Author Archives: Joanna King

Diocesan teens gather for annual SEARCH Retreat

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By Joanna Puddister King
GALLMAN – High school juniors and seniors from across the Diocese of Jackson gathered at Camp Wesley Pines near Hazlehurst Jan. 16–18 for the annual diocesan SEARCH Retreat. SEARCH is a Catholic youth retreat modeled after the Cursillo retreat for adults, designed specifically for high school juniors and seniors who desire to deepen their faith and relationship with Christ.

A retreat “for teens, led by teens,” SEARCH is an experience like none other, with a strong focus on vocations. It engages youth in a special way and calls them to live out their Catholic faith in a bold, real, active and healthy way.

“Much of what happens in the retreat is kept a mystery, but a few things are certain – you will have fun, you will be challenged to grow in your faith, and chances are you will make a few new friends,” said Abbey Schuhmann, coordinator of the Office of Youth Ministry for the Diocese of Jackson.

The retreat team is primarily made up of a youth staff of teens who have previously attended a SEARCH retreat. Once a teen attends a SEARCH weekend, he or she has the opportunity to apply to staff future retreats, Schuhmann explained.

While the teens lead the retreat, adult leaders and clergy serve largely behind the scenes. Deacon Will Foggo assisted throughout the weekend and led adoration and benediction, helping guide the teens in prayer and worship. Seminarians Joe Pearson and Henry Haley were also present, offering witness talks and spending time with participants to share about vocational discernment and life in seminary.

The SEARCH model gives youth the opportunity to demonstrate and carry out servant leadership. The retreat would not be possible without the support of adult volunteers who have served in this ministry for many years.

“We are especially grateful to Ann and Jeff Cook for continuing to serve as volunteer adult SEARCH coordinators,” Schuhmann said. “Without their dedicated service, this ministry would not be where it is today.”

The SEARCH ministry continues to grow in the diocese, with each retreat welcoming new participants into what has become a strong and enduring SEARCH family.

Cognia recognizes Catholic school system in Diocese of Jackson among top school systems worldwide

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By Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – Representatives from Cognia formally presented the 2025 Cognia System of Distinction Award to the Catholic Diocese of Jackson on Monday, Feb. 2, recognizing the diocesan Catholic school system for exceptional performance during its most recent accreditation review.

The presentation took place during a gathering that included Bishop Joseph Kopacz, principals from Catholic schools across the diocese, and chancery staff who work closely with Catholic education. The ceremony marked the culmination of a rigorous review conducted during the 2024–2025 school year.
Dr. Jeremy Stinson, Cognia’s director of the Southeast Region, presented the award on behalf of the organization, joined by Dr. Michael Bratcher, vice president of domestic accreditation services and lead evaluator for the diocese’s review. Stinson said the distinction recognizes systems that truly stand out in their service to learners by meeting and exceeding Cognia’s performance standards.

“The System of Distinction program recognizes systems and schools across the world who truly stand out in their service to learners,” Stinson said, noting that honorees demonstrate excellence in culture for learning, leadership for learning, engagement of learning and growth in learning.

RIDGELAND – The Diocese of Jackson was officially presented with a certificate as a Cognia System of Distinction on Monday, Feb. 2 at a special gathering in Ridgeland. Pictured (l-r): Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Karla Luke, Joni House, Dr. Jeremy Stinson and Dr. Michael Bratcher. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)

Launched in 2021, Cognia’s Schools and Systems of Distinction program honors institutions in their year of accreditation review that exemplify high-quality instruction, organizational effectiveness and a strong commitment to continuous improvement. During the most recent review cycle, Cognia evaluated more than 1,100 systems worldwide and selected only seven systems across 14 states and four countries for the distinction.

Stinson emphasized that Cognia accreditation is not a checklist or a one-time achievement, but a continuous improvement journey. He said the Diocese of Jackson’s accreditation review was a rigorous external audit of systemwide practices and procedures and reflected the diligence and collaboration of educators and leaders throughout the diocese.

“This great accomplishment emphasizes the importance of a students-first approach and collaborative leadership within the diocese,” Stinson said.

