Category Archives: Diocesan News

Honoring the past, building the future: Catholic education leadership transitions

Posted on by

By Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – The Diocese of Jackson is marking a significant transition in Catholic education as longtime leader Karla Luke retires and Joni House steps in as the new executive director of Catholic Education.

Luke, who retired at the end of September after more than 33 years in Catholic education, has been a steady and faith-filled leader for diocesan schools. During her tenure, she helped guide the diocese to national recognition when its Catholic schools were named a Cognia “School System of Distinction,” one of only four Catholic institutions worldwide – and the only Catholic diocese – to receive the honor.

FLOWOOD – Joni House, executive director of the Office of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Jackson, spends a few moments cuddling a baby at St. Paul Early Learning Center while visiting schools in the Jackson area on Thursday, Oct. 2. House stepped into the role following the retirement of longtime Catholic educator and diocesan schools director Karla Luke at the end of September. (Photo courtesy of Joni House)

“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. It is very humbling to know that you have been a tiny part of a student’s life for a short time.”

Bishop Joseph Kopacz praised Luke’s leadership and dedication, noting how she guided schools through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and into a period of growth. “Karla has dedicated her professional life to the spread of the Gospel and the teachings of the church through Catholic education,” he said. “Her servant-leadership culminated in the exceptional rating from Cognia for the Diocese of Jackson’s Catholic School System. May the Lord bless her in retirement with family, friends, and in all her new adventures.”

House, formerly principal of Annunciation Catholic School in Columbus, began her new role in early September. She was chosen following a five-month national search. With more than 14 years of experience as a Catholic school administrator and several years as a Cognia accreditation specialist, she brings both practical leadership and a big-picture vision.

“I felt called to this role because it allows me to serve our schools and communities in a new way,” House said. “Being a principal taught me the everyday challenges and joys of school leadership, and my Cognia work showed me how powerful continuous improvement can be. Together, those experiences help me bring both practical understanding and a big-picture vision to this role.”

House said she sees exciting opportunities ahead for Catholic schools in the diocese: welcoming more families, strengthening academic programs with new approaches, and deepening students’ faith life so they leave ready to serve others. At the same time, she acknowledged challenges such as enrollment, financial sustainability, and teacher retention, which she hopes to address through collaboration and strong parish partnerships.

She also expressed gratitude for the work done by Luke. “I want to build on the work she started, while also embracing the new opportunities that lie ahead for our schools, families, and communities,” House said. “The recognition as a Cognia School System of Distinction affirms the hard work of our schools, and it challenges us to sustain and grow that culture of continuous improvement so Catholic education in our diocese remains strong and vibrant.”

Bishop Kopacz said he is confident in her leadership. “She has a vibrant faith in the Lord Jesus and is committed to the Great Commission to teach the nations and form disciples,” he said. “Her passion for the children and their families, and her professional support for educators and staff have prepared her well to lead our Catholic school system into the future. I look forward to her leadership in the time ahead.”

Luke, in her retirement letter, expressed deep gratitude to Bishop Kopacz, chancery colleagues, pastors, and especially the administrators and teachers who form “the heart and soul” of diocesan schools. “Though my time in this role will come to an end, my commitment to Catholic education remains steadfast,” she wrote.

For Luke, the joy has always been in the relationships built along the way. For House, the excitement is in the new opportunities that lie ahead. Together, their stories reflect the mission at the center of Catholic education in the Diocese of Jackson: forming students in faith, knowledge and service.

VCS breaks ground on multimillion-dollar performing arts and athletic complex

Posted on by

By Mary Margaret Edney
VICKSBURG – In 1860, a small group of Sisters of Mercy opened the doors of a modest school in Vicksburg with a simple but powerful mission to educate the whole child – mind, body and spirit. Today, 165 years later, that same mission is propelling Vicksburg Catholic School (VCS) into a new era as it breaks ground on a transformative multi-purpose performing arts and athletic complex.

