, “We
The pilgrim added, “Millions about the people that they be- grow up, much less to have their examples from Sudan, Darfur, can be an example by what we do
of people were dying, and one longed to.” innocent lives overtaken by evil. Rwanda and the Middle East. during the pilgrimage.”
person did all that.” Forrest Landry said, “It (the Beginning with the second The youth saw the link be- Toups said, “I want to help be-
The fourth floor, “The Nazi shoes) goes to show you how floor, “The Last Chapter,” the ex- tween the Jewish Holocaust and cause our country is in need of
Assault,” chronicles the events many people died. They had a lot hibits address the possibilities of the issue which brought them change, now more than ever.”
When courage is not an option
W
e often think of cour- Men possess this noble vir- a spirit of genuine atonement When one descends into such
age as a battlefield tue, too, but women excel in it, is the only way to gain back a state of deep denial, he or she
virtue. Another kind of especially the mothers of young their self-respect, but they are is blind to the sad truth that
bravery exists in more familiar children. They persevere in repelled by the thought of it. The death is near. Everyone else sees
circumstances. Real courage difficult times showing us over 12-step program lays this out for it too clearly, which is why crisis
often takes place at home, in and over again the noble virtue recovering addicts. intervention is so necessary.
the form of patient endurance, of love in action. As they try to One can only hope that they With God, all things are possi-
loyalty, constancy and the will love their children and husbands will experience that shocking ble. Every saint-in-training has
to face a scary future with grace without counting the cost, they moment of recognition called a past, and every sinner has a
and determination. These qual- make the necessary sacrifices to “hitting bottom.” Until they future. Never give up!
ities are all signs of the kind of keep the family alive and well. wake up to the fact that they’re This is why we come to see
courage that women possess in We are in admiration of their in danger of death, the addict is that, after all is said and done,
admirable proportions. courageous commitment. lost in a blinding fog. The truth courage is not an option.
One of the most important Not everyone succeeds in Spirituality that their habit is self-destruc-
qualities anyone can master in being as brave as they wished tive is either hidden from their Father Catoir is chaplain of an
life is found in the art of putting they could have been. We do not eyes or they have a death wish emergency assistance program
For Today
on the will to bear discomfort. judge them. Any human being so far advanced that they have and writes on spirituality for
The golden rule requires it, “Do can be overwhelmed at times become their own worst enemy. Catholic News Service.
unto others as you would have by the crushing burdens of life. Father John Catoir
them do unto you.” This truth makes women all the
Mr. D’s
In order to be charitable, we more praiseworthy. By the grace ways seem to blame others for
Tree Service
need to become less preoccupied of God, many have persevered. their failures. When they do
with our personal needs. This Others have not. wrong, they refuse to own up to
requires sacrifice. To understand the nobility of it and have a curious inability to ovEr 35 yEars ExpErIEncE
Mothers are famous for their courage more fully, we need to say they’re sorry. Don Decell, owner
ability to perform many difficult look at the relationship between Many cowards suffer from carl BaBin, owner
and monotonous duties. They courage and cowardice. The two addictions of one kind or an- • Economical
• Fully Insured • Quality Work
practice privation. Privation are direct opposites. Cowardice other. For them, repentance is a
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occurs when one gives up the is found in those who shirk their remedy they despise. Acknowl-
225-292-6756
comfort of feeling free to do as duties and descend into the edging the wrongs they have
one pleases. quicksand of escapism. They al- done and making amends in
8 The Catholic Commentator February 7, 2014
Ice storm creates challenges for
schools, St. Vincent de Paul
By Barbara Chenevert with the Catholic school system and placed
and Richard Meek a strain on services at the St. Vincent de
The Catholic Commentator Paul Society.