One measure that stood out during the review was the diocese’s Index of Education Quality (IEQ) score of 389 out of 400, significantly higher than the Cognia network average of 296. Stinson said the score reflects the diocese’s mission in action and its commitment to providing engaging and equitable learning environments.

During the review, Cognia evaluators identified several Noteworthy Practices, including the diocese’s effective and intentional commitment to Catholic identity, mission and guiding principles, as well as its culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Evaluators also highlighted the system’s leadership model, which supports shared priorities while allowing individual schools to reflect their unique charisms and needs.

The System of Distinction recognition builds on work that began in 2018, when the Diocese of Jackson embarked on its first systemwide accreditation process with Cognia. The two-year effort led to initial system accreditation in 2020 and laid the foundation for this year’s honor.

That work was led by Karla Luke, who retired in September after more than 33 years in Catholic education. Luke described the recognition as one of the most meaningful moments of her career.

“Over the past 33 years, the most recent accomplishment of having Cognia recognize the Diocese of Jackson as a System of Distinction has been an overwhelming and rare experience,” Luke said. “However, in the everyday realm of the work, I am most proud of being able to interact with so many students, teachers and principals.”

Joni House, executive director of Catholic Education, said the formal presentation was an opportunity to celebrate the collective efforts of Catholic school communities across the diocese.

“The recognition as a Cognia System of Distinction affirms the hard work of our schools,” House said, “and it challenges us to sustain and grow that culture of continuous improvement so Catholic education in our diocese remains strong and vibrant.”

Stinson concluded by congratulating the Diocese of Jackson on behalf of Cognia’s leadership, calling the distinction an extraordinary accomplishment and a reflection of the diocese’s commitment to faith-centered education and continuous growth.

Called to Carmel: Sister Maryann Koine makes solemn vows

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By Joanna Puddister King and Tereza Ma
JACKSON – The Carmelite community of the Diocese of Jackson celebrated the solemn profession of religious vows of Sister Maryann Wambui Koine of Jesus Crucified, OCD, during a Mass on Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Carmelite monastery chapel.

Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz served as principal celebrant as Sister Maryann made her solemn vows of poverty, chastity and obedience before the Discalced Carmelite nuns, members of the Carmelite Seculars, and friends from the greater Jackson community and beyond.

In his homily, Bishop Kopacz reflected on Mount Carmel and the Carmelite tradition, emphasizing that religious profession points not only to a particular vocation, but to the baptismal call shared by all Christians. Rooted in the mystery of the Cross, he said, religious life bears witness to the hope of eternal life and calls the church to deeper fidelity to Christ.

Religious life, the bishop noted, “points toward heaven,” reminding the faithful that following Christ requires daily self-gift and transformation of heart and mind – a call lived uniquely through the vows of religious life and universally through baptism.

Sister Maryann, originally from Kenya, first entered Carmel in Savannah, Georgia, in 2015. She professed her first vows in 2018 and transferred to the Carmelite monastery in Jackson in 2024 following the closure of the Savannah community. Her solemn profession marks a lifelong commitment to the Carmelite way of contemplative prayer and simplicity.

Speaking after the Mass, Sister Maryann expressed gratitude to those who supported her vocation, thanking the priests, sisters and community members who accompanied her along the journey. “This community has been my second family,” she said. “I am grateful to be a part of it.”

She also acknowledged the presence of her mother, who traveled from Kenya to attend the profession and spent several weeks visiting her daughter at the monastery. While language barriers limited communication during the liturgy, Sister Maryann said the shared joy of the occasion transcended words.

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NCEA president highlights joy, faith during school visits across the diocese

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By Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – Dr. Steven Cheeseman, president of the National Catholic Education Association, visited Catholic schools across the Diocese of Jackson Dec. 8–9 as part of his national “Bright Lights of Catholic Education” tour, a campaign designed to celebrate and spotlight the mission of Catholic schools across the country.