VICKSBURG – Students, community leaders, and school staff gathered for the Vicksburg Catholic School’s groundbreaking ceremony for its Multi-purpose Performing Arts and Athletic Complex on Friday, Sept. 26. (Photo by Anna Griffing)

At a groundbreaking ceremony held Sept. 26, students, faculty, alumni, parents and community leaders gathered to celebrate the start of construction on the new building.

“Today’s groundbreaking represents more than just the start of construction. It’s the next chapter in a 165-year legacy of preparing students to make a difference in the world,” said Kristi Smith, VCS development director. “This new facility will ensure that future generations have a place to discover their talents, push their limits and reach their full potential.”

Designed for use by students in pre-K through twelfth grade, the 20,000-square-foot facility will feature a performance stage for fine arts, dedicated athletic space and an area for schoolwide Masses. The addition will also allow the school to repurpose existing classrooms, creating a dedicated middle school.

“By creating a modern space where creativity, teamwork and scholarship intersect, we’re equipping our students with the skills and confidence to thrive long after graduation,” Smith said.

VICKSBURG – Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz blesses students and staff with holy water during the groundbreaking ceremony for Vicksburg Catholic School’s new performing arts and athletic complex on Sept. 26, as Van Peeples carries the aspersorium. (Photo by Anna Griffing)

The construction site is at the corner of Hayes and Clay Street, next to St. Francis Xavier Elementary School. Formerly the home of Sullivan’s Grocery, the property was acquired by VCS earlier this year. Since then, Smith has been leading a capital campaign team to develop a vision for the land and raise the funds to make it possible.

“When we first began this effort, we knew it had potential to make a big difference, not just for our school, but for the Vicksburg community,” explained David Hosemann, a member of the project steering committee. “Seeing that vision come to life is incredibly rewarding, and it’s a testament to what Vicksburg Catholic School means to this community.”

That vision is now moving forward, thanks to the support of donors who invested in the school’s future. To date, approximately $8 million of the project’s total $10 million cost has been raised.

With construction set to begin this month, the campaign has entered its final phase to secure the remaining $2 million.

“We are incredibly proud and grateful for what we have accomplished so far, and we are confident in what’s still to come,” Smith said. “People love this school – they believe in its mission and its impact – and that loyalty is what’s turning this dream into a reality.”

(For more information about Vicksburg Catholic School, which serves students from pre-K through twelfth grade in the Vicksburg area, visit www.vicksburgcatholic.org.)

Pastoral Assignments

Posted on by
Rev. Rickson Robert Antony appointed parochial vicar of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Oxford, effective Oct. 1, 2025.
Will Foggo will be assigned as deacon to St. Joseph Parish, Starkville and its mission, Corpus Christi in Macon, effective Dec. 3, 2025, after his ordination to the transitional diaconate on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025.

St. James Knights support Talbot House with gift

Posted on by

By Brian Volman
TUPELO – The Knights of Columbus Council 8848 at St. James Church presented a check for $11,500 to Talbot House, supporting its mission of serving those in need.

The donation marked the culmination of the Knights’ summer project, which included selling tickets to their annual charity concert and securing contributions from local businesses. Ticket sales began in May and concluded with the concert on Aug. 2 at the Catholic Life Center on the grounds of St. James.

The evening’s concert highlighted the talents of local residents and parishioners, who provided outstanding entertainment for the community.

The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal organization founded on the principles of charity, unity and fraternity. Council 8848 continues to serve the Tupelo community through faith-driven charitable works and service projects.

Jabour receives Knight Commander Cross

Posted on by

By Michael Horten
HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – On Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, Philip Jabour was invested with the Knight Commander Cross of the Order of the Fleur de Lis. Jabour was joined by four clergy members and eight lay commanders being invested. The investiture took place at St. Mary of the Springs Catholic Church in Hot Springs.

Knight Commander Jabour and his wife, Linda, reside in Brandon, and attend St. Paul Catholic Church. Jabour is very active in the Knights of Columbus. He created a program to donate coats for kids to Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Jackson. He also serves on the board of the Castlewoods Homeowners Association and has been a Eucharistic minister for 30 years and a member of the parish council for 10 years.

