Category Archives: Diocesan News

Reflections on Dr. King’s impact on my life

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(Editor’s note: This reflection by a local parishioner was read at an event organized by the Office of Intercultural Ministry in honor of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Jackson on Saturday, Jan. 18. The theme was “On the Path to Fulfilling the Dream” with speaker Constance Slaughter-Harvey.)

By Dr. Ivory Phillips
I consider it a signal honor and a rare privilege to be able to share with you my reflections on how Dr. Martin King’s work has influenced my life. In order to do that, let me mention just a few events or situations between December 1955 and November 1967.

Two months into my eighth-grade year, Emmett Till was murdered. The news travelled rapidly, throwing many of us into feelings of anger, fear and helplessness all at the same time. We understood the history of such racial atrocities, but were isolated and unorganized. Then came an answer from Alabama. That December Martin Luther King headed-up the eventually successful Montgomery Bus Boycott.

From there he refined and imported the strategy of mass non-violent protests to others places and issues. As that idea spread and I became a student at Jackson State University, I was impressed and became an activist for civil rights. Martin Luther King and Medgar Evers influenced me in making that move. They stressed not just being non-violent, but protesting against the racial injustices. I, thus became an active protester.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is located in West Potomac Park next to the National Mall in Washington, DC. The Office of Intercultural Ministry held a special event in honor of Dr. King at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Jackson on Saturday, Jan. 18. (Photo courtesy of BigStock)

Beyond that, King had an impact on many of us as citizens, acting on our behalf through the March on Washington, the Selma to Montgomery March and other nationally televised events. These events generated enough pressure until segregation in public places was brought to an end and voter registration became easier for Black citizens. King thereby helped us to become full-fledged citizens.

He became a protest leader because Black church-goers in Alabama lifted him up to such positions. He was able to remain an influential public figure because of his speaking and writing abilities and his charismatic personality.

Among his most lastingly impactful speeches was in April 1967 on why he opposed the war in in Vietnam. More than just the idea that the war was immoral was his demonstration that it was linked to a history of colonialism and imperialism, that it detracted from the civil rights movement and that it squandered resources that should be directed toward relieving hunger, housing, health care and other forms of poverty. That kind of understanding influenced the teaching of myself and many others for the rest of our careers.

Then just seven months later, in November 1967, he made a speech launching the Poor People’s Campaign, the march on Washington that culminated in a tent city of poor people in D.C. That speech and the efforts which followed caused many, teachers, news commentators and political leaders, among them, to more critically examine American capitalism. This too, was impactful in helping many of us to permanently become more liberal, compassionate or humanitarian when it comes to economic issues.

Finally, King impressed upon us the importance of unity and coordinated effort in the struggle for Black freedom and liberation. He deliberately sought out ways to undertake projects with Medgar Evers and the NAACP. He called on other civil rights leaders to join in completing James Meredith’s March Against Fear after the assassination attempt on Meredith. It also became big news when King met with Malcolm X to work on Black liberation. Throughout his career, he worked with and refused to criticize Stokley Carmichael and other Black leaders who may have promoted other tactics in their struggles.

In short, King impressed me as a brilliant and dedicated leader who is rightly honored and is a more than worthy role model for any and all who are concerned about democracy and racial justice.

(Dr. Ivory Phillips is a parishioner of Holy Ghost Church in Jackson.)

Calendar of Events

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
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.

Knights of Columbus – Grow in your faith with five short videos produced by the Knights of Columbus called the “Mission of The Family.” The Mission of the Family” videos can be found at https://www.kofc.org/en/campaigns/into-the-breach.html. Videos are less than 14 minutes in length.

OFFICE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION – The OCE hosts a Zoom Rosary the first Wednesday of each month during the school year at 7 p.m. On Feb. 5, Sacred Heart Catholic School will lead us in prayer. Join early and place your intentions in the chat. Details: Join the rosary via zoom at https://bit.ly/zoomrosary2024.

