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Servant House

Servant House A Catholic Charismatic House of Prayer 117 N. Monroe St. Marksville, LA 71351 (318) 253-7810 Fax: (318) 253-7842…

Servant House
A Catholic Charismatic House of Prayer
117 N. Monroe St.
Marksville, LA 71351
(318) 253-7810
Fax: (318) 253-7842
E-mail: servanthouse89@yahoo.com

Natural Family Planning (Couple to Couple League)

Natural Family Planning (Couple to Couple League) Natural Family Planning teaches fertility awareness of a couple…

Natural Family Planning teaches fertility awareness of a couple and how to use this knowledge to avoid or achieve pregnancy. The Couple to Couple League teaches NFP using the Sympto-Thermal method which is 99.9% effective in avoiding pregrnancy and is within the moral constructs of the Catholic Church. CCL also teaches about the return of fertility after childbirth, breastfeeding for babies, as well as instruction on the changing fertility status of the pre-menopause years.

Contact:
Michael and Leah Pelto
(318) 640-8678
E-mail: michaelandleah@suddenlink.net

Serra Club

They don’t stand out in regard to who they are, but what they do plays an important role in the mission of the church.  Their role is so important…

They don’t stand out in regard to who they are, but what they do plays an important role in the mission of the church.  Their role is so important that they even have a special relationship with the Vatican.

They are Serrans, members of Serra International.

The Serra Club of Alexandria is the only one of its kind in the diocese. The members are men and women who meet at least monthly to coordinate programs and pray specifically for vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

Why the name Serra? The name comes from Father Junipero Serra, a Franciscan missionary who worked from 1768-1784 in the area of present-day California. He spent much of his time building churches and schools for the poor and the native people.  But he also worked hard as a priest to catechize those in his care and  to build a dedicated priesthood.

So, in 1934, when the first Serra Club was established in Seattle, Wash., the first members chose the name to honor Blessed Junipero Serra.

“A lot of people often get us confused with the “Sierra” Club, which is an environmental club,” said Ann Masden, past president of the Serra Club of Alexandria and the first woman to hold that office. “We want people to remember that we’re the Serra Club without an “i” because “we” support vocations.”

The Serra Club of Alexandria is the only Serra organization in the diocese. It is one of the 1,100 Serra Clubs organized in more than 46 countries, and is a member of the larger Serra International. Organized in 1951 as part of the Sacred Council for Catholic Education and the Pontifical Work for Priestly Vocation, Serra International today has more than 20,000 Catholic members world-wide.

The local Serra Club prays for vocations by means of Masses, rosaries, intercessory prayer, and the Serra Prayer for Vocations.

“While we support vocations with our prayers, we also support vocations by our actions,” said Masden.

Club members help raise money for vocations by assisting with the diocese’s sponsorship of the Annual Bishop’s Golf Tournament and supporting other fundraisers for seminarians.

“The assistance of the Serra Club members in these fundraisers is a huge attribution to its success,” said Masden.

In addition, the Serra Club of Alexandria also differs from other Serra Clubs because it has a broader focus which includes religious vocations rather than just seminarians.

“We feel an obligation to pray not just for an increase in vocations to the priesthood, but for all religious vocations, including sisters, brothers, and permanent deacons,” said Masden.

The Serra Club also encourages its members to live out their own vocation to service.

Pope John Paul II in his address to Serra International in December of 2000 said:

“The whole Church must become completely ministerial, a community of heralds and witnesses, rich in laborers for the harvest,” he said. “Prayer moves the heart of God.”

“The role of Serrans fits very well into the mission of the Church because they encourage pastors and laity alike to promote vocations,” the Holy Father concluded.

“Besides supporting vocations, the best thing about being a Serra Club member is meeting new people and developing new friendships,” said Masden. “Sharing this common bond has given me an opportunity to meet and work with people that otherwise, I probably would not have met. We have a lot of fun together.”

Membership is open to anyone interested in praying for and promoting vocations.

“We welcome everyone, but we would especially like to invite more young adults (ages 21-40) to join the Serra Club,” said Masden. “There are a lot of Catholic young adults, especially in the Diocese of Alexandria,  who are very involved in the Church.  We think they could add a lot to this service organization.”

For more information on how to join the Serra Club of Alexandria or to start a Serra Club in your deanery, contact any Serra Club member.