Dr. Melanie Verges, superintendent of
Recent wintry weather that shut down Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Baton
major highways and paralyzed traffic Rouge, said the three days students missed
throughout the area also wreaked havoc will have to be made up in either extend-
The walkway at St. Aloysius appeared ready to host a hockey game rather than a thru-
way for parishioners. The recent ice storm closed schools for three days. Photo by Barbara Ch-
evenert | The Catholic Commentator
ed hours or recapturing already scheduled day topped that with 370 meals served.
days off. In addition each person received a brown
“Each of our 30 schools will have to bag supper as they left the dining room to
look at their calendar and come up with a “ensure no one had to go to bed hungry,”
(solution),” Verges said, adding that many Acaldo said.
schools do have some extra time built into “Thank God we were there,” he said.
their schedules. “There were a lot of people who needed us.”
She said the state requires 175 days of The main men’s shelter that normally
The grassy area in front of Catholic Elementary of Point Coupée in New Roads resembled
instruction per school year but the dioce- houses 30 men a night held 65 Jan. 28 and
a winter wonderland as the unusual winter storm left the area blanketed in a snow and ice
san requirement is 178 days. Jan. 29, three over its capacity of 62 beds,
mix. Interstates and other major highways were closed for two days because of icy condi-
“We don’t want minimum,” she said. Acaldo said. In addition, the men’s shelter
tions. Photo by Missy Cline
“We never strive for minimum. on Plank Road housed another 24, while
L “What happens if we have something the Women and Children’s Sweet Dreams
ook for
else come up? It does not service our shelter housed 31. All of the Myriam
T C C
he aThoLiC ommenTaTor schools for students to be in class in June. House’s nine apartments were occupied, he
: That is really disruptive to families.” said.
aT your LoCaL ouTLeTs inCLuding
One way to make up for those days is to “It was cold and raining and sleeting
✔ Albertsons on Government St., Bluebonnet Blvd. and College Dr. in extend school hours, a practice that is com- and people still made the effort to come.
Baton Rouge and in Denham Springs mon among some school districts but one I can’t believe the number of people who
✔ Alexander’s Highland Market in Baton Rouge Verges does not endorse. said, ‘Thank you for being open,’ ” Acaldo
✔ Ascension Books & Gifts in Gonzales “I think it’s a long day for a child,” she said. “People who would not normally have
✔ Benedetto’s Market in Addis said. “I’m not really clear how that extra 15 come because of the agency’s restrictions
✔ Bohning Supermarket in Ponchatoula minutes a day in a high school class is go- came. We were happy we were able to stay
✔ Calandro’s Supermarkets in Baton Rouge ing to be the same as coming in for another open.”
✔ Catholic Art and Gifts in Baton Rouge whole day of class.” The dining hall served many children
✔ Daigle’s Supermarket in White Castle Verges said options to be considered by who would normally have received a hot
✔ Hi Nabor Supermarkets, Drusilla and Jones Creek Rd. in Baton Rouge each school are likely to be reducing time meal at school.
✔ Hubben’s Grocery in Port Allen off during the Mardi Gras or Easter holi- Calling the storm an “eye-opening
✔ LeBlanc’s Food Stores in Donaldsonville, Gonzales, days. event” for St. Vincent DePaul, Acaldo said
Hammond, Plaquemine, Plattenville, Prairieville and Zachary She did say the timing of the unexpect- the agency had to deal with issues it hadn’t
✔ Matherne’s Supermarkets in Baton Rouge ed interruption should not adversely affect faced before even in the case of hurricanes
✔ Magnuson Hotel in St. Francisville students. – ice accumulating on awnings, flat roof-
✔ Oak Point Supermarket in Central “It’s better now than a hurricane disrup- tops and sidewalks and staff and volunteers
✔ Our Lady of the Lake College in Baton Rouge tion,” she said. “A hurricane disruption you unable to reach the dining hall and shelter
✔ Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge have at the beginning of the year before you because roads were impassable.
✔ Our Lady of the Lake Physicians Group offices with locations throughout are set in your routine. If you are out the “It was really challenging,” he said with
the Diocese second week of school it’s like starting all the increased number of people looking for
✔ Reeve’s Supermarket in Baton Rouge over again. Now it’s a few days off.” assistance and fewer staff and volunteers
✔ St. Elizabeth Hospital in Gonzales St. Vincent de Paul executive director because they could not travel to the facil-
✔ St. Mary’s Books & Gifts in Baton Rouge Michael Acaldo said his agency surpassed ities.
