Want a refresher course on Lent? New to the faith or just want to know why Catholics do what they do during Lent? There is a great article that explains plenty: http://marysaggies.blogspot.com/2009/02/lent-2009.html
Tommorrow is the first Friday of Lent. For those of you on the Northshore, please plan on attending Stations of the Cross at St. Jane's in Abita Springs and St. Michael's Mission in Bush. Both start at 7 p.m.
I would appreciate any comments on what YOU are doing during this Lenten season; any prayer or devotional practices, what you are abstaining from, any acts of charity?
A great psalm to pray in Lent, it is prayed almost every Friday of the year at morning prayer:
Psalm 51:
Have mercy on me God in your goodness; in your abundant compassion blot out my offense. Wash away all my guilt; from my sin cleanse me.
A clean heart create for me, O God; renew in me a steadfast spirit.
Restore my joy in your salvation; sustain in me a willing spirit. Verses 3-4, 12, 14.
reflections, updates and homilies from Deacon Mike Talbot inspired by the following words from my ordination: Receive the Gospel of Christ whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe and practice what you teach...
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
My update as Lent begins...
An update from Deacon Mike
Mardi Gras is now behind us. Welcome to Lent and in a few days the month of March. This weekend I am serving as Deacon of the Word (not the Gospel) at St. Louis Cathedral at 11 a.m. Sunday. On Saturday I’m looking forward to visiting with the aspirants of the Deacon Class of 2012, and my friends from the class of 2010.
Last month I shared the 5 tools from Deacon Glenn Harmon to have a truly strong foundation based on God and His Church. They are:
Prayer
Read and pray Scripture
Learn and know the Catholic faith
Be enthusiastic
Serve
In that same update, I decided to focus on #3 and began with identifying the Sacraments. So this month, let’s take a look at Baptism.
The Church firmly declares that Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life where we are freed from sin and reborn as sons & daughters of God. Through Baptism we are incorporated into the church and share in Her mission.
Baptism actually brings about the birth of water and the Spirit without which no one “can enter the kingdom of God.” See John 3:5 and Titus 3:5. Baptism confers grace; not as a gift earned, rather an unmerited gift freely given by God through His Church.
Baptism was prefigured in the Old Testament, Genesis 1:2, the flood and Noah, the crossing at the Red Sea, the crossing at the river Jordan. Baptism is fulfilled in Jesus Christ who begins his public ministry after being baptized by John in the Jordan and in His great commission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”. See Matthew 28:19-20 and Mark 16:15-16.
From the very day of Pentecost, the Catholic Church has celebrated and administered Baptism. St. Peter declares, “repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” See Acts 2:38. St. Paul goes on to affirm the Catholic Church’s theology of Baptism: “Are you unaware that we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were indeed buried with him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in newness of life.” See Romans 6:3-4.
So now, let’s answer some questions about Baptism.
Who can receive Baptism? Every person not yet baptized. Baptism can never be repeated; it is once for all.
Why does the Church baptize infants? First, all are born with original sin and infants, as well as others, need to be freed from that sin. Remember earlier I stated that Baptism is an unmerited gift, not earned and freely given by God. The sheer gratuitousness of this gift of grace is particularly manifest in infant Baptism. The practice of infant Baptism is an immemorial tradition of the Church. Scripture sights the baptism of whole households. See Acts 16:15, 33, 18:8 and 1 Corinthians 1:16. Also, evidence from written sources as early as the year 150 A.D. confirms the tradition. The early Church father, St. Irenaeus affirmed infant Baptism at this time as did Hippolytus who documented infant Baptism in 235 A.D.
Who can baptize? Ordinary ministers are bishop, priest and deacon. In case of emergency any person may baptize provided the formula is used: “I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”.
Is Baptism necessary for salvation? Yes, for all those to whom the Gospel has been proclaimed and who have had the possibility of asking for the sacrament.
Some other points concerning Baptism: Baptism is the sacrament of faith. It requires a community of believers. Faith must grow after Baptism. For that reason, every Easter, the whole Church renews their baptismal promises.
Baptism makes all members of the Body of Christ. See Ephesians 4:25 and 1 Corinthians 12:13. In Baptism, all share in Christ’s holy priesthood and his mission of prophecy and royalty. See 1 Peter 2:4, 2:9. Baptism also gives all a share in the common priesthood of all believers.
The baptized is also configured to Christ having been sealed with the indelible spiritual mark or character, thus belonging to Christ. See Romans 8:29.
Want to learn more? Please read the Catholic Catechism, paragraphs 1213-1277. You can also read the shorter Compendium, paragraphs 252-264. With Lent now upon us, and Deacon Glenn’s 5 tools as a guide, pick up a copy of these publications and read and pray with these paragraphs on Baptism. You will also find every scriptural cross-reference that supports these teachings so have your Bible handy too.
As I close, since we are all beginning our Lenten journey, please take time to focus on prayer, fasting and giving alms. Take advantage of extra opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation that most Catholic churches provide. Devote some time to visiting Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament or attend Stations of the Cross. Make small acts of self-denial or take time to do more for others. Whatever you do this Lent, do so from the heart and a spirit of wanting to do it. This too will be part of your Lenten prayer experience; if you do it for the glory of God the Father.
May God bless you immensely during this Lenten season and prepare you for the Easter joy of the Savior who died and rose from the dead for me and for you. Remember, even if you or I were the only one that needed Jesus to die for our sins, He would still have walked the road to Calvary. Amazing!
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
Deacon Mike
abitadeacon@yahoo.com
http://abitadeacon.blogspot.com/
Mardi Gras is now behind us. Welcome to Lent and in a few days the month of March. This weekend I am serving as Deacon of the Word (not the Gospel) at St. Louis Cathedral at 11 a.m. Sunday. On Saturday I’m looking forward to visiting with the aspirants of the Deacon Class of 2012, and my friends from the class of 2010.
