Category Archives: Diocesan News

Happy Ordination Anniversary

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April 10
Father Pradeep Kumar Thirumalareddy
St. Mary Batesville

April 12
Father Raju Macherla
St. Elizabeth Clarksdale
Father Sleeva Reddy Mekala
St. James Leland & Immaculate Conception Indianola

April 14
Father Suresh Reddy Thirumalareddy
St. Alphonsus McComb
April 18
Father Vijaya Manohar Reddy Thanugundla
St. Francis Brookhaven

April 19
Father Sebastian Myladiyil, SVD
Sacred Heart Greenville

April 24
Father Arokia Stanislaus Savio
St. Peter Grenada

April 26
Father Jesuraj Xavier
St. Francis New Albany

Thank you for answering the call!

Calendar of Events

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, Intercultural Competence Workshop for Parish Leaders, Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Presenter: Deacon Juan Pagan of the Diocese of Lafayette. Explore what is culture and more. Details: Sister Amelia at amelia.breton@jacksondiocese.org.

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.

MEMPHIS – St. Michael, St. John Paul II Biographer George Weigel Event, Wednesday, April 2, at 6:30 p.m. Weigel will reflect on writing St. John Paul II and stories about the great saint. Details: email khira.rotty@stmichaelmemphis.org.

OFFICE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION – The OCE hosts a Zoom Rosary the first Wednesday of each month during the school year at 7 p.m. The upcoming Rosary is on April 2. Details: Join the rosary via zoom at https://bit.ly/zoomrosary2024.

VIRTUAL – Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Stay with Me: Lenten Prayer for Disciples virtual event, Wednesdays through April 9 at 7 p.m. Register once for participation in any or all of the sessions at springfieldop.org/events. Hear reflections on the theme, enjoy periods of silence and sharing, and build a community of prayer for Lent. Details: call Sister Denise at (217) 787-0481.

VOCATIONS – Come and See Weekend, April 11-13 at St. Joseph Seminary College in St. Benedict, Louisiana. Father Tristan Stovall is hosting an opportunity for young men age 16-18 to learn more about the priesthood, to begin discernment of a vocation and to connect with other teens who love their faith. Details: visit https://jacksonvocations.com/events for more information and to register. Deadline is April 3.

PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS
CANTON – Holy Child Jesus, Musical Celebration in honor of Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA, Saturday, March 29 at 3 p.m. Details: “Cherie” at arievans29@yahoo.com or (601) 259-1363.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Youth Bake Sale, Sunday, March 30 after 10:30 a.m. Mass. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.

HERNANDO – Cocktails and Catholicism will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Hernando on April 11th. 21 years old+ event.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Men’s Prayer Breakfast with Bishop Kopacz, Monday, April 14, beginning with Mass at 6:30 a.m. and breakfast provided by the Knights of Columbus at 7 a.m. in Foley Hall. Details: church office (601) 366-2335.

JACKSON – Holy Family Catholic Church is holding a three day Lenten Revival from April 7th through April 9th. The theme is the Power of Prayer. Revivalist is Father Leon Ngandu, SVD. Contact the parish office for more information.

JACKSON – Sister Thea Bowman School, Drawdown 2025, Saturday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m. Grand prize is $5,000. Tickets cost $120; with additional $15 for second chance. Join us for fellowship, food, entertainment, silent auction and more! Details: email stbdrawdown@gmail.com or visit https://bit.ly/STBSDD2025.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Six Parish Youth event – Team Scavenger Hunt and Trivia, Sunday, March 30 from 3-7 p.m. Event begins with Mass, then activities and dinner. Details: call (662) 895-5007.

PILGRIMAGES
HOLY LAND – Pilgrimage to Holy Land: Join Father Mark Shoffner, pastor of St. John Oxford, July 21-31, 2025. Details: lpjp.org, then click on “All Pilgrimages” and “Holy Land.” Details: church office (662) 234-6073.