The Order of the Fleur de Lis is an organization of Catholic men incorporated under the laws of Louisiana as a not-for-profit organization. The order’s domain covers a five-state region consisting of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee.

The objectives of the order include supporting and defending the Catholic Church and its teachings; promoting patriotism and good citizenship; encouraging public morality and unselfish service to God and country; assisting and publicizing the activities of other organizations that share these goals; and honoring the memories and achievements of Catholic leaders in religion, the arts and sciences, philanthropy, education, exploration and archaeology, government and international relations, medicine, jurisprudence and other established professions.

The Order of the Fleur de Lis encourages and recognizes leadership in living the values and principles of the Catholic faith by presenting the Msgr. Joseph Susi Award of Honor to individuals who have excelled as Catholic leaders.

Other Knight Commanders in the Diocese of Jackson include Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz, Very Rev. Aaron Williams, William “Bill” O’Connor and James McCraw.

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
DIOCESE/VIRTUAL – The Office of Catholic Education hosts a quarterly Zoom Rosary. Join them from across the diocese on Oct. 15 at 7 p.m. to pray the Glorious Mysteries. Details: Join the rosary via zoom at https://bit.ly/OCERosaryOct25.

DIOCESE/MADISON – Fall Faith Formation Day, Saturday, Nov. 15 at St. Francis, Madison from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Department of Faith Formation welcomes all formation leaders and volunteers for a keynote by Robert Feduccia and a variety of breakout sessions to with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope Journeying Together.” Cost: $10. Register at https://bit.ly/FFFDay2025. Deadline is Nov. 5. Details: email fran.lavelle@jacksondiocese.org.

DIOCESE/MOBILE, Ala. – Sister Thea Bowman Jubilee of Hope Bus Pilgrimage, Nov. 15-16 to Mobile and Montgomery, Ala., for a powerful journey of faith, history and fellowship. Highlights include visits to the Africatown Heritage Center, the Equal Justice Initiative and more. Details: Visit https://bit.ly/srtheapilgrimage2025 for more info and to register.

DIOCESE/NATCHEZ – Diocesan Young Adult Pilgrimage to St. Mary Basilica in Natchez, Nov. 8. Register by Nov. 1. Cost $25. Fee does not include transportation, meals or optional overnight stay. Details: https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/222556 or email amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, “Living our Best Life in Christ” Women’s Retreat, Saturday, Oct. 25, registration at 8 a.m. with retreat from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will engage in a series of enriching guest speakers, group discussions, prayer sessions, and interactive workshops designed to inspire and uplift. Cost: $25 before Oct. 20 or $30 at the door. Registration includes lunch. Details: call Dr. Kathy McMurty, Ph.D. at (601) 566-2769.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Parish Ladies Retreat, Saturday, Nov. 1, 8:30 a.m. to noon. Join us for a time of fellowship, reflection and prayer. Retreat includes Mass, presentations and lunch. Details: Register at https://bit.ly/HSLadiesRetreat112025.

GLUCKSTADT – St. Joseph, Millions of Monicas – Praying with confidence for our children, each Tuesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the church. Join with other mothers and grandmothers as we pray for our children’s faithful return to the church. Details: email millionsofmonicas@stjosephgluckstadt.com.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, “Gratitude Through All Life’s Mysteries” – a Reflection for Women on the Holy Rosary, Saturday Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Don’t miss this spiritual event with speaker Ann Cook. Details: to sign up email lnblaylock@me.com.

VIRTUAL – The North American Vocation Team (NAVT) of the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) invites young adults to a monthly prayer on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. CST via Zoom. Remaining dates in 2025 are Oct. 28, Nov. 25 and Dec. 16. Details: visit ssnd.org/events.

PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
CLINTON – Holy Savior, Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat, Wednesday, Oct. 29 in the upper parking lot. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.