Last month I shared the 5 tools from Deacon Glenn Harmon to have a truly strong foundation based on God and His Church. They are:
Prayer
Read and pray Scripture
Learn and know the Catholic faith
Be enthusiastic
Serve
In that same update, I decided to focus on #3 and began with identifying the Sacraments. So this month, let’s take a look at Baptism.
The Church firmly declares that Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life where we are freed from sin and reborn as sons & daughters of God. Through Baptism we are incorporated into the church and share in Her mission.
Baptism actually brings about the birth of water and the Spirit without which no one “can enter the kingdom of God.” See John 3:5 and Titus 3:5. Baptism confers grace; not as a gift earned, rather an unmerited gift freely given by God through His Church.
Baptism was prefigured in the Old Testament, Genesis 1:2, the flood and Noah, the crossing at the Red Sea, the crossing at the river Jordan. Baptism is fulfilled in Jesus Christ who begins his public ministry after being baptized by John in the Jordan and in His great commission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”. See Matthew 28:19-20 and Mark 16:15-16.
From the very day of Pentecost, the Catholic Church has celebrated and administered Baptism. St. Peter declares, “repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” See Acts 2:38. St. Paul goes on to affirm the Catholic Church’s theology of Baptism: “Are you unaware that we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were indeed buried with him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in newness of life.” See Romans 6:3-4.
So now, let’s answer some questions about Baptism.
Who can receive Baptism? Every person not yet baptized. Baptism can never be repeated; it is once for all.
Why does the Church baptize infants? First, all are born with original sin and infants, as well as others, need to be freed from that sin. Remember earlier I stated that Baptism is an unmerited gift, not earned and freely given by God. The sheer gratuitousness of this gift of grace is particularly manifest in infant Baptism. The practice of infant Baptism is an immemorial tradition of the Church. Scripture sights the baptism of whole households. See Acts 16:15, 33, 18:8 and 1 Corinthians 1:16. Also, evidence from written sources as early as the year 150 A.D. confirms the tradition. The early Church father, St. Irenaeus affirmed infant Baptism at this time as did Hippolytus who documented infant Baptism in 235 A.D.
Who can baptize? Ordinary ministers are bishop, priest and deacon. In case of emergency any person may baptize provided the formula is used: “I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”.
Is Baptism necessary for salvation? Yes, for all those to whom the Gospel has been proclaimed and who have had the possibility of asking for the sacrament.
Some other points concerning Baptism: Baptism is the sacrament of faith. It requires a community of believers. Faith must grow after Baptism. For that reason, every Easter, the whole Church renews their baptismal promises.
Baptism makes all members of the Body of Christ. See Ephesians 4:25 and 1 Corinthians 12:13. In Baptism, all share in Christ’s holy priesthood and his mission of prophecy and royalty. See 1 Peter 2:4, 2:9. Baptism also gives all a share in the common priesthood of all believers.
The baptized is also configured to Christ having been sealed with the indelible spiritual mark or character, thus belonging to Christ. See Romans 8:29.
Want to learn more? Please read the Catholic Catechism, paragraphs 1213-1277. You can also read the shorter Compendium, paragraphs 252-264. With Lent now upon us, and Deacon Glenn’s 5 tools as a guide, pick up a copy of these publications and read and pray with these paragraphs on Baptism. You will also find every scriptural cross-reference that supports these teachings so have your Bible handy too.
As I close, since we are all beginning our Lenten journey, please take time to focus on prayer, fasting and giving alms. Take advantage of extra opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation that most Catholic churches provide. Devote some time to visiting Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament or attend Stations of the Cross. Make small acts of self-denial or take time to do more for others. Whatever you do this Lent, do so from the heart and a spirit of wanting to do it. This too will be part of your Lenten prayer experience; if you do it for the glory of God the Father.
May God bless you immensely during this Lenten season and prepare you for the Easter joy of the Savior who died and rose from the dead for me and for you. Remember, even if you or I were the only one that needed Jesus to die for our sins, He would still have walked the road to Calvary. Amazing!
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
Deacon Mike
abitadeacon@yahoo.com
http://abitadeacon.blogspot.com/
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Homily for 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Homily for 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time February 21/22, 2009
Isaiah 43:18-19, 21-22, 24-25
Psalm 41: 2-3, 4-5, 13-14
2 Corinthians 1: 18-22
Mark 2: 1-12
"When this old world starts getting me down and people are just too much for me to face, I’ll climb way up to the top of the stairs and all my cares just drift right into space. On the roof it’s peaceful as can be and there the world don’t bother me". These lyrics are from the James Taylor classic, Up on the Roof. Originally written by Carole King and performed by the Drifters, James Taylor took the meaning of the song to new heights. For him, the rooftop was his oasis, his place to watch the stars, which "put on a show for free".
All of us have our special oasis, our get away place. For most of us, it probably is not our roof. But all of us here still have searing memories of so many of our neighbors, maybe some of us here today, who fled to the safety of a rooftop to escape the flood waters from Hurricane Katrina. The entire nation, even the whole world, watched the dozens of heroic rescues from New Orleans rooftops. For many of these victims of the flood they had faith that they would be saved.
As people of faith, where do we go for our peace, where do we flee for safety, who do we turn to? And how determined, how persistent will we be?
In today’s Gospel, St. Mark tells us of Jesus returning home and a great crowd that gathered to hear him preach. Then we hear of the four men carrying their friend, a paralytic. So determined that they would get their friend to Jesus, they overcame the crowd, stripped the roof off the place where Jesus was and lowered their friend down to Jesus. Jesus indeed heals the man. The Gospel tells us why Jesus healed the man: seeing their faith. The group of friends believed in the healing power of Jesus to the point of stripping off a roof. It is as if nothing was going to stop them. Their faith made them determined to get to Jesus.