Prayer for Vocations

O God, who wills not the death of a sinner, but rather that he be converted and live, grant we beseech You, through the intercession of the Blessed Mary, ever virgin, Saint Joseph, her spouse, Blessed Junipero Serra, and all the saints, increase of laborers for Your Church, fellow laborers with Chirst, Your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Radio Maria USA

Radio Maria USA is a Catholic radio network, headquartered in Alexandria, Louisiana, and is part of the World Family of Radio Maria…

About Radio Maria

Click here to visit the official Radio Maria website

Radio Maria USA is a Catholic radio network, headquartered in Alexandria, Louisiana, and is part of the World Family of Radio Maria.

Radio Maria was born as parish radio in 1983 in the Diocese of Milan, Italy.  Its purpose was to keep parishioners informed and to help them through prayer, the daily Mass and the Rosary.  It quickly spread to other parts of the world.

On May 25, 2000, the first English-speaking Radio Maria in the United States began broadcasting from its station in Alexandria, Louisiana.  Since that time, 10 more frequencies have been added.

Radio Maria currently operates in more than 40 countries, spreading the Gospel to millions of listeners in more than 15 languages.

Radio Maria USA features prayers and programming by local presenters and is made possible only through the work of dedicated volunteers and the donations of its generous listeners.

Radio Maria Frequencies

  • 580AM, Alexandria, LA
  • 91.1 FM, Lake Charles, LA
  • 89.7 FM, Natchitoches, LA
  • 1250 AM, Port Arthur, TX
  • 1360 AM, New Iberia, LA
  • 88.7 FM, Anna, OH
  • 88.1 FM, D’Iberville, MS
  • 1600 AM, Springfield, OH
  • 88.1 FM, Hollidaysburg, PA
  • 91.3 FM, Peshtigo, WI
  • 630 AM, New York, NY

How can I help Radio Maria continue its successful evangelization mission?

•  Volunteer – There are many volunteer opportunities available at Radio Maria.  From helping out with office work and mailings to reciting the rosary on air, there are lots of ways to use your special talents.  Call Radio Maria at 561-6145 to volunteer.

•  Join the ARMS 21 Club – The Association of Radio Maria Supporters (ARMS) 21 club invites its members to pledge $21 a month to support the efforts of Radio Maria.  It takes only 2,000 pledges of $21 per month to meet the current monthly budget.  Your pledge through ARMS 21 is essential to Radio Maria for the missionary work of evangelization to continue.

•  PRAY – Pray daily for the success and growth of this important evangelization ministry.

•  LISTEN  — Tune in to 580 AM every day and listen to your favorite program or participate in your favorite form of prayer. Radio Maria can also be heard online at www.radiomaria.us.

Knights of Peter Claver

Knights of Peter Claver 100-year old organization is the largest Catholic African-American group. The Knights of Peter Claver was founded…

Knights of Peter Claver

100-year old organization is the largest Catholic African-American group.

The Knights of Peter Claver was founded in 1909 and is the largest historically African-American Catholic lay organization in the United States.

It was incorporated in 1911 at Mobile, Alabama and is presently headquartered in New Orleans, La.

The Church has given the Order such strong support through the years that it now boasts nearly 1,000 subordinate units of Catholic family members throughout the United States.

The organization consists of six Divisions: Knights of Peter Claver, Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, Junior Knights, Junior Daughters, 4th Degree Knights and Ladies of Grace. The Order is governed by a Board of Directors and is under the leadership of the Supreme Knight and Supreme Lady, KPCLA. The Order is operated under the direction of the Executive Director and his staff.

There are six Districts and States across the country. Each district or state is represented by a Deputy and other conference officers. Districts, States, and other Divisions are represented on the Board of Directors.

The Junior Division welcomes Catholic youth between the ages of 7-18. They are organized using the same structure of the Senior Division. There is a Junior Supreme Knight, Junior Supreme Lady, along with Junior District or State Presidents and Officers. Interested youth must have made their First Holy Communion.

Our purpose is to render service to God and His Holy Church, render aid and assistance to the sick and disabled, and promote social and intellectual association among our members.

The goals and objectives of the Councils and Courts are

• to be a supporter to the local parishes and to the bishop of the diocese.