JACKSON – Kindergarten students in Kate Morris’ class at St. Richard Catholic School listen as Dr. Steven Cheeseman, president of the National Catholic Education Association, reads Everybody’s Tree during his Bright Lights tour visit. (Photo by Tereza Ma)

During his two-day visit, Cheeseman toured Annunciation Catholic School in Columbus, St. Joseph Catholic School in Madison, St. Richard Catholic School, St. Anthony Catholic School, Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School, and St. Richard Early Learning Center in Jackson. The visit was initiated by April Moore, a fourth-grade teacher at Annunciation Catholic School, who invited Cheeseman to experience Catholic education in Mississippi firsthand.

The Bright Lights tour highlights schools that embody the mission and values of Catholic education while also providing opportunities for listening and learning from local communities.
“Soon after beginning this role, I embarked on an exciting initiative called the ‘Bright Lights of Catholic Education Tour,’” Cheeseman said. “This nationwide campaign celebrates, learns from and shines a spotlight on the remarkable work happening in Catholic schools across the country.”

The Diocese of Jackson spans a large rural region, and many of its Catholic schools serve small communities with limited resources. Despite those challenges, Cheeseman said what stood out most during his visit was the joy students clearly have for their schools.

“Kids are coming in so happy and so excited to be there,” he said. “Walking in to students singing at the top of their lungs just brings tears to your eyes. There’s a tremendous joy, which gives me incredible hope for the future – not only locally, but for what these students can contribute on the national level.”

Cheeseman also noted the strong faith life and parish involvement he observed throughout the diocese, describing it as a defining strength of Catholic education in Mississippi.

“I love the fact that pretty much everywhere I went, pastors were involved,” he said. “You could see they weren’t just showing up because they had a visitor. They were part of the lifeblood of the school. When there’s a real connection between the parish and the school, or the pastor and the principal, it makes an incredible difference.”

JACKSON – “This Little Light of Mine” echoed through the halls as students at Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School welcomed Dr. Steven Cheeseman, president of the National Catholic Education Association, during his Bright Lights tour. (Photo by Tereza Ma)

Joni House, executive director of Catholic schools for the Diocese of Jackson, said the visit affirmed and strengthened the work already underway across diocesan schools.

“Dr. Cheeseman’s visit and the Bright Lights tour affirmed the good work already taking place, provided meaningful encouragement for the journey ahead, and strengthened our shared commitment to advancing Catholic education across the diocese,” House said.

A key goal of the Bright Lights tour is storytelling – sharing the lived experiences of Catholic schools to inspire broader support for Catholic education nationwide. Cheeseman said his final stop at Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School was especially meaningful.

“I think that final stop is the one that sort of leads the story,” he said. “From the moment I arrived, I felt a tremendous welcome and pride for the schools and the students. Walking through the halls, walking in the door, it all came to a culmination of what it means to be a Catholic school student here in the Diocese of Jackson.”

Through a dedicated website and social media campaign, NCEA is sharing stories from dioceses across the country to highlight innovation, faith and mission in Catholic education.

“At the heart of this campaign is a simple but profound goal,” Cheeseman said. “To showcase the bright lights of Catholic education and inspire our community to continue being the light in a world that so desperately needs it.”

Fall Faith Formation Day gathers parish leaders for renewal, connection and new pathways for lay formation

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By Joanna Puddister King
MADISON – Parish leaders from across the Diocese of Jackson gathered at St. Francis of Assisi Church on Saturday, Nov. 15, for the annual Fall Faith Formation Day, a one-day workshop hosted each November by the Department of Faith Formation. This year’s theme, “Pilgrims of Hope: Journeying Together,” invited catechists, youth ministers, DREs and parish volunteers to reflect on their call to accompany the people of God with renewed purpose.

MADISON – Robert Feduccia speaks to faith formators from across the diocese for Faith Formation Day on Saturday, Nov. 15.

The keynote presenter was Robert Feduccia, a nationally recognized speaker who grew up in Brookhaven and attributes his own call to ministry to formative experiences in the Diocese of Jackson. He opened the day with lively “would you rather” questions that had participants laughing, moving and interacting with one another before leading them into deeper conversations about the heart of ministry.