COLUMBUS – Annunciation, Parish Fall Festival, Sunday, Oct. 26 from 4-6:30 p.m. Join us on College Street in downtown Columbus for fun for all with trunk or treat, cake walk, games, food and more. No pets please. Details: church office (662) 328-2927.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Parish Gala, Saturday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. at the Capitol Club Rooftop. Join us for this no tie occasion to raise funds for the Cathedral kitchen and promote community in the parish. Details: church office (601) 969-3125.

JACKSON – Sister Thea Bowman School, Adopt-A-Student Scholarship Program – Consider sponsoring a full or partial tuition for a child to experience the benefit of a Catholic education. Donations are tax deductible. Details: email Chris Payne at principal@theabowmanschool.com.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Cardinal Fest and Chili Cookoff, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the football field. Enjoy food, music, games, art and more! Details: purchase your tickets here https://bit.ly/StRCardinalFest2025.

MADISON – St. Francis, Parish Mission “Hope and Pilgrimage,” Oct. 26-27 from 5:30-7:45 p.m., with speaker and author Joan Watson. All are welcome. Please RSVP. Details: church office at (601) 856-5556.

NATCHEZ – St. Mary Basilica, Trunk or Treat and Halloween Carnival, Thursday, Oct. 30 in the parking lot on Union Street across from Memorial Park. Details: church office at (601) 445-5616 or secretary@stmarybasilica.org.

PEARL – St. Jude, Feast Day Potluck, Sunday, Oct. 26. Games for all ages from 2-4:30 p.m., procession and rosary at 4:30 p.m. and dinner at 5 p.m. Details: church office (601)-939-3181.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Fall Festival, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Don’t miss this fun day of fellowship filled with international foods, games, cake walk, live music, white elephant sale and more! Details: church office (662) 342-1073.

‘The work continues’ – Bishop Kopacz marks 75 with gratitude and new chapter of ministry

Posted on by

By Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz reached a milestone on Sept. 16 as he celebrated his 75th birthday with Mass at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle and a luncheon with chancery staff. The day carried both personal and ecclesial significance: under canon law, bishops are required to submit their resignation at age 75.

In a video message leading up to the day, Bishop Kopacz reflected on the process and what it means for his ministry. “It’s special because it’s my 75th birthday. Canon law requires that I send my letter of resignation into the Apostolic Delegate,” he explained. The letter was submitted to Christophe Cardinal Pierre, the papal nuncio to the United States.

JACKSON – Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz delivers the homily at a Mass celebrating his 75th birthday on Sept. 16 at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. (Photo by Tereza Ma)

Still, as the bishop reminded the faithful, acceptance of the letter does not come right away. “Every bishop is obligated to do this … but typically the nuncio will write back and say, continue serving in the diocese,” he said. That time of waiting often lasts a year and a half or longer.

“I look at it as being an extended Advent,” Bishop Kopacz said. “A bishop knows not the day nor the hour when he will receive notice of a successor. That allows me the time then to realize – time is important – and there’s much ministry to attend to in collaboration with priests and leadership in the diocese.”

The bishop spoke of gratitude for the years behind him and the ministry still to come. “Although the letter is going in, not much is going to change, practically speaking, except I’m getting older and grateful to God for living a long life up to this point and being able to serve the Lord and be active in ministry.”

At the Mass marking his birthday, Bishop Kopacz reminisced about his consecration as Bishop of Jackson at the “young age of 63 and a half years old,” he quipped. With many other bishops turning 75 or nearing that milestone, he told those gathered, “Now it’s a matter of waiting for the announcement of a successor. But until then, we continue to walk together.”

At the chancery luncheon, Bishop Kopacz lightened the moment with humor. “I have documentation of my baptism certificate … that shows I was baptized on Oct. 1, 1950. That’s not a recent convert. I think I qualify with longevity here,” he said, drawing laughter.

Looking back on his years in Jackson, he said: “It’s been an amazing 11 and a half years as bishop … really such a blessing in many ways. A few rough patches – welcome to life, right? But overall, a blessing.”