• to participate collectively in various parish and community activities.

• to promote civic improvement and social justice.

• to encourage Lay Apostolic and Catholic action

• to make contributions to worthwhile causes.

• to award scholarships and support education.

• to develop our youth in a positive, nuturing environment

• to provide social and intellectual fellowship for its members.

The Ladies’ Auxiliary was authorized and their Constitution adopted at Opelousas, Louisiana in August 1922; in the Constitution of the National Council, the Ladies’ Auxiliary was recognized as a Division of the National Council at Galveston, Texas in August 1926.

The organization is named after St. Peter Claver, a Spanish Jesuit priest and friend of the poor, who was born in 1581 in Verdu, Spain of noble and well-to-do parents. After becoming a Jesuit priest, he was assigned to Cartegena, Colombia, South America, a port that was part of the “Middle Passage,” where approximately 1,000 slaves landed every month. By the “Apostolate of Presence,” Father Claver proved himself a friend and advocate to the African slaves.

Braving social ostracism, he administered to the ill, cleaning their wounds and feeding them. After 40 years of serving Christ and the poor, over 300,000 had embraced the Faith, responding to his language of love. From these, Father Claver formed an elite group to assist in the services to others. It is believed that these were the first real Knights and Ladies of St. Peter Claver. Peter Claver completed his stay on earth September 8, 1654. Pope Leo XIII declared him a saint January 15, 1888.

Knights of Peter Claver website

Knights of Columbus

Knights of Columbus The Knights of Columbus is the world’s largest Catholic fraternal service organization. In the Diocese of Alexandria,…

Knights of Columbus

FOURTH DEGREE ASSEMBLIES

• Father Ryan General Assembly #0317
Bunkie

• Msgr. Piegay General Assembly #0328
Alexandria

• Msgr. S.J. DeKeuwer General Assembly #2078
Natchitoches

• Msgr. Van der Putten General Assembly #2333
Marksville

• St. Michael Archangel Assembly #2975
Leesville

The Knights of Columbus is the world’s largest Catholic fraternal service organization.

In the Diocese of Alexandria, there are currently five General Assemblies made up of 23 active Councils.  While membership is limited to practicing Catholic men ages 18 or older, there are also College Councils for men ages 18-24, and Columbian Squires, for young boys ages 10-17.

In 2005, the Order gave $136 million directly to charity and performed more than 63.2 million man hours of voluntary service. Because the organization supports the Church and its local community, the Order is often referred to as the “strong right arm of the Church.”

Throughout the diocese, the Knights have numerous projects that they work on for both the Church and the community.

In Natchitoches, where David Bouchie is the Grand Knight, Council #1357 supports the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, St. Mary’s School teachers pay raise program, the Northwestern State University Endownment scholarship pro-gram, Christian Youth Scholarship program,Natchitoches Association for Retarded Children, Special Olympics, Natchitoches Parish Boys and Girls State, and other programs.

In Alexandria, where Donald Collins is the Grand knight, Council 91/Court 91 sponsors a Mardi Gras Ball, a camp for children, and makes baskets for needy families at Christmas each year.  During Lent, they sponsor a Fish Fry on Good Friday. For the community they help out in other ministries including scholarships to seniors, food for senior program, and assistance for children of incarcerated family members.

The list of good deeds goes on and on, but Knights of Columbus is not all about work and no play. Councils always incorporate food and fun into their activities.

In Alexandria, where Louis Guidry is the Grand Knight, Council #8029 hosts an annual Palm Sunday chicken BBQ dinner and weekly Wednesday night suppers throughout the school year. Most parishioners will agree that the $3 for the Wednesday night supper is the best deal around.

In Kolin, where Kenneth Antee is the Grand Knight, Council #13296 supports the community with a gumbo cook-off, a horseshoe contest, freethrow contest, in addition to the Christian Youth Leadership Scholarship program.

“The Knights of Columbus is a great organization for Catholic men,” said Msgr. Joseph Susi, state chaplain for the Knights of Columbus. “I challenge all men, young and old, to call their parish Knights of Columbus council and be a part of this great Catholic service organization.”

History

The Knights of Columbus was founded by a Catholic priest, Father Michael J. McGivney in New Haven, CT on March 29, 1882.