MARIAN SHRINES – Pilgrimage to Marian Shrines (Fatima, Spain and Lourdes) with Father Lincoln Dall and Deacon John McGregor, Sept, 15-24, 2025. Details: for more information visit www.206tours.com/frlincoln.

ROME/LISBON/FATIMA – Pilgrimage to Rome, Assisi, Lisbon and Fatima with Father Carlisle Beggerly, Oct. 4-15, 2025. Cost: $5,799 per person (includes airfare from anywhere in the U.S.) Details: contact Pat Nause at (601) 604-0412; Proximo Travel at (855) 842-8001 or proximotravel.com. Mention trip #1181.

LENTEN RECONCILIATION
BATESVILLE – St. Mary, Penance Service, Thursday, April 3 from 6-7 p.m.
CLINTON – Holy Savior, Reconciliation Service, Wednesday, March 26 at 6 p.m.
FLOWOOD – St. Paul, Penance Service, Monday, April 7 at 6 p.m.
GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Penance Service, Monday, April 7 at 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
JACKSON – St. Richard, Reconciliation, available every Saturday during Lent from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Confession practicum by Father Joe Tonos at 10 a.m. every Saturday during Lent in Foley Hall.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Penance Service, Wednesday, April 2 at 7 p.m.
SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Penance Service, Wednesday, April 9 at 7 p.m.

Walking together in faith – Father Albeen celebrates 25 years of priesthood

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By Joe Lee
MADISON – Father Albeen Reddy Vatti looked totally at home as he mingled with guests in the St. Francis of Assisi family life center in Madison on the twenty-fifth anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.
Knowing the celebration, which featured a gourmet meal served by the St. Francis Knights of Columbus, would last well into the evening, he happily made time for everyone who wanted a handshake, hug, or selfie.

“As a priest serving at St. Francis,” he said, “I have learned not to walk before the people or behind the people, but to walk together with people.”

MADISON – Bishop Joseph Kopacz gives a final blessing to Father Albeen Vatti (right) and his childhood friend Father Shobhan Singareddy serving in the Diocese of Birmingham. Many gathered for a special Mass at St. Francis of Assisi for Father Albeen’s 25th anniversary as a priest. (Photo by Tereza Ma)

That approach is a big reason why Father Albeen isn’t just considered a beloved priest. He’s practically family as far as parishioners are concerned. In nearly ten years at the Madison parish, he has watched with pride as youth group kids he mentored at the beginning are now active members and starting families.

“One of my proudest achievements,” he said, “is strengthening and encouraging the parish ministry and parish lay leaders who give their time, talents and treasures so generously.”

“Father Albeen is compassionate and comforting in our parishioners’ darkest times,” said St. Francis office manager Sallie Ann Inman. “He enjoys being included in their celebrations, and he loves working with the children, such as when they learn the importance of altar serving.”

Arriving in the Diocese of Jackson from his native India in 2012, his first assignment was at St. Richard Church in Jackson, giving him an opportunity to work with a priest who to this day remains very important to him.

“It was a God-given blessing to work as an associate priest with Father Mike O’Brien,” he said. “Father O’Brien was such a caring, understanding and encouraging priest.”

After five months at St. Richard, Father Albeen was asked by Msgr. Elvin Sunds to serve in northeast Mississippi. But when made aware he would be among a large contingent of Spanish-speaking parishioners, he was reluctant to go.

“When Father O’Brien heard that, he said, ‘Albeen, St. Thomas the Apostle, St. Francis Xavier, and Mother Teresa all came to India without knowing Indian languages and became saints. Don’t you want to become a saint learning Spanish?’”

In February 2013, Father Albeen celebrated Mass in Spanish for the first time at St. Francis of Assisi in New Albany. He remembers the experience like it was yesterday.

“It was cold, but by the end of the Mass I was soaked in sweat because of my nervousness,” he said. “Slowly I learned to read, speak and understand the Spanish culture.”