When Jesus heals the paralytic, he tells him your sins are forgiven. This did not sit well with the scribes, and probably others too. Jesus is aware of those who do not have faith in Him. In this Gospel, He knows that his critics are offended by Him and consider Him blasphemous. Jesus chooses not to make a big deal about the criticism, and tells the healed man, get up, pick up your mat and go home.
Again, these Scriptures tell us of things that happened long ago, but they speak to all of us today. Do we have the faith of the paralytic and his four friends? And if we do, do we practice that faith with others? Have we brought our friends, our families to Jesus? Do we seek to be healed; not so much from disease or paralysis, which Jesus indeed can heal, but from our sins?
The Church, in Her wisdom, gives us this reading as we prepare to begin the holy season of Lent. How can we let this reading speak to us today, as we approach the season of penance, reflection, reconciliation and forgiveness? We start, of course, with Ash Wednesday. We have four opportunities to receive ashes as detailed in the bulletin. Make every effort to do this. Bring your family, take a neighbor, and invite a co-worker at lunchtime. And take advantage of our additional times for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. As we learned in our recent parish mission, even if you have not been to Reconciliation in quite some time, Jesus is waiting for you, to come to Him, to heal you of your sins.
Like the paralytic and his friends, you will never forget the experience; whether confession is something you do frequently or not so frequently. If we really think about it, everyone was so astounded at the healing of the paralytic, they proclaimed, “we have never seen anything like this”. When we go to confession, when we seek the mercy and forgiveness that Jesus offers, when we are healed of our sins, should we not also proclaim, “we have never seen anything like this”.
Up on the roof is a great song that speaks of peace, tranquility and a place to unwind. What will our rooftop experience be, when we turn to Jesus and ask to be healed? When we practice our faith and share our faith with others, the grace and mercy of Jesus flows and grows; it grows right through the roof.
Isaiah 43:18-19, 21-22, 24-25
Psalm 41: 2-3, 4-5, 13-14
2 Corinthians 1: 18-22
Mark 2: 1-12
"When this old world starts getting me down and people are just too much for me to face, I’ll climb way up to the top of the stairs and all my cares just drift right into space. On the roof it’s peaceful as can be and there the world don’t bother me". These lyrics are from the James Taylor classic, Up on the Roof. Originally written by Carole King and performed by the Drifters, James Taylor took the meaning of the song to new heights. For him, the rooftop was his oasis, his place to watch the stars, which "put on a show for free".
All of us have our special oasis, our get away place. For most of us, it probably is not our roof. But all of us here still have searing memories of so many of our neighbors, maybe some of us here today, who fled to the safety of a rooftop to escape the flood waters from Hurricane Katrina. The entire nation, even the whole world, watched the dozens of heroic rescues from New Orleans rooftops. For many of these victims of the flood they had faith that they would be saved.
As people of faith, where do we go for our peace, where do we flee for safety, who do we turn to? And how determined, how persistent will we be?
In today’s Gospel, St. Mark tells us of Jesus returning home and a great crowd that gathered to hear him preach. Then we hear of the four men carrying their friend, a paralytic. So determined that they would get their friend to Jesus, they overcame the crowd, stripped the roof off the place where Jesus was and lowered their friend down to Jesus. Jesus indeed heals the man. The Gospel tells us why Jesus healed the man: seeing their faith. The group of friends believed in the healing power of Jesus to the point of stripping off a roof. It is as if nothing was going to stop them. Their faith made them determined to get to Jesus.
When Jesus heals the paralytic, he tells him your sins are forgiven. This did not sit well with the scribes, and probably others too. Jesus is aware of those who do not have faith in Him. In this Gospel, He knows that his critics are offended by Him and consider Him blasphemous. Jesus chooses not to make a big deal about the criticism, and tells the healed man, get up, pick up your mat and go home.
Again, these Scriptures tell us of things that happened long ago, but they speak to all of us today. Do we have the faith of the paralytic and his four friends? And if we do, do we practice that faith with others? Have we brought our friends, our families to Jesus? Do we seek to be healed; not so much from disease or paralysis, which Jesus indeed can heal, but from our sins?
The Church, in Her wisdom, gives us this reading as we prepare to begin the holy season of Lent. How can we let this reading speak to us today, as we approach the season of penance, reflection, reconciliation and forgiveness? We start, of course, with Ash Wednesday. We have four opportunities to receive ashes as detailed in the bulletin. Make every effort to do this. Bring your family, take a neighbor, and invite a co-worker at lunchtime. And take advantage of our additional times for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. As we learned in our recent parish mission, even if you have not been to Reconciliation in quite some time, Jesus is waiting for you, to come to Him, to heal you of your sins.
Like the paralytic and his friends, you will never forget the experience; whether confession is something you do frequently or not so frequently. If we really think about it, everyone was so astounded at the healing of the paralytic, they proclaimed, “we have never seen anything like this”. When we go to confession, when we seek the mercy and forgiveness that Jesus offers, when we are healed of our sins, should we not also proclaim, “we have never seen anything like this”.
Up on the roof is a great song that speaks of peace, tranquility and a place to unwind. What will our rooftop experience be, when we turn to Jesus and ask to be healed? When we practice our faith and share our faith with others, the grace and mercy of Jesus flows and grows; it grows right through the roof.
Serving with a Living Saint
This morning at 8 a.m. Mass at St. Jane's in Abita Springs, I assisted Archbishop Philip Hannan. Now, I've served with him before, as an acolyte or one of several deacons on the altar. But today, I had the privilege and honor of assisting him throughout Mass.