COLLIERVILLE, Tenn. – Church of the Incarnation, Women’s Morning of Spirituality, Saturday, March 1 with breakfast at 7:15 a.m. and program beginning at 8:15 a.m. Keynote speaker is Beth Davis and witness speaker is Angela Edwards. Register at https://womensmorning.com.

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – School Sisters of Notre Dame invite single women to a discernment retreat Feb. 21-23, 2025, at their Sancta Maria in Ripa campus. Details: Pre-registration by Feb. 7, is requested. There is no cost for participation. Private rooms with restroom provided; all meals included. Some assistance with transportation costs is available if needed. Details: email sisters@ssnd.org or call (314) 633-7026.

PEARL – St. Jude, “Women and the Power of Prayer” Women’s Retreat, Saturday, March 15 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sponsored by the St. Jude Artisan Group. Details: Linda at (601) 573-8583 or maria.l.tynes@gmail.com.

PILGRIMAGE – 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.
PILGRIMAGE – 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.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, “Gathering in the Spirit” Women’s Retreat, Saturday Feb. 1, 9 a.m. till 1 p.m. Group and individual sessions and activities, as well as adoration and reconciliation opportunities. Morning refreshments and lunch provided. Details: RSVP at ctksdonna@gmail.com or sign up in the Narthex.

PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS
COLUMBUS – Annunciation School, Mardi Gras Masquerade – Draw Down and Art Auction, Friday, Feb. 28 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Details: school office (662) 328-4479.

COLUMBUS – Annunciation School, Welcome Week, Feb. 18-21. Come see our school and meet our teachers. Tours available each day in 45 minute slots. Come tour and we will waive your application fee. Details: Register at https://bit.ly/3WAjfU6.

CLEVELAND – Our Lady of Victories, 4th Annual Supper and Substance, Saturday, Feb. 15, directly following 5:30 p.m. Mass in the parish center. This is a special event for married couples! Mark your calendars. Details: church office (662) 846-6273.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Knights Gumbo fundraiser, Sunday, Feb. 9 after 10:30 a.m. Mass. Sign up in the vestibule.

Holy Savior, Garage Sale, Saturday, Feb. 1 from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.

FLOWOOD – St. Paul, Annual Drawdown, Saturday, Feb. 15 at The Ivy. Theme is “The Roaring Twenties.” Details: church office (601) 992-9547.

St. Paul, Bingo Night, Saturday, Feb. 7. Doors open at 6 p.m. with games beginning at 6:30 p.m. Join us for an evening of fun and fantastic prizes for adults only. Cost is $5 per card. Hot dogs and chili will be served with a suggested $5 donation. BYOB. Details: church office (601) 992-9547.

GREENWOOD – St. Francis of Assisi, Mardi Gras Ball 2025, Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Civic Center. Details: church office (662) 453-0623 or email sfgwparish@gmail.com.

HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, Cocktails and Catholicism, Friday, Feb. 14, doors open at 6 p.m. and talk begins at 7 p.m. Speaker is Janet Cupo on Saints in Waiting. Event is for 21+. BYOB. Sign up in the Narthex. Details: church office (662) 429-7851 or email holyspiritchurch@shsm.org.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, Cathedral Music Series. Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 6:30 p.m. Organist Buck McDaniel will present a program on the Cathedral’s magnificient Rieger tracker organ. A wine and cheese reception will be in the parish center at 5:30 p.m. before the program.

Cathedral of St. Peter, Cathedral Music Series. Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m. Organist Beau Baldwin of Little Rock will present a concert. A reception will be in the parish center at 5:30 p.m. before the program. Details: church office (601) 969-3125.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Krewe de Cardinal, Saturday, Feb. 15 at the Westin Jackson. At this Mardi Gras inspired event, our parents, friends and supporters Laizzez le bon temps rouler in grand fashion! The food and drinks are second to none. The entertainment is top notch, and the auction items are out of this world! This is one party you definitely do not want to miss! Details: visit https://bit.ly/3E1y9Mr for more information and register for the silent auction at https://one.bidpal.net/krewe/welcome.

JACKSON – Holy Family, Black History Celebration, Sunday, Feb. 23 after 10:30 a.m. Mass. Join us for singing, presentations and a wonderful display of amazing African-American culture. All are welcome. Details: church office (601) 362-1888.