When Bishop Joseph Kopacz asked him to move to St. Francis of Assisi in Madison, the transition wasn’t as easy as one might think after spending three years in Mississippi.

Father Albeen Vatti received Papal Blesing for his 25th anniversary on March 6, 2025 given by Sallie Ann Inman. View additional photos at https://jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com. (Photo by Tereza Ma)

“There were challenges,” he said, “especially with St. Anthony Elementary School and the Assisi Early Learning Center (on the St. Francis campus). Another was to fill the big shoes of Msgr. Mike Flannery. The biggest was to get to know the parishioners, but within no time I experienced the love of all the faithful. Now St. Francis has become a home away from home.”

“Father Albeen has been a wonderful pastor and friend to St. Anthony,” said principal Anne Cowger. “One of his unique gifts is the ability to connect with the children during Mass. He often shares stories from his childhood in India, which enhances their understanding and helps them relate to him in a meaningful way.”

He’s an active member of the Knights of Columbus, attending most council meetings at the parish, and typically spends the entire day on campus during Cajun Fest as well as getting up early to take part in the annual Ring in Your Faith run/walk on New Year’s Day.

“When it comes to making our biggest events successful, the one common denominator is the presence of the parish priest,” said past Grand Knight Doug Leo. “Father Albeen has been the backbone of our parish the last several years. There’s never a question about his commitment to his flock.”

He’s also deeply committed to mentoring young priests as well as youth who might be considering the priesthood. Father Joseph Golamari, also from the Diocese of Warangal and temporarily at St. Francis as he awaits his first full-time assignment, has known Father Albeen since he was in eighth grade.

“He was my pastor and guided me to orient my life towards priesthood,” said Father Golamari. “From the moment I arrived here, he was there to encourage me in every aspect, including understanding the Mississippi accent, food and culture. He said, ‘Don’t be afraid of anything. Be confident, but not overconfident. Be available to the parishioners and be approachable.’”

Scout’s calling transforms storage room into classroom

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By Joe Lee
In a cartoon, a light bulb would have appeared over the head of Daniel Inman as he walked through a cluttered storage room at Sister Thea Bowman Elementary School (STB) a few weeks ago.

In the real world, it was a God thing.

Inman, a junior at St. Joseph School in Madison and an active member of nearby St. Francis of Assisi Church, is closing in on the rank of Eagle Scout.

“I felt God telling me that this is what my Eagle project should be,” he said.

After speaking to STB principal Christopher Payne, Inman went right to work on a plan to convert the storage room into an additional Pre-Kindergarten classroom for the west Jackson school. He quickly enlisted help from his family and fellow scouts.

“I scheduled them to help clean the room and throw away all the old things that can’t be used anymore,” he said. “We started a drive for items to be put in the new classroom, and once they were purchased and delivered, we arranged them to fit a Pre-K room.”

JACKSON – Christopher Payne, principal of Sister Thea Bowman School shakes hands with Daniel Inman, a scout closing in on the rank of Eagle Scout after completing a project with the school. (Photo courtesy of Sallie Ann Inman)

Studies show that the percentage of Boy Scouts who attain the rank of Eagle is in single digits. Job recruiters and hiring departments often take notice of the designation on a resume, as it represents long-term commitment, perseverance, and the capacity to lead and manage others.

For Inman, what makes the project even better is the contribution to a very small, economically challenged Catholic school.

“It is important to help the community whenever you are able,” he said. “Being able to say that I contributed to something big like a school classroom is very fulfilling.”

The school was named in honor of Sister Thea Bowman, who continues to be part of the conversation when it comes to the possibility of sainthood.

“We’ve been sharing the stories of her legacy with the students,” said Deacon Denzil Lobo, Ecclesial Minister at nearby Christ the King Church and STB Canonical Administrator. “For our Black History Program, they talked about her legacy, and one even acted in the role of Sister Thea.