For me, this is so special because I truly believe he is a living saint. Archbishop Hannan is about to turn 96 years young. He is remarkable!!! Hannan served New Orleans as Archbishop from 1965-1989 and helped us recover from Hurricane Betsy. He also was the Archbishop who started the Permanent Diaconate in New Orleans. Since his retirement he remains active, assisting where he can, establishing Focus Ministries, http://www.focustvonline.com/, and now serving the 8 a.m. Saturday mass every week at St. Jane's.
He served in WWII, was a paratrooper, the personal advisor to President John F. Kennedy, delivering the eulogy at his funeral, and is now the only living American Bishop who attended 2nd Vatican Council.
While many deacons may get to serve with him from time to time, I wish to acknowledge two who serve with him often and assist him in continuing his ministries: Deacon Rusty Read and Deacon Mark Coudrain.
Please join me in offering prayers for Archbishop Philip Hannan's continuing service to God and dedication and devotion to His Holy Catholic Church.
For me, this is so special because I truly believe he is a living saint. Archbishop Hannan is about to turn 96 years young. He is remarkable!!! Hannan served New Orleans as Archbishop from 1965-1989 and helped us recover from Hurricane Betsy. He also was the Archbishop who started the Permanent Diaconate in New Orleans. Since his retirement he remains active, assisting where he can, establishing Focus Ministries, http://www.focustvonline.com/, and now serving the 8 a.m. Saturday mass every week at St. Jane's.
He served in WWII, was a paratrooper, the personal advisor to President John F. Kennedy, delivering the eulogy at his funeral, and is now the only living American Bishop who attended 2nd Vatican Council.
While many deacons may get to serve with him from time to time, I wish to acknowledge two who serve with him often and assist him in continuing his ministries: Deacon Rusty Read and Deacon Mark Coudrain.
Please join me in offering prayers for Archbishop Philip Hannan's continuing service to God and dedication and devotion to His Holy Catholic Church.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Homily for 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Homily for 6th Sunday Ordinary time 2.14.09
Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46
Psalm 32
1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
Mark 1:40-45
I had the opportunity to travel all across Louisiana for several years and there are not too many places I have not seen. One day, I approached the community of Carville, La. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Iberville Parish, this community was the home of the last facility in America that legally isolated and quarantined those suffering with leprosy. From 1894 thru 1999, this community was commonly referred to as the nation’s leper colony. Today, the facility is closed and houses a museum and Carville is perhaps more famous for one of its native sons, political consultant James Carville.
We all have heard examples of separation and isolation in our nation’s history. From slavery to segregation to internment of Japanese Americans during WWII, our history is replete with examples of isolation. Sometimes we experience isolation. Perhaps we have isolated ourselves from others; from those who look differently or we judge as unworthy. And sometimes, we are the ones being judged and cutoff from others.
As people of faith, are we able to love and reach out to others as Jesus loves and reaches out to all; even to those society deems different or unworthy?
In today’s Gospel, Mark introduces us to one such leper who approaches Jesus. This would be most unusual as lepers were considered unclean and no one was to have any contact with a leper. Leprosy was highly incurable, contagious and offensive to sight and smell. The leper was despised, isolated and not even allowed to publicly worship God. They were considered the “living dead”. To warn others of their presence, they were forced to wear a bell around their neck and proclaim loudly, “unclean, unclean”. Despite this, the leper we meet today takes note of Jesus and senses something different about Him. And so he asks, “If you wish, you can make me clean”. The leper comes to Jesus, open, vulnerable, begging yet hopeful, full of faith. And Jesus, responds as the Savior He is. He replies, “I do will it, be made clean.” And then he touches the leper. And the leper is made clean.
What a remarkable parallel between this faith filled leper and us, filled with faith too, gathered here today. We too reach out to Jesus and kneel before receiving Him and say “Lord, I am not worthy to receive you but only say the word and I shall be healed”. Like the leper, we ask to receive Him, to be touched by Him and be healed, to be made clean.
We also, like the leper, say to Jesus, “If you wish, you can make me clean” thru the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Yes, in Confession, we are made clean. For we say, “Bless me Father for I have sinned”. And we hear Jesus respond, “I do will it, be made clean” as we hear the Priest say “I absolve you of your sins.” In Reconciliation, in Confession, like the leper, we ask, we receive Jesus’ healing and touch and we are made clean.
In the Gospel Jesus commands, “go, show yourself to the Priest”. At this point, the leper has been healed. In the Anointing of the Sick, we hear these words, “Is anyone among you sick? Summon the presbyters (priests) of the church”. And it continues, “Pray over him and anoint him and the prayer of faith will save the sick person. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.” Again, like the leper, we ask, we receive Jesus’ healing and touch and we are made clean.
There is another remarkable parallel between the leper and us gathered here today. In the Gospel, Jesus dismisses the leper with specific instructions. He is told to tell no one, beside the priest, primarily so Jesus can withdraw and pray. We know that the leper could not comply; not because he is disobedient but because his joy is too much to contain. At the end of every Mass, we to are dismissed: “go in peace to love and serve the Lord.” But unlike the leper, we are not constrained to tell no one; in fact we are encouraged to spread the Good News. But what are our post dismissal realities?
Do we live our faith away from Mass? Do we share the Good News with those we meet; our family, friends and coworkers? Do we discuss the readings or the prayers with others? Do we volunteer for ministry? Do we attend daily Mass when we can? Do we frequently receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation? Do we attend Adoration and Benediction on 1st Friday’s? Will we attend Stations of the Cross in Lent? Can we donate our time, talent and treasure to our local food bank, nursing home or hospital?
Will we, having been made clean, and filled with the joy of salvation, reach out and touch those who also need to be made clean?
Just as the leper reached out and desired the healing touch of Jesus, Jesus now waits for us, arms outstretched as we prepare to receive Him in Holy Communion. And He desires us to reach out to those among us who need our help and prayers; to break out of their isolation and separation and help them to be made clean too.