Feduccia encouraged parish leaders to see themselves not as program directors who simply manage logistics, but as ministry leaders rooted in the church’s tradition and attentive to the lived reality of their parish communities. He noted that Mississippi’s Catholic population, though small and diverse, is uniquely positioned for authentic accompaniment and relationship-based ministry. He urged participants to present the faith as truly good news, helping people encounter Christ rather than focusing solely on intellectual debates or apologetics.

Sister Amelia Breton provided live translation during the keynote, allowing Spanish-speaking participants to engage fully. For the first time, the event also offered breakout sessions presented entirely in Spanish.

Throughout the day, attendees chose from a range of practical workshops addressing real needs in parish life. Presenters included Sister Amelia Breton, who spoke on accompaniment of migrant communities; Rebecca Harris, who discussed parish fundraising and stewardship; Emily Moran, who explored the confirmation journey with young people; Ruth Powers, who addressed reclaiming community life within parishes; Amelia Rizor, who focused on small-group ministry; and Debbie Tubertini, who offered insights on marriage enrichment. Spanish-language sessions were led by Danna Johnson and Raquel Thompson, who both presented on developing community involvement and small groups within parish settings.

In the closing session, Fran Lavelle, director of Faith Formation, introduced the work of the Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation. She emphasized that one of the most important lessons learned through the diocesan synod and pastoral reimagining process is the need to respond when the faithful are asked to share their needs and hopes. She said the Center represents a concrete response to that input and thanked those who helped develop its formation path.

MADISON – Robert Feduccia engages participants during his keynote presentation at Fall Faith Formation Day on Nov. 15 at St. Francis of Assisi Parish. Leaders from parishes across the diocese gathered for a day of workshops, prayer and formation. (Photos by Joanna Puddister King)

The Bishop Houck Center for Lay Formation is designed to help lay leaders grow in faith, knowledge and service through programs grounded in education, evangelization and leadership development. The initiative builds on Bishop Houck’s legacy of supporting lay ministry and evangelization and offers formation opportunities in both English and Spanish for parish teams and individual leaders across the diocese.

The event closed with a final keynote from Feduccia, sending participants back to their parishes encouraged, energized and reminded that God works powerfully through the faithful who say yes to serving his church.

(To learn more about the Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation and upcoming opportunities for training and enrichment, visit jacksondiocese.org/bishop-houck-center-for-lay-formation.)

Click to see photos from Fall Faith Formation Day 2025

Joyful homecoming: St. Paul parish returns to renewed sanctuary

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By Joanna Puddister King
FLOWOOD – After more than a year of construction, parishioners of St. Paul Catholic Church returned to their newly renovated sanctuary and expanded gathering space for a joyful rededication Mass on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025 – the Feast of Christ the King.

Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz served as principal celebrant, blessing the walls of the church as more than 450 parishioners filled the new pews, admiring the bright, welcoming space they can now enjoy before and after Mass.

Construction began in October 2024 and included new pews, flooring, paint, lighting, a redesigned sanctuary, and a new tabernacle. A major highlight was the expansion of the front entry and the creation of a true main entrance – replacing the previous side-entry layout. The parish’s façade is now illuminated at night, offering what many describe as a warm invitation to all traveling down Highway 25.

“We were one of the few churches in the diocese that didn’t have a front door,” said Father Gerry Hurley, pastor of St. Paul. “It took quite a while – and as we’ve said a couple of times, God’s plan takes quite a while. Thank you for your gifts and generosity. We were able to bring it about eventually.”

In a nod to their year-long displacement during construction, he added with a smile, “We are very thankful to be back in this space after a long sojourn in the desert at the Family Life Center. Like the people of Israel, we weren’t sure we were going to get there … but we’re finally here 12 months later. I am very happy to be back in this space.”

Several priests joined the celebration in support of Father Hurley, including Father Tommy Conway of Hattiesburg, retired priest Father Bernie Farrell, and Father Panneer Selvam Arockiam, chaplain at St. Dominic Hospital. Also joining was Deacon Tony Schmidt.