The primary motivation for the Order was to be a mutual benefit society. As a parish priest in an immigrant community, McGivney saw what could happen to a family when the breadwinner died and wanted to provide insurance to care for the widows and orphans left behind. He himself had to temporarily leave his seminary studies to care for his family when his father died.

In the late 19th century, Catholics were regularly excluded from labor unions and other organizations that provided social services.  In addition, Catholics were either barred from many of the popular fraternal organizations, or, as in the case of Freemasonry, forbidden from joining by the Catholic Church itself. McGivney wished to provide them an alternative. He also believed that Catholicism and fraternalism were not incompatible and wished to found a society that would encourage men to be proud of their American-Catholic heritage.

McGivney had originally conceived of the name “Sons of Columbus” but James T. Mullen, who would become the first Supreme Knight, successfully suggested that “Knights of Columbus” would better capture the ritualistic nature of the new organization.  The Order was founded 10 years before the 400th anniversary of Columbus’ arrival in the New World and in a time of renewed interest in him. Columbus was a hero to many American Catholics, and the naming him as patron was partly an attempt to bridge the division between the Irish-Catholic founders of the Order and Catholic immigrants of other nationalities living in Connecticut.

Today there are more than 14,000 councils around the world and the Knights of Columbus is a multi-billion dollar non-profit charitable organization. Knights may be seen distributing Tootsie Rolls to raise funds to fight developmental disabilities, volunteering for the Special Olympics, erecting pro-life billboards and “Keep Christ in Christmas” signs, conducting blood drives and raising funds for disaster victims, or parading at patriotic events with their bright capes, feathered chapeaux, and ceremonial swords.

Order of the Fleur de Lis

It is no coincidence that the word “grand” appears before every officer title in the Order of the Fleur de Lis. Afterall, each member of this…

Order of the Fleur de Lis

It is no coincidence that the word “grand” appears before every officer title in the Order of the Fleur de Lis. Afterall, each member of this distinguished group of Catholic men had to earn the honor of accomplishing some “grand” things in his faith life in order to be a member.

The Order of the Fleur de Lis, is a not-for-profit Catholic service organization, incorporated under the laws of Louisiana, to promote patriotism, love of country and good citizenship; to encourage public morality; to advance the concept of unselfish service to God and country; and to support and defend the Holy Catholic Church and its teachings.

“In order to be a member of the Fleur de Lis, you must be a Catholic male who has contributed significantly to the Catholic faith through his actions or accomplishments,” said Grand Chancellor Walter J. Laborde, from Cottonport. “No more than four new members are presently accepted every other year.”

2009 is the year that membership will be open to accept no more than four men.

Currently, membership is limited to only 30 laymen from a five-state area — Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama. All bishops, in those states, who request membership are automatically accepted. Membership is open to all laymen, priests, and deacons, but they must be nominated by a current member, and go through the selection process by a membership committee and then approved by the Board of Governors.

“In some years, we can only accept one person,” said Laborde. “We want to keep the numbers small so that it maintains an honorary level of membership, but also because we feel a smaller group facilitates better communication and we can accomplish more.”

Members of the Fleur de Lis from the Diocese of Alexandria include Bishop Ronald Herzog (2005), Rev. James Ferguson, JCL (2011), Rev. Bruce Miller, JCL (2015), Mr. Gus Agosto (2010), Mr. John Tuminello (2015), Mr. Lucian Laborde (1997), and Mr. Walter J. Laborde (1995).

Most in the organization are also members of the Knights of Columbus, but it is not a requirement. But going back to the origins of the organization could explain the reason for this.

According to Walter Laborde, the organization was founded in 1966 by a group of 4th Degree Knights who wanted a higher level of honor and challenge for those working to promote the faith through service, public morality, patriotism, and other areas. The group wanted to assist and publicize the efforts and activities of other organizations with like objectives; to memorialize Catholic leaders and their contributions to the Holy Faith; and to cite and commend individuals and organization for outstanding public service.

In 2006, the Order recognized and honored the president of Xavier University for his recovery efforts in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. The organization also contributed monetarily to dioceses affected by the recent hurricanes.

The 2008 Service Award went to the Manresa House of Retreats, located in Convent, La. and run by the Jesuits. It conducts weekly retreats year-round for more than 6,000 men from across the U.S.