✔ St. Vincent de Paul Stores throughout the diocese records in how many people were served The storm has left the agency depleted of
✔ Schexnayer Supermarket in Vacherie during the two-day ice storm. some items. Acaldo asked for donations of
✔ Whole Foods Market in Baton Rouge Jan. 28 was a busy day with 367 hot towels, single bed sheets, socks, rain gear,
✔ Winn Dixie on Coursey Blvd. and Siegen Ln. in Baton Rouge, meals served in the dining hall and all tennis shoes for men, women and children,
Hammond, New Roads and Ponchatoula shelters filled to capacity. The following work boots and diapers.
as well as your local church parish
Are you hosting a St. Joseph Altar?
T H E C A T H O L I C
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be publishing? Go to thecatholiccommentator.org and click on the
St. Joseph Altar box (far lower left), fill out the form and return it to us.
SERVING THE DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE SINCE 1962
February 7, 2014 The Catholic Commentator 9
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Youth from across Louisiana attending March for Life in Washington, D.C. gather in front of the Ba-
silica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Bishop Robert W. Muench celebrated
STEvE DECELL
Mass at the basilica, and the youth toured the church. Photo by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator Walk-in Showers Aging-In-Place Consultant Walk-in Tubs
Capitol: ‘We are the pro-life generation’
A ’ I D
nthony s tAlIAn elI
from Page 1 march at a Geaux Forth Rally, which featured
aton dpB uuutnt lttehhseesir rwe tewe ficeghrehn tto iblmoagceyks , w aitwh waeiynl,l pkoierl geTprei gmcehstn twionleogrg ewy ao sFrksreee.de” saop nseeoa bskpeereriasn kagsn rdoeu mmt iuansgdiacei.rn A softft iehtr odwwua rreidvn,ig lt hsape t ryoeouaurd tosh f w rtehhceee niHv neodo- ITBAatLoLnIA RNo uoDgee’vlsi oSneinlyc T eR I1U9E7t 8 a li a n ?
Zone (TFZ) so the youth could reflect or focus on locaust Museum.
teenhmxaealTp maphhneeeardn ss si,uo zppnseirir dnsai ptgytu heianaar lg“ok P ueitnuhlgegrehme t r moFeo nastoahitrt renhoy i gf,Bn rktogohe ouepekpp r,j.ai”on yauge rb ran o aeponyrkd a wfy oeeavrrs e t jenoaeiulnnsrogs- tBCweaoansnrDdidcleuiesdcr pa titMnh ioogeafn y sat ,sh w ,wde ec ahneNyiltce a hobttoif ro w ahnAtaeearsadll iv fSnboyhgyl lrt sooBinnwnioes ewh Ndoo, af pb ttth iyhMoe ena u atIetrmlona Cuvcmerhe.lam, e Acareutsft tl teaeahrtrtyee-- ts•rm• aa MMbeuyesuoalsaa atlf•ictsf vg uHk te•erl oe &Ia ov•mmty iitCgnlsapesrhe so,m•e eg brS•eaeat aPanedsrln odsseeodaB s lpIiwm tov•aa eyiDislccssitaeh ,a nl ,i
to help them deepen their prayer lives. Mass was and observed a guard keeping watch at the Tomb
also celebrated daily during the trip. The Night- of the Unknown Soldier and then prayed the ro- Phone orders
welcome
ly Music Prayer and Play (MP3) rallies at YMCA sary at a Planned Parenthood facility, which per-
10248 Florida Blvd.
Camp Letts in Maryland, where the youth stayed, forms abortions. They ended the day by going to BON AMI shopping center
featured fun, faith formation and eucharistic ad- a concert by Catholic Christian artist Matt Maher, [phone]
oration. “Life is Very Good,” that included eucharistic ad- Mon. - Sat. 9:30 am - 6 pm
The religious played an active role in the youth’s oration led by Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of
faith formation. When the pilgrims arrived in the Archdiocese of New Orleans.