During his homily, Bishop Kopacz reflected on the parish’s long journey toward this day. “It is joyful to be here with Father Gerry and all the staff at St. Paul’s – all that has come into this moment. It’s incredible to be part of it and to rejoice with you in God’s house,” he said. He noted that one of his earliest visits around the diocese in 2015 included a stop at St. Paul to review building plans, drawing warm applause as he commended Father Hurley for his “incredible dedication to the parish.”

Chris Cox, who helped lead renovation efforts with a committee of other parish leaders, expressed gratitude for the community’s support. “It has been a real blessing to me to work in renovating the church. It has been a true blessing, an honor, and a labor of love,” he said. He thanked parishioners for their generosity to the capital campaign, which not only met but exceeded its goal. “Thanks to all who supported the project financially and spiritually.”

Though nearly everything in the physical space has been refreshed, the parish’s spirit remains unchanged. As several parishioners remarked, the building may be new, but the sense of home at St. Paul is as strong as ever.

Click to see photos from St. Paul Flowood’s Rededication Mass

FLOWOOD – St. Paul Catholic Church unveiled its newly renovated sanctuary and expanded front entrance during a rededication Mass on Nov. 23, 2025, celebrated by Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz. Parishioners filled the new gathering space following Mass, rejoicing in the parish’s return after more than a year of construction. (Photos by Joanna King)

Homegrown seminarian, Foggo ordained transitional deacon for the diocese

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By Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – Surrounded by family, friends, priests, deacons, and fellow seminarians, Will Foggo was ordained to the transitional diaconate on Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz ordained Foggo, marking the final stage of formation before his anticipated priestly ordination on May 16, 2026.

Foggo, a lifelong member of the Diocese of Jackson, grew up at St. Paul Catholic Church in Flowood and attended St. Richard School in Jackson and St. Joseph School in Madison. He later became deeply involved in Catholic Campus Ministry during his years at Mississippi State University, where he first began to sense a persistent call to priesthood.

JACKSON – Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz hands the Book of the Gospels to newly ordained Deacon Will Foggo during his Nov. 29 diaconate ordination at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, entrusting him with the ministry of preaching and service. (Photos by Joanna Puddister King)

“I never had one specific moment,” Foggo said. “It was a series of events and the work of prayer and reflection over the course of a few years that led me to enter seminary.”

During the Rite of Ordination, Father Nick Adam, Director of Vocations, presented Foggo to Bishop Kopacz and testified that he had been found worthy after inquiry among the faithful and those overseeing his formation. The bishop then formally chose Foggo for the Order of the Diaconate.

In his homily, Bishop Kopacz reflected on the foundations of faith laid by Foggo’s family, parish community, and those who walked with him in discernment. He emphasized the distinct call of the diaconate as a ministry “set apart to serve – not above, but at the heart of the church – in service to God’s Kingdom.” He also highlighted Pope Leo XIV’s teaching that charity is the “burning heart” of the church’s mission, noting that the diaconate embodies this spirit in a particular way.

Foggo said the Litany of Saints, during which the ordinand lies prostrate before the altar, was especially profound for him. “The Litany has always been my favorite part of any ordination,” he said. “The entire church is praying for the ordinand that he may fully give of himself to the Lord and the church.”

His devotion to prayer has long been central to his discernment. He often turns to the rosary and Eucharistic adoration, describing them as powerful moments of encountering Christ. He also carries a deep affection for St. Joseph – his confirmation saint – drawn to the saint’s humility and quiet strength. Fittingly, Foggo will now return to St. Joseph parish in Starkville, where he was active during his MSU years, to serve as deacon up until his ordination to the priesthood.

During the Litany of Saints, Will Foggo lies prostrate before the altar at his diaconate ordination on Nov. 29 at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. Foggo said this moment was especially profound for him, as the whole church prays for the ordinand to give himself fully to the Lord. (Photo by Joanna King) View more photos at jacksondiocese.zenfolio.com.

“It is an honor and an act of divine providence that I am able to serve one of the communities that helped to form me,” Foggo said. “I am excited to begin preaching and the sacraments and to get to better know the people I will be serving.”