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: school office (601) 352-5441.

MADISON – St. Joseph School, Bruin Burn 5k Run and 2k Walk, Saturday, March 1 at 9 a.m. Race held at 200 W Jackson Street in Ridgeland. Registration $30 for 5k run or 2k walk; $15 for fun run; $10 virtual run. Come enjoy music, fun and glow tunnel in your best 80s running attire. Details: register at https://runsignup.com/Race/MS/Ridgeland/BruinBurn.

MERIDIAN – St. Patrick, Dinner and Dancing, Saturday, Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Tickets $30. Dress in your Sunday best for a Valentine’s weekend intimate night of fine dining and romantic melodies. Ages 21+. Details: church office (601) 693-1321.

St. Patrick, CWO SOUPer Bowl Dinner, Saturday, Feb. 8 at 6 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Tickets $10 each. Meal includes soup, bread, dessert and drink.

PEARL – Knights of Columbus Spaghetti dinner, Sunday, Feb. 9. Tickets will be sold after Mass and are available on the day of the dinner. Tickets are $12 each. To-go only. Details: church office (601) 939-3181.

St. Jude, Family Fun Night, Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 6:30 p.m. Join us for a fun evening with a potluck dinner, arts and crafts, soccer (weather permitting) and story time. Details: Kathleen at ccd@stjudepearl.org.

DIOCESE
STARKVILLE – Campus Ministry Winter Retreat, Saturday, Feb. 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Joseph Starkville. Join college students from across the diocese for a day of fellowship, games, prayer, song, scripture, Mass and more. Cost: $20. Details: register at https://bit.ly/3OoES58.

WORLD MARRIAGE DAY – Event recognizes couples celebrating anniversaries in 2025 – 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th+. Celebration to be held in Tupelo at St. James on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 5 p.m. Details: debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org.

YOUTH – DCYC, March 21-23, 2025 at the Vicksburg Convention Center. Theme is “Here I am Lord Work in Me.” Register by Feb. 21, contact your parish to register. Details: contact your individual parish offices or contact Abbey at (601) 949-6934 or abbey.schuhmann@jacksondiocese.org.

OTHER EVENTS
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Catholic Scouters Region 5 Conference, Feb. 21-22. The Catholic Committee on Scouting for the Diocese of Nashville invites you to join Catholic Scouter’s from the states of Alabama, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee to a special conference that includes current scouting topics and an opportunity to receive a special event patch with registration. Cost $65 per person. Meetings held at the Knights of Columbus Council 4972 Hall located at 3129 McGavock Pike. For more information visit https://www.ndccos.org. Register online at https://scoutingevent.com/560-93593. Details: email backpackergus@gmail.com.

Honoring Sister Thea Bowman: a monument of hope

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By Mary Woodward
JACKSON – What began as a seed planted in 2007, became a reality in 2024. On a crisp Saturday morning in December, Catholics from several dioceses descended upon the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson to celebrate the installation and blessing of a life-size bronze statue of Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA. Among those attending the celebration were Mary Ott Tremmel Davidson, the sculptor, and parishioners from several churches in the Montgomery and Mobile areas.

Led by Rev. Victor Ingalls, Director of Multicultural Ministry for the Archdiocese of Mobile and Rev. Manuel Williams, CR, Director of Resurrection Catholic Missions of the South in Montgomery, the two buses arrived in Jackson with more than 50 joyful pilgrims excited to mark the occasion honoring Sister Thea on her path to beatification and canonization.

JACKSON – A crowd gathers for the blessing of a life-sized bronze statue of Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA on Saturday, Dec. 21 on the grounds of the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle on West Street in Jackson. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)

The festivities included Mass followed by the blessing of the statue located on the Cathedral grounds then a reception at the Two Mississippi Museums.

In his homily at the Mass, Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz welcomed as pilgrims those filling the cathedral to near capacity. He remarked that as Pope Francis prepares to open the Jubilee Year of Hope in a few days in Rome, today’s celebration was also filled with hope and that all present had come to honor a Servant of God who was as a beacon of light and hope in her time and who continues to inspire and challenge us to bring that light and hope to a world so in need of it.

