By Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – Action has been taking place since Mississippi Catholic bishops issued a letter urging statewide and legislative leaders to hear and pass legislation to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage on Friday, Feb. 24.
Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz of the Diocese of Jackson and Bishop Louis F. Kihneman, III of the Diocese of Biloxi hoped their letter would drive leaders to action to extend coverage to new mothers from two months, as currently provided by Federal law, to a period of one year, by appealing to the states pro-life stance in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.
“Our faith affirms the value of every human life, and we have supported the legislature’s past action to protect the lives of unborn children. However, the commitment to life must not end at birth. We believe that access to affordable healthcare is a fundamental human right, one that is necessary for the flourishing of families and communities,” wrote the bishops in their letter.
“It is especially heartbreaking when healthcare is out of reach at the precious and vulnerable period when new life is created.”
JACKSON – Bishop Joseph Kopacz reads a joint letter he wrote with Bishop Louis Kihneman of Biloxi urging leaders to pass legislation to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage on Monday, Feb. 27 on the steps of the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. Other faith leaders from Working Together Mississippi gathered at the press conference offering their support of the bishops and the extention of postpartum coverage for Mississippi mothers. On March 7, legislators passed the bill and it is now heading to the governors desk. Left to right at the Working Together Mississippi press event: Bishop Joseph Kopacz; Bishop Ronnie Crudup, Sr. of New Horizon Church International; Heath Ferguson, chaplain at Mississippi Baptist Hospital; Bishop Glake Hill of the Church of Christ Holiness; and Rabbi Debra Kassoff of the Hebrew Union Congregation in Greenville. (Photos by Tereza Ma)
Just two days after the bishops’ letter was delivered to every state legislator and the Governor and Lt. Governor, Governor Tate Reeves publicly reversed his stance on extending Medicaid to new mothers. Reeves wrote on social media that if the legislature passes a law allowing for a year of postpartum Medicaid coverage, he “will sign it into law.”
He continued writing that we live in “a post-Dobbs world” and was proud that Mississippi led the charge to end Roe v. Wade, but now we need to “love” Mississippi moms providing them more support after giving birth. “It will be worth it, as more children of God are brought into the world,” wrote Reeves.
After Reeves change of heart, Bishop Kopacz and a diverse coalition of faith leaders affiliated with Working Together Mississippi held a press conference on the front steps of the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle within view of the State Capitol building, urging legislators and specifically Republican House Speaker Phillip Gunn to allow lawmakers to vote on giving new mothers a full year of Medicaid coverage after giving birth.
“We’re saying to the Speaker of the House, join us,” said Bishop Ronnie Crudup, Sr. of the Fellowship of International Churches and pastor of New Horizon Church International. “Let’s do this because it’s the right thing to do for Mississippi because we value and we love our mothers and our children.”
Under the leadership of Gunn, bills over the last few years to extend postpartum coverage that are passed by the Senate have repeatedly died in the House without a full vote under his leadership.
On the evening of the press conference, Gunn publicly shifted his attitude toward postpartum Medicaid expansion stating that he would not block it from House passage. Gunn stated that his decision came after Medicaid director Drew Snyder sent him a letter in support of the extention of coverage.
On March 7, Gunn did just that with the bill passing both chambers of the legislature. After an 89-29 vote in the House, SB 2212 will head to the desk of Governor Reeves.
Now, provided that Reeves signs the law as promised, new mothers in Mississippi on Medicaid will be granted 12 months of continuous coverage postpartum.
“I’m grateful for the prayer, hard work and collaboration that brought this bill to the finish line,” said Bishop Kopacz. “One big step forward for the common good.”
DCYC participants made blankets for the homeless as a service project. On left, youth engage in small group discussions. (Photos by Melissa Smalley)
DCYC participants had a chance to play some fun games in between worship and talks. (Photos by Fran Lavelle)
DCYC the Catholic Community of Meridian sent 8 high school students and it was a great weekend. From a youth director’s perspective, it was great to see the Holy Spirit move in and around them. We have a great group of kids. (Photos by Angela Dove)
DCYC St. Michael (Photos by Liz Edmondson)
Picture on left: St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Vicksburg participated at the Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference, March 3-5 held at Vicksburg Convention Center. Pictured left to right are Dr. Josephine Calloway, (Religious Director), Fr. Joseph Chau Nguyen, SVD, (Pastor), Erin Watson, Crystal Slaughter, KeAsia Slaughter, and De’Marques Flowers.