At the close of Mass, Father Nick expressed gratitude to all who supported Foggo throughout his formation. He noted the joyful presence of Foggo’s family – including his parents, John and Sheila Foggo – and shared a memory of the day Chris Diaz, who proclaimed the first reading at the ordination, brought Will to his office to receive his seminary application.

As Foggo begins his ministry as a transitional deacon, his prayer is simple: “That the Lord will give me the necessary graces to serve His people the best I can and do His will.”

Foggo will serve at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Starkville until his priestly ordination on May 16, 2026, when he will return to the cathedral to be ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Jackson.

Click here to view photos from Deacon Will Foggo’s Ordination

Foggo, seminarista local, ordenado diácono transitorio para la diócesis

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Por Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – Rodeado de familiares, amigos, sacerdotes, diáconos y compañeros seminaristas, Will Foggo fue ordenado diácono transitorio el sábado 29 de noviembre en la Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol. El obispo Joseph R. Kopacz ordenó a Foggo, lo que marca la etapa final de su formación antes de su esperada ordenación sacerdotal el 16 de mayo de 2026.

Foggo, miembro de toda la vida de la Diócesis de Jackson, creció en la Iglesia Católica San Pablo en Flowood y asistió a la Escuela San Ricardo en Jackson y a la Escuela San José en Madison. Más tarde se involucró profundamente en el Ministerio Católico Universitario durante sus años en la Universidad Estatal de Misisipi, donde comenzó a sentir una llamada persistente al sacerdocio.

JACKSON – El recién ordenado diácono Will Foggo es revestido durante su ordenación diaconal el 29 de noviembre en la Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol. Foggo servirá en la parroquia de San José en Starkville hasta su ordenación sacerdotal el 16 de mayo de 2026. (Fotos de Joanna Puddister King)

“Nunca hubo un momento concreto”, dijo Foggo. “Fue una serie de acontecimientos y el trabajo de oración y reflexión a lo largo de varios años lo que me llevó a entrar en el seminario”.

Durante el rito de ordenación, el padre Nick Adam, director de vocaciones, presentó a Foggo al obispo Kopacz y dio testimonio de que había sido considerado digno tras consultar con los fieles y con quienes supervisaban su formación. A continuación, el obispo eligió formalmente a Foggo para la Orden del Diaconado.

En su homilía, el obispo Kopacz reflexionó sobre los fundamentos de la fe establecidos por la familia de Foggo, la comunidad parroquial y quienes le acompañaron en su discernimiento. Hizo hincapié en la vocación distintiva del diaconado como un ministerio “apartado para servir, no por encima, sino en el corazón de la Iglesia, al servicio del Reino de Dios”. También destacó la enseñanza del papa León XIV de que la caridad es el “corazón ardiente” de la misión de la Iglesia, señalando que el diaconado encarna este espíritu de una manera particular.


Foggo dijo que la Letanía de los Santos, durante la cual el ordenando yace postrado ante el altar, fue especialmente profunda para él. “La Letanía siempre ha sido mi parte favorita de cualquier ordenación”, dijo. “Toda la iglesia reza por el ordenando para que se entregue plenamente al Señor y a la iglesia”.

Su devoción por la oración ha sido durante mucho tiempo fundamental para su discernimiento. A menudo recurre al rosario y a la adoración eucarística, que describe como momentos poderosos de encuentro con Cristo. También siente un profundo afecto por San José, su santo de confirmación, atraído por la humildad y la fuerza tranquila del santo. Como es lógico, Foggo regresará ahora a la parroquia de San José en Starkville, donde estuvo activo durante sus años en la MSU, para servir como diácono hasta su ordenación sacerdotal.

“Es un honor y un acto de la divina providencia que pueda servir a una de las comunidades que me ayudaron a formarme”, dijo Foggo. “Estoy emocionado por empezar a predicar y administrar los sacramentos, y por conocer mejor a las personas a las que voy a servir”.

El diácono Will Foggo asiste en el altar durante su ordenación diaconal el 29 de noviembre en la Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol.

Al final de la misa, el padre Nick expresó su gratitud a todos los que apoyaron a Foggo a lo largo de su formación. Destacó la alegre presencia de la familia de Foggo, incluidos sus padres, John y Sheila Foggo, y compartió un recuerdo del día en que Chris Díaz, que proclamó la primera lectura en la ordenación, llevó a Will a su oficina para recibir su solicitud de ingreso en el seminario.