Carville, LA will always be a place of remembrance of those isolated and suffering from leprosy. May our faith in Jesus’ healing touch and our example make this place a permanent remembrance of those included and accepted and loved and made clean!!!
Fill us Lord with the Joy of your Salvation!!!
Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46
Psalm 32
1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
Mark 1:40-45
I had the opportunity to travel all across Louisiana for several years and there are not too many places I have not seen. One day, I approached the community of Carville, La. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Iberville Parish, this community was the home of the last facility in America that legally isolated and quarantined those suffering with leprosy. From 1894 thru 1999, this community was commonly referred to as the nation’s leper colony. Today, the facility is closed and houses a museum and Carville is perhaps more famous for one of its native sons, political consultant James Carville.
We all have heard examples of separation and isolation in our nation’s history. From slavery to segregation to internment of Japanese Americans during WWII, our history is replete with examples of isolation. Sometimes we experience isolation. Perhaps we have isolated ourselves from others; from those who look differently or we judge as unworthy. And sometimes, we are the ones being judged and cutoff from others.
As people of faith, are we able to love and reach out to others as Jesus loves and reaches out to all; even to those society deems different or unworthy?
In today’s Gospel, Mark introduces us to one such leper who approaches Jesus. This would be most unusual as lepers were considered unclean and no one was to have any contact with a leper. Leprosy was highly incurable, contagious and offensive to sight and smell. The leper was despised, isolated and not even allowed to publicly worship God. They were considered the “living dead”. To warn others of their presence, they were forced to wear a bell around their neck and proclaim loudly, “unclean, unclean”. Despite this, the leper we meet today takes note of Jesus and senses something different about Him. And so he asks, “If you wish, you can make me clean”. The leper comes to Jesus, open, vulnerable, begging yet hopeful, full of faith. And Jesus, responds as the Savior He is. He replies, “I do will it, be made clean.” And then he touches the leper. And the leper is made clean.
What a remarkable parallel between this faith filled leper and us, filled with faith too, gathered here today. We too reach out to Jesus and kneel before receiving Him and say “Lord, I am not worthy to receive you but only say the word and I shall be healed”. Like the leper, we ask to receive Him, to be touched by Him and be healed, to be made clean.
We also, like the leper, say to Jesus, “If you wish, you can make me clean” thru the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Yes, in Confession, we are made clean. For we say, “Bless me Father for I have sinned”. And we hear Jesus respond, “I do will it, be made clean” as we hear the Priest say “I absolve you of your sins.” In Reconciliation, in Confession, like the leper, we ask, we receive Jesus’ healing and touch and we are made clean.
In the Gospel Jesus commands, “go, show yourself to the Priest”. At this point, the leper has been healed. In the Anointing of the Sick, we hear these words, “Is anyone among you sick? Summon the presbyters (priests) of the church”. And it continues, “Pray over him and anoint him and the prayer of faith will save the sick person. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.” Again, like the leper, we ask, we receive Jesus’ healing and touch and we are made clean.
There is another remarkable parallel between the leper and us gathered here today. In the Gospel, Jesus dismisses the leper with specific instructions. He is told to tell no one, beside the priest, primarily so Jesus can withdraw and pray. We know that the leper could not comply; not because he is disobedient but because his joy is too much to contain. At the end of every Mass, we to are dismissed: “go in peace to love and serve the Lord.” But unlike the leper, we are not constrained to tell no one; in fact we are encouraged to spread the Good News. But what are our post dismissal realities?
Do we live our faith away from Mass? Do we share the Good News with those we meet; our family, friends and coworkers? Do we discuss the readings or the prayers with others? Do we volunteer for ministry? Do we attend daily Mass when we can? Do we frequently receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation? Do we attend Adoration and Benediction on 1st Friday’s? Will we attend Stations of the Cross in Lent? Can we donate our time, talent and treasure to our local food bank, nursing home or hospital?
Will we, having been made clean, and filled with the joy of salvation, reach out and touch those who also need to be made clean?
Just as the leper reached out and desired the healing touch of Jesus, Jesus now waits for us, arms outstretched as we prepare to receive Him in Holy Communion. And He desires us to reach out to those among us who need our help and prayers; to break out of their isolation and separation and help them to be made clean too.
Carville, LA will always be a place of remembrance of those isolated and suffering from leprosy. May our faith in Jesus’ healing touch and our example make this place a permanent remembrance of those included and accepted and loved and made clean!!!
Fill us Lord with the Joy of your Salvation!!!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
My February update
February Greetings from Deacon Mike:
I trust all are doing well since my last update or the last time we were able to visit. Again, I thank one and all for supporting the ministry God has entrusted to me with your prayers and support.
I hope those of you who are close by may be able to attend one of the Masses over the next two weekends where I will be preaching the homily from the Gospel of Mark. This Sunday, February 8th, I will be preaching at the 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Mass. Next weekend, the 14th and 15th, which is Valentines Day weekend and the start of Mardi Gras, I will be preaching at 4 p.m. at St. Michael’s in Bush and 6 p.m. at St. Jane’s in Abita. These are vigil Masses on Saturday. Then on Sunday morning, the 15th again I will deliver a homily at 11 a.m. Mass.
These next two weekends are powerful Gospel messages of healing, forgiveness of sin and mercy. You are so welcome to join my parish family at St. Jane’s and St. Michael Mission.
In the past few weeks I have been encouraged in my faith by several events. I have visited twice since my last update with the men at Rayburn Prison where I now serve as Director of Catholic Pastoral Care. The men have welcomed me with open arms and have shared openly with me their pain, struggles and personal journey in discovering God’s love and mercy and their growth in faith and spirituality. Please consider praying for the men who find themselves in prison.