“We have explained the canonization process to them – including the requirements for miracles – and we’ve explained that with our prayers, perhaps she will be canonized a saint in their lifetime. Several of them went to (St. Peter’s) Cathedral for the blessing of the statue of Sister Thea and sang songs during the Mass.”

Thanks to Inman’s leadership, STB can enjoy what some might consider a small miracle: a fully furnished new classroom at no cost to the school. His efforts come as no surprise to Father Albeen Vatti, Inman’s priest at St. Francis of Assisi for nearly a decade.

“I’ve gotten to observe Daniel closely, since his mother, Sallie Ann, is the office manager and his dad, Will, helps with a lot of parish maintenance,” Vatti said. “I would describe Daniel as gentle and kindhearted, an active participant in religious education and youth activities who always volunteers to help at church.”

“Having Daniel reach out to me about remodeling that classroom back into its original state was a blessing I never saw coming,” said Payne, who was struggling to accommodate increased enrollment in the school’s Pre-K program. “The work that the Inman family and those who supported this project have put in will allow us to take in more students, and continue our mission to serve the students who need us to serve them.”

STB needs volunteers to tutor students after school in math, reading and writing. Payne is also looking for volunteers to read to students in the classroom, and to help with set-up and clean-up before and after school events.

“We can always use new books for our library, art supplies, iPads, and Chromebooks,” he added. “With financial donations, we don’t ask for specific amounts and are just glad to receive whatever donors want to give. If someone gives one dollar, it goes straight to the students.”

Heart of a deacon: The path to the permanent diaconate

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By Deacon John McGregor
The formation process for men interested in the permanent diaconate is both rigorous and rewarding. Let’s begin by looking at the inquiry and application processes.

Inquiry sessions are scheduled in all the deaneries in our diocese. At the inquiry sessions the participant will hear about the ministry of the permanent diaconate, the formation process, and be given an opportunity to ask questions. The participant will be asked to complete a short inquirer’s form, so we have some basic information about the party and the party’s association with the church. Then in May, the inquirer may request an application, which must be completed by the end of July. The application includes an extensive questionnaire about the perspective candidate’s relationship with the church, with Christ, with his family, etc. In addition, the inquirer will be asked to write three essays – an autobiography, another describing his spiritual journey, and another, outlining why the perspective candidate believes he is called to serve as a deacon. His wife will also be asked to complete part of the application form and to write a letter of support for the application.

In addition to the application, the perspective diaconate candidate will be required to submit the results of a physical examination, proof of reception of the sacrament of baptism, holy communion and confirmation. If married, the applicant must show that he is married “in the church.” He will also be asked to submit three letters of recommendation, and request a letter of recommendation from his pastor, mailed directly to the director of the permanent diaconate. Once a completed application package is received, no later than July 31, 2025, the applicant and his spouse will interview with a deacon and his spouse, and a priest. After these interviews, the applicant will be required to take a psychological evaluation. Ultimately, the final interview is with the bishop and the deacon vocations board. If accepted, aspirancy would begin in January 2026.

Aspirancy is a one-year period of discernment, prior to entering formation. During phase one, the aspirant will learn more about the ministry of the deacon, prayer, discernment and other introductory topics. Aspirants meet once a month on Saturdays, from January through June during this first phase of aspirancy. Phase two begins in September with a prerequisite theology course on divine revelation. Again, throughout Phase two, meetings are on Saturdays only. At the end of the aspirancy period, the aspirant will once again be interviewed to determine if he is able and willing to move into the formation program.

Those accepted into candidacy would begin the formation process in January 2027. During the four years of formation, candidates are required to meet one weekend a month from Friday evening to Sunday midday. During this period, the candidate will study theology at a graduate level, receive formation in spirituality and take part in practicums. The candidate is also expected to maintain an active ministry in his parish, working with his pastor as a means to developing his pastoral ministry skills. At the end of the formation process, candidates may petition the bishop for ordination. Those who successfully complete the course work must also take and pass a comprehensive written exam. Those who complete all the requirements will receive a Master of Theological Studies degree from Spring Hill College.