Al comenzar su ministerio como diácono transitorio, la oración de Foggo es sencilla: “Que el Señor me conceda las gracias necesarias para servir a su pueblo lo mejor que pueda y hacer su voluntad”.

Foggo prestará servicio en la iglesia católica de San José en Starkville hasta su ordenación sacerdotal el 16 de mayo de 2026, cuando regresará a la catedral para ser ordenado sacerdote de la diócesis de Jackson.

Día de Formación en la Fe reúne a líderes parroquiales

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Por Joanna Puddister King
MADISON – Los líderes parroquiales de toda la Diócesis de Jackson se reunieron en la iglesia de San Francisco de Asís el sábado 15 de noviembre para celebrar el Día Anual de Formación en la Fe de Otoño, un taller de un día organizado cada noviembre por el Departamento de Formación en la Fe. El tema de este año, “Peregrinos de la esperanza: viajando juntos”, invitó a catequistas, ministros juveniles, directores de educación religiosa y voluntarios parroquiales a reflexionar sobre su vocación de acompañar al pueblo de Dios con un propósito renovado.

MADISON – Robert Feduccia interactúa con los participantes durante su presentación principal en el Día de Formación en la Fe de Otoño, celebrado el 15 de noviembre en la parroquia de San Francisco de Asís. Líderes de parroquias de toda la diócesis se reunieron para una jornada de talleres, oración y formación.

El ponente principal fue Robert Feduccia, un conferencista reconocido a nivel nacional que creció en Brookhaven y atribuye su propia vocación al ministerio a las experiencias formativas vividas en la Diócesis de Jackson. Inició la jornada con animadas preguntas del tipo “¿qué prefieres?”, que hicieron reír, emocionar e interactuar a los participantes antes de llevarlos a conversaciones más profundas sobre el corazón del ministerio.

Feduccia animó a los líderes parroquiales a verse a sí mismos no como directores de programas que simplemente gestionan la logística, sino como líderes ministeriales arraigados en la tradición de la Iglesia y atentos a la realidad vivida por sus comunidades parroquiales. Señaló que la población católica de Misisipi, aunque pequeña y diversa, se encuentra en una posición única para ofrecer un acompañamiento auténtico y un ministerio basado en las relaciones. Instó a los participantes a presentar la fe como una verdadera buena noticia, ayudando a las personas a encontrar a Cristo en lugar de centrarse únicamente en debates intelectuales o apologéticos.

La hermana Amelia Breton proporcionó traducción simultánea durante la conferencia magistral, lo que permitió a los participantes hispanohablantes participar plenamente. Por primera vez, el evento también ofreció sesiones paralelas presentadas íntegramente en español.

A lo largo del día, los asistentes pudieron elegir entre una variedad de talleres prácticos que abordaban necesidades reales de la vida parroquial. Entre los ponentes se encontraban la hermana Amelia Breton, que habló sobre el acompañamiento a las comunidades migrantes; Rebecca Harris, que habló sobre la recaudación de fondos y la administración parroquial; Emily Moran, que exploró el camino de la confirmación con los jóvenes; Ruth Powers, que abordó la recuperación de la vida comunitaria dentro de las parroquias; Amelia Rizor, que se centró en el ministerio de grupos pequeños; y Debbie Tubertini, que ofreció ideas sobre el enriquecimiento del matrimonio. Las sesiones en español fueron dirigidas por Danna Johnson y Raquel Thompson, quienes presentaron temas sobre el desarrollo de la participación comunitaria y los grupos pequeños dentro del entorno parroquial.

MADISON – Robert Feduccia habla ante formadores religiosos de toda la diócesis con motivo del Día de la Formación Religiosa, celebrado el sábado 15 de noviembre. (Fotos de Joanna King)

El Centro Obispo Houck para la Formación de Laicos está diseñado para ayudar a los líderes laicos a crecer en la fe, el conocimiento y el servicio a través de programas basados en la educación, la evangelización y el desarrollo del liderazgo. La iniciativa se basa en el legado del obispo Houck de apoyar el ministerio laico y la evangelización, y ofrece oportunidades de formación tanto en inglés como en español para equipos parroquiales y líderes individuales de toda la diócesis.