Manna House

Manna House is a place where people of all ages and all walks of life receive a hot, nutritious meal served 365 days a year ….

Manna House

What is Manna House?

Manna House is a place where people of all ages and all walks of life receive a hot, nutritious meal served 365 days a year in a clean, welcoming environment. Many of the people who come to Manna House are either homeless or living on very meager earnings.

However, anyone who comes to Manna House is welcome to eat.  There is no fee. No ID is required.  No questions are asked.  An average of 230 people — men, women, and children — are fed each day.

How is Manna House supported?

Manna House is a community volunteer effort that does not receive government funding of any kind.  It exists because people from near and far contribute funds to keep the ministry operating. Individuals in the community give monetary donations. School children and civic organizations conduct canned food drives to supplement the pantry. Businesses donate surplus foods.

All workers are volunteers except for three paid employees.

Fr. Gerard Foley, the founder of Manna House, said, “We are fortunate to have two outstanding cooks who are not only expert chefs, but have the knack of making the best use of foods available and without waste.  We don’t waste anything around here!”

How can I help?

•  Monetary gifts.  In addition to the need for food and volunteers, Manna House needs cash for its operational expenses, such as rent on the building, utility bills, cleaning supplies, and other kitchen items. To make a donation, please call 318-445-9053. All donations are tax deductible. Please send monetary donations to Attn: Manna House, P.O. Box 6011, Alexandria, LA 71307, or you can visit this website to make a donation.

•  Volunteer.  Volunteers are always needed, particularly on weekends, to help on the serving line.  Individuals or organized groups can serve on a regular basis or when their time allows. If you would like to donate your time please call (318) 445-9053 to volunteer.

•  Donate Food.  Canned, frozen or baked goods, fresh vegetables, fruit, and dairy products are always welcome. All donations must be unused, un-expired and un-opened items.  Drop off food donations at Manna House during operating hours: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  or for very large quantities, call and a pick up can be arranged.

•  Prayers.  Pray for the success of Manna House.  Ask God for blessings on the volunteers, the cooks, those who donate, but most of all, for those who come to eat at Manna House. The men, women, and children; the homeless and the working poor — pray that they may know God’s love for them through the efforts of this community.

History of Manna House

Fr. Gerard Foley wrote a letter to his congregation in January, 1990:

“How often have you and I heard the words from Scripture, ‘When I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty you gave me drink,’ and wondered how we could adequately perform this work of mercy?

“I believe the Lord is calling us as His People to look into the feasibility of establishing a place where hungry people can come, and, with dignity, receive a meal to fill their empty stomachs and love to warm their weary hearts.

“I have had moments of doubt and fear: maybe this is too big a thing for us to undertake; maybe there really aren’t that many hungry and lonely people in our community; there are other organizations doing this – why am I getting involved? I don’t have enough time or money to contribute.

“In those quiet, lonely moments the Lord says, ‘But who will do it if you don’t?’ …and MY response has to be, “Here I am, Lord…”

With Fr. Foley leading the way, Manna House opened its doors on Tuesday, May 1, 1990. Nineteen people came to eat the first day. By the end of May, 1990, 4,512 meals had been served. And the work continues…

In all the years since Manna House opened, it has been closed without serving meals on only four days — three days after a hurricane left it with no electricity and one day in early 2006, the day of Fr. Foley’s funeral.

Fr. Foley’s vision still lives.

If Jesus calls you to give your time, talent, or gifts to Manna House, our prayer is that you —- like Father Foley —- will say, “Here I Am, Lord.

Catholic Daughters of the Americas

Catholic Daughters of the Americas STATE APPOINTED FOR THE DIOCESE OF ALEXANDRIA • Sue Keller, District Deputy Natchitoches/Pineville – Phone:…

Catholic Daughters of the Americas

Although commonly viewed as an organization of “retired women” who serve cookies and tea, the Catholic Daughters of the Americas are actively involved in a number of charitable projects.  The only requirement is to be Catholic and 18 years old.

“We’re not fortunate enough to have many young people,” said Gloria Baker, district deputy and regent of Court Bishop Desmond #1459, “It’s hard to get them to join because they are so busy with young families.”

This lack of younger membership is also due, in large part, to the growing popularity of programs for young adults.