Students from Sister Thea Bowman School in Jackson delighted the congregation when they sang “This Little Light of Mine” as the hymn of praise after Communion. Following this, the congregation processed out of the Cathedral to the statue where Bishop Kopacz blessed it with prayer and holy water.

Sister Thea is one of six African American Catholics currently on this path and many present at the celebration had known her prior to her death in 1990. Bishop Kopacz officially opened Sister Thea’s cause in November 2018.

The canonical process is in the middle of the diocesan phase which involves gathering and all her writings, interviewing witnesses, and compiling a historical and theological report on her virtues and piety. This detailed process is expected to be completed by the end of this year and then be sent to the Holy See for further examination.

The idea for the bronze statue was first planted in Mary Davidson’s mind back in 2007 when she was in Camden for the dedication of a large altar crucifix she had designed for Sacred Heart Church. A parishioner came up to Davidson during the dedication and remarked that she hoped she would create a statue of Sister Thea Bowman one day. The seed was planted.

Sister Thea Bowman Statue dedication on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024 at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson, MS.

When she heard about Sister Thea’s cause, Davidson contacted the diocese in the late summer of 2022 offering to sculpt the Servant of God if the diocese would cover the cost of materials and the foundry.

Davidson enlisted the support of her former eighth grade student at Our Lady of Lourdes in New Orleans, Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi of Mobile, who offered a generous donation to the project. Soon, Bishop Louis Kihneman of Biloxi and Bishop Stephen Raica of Birmingham committed funds to help complete the statue. These donations together with proceeds from the estate of Bishop Joseph Latino, Bishop Kopacz’s predecessor, made the statue a reality and a gift from the bishops of Alabama and Mississippi.
Bishop Kopacz commissioned Davidson to create the work of art in March of 2023. Over the next year, Davidson worked on the design. During that time, she lost her beloved husband, Kenneth, in August. It was a very difficult time but working on the project helped Davidson through some of her grief.

Davidson completed the clay mold for the statue in October 2023, from which a second mold was made by Inferno Art Foundry in Atlanta. The life-size bronze creation took a few more months to complete in the early spring of 2024.

Developing an appropriate space and pedestal for the statue on the Cathedral grounds in Jackson took several months due to the summer heat and availability of materials. Sister Thea in bronze arrived from the foundry on Dec. 12 and was installed in her new home.

Nine days later, on that crisp Saturday morning of Dec. 21, the Cathedral was filled with the spirit of Sister Thea as hymns from the Lead Me, Guide Me hymnal rang out – a hymnal she helped develop for African American Catholics. Voices young and old gave witness to her inspiration as a true servant of God.

“We are grateful to all those who have assisted in this wonderful project, especially Mrs. Davidson, who despite her personal tragedy has created an amazing work of art to honor the legacy and spirit of Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman,” Bishop Kopacz said. “Many have come together to contribute to making this a statue a reality and today’s beautiful liturgy and dedication of this work of art are a testament to Sister Thea’s ministry in the church and the world,” he concluded.

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

CSA feature: Father Tristan Stovall

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Father Tristan Stovall began his journey with the Vocations Team on the day of his ordination when the Bishop appointed him as assistant vocation director. “It was an unexpected but deeply humbling moment, and I am truly excited to collaborate with Father Nick Adam and serve in this ministry on behalf of the Bishop. This role offers an incredible opportunity to nurture and support future leaders of our church,” says Father Tristan.

Currently, Father Tristan is assigned to St. Joseph in Starkville and works with the students at Mississippi State University, which has proven to be fertile ground for vocations ministry. “I believe our diocese is brimming with potential, and we are witnessing a growing interest among young men in the priesthood and religious life. For instance, at least two young men who were involved at MSU are now applying to the seminary. It’s inspiring to walk alongside these individuals, guiding them as they discern God’s call,” he shares.