El evento concluyó con un discurso final de Feduccia, que despidió a los participantes de regreso a sus parroquias animados, llenos de energía y con el recuerdo de que Dios obra poderosamente a través de los fieles que dicen sí al servicio de su Iglesia.

(Para obtener más información sobre el Centro Obispo William R. Houck para la Formación de Laicos y las próximas oportunidades de capacitación y enriquecimiento, visite jacksondiocese.org/bishop-houck-center-for-lay-formation).

Fall Faith Formation Day gathers parish leaders for renewal, connection and new pathways for lay formation

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By Joanna Puddister King
MADISON – Parish leaders from across the Diocese of Jackson gathered at St. Francis of Assisi Church on Saturday, Nov. 15, for the annual Fall Faith Formation Day, a one-day workshop hosted each November by the Department of Faith Formation. This year’s theme, “Pilgrims of Hope: Journeying Together,” invited catechists, youth ministers, DREs and parish volunteers to reflect on their call to accompany the people of God with renewed purpose.

The keynote presenter was Robert Feduccia, a nationally recognized speaker who grew up in Brookhaven and attributes his own call to ministry to formative experiences in the Diocese of Jackson. He opened the day with lively “would you rather” questions that had participants laughing, moving and interacting with one another before leading them into deeper conversations about the heart of ministry.

Feduccia encouraged parish leaders to see themselves not as program directors who simply manage logistics, but as ministry leaders rooted in the church’s tradition and attentive to the lived reality of their parish communities. He noted that Mississippi’s Catholic population, though small and diverse, is uniquely positioned for authentic accompaniment and relationship-based ministry. He urged participants to present the faith as truly good news, helping people encounter Christ rather than focusing solely on intellectual debates or apologetics.

MADISON – Robert Feduccia engages participants during his keynote presentation at Fall Faith Formation Day on Nov. 15 at St. Francis of Assisi Parish. Leaders from parishes across the diocese gathered for a day of workshops, prayer and formation. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)

Sister Amelia Breton provided live translation during the keynote, allowing Spanish-speaking participants to engage fully. For the first time, the event also offered breakout sessions presented entirely in Spanish.

Throughout the day, attendees chose from a range of practical workshops addressing real needs in parish life. Presenters included Sister Amelia Breton, who spoke on accompaniment of migrant communities; Rebecca Harris, who discussed parish fundraising and stewardship; Emily Moran, who explored the confirmation journey with young people; Ruth Powers, who addressed reclaiming community life within parishes; Amelia Rizor, who focused on small-group ministry; and Debbie Tubertini, who offered insights on marriage enrichment. Spanish-language sessions were led by Danna Johnson and Raquel Thompson, who both presented on developing community involvement and small groups within parish settings.

In the closing session, Fran Lavelle, director of Faith Formation, introduced the work of the Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation. She emphasized that one of the most important lessons learned through the diocesan synod and pastoral reimagining process is the need to respond when the faithful are asked to share their needs and hopes. She said the Center represents a concrete response to that input and thanked those who helped develop its formation path.

MADISON – Robert Feduccia speaks to faith formators from across the diocese for Faith Formation Day on Saturday, Nov. 15. (Photo by Joanna King)

The Bishop Houck Center for Lay Formation is designed to help lay leaders grow in faith, knowledge and service through programs grounded in education, evangelization and leadership development. The initiative builds on Bishop Houck’s legacy of supporting lay ministry and evangelization and offers formation opportunities in both English and Spanish for parish teams and individual leaders across the diocese.

The event closed with a final keynote from Feduccia, sending participants back to their parishes encouraged, energized and reminded that God works powerfully through the faithful who say yes to serving his church.

(To learn more about the Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation and upcoming opportunities for training and enrichment, visit jacksondiocese.org/bishop-houck-center-for-lay-formation.)

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