Picture on right: St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Vicksburg participated at the Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference, March 3-5 held at Vicksburg Convention Center. Pictured left to right are Fr. Joseph Chau Nguyen, SVD, (Pastor), KeAsia Slaughter, Crystal Slaughter, Erin Watson and De’Marques Flowers. (Photos by L. Thomas)
By Annette Kirklin, ERDC public affairs specialist
VICKSBURG – The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) recently signed an educational partnership agreement with two Vicksburg, Mississippi schools – Vicksburg Catholic School (VCS) and Porter’s Chapel Academy (PCA). These agreements ensure collaboration and the exchange of ideas between ERDC and the schools.
VICKSBURG – Christopher Williams, principal of Porter’s Chapel Academy; Dr. David Pittman, director U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC); and Dr. Virgil “Buddy” Strickland, principal of Vicksburg Catholic School; sign educational partnership agreements on Feb. 17, 2023. The agreements promote collaboration between ERDC and the schools. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers/Photo by Jared Eastman)
“We really need the schools to keep doing what they’re doing,” ERDC Director Dr. David Pittman said to the VCS and PCA representatives who visited ERDC on Feb. 17, 2023. “ERDC is in a great community with great schools and great people – thank you all for doing incredible work.”
Pittman also discussed the nationwide need for more scientists and engineers, encouraging school leadership to continue offering STEM opportunities to their students.
“Our researchers get their start with you – you train them first,” Pittman said. “That strong foundation you give them in elementary and high school is so important to the people they become. You give them the first tools they need to help make our world safer and better.”
One goal of the partnerships is to encourage and enhance training in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, which includes relating academic skills to realistic applications for both students and staff. The agreement also allows ERDC personnel to be more involved with the schools through time spent in the classroom, providing career/academic advice, involving faculty and students in research projects, transferring surplus equipment and more.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with this worldwide, premier research and development institution that truly impacts every aspect of our planet,” said Dr. Virgil “Buddy” Strickland, principal of VCS. “We are extremely grateful for what ERDC brings to our students.”
“I think it’s great that both schools are here together because, after all, we are one community,” said Christopher Williams, principal of PCA. “I thank ERDC so much for being willing and wanting to invest in both of these schools.”
ERDC has signed 70 agreements with colleges and universities and eight agreements with K-12 institutions, including an agreement signed in 2015 with the Vicksburg-Warren School District.
By Meredith Bailess, St. Dominic JACKSON – St. Dominic-Jackson Memorial Hospital is proud to announce that it has achieved the highly prestigious international Baby-Friendly designation after a rigorous review process conducted by Baby-Friendly USA, the organization responsible for bestowing this certification in the United States.
Hospital leaders and St. Dominic’s supporters recognized the St. Dominic’s Women’s Services Team for their contributions to this significant achievement with a celebration on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2023. Key contributors were presented with the Baby-Friendly Hospital certificate and highlights of the team’s journey were highlighted.
St. Dominic-Jackson Memorial Hospital recently received a baby-friendly hospital designation after a review process by Baby-Friendly USA. (File photo courtesy of hospital)
This distinguished honor demonstrates that St. Dominic’s adheres to the highest standards of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. These standards are built on the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, a set of evidence-based practices recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for optimal infant feeding support in the precious first days of a newborn’s life.
The positive health effects of breastfeeding are well-documented and widely recognized by health authorities throughout the world. For example, the Surgeon General’s 2011 Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding stated that “Breast milk is uniquely suited to the human infant’s nutritional needs and is a live substance with unparalleled immunological and anti-inflammatory properties that protect against a host of illnesses and diseases for both mothers and children.”
St. Dominic-Jackson Memorial Hospital joins a growing list of more than 20,000 Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers throughout the world, 602 of which are in the United States. These facilities provide an environment that supports breastfeeding while respecting every woman’s right to make the best decision for herself and her family.
“This designation is the culmination of a lot of hard work and determination across our organization, all with a goal of helping families get off to a good start,” said Scott Kashman, Market President and CEO, St. Dominic Hospital and St. Dominic Health Services. “We are proud to offer an environment that supports best practices shown to increase breastfeeding exclusivity and duration and are committed to giving moms who choose to breastfeed the best chance for success. Each new beginning is an opportunity to support a healthy future for our community and our state.”