Deacon Wesley Lindsay and other permanent deacons throughout the Diocese of Jackson serve in the ministries of Word, liturgy and charity, assisting priests, supporting parish communities and reaching out to those in need. (Photo from archives)

The diaconal formation process is both rigorous and rewarding. Those who complete the program can be confident in their abilities to serve the church in the diaconal ministries of Word, liturgy and charity. They will be formed according to the four pillars of formation for priests and deacons which seeks to develop the whole person: human, intellectual, spiritual and pastoral. While to some, the program may seem too demanding, but Christ and his church deserve nothing less than the best formation program we can offer.

Those interested in learning more about the permanent diaconate are encouraged to contact Deacon John McGregor (john.mcgregor@jacksondiocese.org) and attend one of the inquiry sessions planned in your area.

CSA feature: Diaconate Ministry

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For many years, Jeff and Ann Cook have been dedicated parishioners of St. Richard Parish in Jackson. Their journey toward the diaconate began in 2016 when they first considered the possibility. After much discussion with their family, they decided the timing was not right. However, in early 2021, they felt a renewed calling to discern this path together. With faith-filled hearts, they took the leap, and Jeff submitted his application to begin formation for the diaconate.

Currently, Jeff is a candidate with plans to be ordained in the summer of 2026. “When we began this process, Ann and I felt we would be walking this path alone,” Jeff shared. “Much to our delight, we found a supportive community in the other deacon applicants and their wives. Our faith has been strengthened as we journey together.”

Pictured, Jeff and Ann Cook of St. Richard parish in Jackson. In 2021 Jeff and Ann felt a renewed calling to discern the path of joining the diaconate. Jeff looks to be ordained a permanent deacon in the summer of 2026.

Ann, who initially had reservations about the balance between marriage, family and the diaconate program, and she found peace through prayer and discernment. “God reassured me with the words, ‘Never have I led you where you could not go,’ which eased my anxiety and allowed us to say yes,” she said. “I am grateful for the friendships we have formed, the deepening of our Catholic faith, and the support we have received during difficult times. Despite the challenges, this formation process has been a profound blessing.”

Jeff’s journey would not be possible without the generous support of the Catholic Service Appeal (CSA). Contributions to the CSA help offset the costs of the formation program, providing assistance for those pursuing vocations.

“Your support reminds us that we are not walking this journey alone but are accompanied by the prayers and sacrifices of parishioners like you,” Jeff said. “We are profoundly humbled and truly thankful for this shared commitment. Knowing that others are walking with us on this path means more than words can express.”

Donate to the Catholic Service appeal by clicking the image below.

Schools celebrate Mardi Gras magic with fundraisers

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By Madelyn Johnson
JACKSON – Beads, feathers, silent auctions, and a chance to win $10,000? Mardi Gras was in the air and the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Jackson knew how to celebrate!

Mardi Gras is a great time for celebration and indulgence as we prepare for the Lenten season. Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” started in Medieval Europe as a time of celebration before Lent. Mardi Gras begins on the Twelfth Night, which is the Holy Day of Epiphany.

Mardi Gras came to Mobile, Alabama in the 1700s, where the first celebration took place. New Orleans soon caught on to the celebrations, and became very popular. Mardi Gras is an official state holiday in Louisiana.

Diocesan Catholic schools use this time of celebration to honor and fundraise. Many of the schools celebrate Mardi Gras with a ball or drawdown event.

First, St. Richard Catholic School in Jackson hosted Krewe de Cardinal at the Westin, where the Roaring 20s theme took over the night with a silent auction including the chance to win a Gold Frame Samsung TV. Mardi Gras King Hilary Zimmerman and Mardi Gras Queen Helen Shirley shared a dance on the dance floor with music by the Groove Factor. Sponsoring the event was Cathead Distillery, St. Dominic’s Hospital and many more.