And in the past few weeks, I have been inspired by the number of people, including many young people, who attended the March for Life in Washington and those who faithfully minister outside the abortion clinic in Metairie. Our parish participated in the Bishop’s post card campaign over two weekends and I was happy to hear we exhausted our supply. Continue to pressure your U.S. Representatives and Senators to oppose FOCA, the so-called Freedom of Choice Act. And pray for the unborn and our national leaders, particularly our new President, for a conversion of heart.
Just this past week, my home parish had a 4 night mission led by Deacon Glenn Harmon of San Diego. Allow me to share a few of his teachings with you. First, learn to give up that which robs you of peace. Surrender it to God, name it and imagine being free from such burden. Decide to let it go. Give it all to God.
God calls us to serve Him and our brothers and sisters. Hear God’s promise from Sirach, chapter 35 verses 16-17: “He who serves God willingly is heard; his petition reaches the heavens. The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal.” WOW.
On the last night of the mission Deacon Glenn gave us five tools to have a strong foundation based on God. Here they are:
Pray: daily, every day without fail. Thank him for your life, praise and bless God, ask Him for His will in your life.
Read and pray with Scripture. Read the Bible everyday. Reject the false concept that Catholics should not read the Bible. Remember the words of St. Jerome: “ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ”. The Church has readings laid out every day of the year in a 3 year cycle. Even if you can’t attend daily Mass, you can read the daily readings by purchasing guides like Magnificat, Emmaus Story or Living with Christ to name but three. The Church, in Her wisdom, has made it possible that by following the readings in a 3 year cycle, you will read most of Sacred Scripture.
Learn the Catholic Faith. Each home should have a Catechism or the new more concise Compendium Catechism of the Catholic Church. Written in question and answer form, reading just one “q & a” per day can result in a much deeper appreciation for the Catholic faith given to us by Jesus.
Be proud & enthusiastic. It’s a good thing to be proud of your faith. Live it by word, deed and example.
Serve. Everyone has some gift; time or talent that can be shared with God’s people, with His church. Consider a ministry and get involved.
These are great tools that Deacon Glenn shared with us and I’m happy to share them with you. Using the Compendium mentioned in # 3 above I hope to share some information over the next few updates. Let’s start with the Sacraments of the Church.
The Catholic Church rejoices in the gift of 7 Sacraments given to Her by Christ. They are Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders and Matrimony.
These sacraments are the fruit of the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.
The Sacraments are divided, if you will, into the following:
Sacraments of Christian Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist
Sacraments of Healing: Penance and Anointing of the Sick.
Sacraments of Service and Mission: Holy Orders and Matrimony.
In my next update, we will explore the Sacrament of Baptism and answer questions like: Is Baptism necessary for Salvation? Why does the Church baptize infants? Who can receive Baptism?
Again, if you can join me for Mass, great; if not please continue to pray for me as I always pray for each of you. Please remember, the holy season of Lent will soon be upon us; what a great time to grow deeper in your faith and love for Him who died for us.
Please contact me with any prayer requests or questions you may have about the Church, my ministry or whatever is on your mind.
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
Deacon Mikeabitadeacon@yahoo.com
I trust all are doing well since my last update or the last time we were able to visit. Again, I thank one and all for supporting the ministry God has entrusted to me with your prayers and support.
I hope those of you who are close by may be able to attend one of the Masses over the next two weekends where I will be preaching the homily from the Gospel of Mark. This Sunday, February 8th, I will be preaching at the 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Mass. Next weekend, the 14th and 15th, which is Valentines Day weekend and the start of Mardi Gras, I will be preaching at 4 p.m. at St. Michael’s in Bush and 6 p.m. at St. Jane’s in Abita. These are vigil Masses on Saturday. Then on Sunday morning, the 15th again I will deliver a homily at 11 a.m. Mass.
These next two weekends are powerful Gospel messages of healing, forgiveness of sin and mercy. You are so welcome to join my parish family at St. Jane’s and St. Michael Mission.
In the past few weeks I have been encouraged in my faith by several events. I have visited twice since my last update with the men at Rayburn Prison where I now serve as Director of Catholic Pastoral Care. The men have welcomed me with open arms and have shared openly with me their pain, struggles and personal journey in discovering God’s love and mercy and their growth in faith and spirituality. Please consider praying for the men who find themselves in prison.
And in the past few weeks, I have been inspired by the number of people, including many young people, who attended the March for Life in Washington and those who faithfully minister outside the abortion clinic in Metairie. Our parish participated in the Bishop’s post card campaign over two weekends and I was happy to hear we exhausted our supply. Continue to pressure your U.S. Representatives and Senators to oppose FOCA, the so-called Freedom of Choice Act. And pray for the unborn and our national leaders, particularly our new President, for a conversion of heart.
Just this past week, my home parish had a 4 night mission led by Deacon Glenn Harmon of San Diego. Allow me to share a few of his teachings with you. First, learn to give up that which robs you of peace. Surrender it to God, name it and imagine being free from such burden. Decide to let it go. Give it all to God.
God calls us to serve Him and our brothers and sisters. Hear God’s promise from Sirach, chapter 35 verses 16-17: “He who serves God willingly is heard; his petition reaches the heavens. The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal.” WOW.
On the last night of the mission Deacon Glenn gave us five tools to have a strong foundation based on God. Here they are:
Pray: daily, every day without fail. Thank him for your life, praise and bless God, ask Him for His will in your life.
Read and pray with Scripture. Read the Bible everyday. Reject the false concept that Catholics should not read the Bible. Remember the words of St. Jerome: “ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ”. The Church has readings laid out every day of the year in a 3 year cycle. Even if you can’t attend daily Mass, you can read the daily readings by purchasing guides like Magnificat, Emmaus Story or Living with Christ to name but three. The Church, in Her wisdom, has made it possible that by following the readings in a 3 year cycle, you will read most of Sacred Scripture.