He also spoke of the diocese’s breadth and diversity. “Looking at the folks from Natchez and Fayette, and priests from Amory and New Albany … the heart of the Delta … it really is amazing,” he said. “Together we’re serving the Lord and serving the church, and it really doesn’t end. Wake up tomorrow – it continues.”

The bishop’s reflections place him among a growing group of American church leaders at the same juncture. Canon law requires bishops to submit their resignations at 75, but the pope decides when to accept them. Until then, bishops continue in their ministry.

This September, Bishop Kopacz was not alone in marking the milestone. Bishop Francis Malone of Shreveport turned 75 on Sept. 1, and Bishop David Talley of Memphis turned 75 on Sept. 11. Across the United States, dozens of bishops are reaching retirement age, part of a larger generational shift in church leadership.

National data underscores the trend. By the end of 2023, 13 U.S. diocesan bishops were already over 75, the highest number since the 1960s. Over the next five years, more than a third of current diocesan bishops will submit their resignations as they turn 75. Many, like Bishop Kopacz, are expected to remain in their dioceses for a time before successors are appointed.

For the Diocese of Jackson, that means continuity for now. “Although the letter is significant, the work of the ministry continues,” Bishop Kopacz said. “God bless you. Let us go forward confident again in our Lord’s love for us.”

The day’s celebrations reflected both the seriousness of the moment and the joy of community. Parishioners, priests and diocesan staff joined in thanksgiving for Bishop Kopacz’s life and leadership. While change will eventually come, the bishop expressed hope and confidence in God’s providence for the road ahead.

(Watch Bishop Kopacz’s video message on turning 75 and read the full text of his resignation letter at https://bit.ly/BishopKopacz75.)

In memoriam: Sister Mary Donata Kokot

Posted on by

Ursuline Sister of Louisville Mary Donata Kokot, O.S.U., age 98, died in the 76th year of her religious life on June 26, 2025, at Baptist Health Louisville. Sister Donata was born in Daguscahonda, Pennsylvania, but grew up in Bretz, West Virginia. She entered the Ursuline Sisters of Louisville in 1949.

Her first encounter with the Ursuline Sisters was at age 7, when the Sisters came every summer to teach catechism lessons to the children of Bretz, West Virginia. Sister Donata, one of five children, said, “I had never seen nuns before. I told my mother I wanted to be just like them when I grew up. I thought they were dropped from heaven.”

Sister was a primary educator for 48 years, teaching first and second grade in Louisville for 10 of those years at Saints Boniface, Therese, Helen and Clement parish schools, and at Sacred Heart Model School. She also taught at parish grade schools in Pittsburgh and Conemaugh, Pennsylvania, and in Cumberland, Maryland. Sister Donata and her dear friend, Sister Julienne Guy, taught together in Columbia, South Carolina. Sister Donata then taught for 22 years in Jackson, Mississippi.

After retiring from teaching, Sister Donata served as a medical records clerk at St. Dominic Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi, from 1999 to 2006, and as sacristan at the Ursuline Motherhouse Chapel from 2012 to 2018.

Sister Donata earned a bachelor of arts degree from the former Ursuline College (now Bellarmine University) in Louisville, and a master’s degree in education from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. She received the Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year Award in 1997.

Sister Donata was the daughter of the late Mark and Anna Markovich Kokot. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Barbara Kokot, and many nephews and nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces, as well as her community of Ursuline Sisters and Associates.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Ursuline Sisters of Louisville and mailed to the Donor Relations Office, 3115 Lexington Road, Louisville, KY 40206.