“From a parent’s perspective, Krewe is ‘the’ event of the school year. This is when those relationships you’ve been building with families and parishioners throughout the year really shine,” says Celeste Sauicer, development director of St. Richard School and parent. ‘And everyone is there for the same reason, to support the best school. To see so many people come together on one night, all in good spirits, really showcases this incredible community and how much of an impact St. Richard has on so many. As a staff member, this is the busiest time of the year, but my favorite time of the year because this event/fundraiser is really parent run and there are a lot of moving parts to creating a successful event. I’m constantly in awe and appreciation of how much our parents truly love this school. I get to see everything behind the scenes and really talk with these parents, so I learn a lot and see constantly how hard these parents will work and all they will do for this school. I always say that if there is one event that will show you the spirit of St. Richard Catholic School, Krewe de Cardinal is it.”

Vicksburg Catholic School celebrated Mardi Gras with their 42nd $20,000 Draw Down at the Levee Street Warehouse in Vicksburg. There, a silent auction took place with many prizes given away. For the grand prize, the last ten names drawn decided to split the cash.

Annunciation Catholic School in Columbus hosted their Mardi Gras event, A Night of Bids and Beads, where the grand prize was a drawing of $10,000. The event was held at the ACS gym, and tickets sold out quickly. A silent auction was held as well.

For St. Elizabeth Catholic School in Clarksdale, a drawdown of $10,000 was the way to go. Hosted by Hopson Hospitality, friendship and good times rolled while silent auction items steadily were bid upon. Farm Bureau sponsored the event, and Ginny Moser went home with the big Drawdown cash prize.

St. Joseph Catholic School in Greenville had a great time at the Delta Men’s Association in Eudora, Arkansas with their Spring Fling. The night started off strong with drawdown for a chance to win $10,000. Tension was high when the last two names were to be drawn, with Joel Henderson winning the grand prize. A catfish dinner with all the trimmings followed with king cake for dessert. Door prizes and raffles continued through the night.

This year’s Mardi Gras celebrations had wonderful turnouts and great times; however, it is now time we prepare ourselves for Lent.

“[Mardi Gras] is a time where we all have Lent in the back of our mind,” says Bishop Joseph Kopcaz. “People understand now it’s 40 days of sacrifice, where we consider the Lord’s sacrifice. And also our sacrifice in baptism and faith to know that we are blessed. We know that we walk the new path of renewal through Him.”

St. Joseph School in Greenville hosted a “Spring Fling” complete with a raffle and draw down. (Photo by Madelyn Johnson)
Principal Joni House draws a winner at Annunciation School’s “Night of Bids and Beads.” (Photo by Jacque Hince)
Patrons dance the night away at St. Richard School’s annual “Krewe de Cardinal” event. (Photo by Tereza Ma)
A large crowd was in attendance at Vicksburg Catholic School’s 42nd Draw Down on Sunday, Feb. 16. (Photo vy Connie Hosemann)
Attendees excitedly talk amongst themselves as the drawdown takes place at Hopson Hospitality in Clarksdale for St. Elizabeth School. (Photo by Madelyn Johnson)

Calendar of Events

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, Intercultural Competence Workshop for Parish Leaders, Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Presenter: Deacon Juan Pagan of the Diocese of Lafayette. Explore what is culture and more. Details: Sister Amelia at amelia.breton@jacksondiocese.org.

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.

MEMPHIS – St. Michael, St. John Paul II Biographer George Weigel Event, Wednesday, April 2, at 6:30 p.m. Weigel will reflect on writing St. John Paul II and stories about the great saint. Details: email khira.rotty@stmichaelmemphis.org.

MERIDIAN – St. Patrick, “Hope in Mercy” Lenten Mission, March 23-25 from 6-7:30 p.m. Retreat features Tim Mowdy, Scott Owen and Ken Woodward as speakers. Reconciliation offered Monday, March 24 from 5-6 p.m. Details: church office (601) 693-1321.