About St. Dominic Hospital St. Dominic Hospital is a 571-bed tertiary care hospital located in Jackson, Mississippi, serving all of central Mississippi and employing approximately 3,000 team members including nurses, physicians and skilled caregivers. The medical staff of nearly 500 leading physicians and specialists makes St. Dominic’s one of the most comprehensive hospitals in Mississippi. Through more than seven decades, St. Dominic’s has remained true to its vision. We are a Christian healing community called to provide quality, compassionate care and an exceptional experience every time. St. Dominic’s is part of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System and is driven by its mission to serve all God’s people, especially those most in need. Learn more at https://www.stdom.com/services/womens-services/maternal-and-newborn/.
About Baby-Friendly USA As the accrediting body and national authority for the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) in the United States, Baby-Friendly USA is responsible for upholding the highest standards in infant feeding care by coordinating and conducting all activities necessary to confer the prestigious Baby-Friendly designation and ensuring the widespread adoption of the BFHI in the US. Learn more about Baby-Friendly USA and the BFHI at www.babyfriendlyusa.org.
JACKSON – When Bishop John Joseph Chanche arrived in the newly formed Diocese of Natchez in May of 1841, there were no Catholic Churches, only a couple of missionary priests, and his flock was far flung. He rose to the challenge and laid the foundation for the Diocese of Jackson. The diocese honors his legacy and thanks those who continue to build on his foundation with the Bishop Chanche medal for service. This year, Bishop Joseph Kopacz gave 40 adults their awards on Saturday, March 4, at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. The brief descriptions on these pages come from the Bishop Chanche Award nomination forms and offer a glimpse into the men and women who serve the church today.
DOROTHY ASHLEY – Holy Ghost, Jackson Dorothy volunteers and spend her valuable time to make sure every responsibilities given to her at the parish is carried out and done smoothly. She is so well-respected that many of our parishioners have her serve as godparent to their children. – Father Nick Hien Nguyen, SVD
PAUL BROWN – Immaculate Heart of Mary, Greenwood Paul has been our music director and organist since 2013, converting to Catholicism in 2016. He has done an amazing job organizing our choir and several concerts. He is always willing to volunteer his time and expertise for the good of the church. Paul has such a cheerful and warm personality. He is a registered nurse, so he has compassion for others. He is always willing to help our parish and parishioners with anything they may come to him with. He is multi talented and he uses those talents to better lives of people around him. – Father Andrew Nguyen
ANGELA CANIZARO – St. Paul, Vicksburg Angela has been a faithful volunteer for decades in the church. Though she just turned 89, she continues to be involved in numerous ministries in the parish. She sets up for daily Mass at 7 a.m. each day, is responsible for the upkeep for many things around the altar, acts as lector in the church, has been a member in past on parish council and renovation projects, and still volunteers to bring communion to the home bound as well as the parish meals on wheels program. She never sees herself as “too old” for any ministry. – Father Rusty Vincent
Wendell and Betty Cox – Holy Savior, Clinton Wendell and Betty have contributed in so many different ways to the life of Holy Savior parish over the past 50 years, especially in the areas of music and religious education. They are always very welcoming and exemplify the spirit of the new evangelization in the church, always bringing the message of Christ’s Good News to others through their words and actions. They open their home up to small groups and invite parishioners over for holiday celebrations when they have nowhere else to go. They live out their faith in a very joyful spirit and have touched many different lives here at our parish. – Father Lincoln Dall
Kathleen Feyen – Christ the King, Jackson Kathleen is a true witness of the Catholic faith in and outside the church. She is always willing to help in any circumstance, even if it is inconvenient. She is always smiling as she does the task ahead of her. She happily welcomes visitors. She keeps us with the lives of parishioners especially those who are sick or home bound. She is an invaluable resource to Christ the King and to the church at large. – Deacon Denzil Lobo
Baldemar Temaj Garcia – St. Anne, Carthage For more than twenty years, Baldemar has served in our community, especially among the Guatemalan community. He has participated in almost all liturgical ministries, but above all in the social part of the community helping and organizing together with the priest any way to highlight the dignity of people as children of God. – Father Marco A. Sánchez, S.T.