Father Tristan highlights the impact of open conversations about vocations. “So much happens when people openly discuss the possibility of religious vocations. Often, one young person’s openness to exploring this path inspires others to consider it as well,” he explains. He encourages parishioners to play a vital role by asking young men if they have ever considered becoming a priest. “The power of conversation cannot be overstated in fostering a culture that encourages vocations,” he adds.

Your contributions to the Catholic Service Appeal are vital for the growth of the Office of Vocations. “Your generosity ensures that our diocese will continue to have holy and dedicated priests to serve future generations. By supporting the CSA, you are investing in the spiritual leadership that will sustain and nurture our parishes for years to come,” says Father Tristan.

Together, we can create a vibrant community that encourages and supports those called to serve. Let us continue to pray for and support vocations so that the church may flourish with dedicated leaders committed to God’s mission.

The annual Catholic Service Appeal brings together people from across the Diocese of Jackson to support the vital ministries that serve our community. Through this appeal, we hope you will be moved by the inspiring stories of those who have been touched by these ministries and the impactful work being done throughout the diocese. When we unite as one, we carry the Gospel message of hope, spreading faith and compassion to those in need. 

In memoriam: Father John J. Kelly

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BILOXI – Father John J. Kelly, 88, of Biloxi, peacefully passed away on Dec. 29, 2024, following a brief illness. A devoted servant of the Catholic Church, Father Kelly dedicated his life to faith, family and fostering connections between his beloved Ireland and the United States.

Born on June 23, 1936, at Falnashamer House in Ballintogher, County Sligo, Ireland, Father Kelly faced an early tragedy with the passing of his parents when he was just seven months old. He and his six siblings were lovingly raised by their aunt, Eleanor Jane Meehan.

Father Kelly pursued his vocation at Summerhill College in Sligo, and St. Patrick’s College Carlow, Ireland culminating in his ordination on June 6, 1964, at Carlow Cathedral. Soon after, he traveled to the Diocese of Natchez-Jackson, where he ministered in parishes across Biloxi, Laurel, Bay Saint Louis, Indianola, Gulfport, Lakeshore and Clermont Harbor. Throughout his long career, he profoundly enriched the spiritual lives of his parishioners.

Father Kelly’s faith was equaled only by his deep love for family. He is survived by his sisters, Tilda Mahon, Phyllis McGrory and Doreen Murray. His legacy of love and devotion lives on through his numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Always present in their lives, Father Kelly celebrated countless family milestones, including baptisms, communions, confirmations, weddings and funerals.

A man of two worlds, Father Kelly cherished his Irish roots and American home. He frequently visited Ireland, spending many holidays, reconnecting with family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Timothy Kelly and Mary Elizabeth Kelly (nee Meehan); his aunt, Eleanor Jane Meehan; his brothers, Christopher (Chris) and Timothy Alphonsus (Alfie); and his sister, Rosemary.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Biloxi, with burial at the Old Biloxi Cemetery. There will be a separate service in Ireland for family and loved ones at a future date.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, Priest Retirement Fund, 2090 Pass Road, Biloxi, MS 39531, or the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Sligo, Ireland.

In memoriam: Sister Antonine Biven, OSU

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LOUISVILLE, Kentucky – Ursuline Sister of Louisville Antonine Biven, O.S.U. age 96, died in the 77th year of her religious life on Dec. 28, 2024, at Nazareth Home–Clifton in Louisville. A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Mildred Louise (her baptismal name) graduated from the former Ursuline Academy. She entered the Ursulines in 1947 at age 19.

A gifted musician, her high school classmates pooled their money together her senior year to rent Memorial Auditorium so that she could give a piano concert. On the ride home on a city bus, someone noticed her sheet music and asked, “Do you play?” Mildred Louise answered, “A little.” As a postulant, she learned to play everything from a violin to a saxophone, and while practicing the trombone, knocked her bonnet off her head with her slide!

Sister Antonine was a music teacher at St. Raphael, St. Therese, Our Lady of Lourdes, St. Helen, St. Francis of Assisi and Sacred Heart Model School in Louisville, as well as St. Mary School in Jackson, Mississippi, and Ursuline High School in Columbia, South Carolina.