Nashville, Tenn., they stopped at the St. Cecilia The day of the march, the youth braved single Ride with
Mother House of the Dominican Sisters of St. Ce- digit temperatures as they marched elbow to elbow
cilia. Following Mass, some of the sisters boarded with thousands of people up Capital Hill to the
the #1 car
the buses to accompany the youth to the march. U.S. Supreme Court. Participants carried banners,
During their time with the teens, they lead them chanted, “We are the pro-life generation,” present-
insurer in
in morning and evening prayer, song and shared ed their flashmob dance and prayed.
some of the traditions of the Catholic faith. They As they returned home, the youth reflected on
also talked about their call to religious life. their experiences, and bus leaders told them about LOUISIANA.
The seminarians from the Diocese of Baton the opportunities they have to continue their faith
Rouge were also actively reaching out to the youth. journey and to support life.
“It’s humbling to know that you are a repre- The trip was memorable for many pilgrims.
sentative of the church,” said seminarian Kolbe Raegan Vince made her first trip to March for
Joe Skibinski, Agent
Fletcher, whose father Peter Fletcher, headmaster Life. She told the marchers she had been waiting 1953 Perkins Rd With competitive rates and
at John Paul the Great Academy in Lafayette, was to take the trip for a long time. She talked joyful- Baton Rouge, LA 70808 personal service, it’s no
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instrumental in starting the March for Life Pil- ly about how she had struggled with anxiety in [email protected] wonder more drivers trust
grimages for the Diocese of Baton Rouge. “Had I her life, but believes the trip has empowered her. State Farm®.
not seen the joy and the lifestyle of the priests and “Know that Jesus is there for you no matter what Like a good neighbor,
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He added, “You go on the road, but you’re not for you. That’s love.”
alone.” The international scope of the march was also
While in Washington, D.C., the youth visit- noted. Chantel Fouch, also a bus leader, noted that
ed the memorials at the national mall. The teens a friend in Uganda sent a text message to her to let
wore white hats which had the words “March for her know she had seen her at the march on EWTN.
Life” and baby footprints monogrammed on the Joseph Marcantel stated that he had spotted a
front. Some reported that they had an opportunity Lithuanian flag at the march.
to evangelize as people stopped them at the mall “They came all the way over here to support
and asked them what the slogan means. life,” Marcantel said. “That’s pretty cool. The fact
Baton Rouge pilgrims also had a chance to meet that people came from other countries will em- State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company
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with youth from all over Louisiana attending the bolden us.” Bloomington, IL
10 The Catholic Commentator | February 7, 2014 march for life February 7, 2014 | The Catholic Commentator 11
‘Made for christ’
Baton Rouge youth attend March for Life Jan. 22 in Washington, D.C.
Young Louisiana pilgrims traveling to the nation’s capital visited the monuments at the national
mall, including the Lincoln Memorial. Photos by Debbie Shelley | The Catholic Commentator Carrying signs, chanting , singing and dancing, youth and adults from the Diocese of Baton Rouge
made their case for the importance of life.
A somber moment during the March for Life for the youth occurred when they prayed outside of a Planned Parenthood facility in Washington, D.C.
“I join the March for Life in Washington with
my prayers. May God help us respect all life,
especially the most vulnerable.”
Pope Francis
Youth tossed snow at each other as they departed the bus and walked Bishop Robert W. Muench celebrated Mass for the Louisiana pilgrims The Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia play music during Mass at the St. Ce-
to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. Youth read the names of those who gave their lives for their country Daily Mass was part of the March for Life activities. One of the churches at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in cilia Motherhouse in Nashville, Tenn. Following Mass and a tour of the
during the Vietnam War at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. where Mass was celebrated was St. Rita in Alexandria, Va. Washington, D.C. Bishop Shelton Fabre, front, also participated in the convent, some of the sisters accompanied the pilgrims to March for Life.
Mass along with Deacon Josh Johnson, behind the bishop.