OFFICE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION – The OCE hosts a Zoom Rosary the first Wednesday of each month during the school year at 7 p.m. The upcoming Rosary is on April 2. Details: Join the rosary via zoom at https://bit.ly/zoomrosary2024.

TUPELO – St. James, Lenten Mission with Vallimar Jansen, March 24-25. Dinner at 5 p.m. followed by mission at 6 p.m. All are welcome. Daycare provided. Details: church office (662) 842-4881.

VIRTUAL – Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Stay with Me: Lenten Prayer for Disciples virtual event, Wednesdays through April 9 at 7 p.m. Register once for participation in any or all of the sessions at springfieldop.org/events. Hear reflections on the theme, enjoy periods of silence and sharing, and build a community of prayer for Lent. Details: call Sister Denise at (217) 787-0481.

VOCATIONS – Come and See Weekend, April 11-13 at St. Joseph Seminary College in St. Benedict, Louisiana. Father Tristan Stovall is hosting an opportunity for young men age 16-18 to learn more about the priesthood, to begin discernment of a vocation and to connect with other teens who love their faith. Details: visit https://jacksonvocations.com/events for more information and to register. Deadline is April 3.

PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS
CANTON – Holy Child Jesus, Musical Celebration in honor of Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA, Saturday, March 29 at 3 p.m. Details: “Cherie” at arievans29@yahoo.com or (601) 259-1363.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Youth Bake Sale, Sunday, March 30 after 10:30 a.m. Mass. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Men’s Prayer Breakfast with Bishop Kopacz, Monday, April 14, beginning with Mass at 6:30 a.m. and breakfast provided by the Knights of Columbus at 7 a.m. in Foley Hall. Details: church office (601) 366-2335.

JACKSON – Sister Thea Bowman School, Drawdown 2025, Saturday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m. Grand prize is $5,000. Tickets cost $120; with additional $15 for second chance. Join us for fellowship, food, entertainment, silent auction and more! Details: email stbdrawdown@gmail.com or visit https://bit.ly/STBSDD2025.

NATCHEZ – Assumption, St. Joseph Altar, Sunday, March 23 after 8 a.m. Mass in Tuite Hall. Enjoy brunch and bring a picture of deceased loved ones to be displayed.

SOUTHAVEN – Sacred Heart School, Trivia Night and Silent Auction, Saturday, March 22 from 7-9 p.m. in the school gym. Join us for trivia, door prizes, giveaways, split the pot raffle and more. Teams with max of eight players. Single players will be assigned a spot. Cost: $25 per player and $160 per table. BYOB and snacks. Doors open at 6 p.m. to decorate your table for a chance to win a prize. Details: register by emailing Allison at abaskin@shsm.org.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Six Parish Youth event – Team Scavenger Hunt and Trivia, Sunday, March 30 from 3-7 p.m. Event begins with Mass, then activities and dinner. Details: call (662) 895-5007.

PILGRIMAGES
HOLY LAND – Pilgrimage to Holy Land: Join Father Mark Shoffner, pastor of St. John Oxford, July 21-31, 2025. Details: lpjp.org, then click on “All Pilgrimages” and “Holy Land.” Details: church office (662) 234-6073.

MARIAN SHRINES – Pilgrimage to Marian Shrines (Fatima, Spain and Lourdes) with Father Lincoln Dall and Deacon John McGregor, Sept, 15-24, 2025. Details: for more information visit www.206tours.com/frlincoln.

ROME/LISBON/FATIMA – Pilgrimage to Rome, Assisi, Lisbon and Fatima with Father Carlisle Beggerly, Oct. 4-15, 2025. Cost: $5,799 per person (includes airfare from anywhere in the U.S.) Details: contact Pat Nause at (601) 604-0412; Proximo Travel at (855) 842-8001 or proximotravel.com. Mention trip #1181.