Learn the Catholic Faith. Each home should have a Catechism or the new more concise Compendium Catechism of the Catholic Church. Written in question and answer form, reading just one “q & a” per day can result in a much deeper appreciation for the Catholic faith given to us by Jesus.
Be proud & enthusiastic. It’s a good thing to be proud of your faith. Live it by word, deed and example.
Serve. Everyone has some gift; time or talent that can be shared with God’s people, with His church. Consider a ministry and get involved.
These are great tools that Deacon Glenn shared with us and I’m happy to share them with you. Using the Compendium mentioned in # 3 above I hope to share some information over the next few updates. Let’s start with the Sacraments of the Church.
The Catholic Church rejoices in the gift of 7 Sacraments given to Her by Christ. They are Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders and Matrimony.
These sacraments are the fruit of the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.
The Sacraments are divided, if you will, into the following:
Sacraments of Christian Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist
Sacraments of Healing: Penance and Anointing of the Sick.
Sacraments of Service and Mission: Holy Orders and Matrimony.
In my next update, we will explore the Sacrament of Baptism and answer questions like: Is Baptism necessary for Salvation? Why does the Church baptize infants? Who can receive Baptism?
Again, if you can join me for Mass, great; if not please continue to pray for me as I always pray for each of you. Please remember, the holy season of Lent will soon be upon us; what a great time to grow deeper in your faith and love for Him who died for us.
Please contact me with any prayer requests or questions you may have about the Church, my ministry or whatever is on your mind.
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
Deacon Mikeabitadeacon@yahoo.com
Our Lady of Charity, pray for us..
I must admit that I was not familiar with devotion to Mary under the title, Our Lady of Charity. Until last night, that is, when I presided over a Marian Hour of Devotion to Our Lady of Charity sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, Council 12529, Abita Springs, La. Here is the story:
Three young men were rowing their boat in Cuban waters in search of salt to preserve meat for the copper miners of El Cobre. Halfway out, a storm blew up, forcing the three to seek shelter. In the morning, they saw a white bundle floating toward them. It was a statue attached to a board that was inscribed: "Yo soy la Virgen de la Caridad", "I am the Virgin of Charity". A shrine was erected and devotion spread throughout Cuba to Our Lady of Charity. This devotion now spreads throughout the world, and here in America, thanks in part to the Knights of Columbus.
May we all strive to learn more about devotion to Mary under this title and continue to turn to Her for powerful intercession with Her Son.
Thanks to all from the local Knights council and parishoners from St. Jane de Chantal Catholic Church in Abita for a beautiful prayer service last evening.
Three young men were rowing their boat in Cuban waters in search of salt to preserve meat for the copper miners of El Cobre. Halfway out, a storm blew up, forcing the three to seek shelter. In the morning, they saw a white bundle floating toward them. It was a statue attached to a board that was inscribed: "Yo soy la Virgen de la Caridad", "I am the Virgin of Charity". A shrine was erected and devotion spread throughout Cuba to Our Lady of Charity. This devotion now spreads throughout the world, and here in America, thanks in part to the Knights of Columbus.
May we all strive to learn more about devotion to Mary under this title and continue to turn to Her for powerful intercession with Her Son.
Thanks to all from the local Knights council and parishoners from St. Jane de Chantal Catholic Church in Abita for a beautiful prayer service last evening.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Homily February 8, 2009/ 5th Sunday Ordinary Time
Angela Boudreaux was living a normal life on the Westbank; a wife and mother of four young children. In 1966, her youngest son fell ill and spent time in and out of the hospital. As he recovered his health, Angela was ignoring troubling symptoms of her own. She was in much pain and her stomach had swollen to the size of a woman six months pregnant. Finally, she went to the doctor and was told her liver was nine times the size of a normal liver. A biopsy would reveal malignant cells and the diagnosis was confirmed: advanced liver cancer. Surgery was scheduled.
Because she asked, the doctors told her surgery would last five hours if removal of the cancer was achieved or one hour if there would be no hope. Her surgery lasted one hour. The liver was gone, replaced by a large, aggressive cancerous tumor. She was told she had two weeks to live.
But two weeks later she is still alive and feeling better. Angela was allowed to leave the hospital to get her affairs in order. She made one request of her husband, Melvin. She asked to visit the grave of Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos at St. Mary's Church in the Irish Channel of New Orleans. She knelt at his graveside, gave thanks for being alive, and asked for his intercession to be healed.
Soon, experimental chemotherapy was recommended. The chemo would include a derivative of poison mustard gas. Doctors were desperate; they did not expect a cure. Angela continued to improve and feel better and continued to pray through Fr. Seelos for his intercession. Five years later she is still alive, feeling better and functioning just fine; except for a bad case of gallstones.
The gall bladder surgery actually presented doctors a chance to view the liver. To their amazement, the liver was whole and healthy, tumor-less and perfectly normal. Doctors concluded that the experimental chemotherapy alone could not expalin the good news. Her doctor, a Protestant, declared it must be a miracle. Angela knew what happened, her prayers and those of Fr. Seelos, were answered. Jesus heals.
Her case was presented to Rome as part of the process for the cause of the canonization of Fr. Seelos. Angela had worked now for over 25 years for this cause.
I remember these events well for when I was just nine years old my immediate family called me and my sister together, asked us to play with four young children, cousins we had not ever met, and be kind for their mother only had days to live. You see Angela and Melvin were related to the uncle who was raising us and they became Ms. Angela and Uncle Melvin to me. So it was with great joy in the jubilee year of 2000 that Angela and Melvin went to Rome, met Pope John Paul the Great as he declared her healing as the miracle that allowed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos to be declared a Blessed.
