LIMEX Graduation

Spring is a season of graduations, and this year a very special commencement was celebrated in the Archdiocese of Louisville. The first group of learners completed the Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension Program (LIMEX) and received their degrees and certificates. The graduates completed an extensive program of study in order to earn either a Master's degree or certificate in Pastoral Studies offered through Loyola University in New Orleans. LIMEX is designed to enable adults to complete graduate studies locally while still working and being with their families. For more information on what LIMEX has to offer, please see the detailed description at www.archlou.org/article24587.htm. Congratulations to the graduates! Many thanks to Michelle Herberger and Art Turner for serving as facilitators and to Archbishop Joseph Kurtz for his continued support.

Dawn Ellen DellaBella

Master of Pastoral Studies

Laura Norris Graven

Master of Pastoral Studies

Donna Marie McHugh

Master of Pastoral Studies

Denise Meyer

Master of Pastoral Studies

William "Bill" Moss

Certificate of Pastoral Studies

Rhonda Lynn Orman

Certificate of Pastoral Studies

Cecelia Hart Price

Master of Pastoral Studies

Mary Catherine Rademaker

Master of Pastoral Studies

Julie Ann Stuart

Master of Pastoral Studies

Joy Marie Trimble

Master of Pastoral Studies

The Loyola Institute for Ministry Scholar Award

The Loyola Institute for Ministry Scholar Award recognizes excellence in Scholarship, Leadership and Service in a graduate from the Loyola Institute for Ministry.

Dawn Ellen DellaBella

The Month of Mary

Hail, O Tabernacle of God the Word;

hail, Holy One, more holy than the saints.

Hail, O Ark that the spirit has gilded;

hail, sacred Glory of reverent priests.

Hail, unshakable Tower of the Church;

hail, unbreakable Wall of the Kingdom.

Hail, O you through whom the trophies are raised.

hail, O you through whom the enemies are routed.

Hail, O Healing of my body;

hail, O Salvation of my soul.

Hail, O Bride and Maiden everpure.

(Akathist Hymn)

This prayer from the Byzantine tradition honors Mary as the Theotokos or God-bearer. An akathist is a hymn in honor of Mary or a saint which is traditional in the Eastern Churches. Many of these prayers were composed to illustrate the virtues of the Blessed Mother and highlight her role in salvation history. Icons are often designed to mirror the descriptions or titles of Mary within the prayer. The icon pictured above is of the Theotokos Merciful. More information on, and an ancient example of, the akathist prayer form can be found at www.stsymeon.com/akathist.html. The poetic and reverent language of this prayer may inspire an increase in your own devotion to the Blessed Mother.

This translation of an akathist can be found in Mary 101: Tradition and Influence, a new book by Mary Ann Zimmer, ND, PhD from Ligouri Publications. This text offers an introduction to Mary and some of the traditions surrounding her. It includes an exploration of Mary in Scripture, Church teaching, prayers, and devotions. Marian apparitions and artwork are examined, along with background information, reflection questions, and suggestions for further reading on Marian issues. It is available in the Media Center (BK5083.1).

May is traditionally "Mary's month". Take some time this month to learn more about the Mother of God and our Mother. You may find something new to enhance your prayer and spiritual practice.

And They're Off!

On Thursday, May 6, Flaget Center was transformed into Flaget Downs for the PCL Appreciation event, "A Day at the Races". Parish Catechetical Leaders from across the Archdiocese of Louisville came together for prayer, food, (wooden) horse racing and festivity. Many of the ladies (and at least one gentleman) arrived wearing Derby hats and a grand time was had by all.

Awards for years of service were presented, followed by a delicious Derby-themed luncheon and lively conversation. Those honored for twenty or more years of catechetical ministry included: Dr. Bruce Jacobs (20), Margee Joseph (20), Monica Lucas (22), Brenda Rickert (21), Marie Seaman, SFCC (45), and Marian Stenken, SCN (25).

The pictures offer only a glimpse of the excitement and laughter that ensued when PCL jockeys mounted their horses for two energetic races. In the PCL Oaks, winning jockey Theresa Secord on Bingo's Dead made a great showing on a fast track. Lucky bettor Mike Luescher profited nicely from the win. After a reverent singing of "My Old Kentucky Home", the fun continued in the PCL Derby, where winning jockey Dawn Della Bella swiftly brought Immaculate Harry around the track to victory. Pat Finck happily took home the winnings.

Many thanks to the Parish Catechetical Leaders who bring faith to life in our Archdiocese. May you be blessed with every grace and gift for your ministry. You are all winners!

Alleluia!

(Scenes from the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral earlier this week, when the holy oils were blessed for use throughout the Archdiocese of Louisville.)


Alleluia! Christ is Risen!

The Triduum is completed and we have celebrated what St. Augustine called the "Mother of all great vigils" where more than 500 new Catholics were welcomed home into the Body of Christ within the Archdiocese of Louisville. We now sing again the great "alleluia" which we have missed during Lent, proclaiming with joy that Christ has conquered death forever. As we celebrate these 50 days of gladness, may we remember all those who stand in need of our prayers and of Christ's presence amidst their suffering. To those who are hungry or homeless, sorrowing or fearful, we announce the good news - Christ is Risen! - with our hands and hearts extended in love. Blessings to you and yours in this holy and festive season of new life.

Untold Blessing

Now that we are well into the rhythm of Lent, we continue to reflect on the meaning of the season and our spiritual progress. One resource you may want to consider viewing is the video series "Untold Blessing: Three Paths to Holiness" by Father Robert Barron. This enagaging six-part series is available on the Archdiocesan website at http://www.archlou.org/article234043.htm?body=1.
You can see more of his work on his website at http://www.wordonfire.org/.

(Catechist Credit is available with completion of registration and study guide questions. Contact Denise at dpuckett@archlou.org to register for credit.)