Sister also served as pastoral associate and music minister at St. Mary Church in Maryville, Kentucky, pastoral associate of music at St. Helen Church and director of music at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, both in Louisville. She was honored by Our Lady of Lourdes for her years of service in 2023.

Sister Antonine earned a bachelor of arts degree from the former Ursuline College (now Bellarmine University) in Louisville, a master of arts degree in music from Notre Dame University and a master’s degree in religious education from Loyola University New Orleans.

She served on the Ursuline Sisters’ leadership team three times between 1976 and 1992. Sister Antonine also ministered at Project Women (now Family Scholar House) and the former Marian Home on the Ursuline Campus.

Sister Antonine is the daughter of the late Frederick and Lillian Kleier Biven. She is survived by several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-grand nieces and nephews, 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

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
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.
Knights of Columbus – Grow in your faith with five short videos produced by the Knights of Columbus called the “Mission of The Family.” The Mission of the Family” videos can be found at https://www.kofc.org/en/campaigns/into-the-breach.html. Videos are less than 14 minutes in length.

OFFICE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION – The OCE hosts a Zoom Rosary the first Wednesday of each month during the school year at 7 p.m. On Feb. 5, Sacred Heart Catholic School will lead us in prayer. Join early and place your intentions in the chat. Details: Join the rosary via zoom at https://bit.ly/zoomrosary2024.

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – School Sisters of Notre Dame invite single women to a discernment retreat Feb. 21-23, 2025, at their Sancta Maria in Ripa campus. Details: Pre-registration by Feb. 7, is requested. There is no cost for participation. Private rooms with restroom provided; all meals included. Some assistance with transportation costs is available if needed. Details: email sisters@ssnd.org or call (314) 633-7026.

PILGRIMAGE – 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.

PILGRIMAGE – 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.

PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS
COLUMBUS – Annunciation School, Mardi Gras Masquerade – Draw Down and Art Auction, Friday, Feb. 28 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Details: school office (662) 328-4479.

FLOWOOD – St. Paul, Annual Drawdown, Saturday, Feb. 15 at The Ivy. Theme is “The Roaring Twenties.” Details: church office (601) 992-9547.

GREENWOOD – St. Francis of Assisi, Mardi Gras Ball 2025, Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Civic Center. Details: church office (662) 453-0623 or email sfgwparish@gmail.com.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Krewe de Cardinal, Saturday, Feb. 15 at the Westin Jackson. At this Mardi Gras inspired event, our parents, friends and supporters Laizzez le bon temps rouler in grand fashion! The food and drinks are second to none. The entertainment is top notch, and the auction items are out of this world! This is one party you definitely do not want to miss! Details: visit https://bit.ly/3E1y9Mr for more information and register for the silent auction at https://one.bidpal.net/krewe/welcome.

MADISON – St. Joseph School, $10,000 Draw Down, Saturday, Jan. 25 from 6-10 p.m. at Reunion Golf Club. Details: visit www.stjoebruins.com/drawdown.

MERIDIAN – St. Patrick, Dinner and Dancing, Saturday, Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Tickets $30. Dress in your Sunday best for a Valentine’s weekend intimate night of fine dining and romantic melodies. Ages 21+. Details: church office (601) 693-1321.

DIOCESE
STARKVILLE – Campus Ministry Winter Retreat, Saturday, Feb. 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Joseph Starkville. Join college students from across the diocese for a day of fellowship, games, prayer, song, scripture, Mass and more. Cost: $20. Details: register at https://bit.ly/3OoES58.

WORLD MARRIAGE DAY – Event recognizes couples celebrating anniversaries in 2025 – 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th+. Celebrations held in Jackson at the Cathedral of St. Peter on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 1 p.m. and in Tupelo at St. James on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 5 p.m. Details: debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org.

YOUTH – DCYC, March 21-23, 2025 at the Vicksburg Convention Center. Theme is “Here I am Lord Work in Me.” Register by Feb. 21, contact your parish to register. Details: contact your individual parish offices or contact Abbey at (601) 949-6934 or abbey.schuhmann@jacksondiocese.org.