I learned at an early age that Jesus heals and yes He has powerful intercessors, our friends that help us in presenting our needs to Jesus. Even in today's Gospel, Simon's mother-in-law needed friends and family to bring Jesus to her for healing. And Jesus did come and He did heal. But we learn in the Gospel that Jesus did not come for healing alone. His healing and His cures reveal His purpose: to preach the Good News, to show us how to pray, to bring hope and to save.
In all the years I knew Ms. Angela, her focus was never on "look at me; I've been healed" but rather a woman focused on her faith, a woman who prayed, never missed Mass and preached the Gospel by her actions. Her daily example was full of joy and hope; the same joy and hope she shares with Simon's mother-in-law.
Ms. Angela showed me, and all of us, that Jesus is still present in our life now, that He comes to us, He longs to proclaim the Good News to us, He longs to nourish us with His Body and Blood. All we need to do, like Ms. Angela did, is come to Him in prayer, ask Him to heal us of our illness, sin, and yes, solicit the help of His powerful friends, intercessors like Blessed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos. And when we come to Him, He will show us the Father. Even in the midst of the miraculous cure in today's Gospel, Jesus points to the Father; in prayer and preaching. He will never lead us in any other way than to His Father, our Father.
Ms. Angela found a powerful intercessor, a powerful friend in Blessed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos. She knew that it was Jesus who healed her, who heals us, who leads us to our Father, her Father, where she rests in His glorious presence today.
May we, inspired by the life of Ms. Angela, and the example of Blessed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos seek Jesus, to be healed, to be saved and to proclaim that Jesus is Lord. May this be the purpose for which we come; the purpose for which we live.
Blessed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos, pray for us.
Because she asked, the doctors told her surgery would last five hours if removal of the cancer was achieved or one hour if there would be no hope. Her surgery lasted one hour. The liver was gone, replaced by a large, aggressive cancerous tumor. She was told she had two weeks to live.
But two weeks later she is still alive and feeling better. Angela was allowed to leave the hospital to get her affairs in order. She made one request of her husband, Melvin. She asked to visit the grave of Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos at St. Mary's Church in the Irish Channel of New Orleans. She knelt at his graveside, gave thanks for being alive, and asked for his intercession to be healed.
Soon, experimental chemotherapy was recommended. The chemo would include a derivative of poison mustard gas. Doctors were desperate; they did not expect a cure. Angela continued to improve and feel better and continued to pray through Fr. Seelos for his intercession. Five years later she is still alive, feeling better and functioning just fine; except for a bad case of gallstones.
The gall bladder surgery actually presented doctors a chance to view the liver. To their amazement, the liver was whole and healthy, tumor-less and perfectly normal. Doctors concluded that the experimental chemotherapy alone could not expalin the good news. Her doctor, a Protestant, declared it must be a miracle. Angela knew what happened, her prayers and those of Fr. Seelos, were answered. Jesus heals.
Her case was presented to Rome as part of the process for the cause of the canonization of Fr. Seelos. Angela had worked now for over 25 years for this cause.
I remember these events well for when I was just nine years old my immediate family called me and my sister together, asked us to play with four young children, cousins we had not ever met, and be kind for their mother only had days to live. You see Angela and Melvin were related to the uncle who was raising us and they became Ms. Angela and Uncle Melvin to me. So it was with great joy in the jubilee year of 2000 that Angela and Melvin went to Rome, met Pope John Paul the Great as he declared her healing as the miracle that allowed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos to be declared a Blessed.
I learned at an early age that Jesus heals and yes He has powerful intercessors, our friends that help us in presenting our needs to Jesus. Even in today's Gospel, Simon's mother-in-law needed friends and family to bring Jesus to her for healing. And Jesus did come and He did heal. But we learn in the Gospel that Jesus did not come for healing alone. His healing and His cures reveal His purpose: to preach the Good News, to show us how to pray, to bring hope and to save.
In all the years I knew Ms. Angela, her focus was never on "look at me; I've been healed" but rather a woman focused on her faith, a woman who prayed, never missed Mass and preached the Gospel by her actions. Her daily example was full of joy and hope; the same joy and hope she shares with Simon's mother-in-law.
Ms. Angela showed me, and all of us, that Jesus is still present in our life now, that He comes to us, He longs to proclaim the Good News to us, He longs to nourish us with His Body and Blood. All we need to do, like Ms. Angela did, is come to Him in prayer, ask Him to heal us of our illness, sin, and yes, solicit the help of His powerful friends, intercessors like Blessed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos. And when we come to Him, He will show us the Father. Even in the midst of the miraculous cure in today's Gospel, Jesus points to the Father; in prayer and preaching. He will never lead us in any other way than to His Father, our Father.
Ms. Angela found a powerful intercessor, a powerful friend in Blessed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos. She knew that it was Jesus who healed her, who heals us, who leads us to our Father, her Father, where she rests in His glorious presence today.
May we, inspired by the life of Ms. Angela, and the example of Blessed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos seek Jesus, to be healed, to be saved and to proclaim that Jesus is Lord. May this be the purpose for which we come; the purpose for which we live.
Blessed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos, pray for us.
Proclaim the Good News
Welcome to my new blog. I am a recently ordained Permanent Deacon for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. A Permanent Deacon serves the Catholic Church in the ministry of word and service. I assit at Masses, proclaim the Gospel, officiate at Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals. My service ministry is pastoral care at a correctional facility. I hope to post articles, stories, updates of interest regarding the Catholic Church, the ministry entrusted to me by God and ongoing ministries throughout the Archdiocese of New Orleans.
It is my hope that this blog will help to fulfill Jesus' command to "go into the whole world and proclaim the Good News to every creature." Mark 16:15.
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. Hebrews 13:8.
Deacon Mike; the Abita Deacon
It is my hope that this blog will help to fulfill Jesus' command to "go into the whole world and proclaim the Good News to every creature." Mark 16:15.
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. Hebrews 13:8.
Deacon Mike; the Abita Deacon