LENTEN RECONCILIATION
BATESVILLE – St. Mary, Penance Service, Thursday, April 3 from 6-7 p.m.
CLARKSDALE – St. Elizabeth, Lenten Reconciliation, Thursday, March 20 at 5:30 p.m. Join for a Lenten talk by Father Mark Shoffner followed by confessions until 7:15 p.m.
CLEVELAND – Our Lady of Victories, Reconciliation, Thursday, March 27 from 4-6:30 p.m. (several priests available). Confession also heard before every weekend Mass.
CLINTON – Holy Savior, Reconciliation Service, Wednesday, March 26 at 6 p.m.
FLOWOOD – St. Paul, Penance Service, Monday, April 7 at 6 p.m.
GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Penance Service, Monday, April 7 at 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, Penance Service, Wednesday, March 26 at 7 p.m.
JACKSON – St. Richard, Reconciliation, available every Saturday during Lent from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Confession practicum by Father Joe Tonos at 10 a.m. every Saturday during Lent in Foley Hall.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Penance Service, Wednesday, April 2 at 7 p.m.
SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Penance Service, Wednesday, April 9 at 7 p.m.

Bishop Kopacz to lead fall 2025 Jubilee pilgrimage

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By Mary Woodward
JACKSON – Bishop Joseph Kopacz will be leading a Jubilee of Hope pilgrimage to Rome and environs from Oct. 25 through Nov. 3. The pilgrimage will visit the holy sites of Rome then venture off to the Abbey at Montecasino, down to Padre Pio’s home, then up to Assisi. See the ad with QR code to find more information on the trip. It will be an amazing time.

The year 2025 was proclaimed the Jubilee of Hope by Pope Francis maintaining the tradition of having a Jubilee Year in the church every 25 years. Pilgrims can travel to Rome and visit the Holy Doors of the four major basilicas of our church – St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, St. Paul Outside the Walls and St. Peter.
Pilgrimages have been going on for millennia. They are designed to allow the traveler a chance to deepen her/his faith by walking in the footsteps of the Lord and his apostles. A jubilee is based on Leviticus 25 when a sabbatical year for farming was taken every seven years to let the soil regenerate then after the seventh sabbatical (50 years) a jubilee of forgiving all debts, freeing all captives and proclaiming sight to the blind would occur. The church eventually proclaimed jubilee years every 25 years so that more pilgrims could go on spiritual journeys.

Msgr. Paul McInerny, retired Canon of St. Mary Major, points out the details on the Holy Door at St. Mary Major during a pilgrimage led by Bishop Joseph Latino in 2006. (Photo courtesy of Mary Woodward)

Back in 2000, the last Jubilee year which crossed from one millennium to the next, Bishop William Houck led a pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi. In between jubilees various holy years have been held such as the 500th anniversary of the Vatican Museum in 2006 and the Year of Mercy in 2016. Bishop Joseph Latino led a pilgrimage for the 2006 holy year.

Since not everyone is able to make a pilgrimage to Rome for the Jubilee, Bishop Kopacz has designated several Jubilee Churches in our diocese that were recommended to him by the deaneries. Those churches are the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson, the Basilica of St. Mary in Natchez, St. Patrick in Meridian, Immaculate Heart of Mary in Greenwood, St. Joseph in Greenville, St. Elizabeth in Clarksdale, St. Joseph in Holly Springs, Immaculate Heart of Mary in Houston, St. Francis of Assisi in New Albany, and St. Mary in Iuka.

Visiting Rome or one of these churches offers the opportunity to gain a jubilee plenary indulgence. To obtain the indulgence one must visit one of the churches and participate in Mass or adoration while there, pray for the intentions of the Holy Father, and go to confession within eight days of the visit.

Throughout this year look for moments to be a beacon of hope for others. Hope is the theme for the year and our world needs us as Christians to reflect and embody a spirit of hope to counter all the anxiety and fear all around us. It is my hope that you will have a blessed jubilee filled with faith, hope, and love, and that you will journey deeper into the heart of God – source of all hope.

(Mary Woodward is Chancellor and Archivist for the Diocese of Jackson.)