“The CDA was founded in 1903, as an auxiliary of the Knights of Columbus, when there weren’t any organizations for Catholic women,” said Linda Gauthier, district deputy and CDA Kids Chairman. “But with the increase of young adult programs, the CDA is geared more to women 40 and older.”

It’s true that the CDA has migrated from the minimum age requirement, but they still want everyone involved.  Those members whose work, or other obligations prevent them from being present at all activities, are often vital to telephone and prayer campaigns.

Just because the CDA is generally composed of mature women doesn’t mean their activities are meager.   Nationally, the CDA works under a program called the Circle of Love.

“The program encourages us to work through love to enhance its seven points of life, youth, legislation, education, spirituality, leadership and projects,” said Baker.

Locally, the Catholic Daughters work tirelessly to reach these goals.  The courts help the diocese by supporting the Hope House, Shepard Center and the Manna House.  They also raise funds for priest retirement, the seminary fund, and two yearly scholarships.

Another project, CDA Kids, was initially started by the state court in Baton Rouge and has now become a national project.  This project enables each diocese to chose one child, 12 years or younger, who has a life-threatening illness or is underprivileged.

“We accept applications in November and then remember the child throughout the year,” said Gauthier.

The chairperson and court members send gifts on holidays and birthdays as well as keeping in touch and providing support through prayers.

“The program is very rewarding and very well received, it now lends helping hands to children across the country,” said Gauthier.

In addition to these local causes, each court contributes to the National Court’s eight charitable projects which include Apostleship of the Sea, Covenant House, Catholic Relief Services, Disaster Fund, Holy Cross Ministries, Mother Teresa, Scholarships for Teachers of Exceptional Children and Support Our Aging Religious.

“We work for God through the church,” said Baker, “We get spiritual gratification for the good deeds done through the Catholic Daughters, even on the national level.  The work we do enhances not only the community, but our spirituality.”

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas was founded in Utica, NY in 1903 by John E. Carberry and several other Knights of Columbus.  Founded to be a charitable and patriotic sorority for Catholic women, it was originally called the “National Order of Daughters of Isabella.”

The Knights established the Daughters’ motto of “Unity and Charity” and their widely recognizable emblem, the cross and crown, which symbolizes the reward promised to the faithful.  Under the patronage of the Blessed Mother, the Catholic Daughters of the Americas has become the largest organization of Catholic women in America.

During WWI, the Daughters became involved in the war effort.  They were nurses, did clerical work, staged parties to entertain servicemen and, together with the Knights of Columbus, raised $3 million for recreational activities for soldiers.  Also during this time, a youth society called “War Service Plan for Girls” was formed that eventually evolved into the Junior Catholic Daughters of the Americas.

In 1921, the name was changed to the Catholic Daughters of America.  During this time the CDA became an independent organization as the Knights of Columbus broke its ties with the organization.  By 1928, membership swelled to 170,000 members in courts across 45 states and in four countries.

During WWII, the CDA purchased millions of dollars of war bonds, contributed $100,000 to the USO, and were still involved in other issues.  They supported democracy, peace, labor and the war, women in industry and the Equal Rights Amendment while continually contributing to the war.

Bishop Fulton J. Sheen addressed the CDA in 1952 and urged the membership to extend their charity to the needs of the poor and to all corners of the earth.  In 1954, the order changed its name to the Catholic Daughters of the Americas.  Then, in 1972, Mother Teresa asked the CDA to continue to contribute to the needy across the globe.  The CDA heeds this advice as they become the “Catholic Daughters of the World.”

The Catholic Daughters donate generously to charitable causes, provide scholarships, supported aged and infirmed retired clergy and donate to seminary programs.  Also, the CDA is involved with Habitat for Humanity and was the first women’s organization to complete a house in Habitat for Humanity’s seven day “Blitz Build.”  Their national program Support Our Aging Religious! (SOAR!) provides money to religious communities with needs such as transportation or building repairs which aid elderly patients.

The CDA is comprised of a system of courts in which local courts work in conjunction with church parishes and follow mandates handed down from National and State courts.  Local courts are comprised of a regent, who is the head of the court, a vice-regent, a chaplain, who is the group’s spiritual director, a recording secretary, a financial secretary, a treasurer and the general membership.

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas currently has over 95,000 members in 1,400 courts in the United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Guam, Spain, and the Virgin Islands.

Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre

Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre Contact Mr. Pierre Allemond Diocesan Representative – Southeastern Lieutenancy Phone: (318) 452-6442 You may…

Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre

You may have seen them at a special Mass, or perhaps a funeral – ladies dressed in black dresses  and veils and men wearing black berets and white capes. Most often, their style of dress does prompt a second glance and a fleeting thought of who or what they might be.

They are members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, one of the oldest, and yet one of the least-known organizations within the Roman Catholic Church.  They are a Roman Catholic chivalric order of Knighthood that traces its beginnings to the First Crusade. They are the chosen organization to guard the Holy Sepulchre, the sacred place where Christ was crucified and was buried.

In simple terms, their main objective today is to support and promote Christianity in the Holy Land, where today, Christians are a minority.

“It’s ironic that in one of the holiest cities in the world — where millions of people make pilgrimages to every year, to experience the places where Jesus lived and taught — is a country dominated by non-Christians,” said Henry Kinberger, a member of EOHSJ. “It is part of our mission to foster the practice of Christian life in the modern world and to preserve the faith and the Christian presence in the Holy Land.”

Membership responsibilities

Membership carries with it certain spiritual and temporal responsibilities with the  first being daily prayer for peace in the Holy Land.  Praying the “Memorare” to Our Lady, Queen of Palestine is especially encouraged. The Blessed Virgin Mary, under this title, was officially declared patroness of the order in 1994, by order of the Apostolic See.

Another responsibility is working for the preservation and spread of the faith in the Holy Land by giving as generously as possible to the Order for the promotion and development of charitable Catholic works there and to support the missions of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem.

One of those missions is the building and support of 45 patriarchate schools, providing approximately 19,000 students an education based on Christian values.  Churches, convents and seminaries have also been built and are supported by funds of the Order.

All members are encouraged, if possible, to make at least one pilgrimage to the Holy Land.  In March, 2006, seven members of the local Order traveled to Israel as part of a larger pilgrimage group under the leadership of Rev. Bruce Miller and Rev. Dan O’Connor.  While in Jerusalem the entire group was privileged to have a private meeting with the Latin Patriarch, Archbishop Michel Sabbah.  The group presented him with a monetary donation to be used for the missions of the Patriarchate.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Order can contact Pierre Allemond, at 318-452-6442, for more information.

History

Among the ancient chivalric Order, the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem occupies an extraordinary position, having been chosen to guard the most sacred spot in all Christendom – the tomb of Christ in Jerusalem.  The Order is at the same time one of the oldest and yet one of the least-know organizations within the Roman Catholic Church.

The EOHSJ can trace its origins to Godfrey de Bullion, a direct descendant of Charlemagne.  During the First Crusade (1096-1099 AD) Godfrey gathered together a group of knights who were entrusted with the protection of the Holy Sepulchre, and in fact began building the Basilica that surrounds it to this day.  For many years these knights, and those who came to join them, protected the Christian presence at the Holy Sepulchre, taking as their banner the  red Jerusalem cross which symbolizes the five wounds of Our Lord, and the motto, “God Wills It.”

In 1113 Pope Paschal II officially recognized the Order’s existence and purpose, and in 1122 Pope Callistus II issued a decree establishing it as a lay religious community with the specific responsibilities of guarding the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre and the city of Jerusalem in defense of Christianity against Muslim attack.

Down through the centuries, despite periods of dormancy, the EOHSJ has continued its existence and remained closely linked to the papacy.  In fact, the Holy See acts as Protector of the Order and Cardinal Carlo Furno is the present Grand master.  The seat of the Order is in Rome while the historical seat remains in Jerusalem where the latin patriarch resides.  The Latin Patriarch carries the title of International Grand Prior.

In 1888 Pope Leo XIII permitted the Order to confer membership upon women as well as men, and today the terms Knights and Ladies are still used when referring to members of the order.  Currently there is a worldwide membership of 22,000 Knights and Ladies in 32 countries.

In 1926, the Order was founded in the Untied States, where today it is made up of nine lieutenancies.  The Southeastern Lieutenancy comprises the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina with a membersip of more than 1,500 Knights and Ladies, with 248 Clergy Knights.

For more information about the Order, go to www.holysepulchre.net