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
NATCHEZ – Diocesan Young Adult Pilgrimage to St. Mary Basilica in Natchez, Nov. 8. Register by Nov. 1. Cost $25. Fee does not include transportation, meals or optional overnight stay. Details: https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/222556 or email amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, “Living our Best Life in Christ” Women’s Retreat, Saturday, Oct. 25, registration at 8 a.m. with retreat from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will engage in a series of enriching guest speakers, group discussions, prayer sessions, and interactive workshops designed to inspire and uplift. Cost: $25 before Oct. 20 or $30 at the door. Registration includes lunch. Details: call Dr. Kathy McMurty, Ph.D. (601) 566-2769.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, “Gratitude Through All Life’s Mysteries” – a Reflection for Women on the Holy Rosary, Saturday Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Don’t miss this spiritual event with speaker Ann Cook. Details: to sign up email lnblaylock@me.com.

JACKSON – St. Richard, An Evening with Mary, Thursday, Oct. 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Foley Hall. All ladies are invited for a special evening with speaker Kimberly Harkins on “My Year with Mary.” Details: RSVP by Oct, 10 to bulletin@saintrichard.com.

VIRTUAL – The North American Vocation Team (NAVT) of the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) invites young adults ages 18 and older to a monthly online evening prayer on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. CST via Zoom. Remaining dates for evening prayer in 2025 are Oct. 28, Nov. 25 and Dec. 16. Details: ssnd.org/events.

PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
BROOKHAVEN – St. Francis, Parish Picnic, Sunday, Oct. 5 after 10 a.m. Mass. Meat, beans, potato sald, drinks and desserts will be provided. Details: (601) 833-1799.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Blessing of the Pets, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 9 a.m. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.

COLUMBUS – Annunciation, Parish Fall Festival, Sunday, Oct. 26 from 4-6:30 p.m. Join us on College Street in downtown Columbus for fun for all with trunk or treat, cake walk, games, food and more. No pets please. Details: church office (662) 328-2927.

HOLLY SPRINGS – St. Joseph, Blessing of the Pets, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. All pets must be on a leash or in a cage. Details: church office (662) 985-3209.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Parish Gala, Saturday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. at the Capitol Club Rooftop. Join us for this no tie occasion to raise funds for the Cathedral kitchen and promote community across all of our Masses and events. Details: church office (601) 969-3125.

JACKSON – Sister Thea Bowman School, Adopt-A-Student Scholarship Program – Consider sponsoring a full or partial tuition for a child to experience the benefit of a Catholic education. Donations are tax deductible. Details: email Chris Payne at principal@theabowmanschool.com.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Special Kids Golf Tournament, Thursday, Oct. 9 at Deerfield Golf Club in Canton. Details: visit https://saintrichard.com/specialkids for more information or email golf@saintrichard.com.

St. Richard, Cardinal Fest and Chili Cookoff, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the football field. Enjoy food, music, games, art and more! Details: purchase your tickets here https://bit.ly/StRCardinalFest2025.

JACKSON AREA – Theology on Tap, Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 7 p.m. at Blaylock Photography in Ridgeland. Catholic comedian Jason Price will speak on the topic – Blessed are the Laughmakers. Details: email amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

MADISON – St. Francis, Parish Mission “Hope and Pilgrimage,” Oct. 26-27 from 5:30-7:45 p.m., with speaker and author Joan Watson. All are welcome. Please RSVP. Details: church office at (601) 856-5556.

MERIDIAN – St. Joseph, Jubilee Year October Festival and Health Fair: Sunday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy a day of fellowship, family and faith. Details: church office (601) 693-1321.

St. Patrick, Second Annual St. Ann/St. Catherine Brunch, Saturday, Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Father Vally Room. Join this special support group gathering for all who have experienced infertility, miscarriage, or the loss of a child at any age. Details: church office (601) 693-1321.

OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Knights of Columbus Silver Rose Prayer Service, Thursday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. All are invited to this service honoring Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe and reaffirming our dedication to human life.

Queen of Peace, Blessing of the Pets, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 9 a.m. All pets must be on a leash or in a cage.

SENATOBIA – St. Gregory, Blessing of the Pets, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Blessing of the Animals, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. All pets should be on a leash or in a cage for their safety.

Christ the King, Fall Festival, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Don’t miss this fun day of fellowship filled with international foods, games, cake walk, live music, white elephant sale and more! Details: church office (662) 342-1073.