Paul and Brenda Griffin – Sacred Heart, Camden Paul and Brenda are true leaders in both the church and civic community. They initiate activities, events and programs to build up this community. As a married couple they support one another in all endeavors. They are able to see the needs in the community that they both grew up in and implement action to address them. – Father Guy Wilson, S.T.
Patricia Lorena Tejeda Ibarra Cruz – St. Mary, Batesville Patricia’s beautiful personality is what has helped our Hispanic Community grow. She does everything she possibly can for our parish and is a real example of actions speak louder than words. She encourages all the children of families she knows to attend Sunday School and Mass. She has been asked to be a godmother and Confirmation sponsor numerous times. – Father Pradeep Thirumalareddy
Glenn and Christine Ingracia – St. James, Magnolia Glenn and Christine are a devoted Catholic family, always taking care of others. They are truly an inspiration to all in their service to others. It is a blessing to see how they invite others to join with them to serve vibrantly in our community. – Father Suresh Thirumalareddy
Sheri Krause – St. Francis of Assisi, Madison Sheri has been a faithful servant and founding member of St. Francis since 1984. The many ways she has been involved in in the parish cannot be counted. Sheri has been hospitality minister and greeter at the doors of our church since joining St. Francis. Her assistance alongside the Knights of Columbus at all their events and with parish functions has been constant. However, Sheri’s most endearing quality is her humility. She insists on staying in the background and out of the spotlight. She has worked at setting up, tending to, decorating, publicizing, cooking, serving others, and cleaning up at nearly every parish event since the beginning of St. Francis, yet she has never been formally acknowledged or honored, except when the KC’s named her their “KC Angel” with a t-shirt! – Father Albeenready Vatti
MICHAEL LEE – St. Michael, Vicksburg Mike evangelizes his faith by the way he lives inside and outside of church. He takes his role as sacristan very seriously and is reliable and consistent in being present as needed to fulfill this role. Mike is always available during Mass as well as outside of Mass times to assist with any need in the church, ranging from assisting with altar servers to setting the altar or cleaning as needed. His compassion and care for others is a true example of Christian faith. – Father Robert Dore
Jaime and Herlinda Martinez – St. Martin Mission, Hazlehurst Jaime and Herlinda are instrumental in getting the Hispanic population motivated to be a part of the church, rather than just attending Mass. They are always encouraging the people to be involved in church activities. They are always available to help with translations when needed. They both assist in educating the Hispanic people on every aspect of the Mass. They are always in attendance at weddings and Mass. Herlinda teaches classes for marriage and baptism. – Janice Stansell
Linda and Vince McGrath – St. Joseph Catholic Church, Starkville Linda and Vince exhibit a quiet leadership. They live out their vocation to marriage together. They keep up with people in the parish community and in the wider community, they pray for them and they witness their faith to them. Together they have a heart for God’s people and display a great concern, especially for those who need prayer in any way. – Father Jason Johnston
Ed Nalker – Immaculate Conception, Raymond Ed is the heart and soul of this parish, being the first to get there on Sunday mornings and making sure everything is in place for the parish to function. He lives out his faith in his words and his actions. Ed always has a kind word for everyone at the parish and makes sure they feel welcome. Immaculate Conception in Raymond is a flourishing small parish that still has a strong sense of mission and identity mainly through Ed Nalker’s love and leadership in this parish. He has really made a difference here as a spiritual leader. As the pastor, I appreciate all he does and know that it makes a big difference in our parish community. – Father Lincoln Dall
Margot Orman – St. James the Less, Corinth Margot has been in almost every ministry in the parish with love and service for our community. She is a testimony of faith, love and service in our parish. She is like the tresure of the field, our pearl of great value. – Father Mario Solorzano
Myrtle Jean Otto – Holy Child Jesus, Canton Myrtle has been a dedicated and generous member her whole life. She has especially put her magnificent voice at the service of the parish and the wider community. She was trained by Sister Thea Bowman in what makes for good liturgy. Good Gospel music is very important in the black community. Each Sunday, her properly prepared music adds so much to the celebration. Her voice helps one to be in the presence of the Lord immediately. – Father Guy Wilson, S.T.
Randall Scott Owen and Kasey Lane Owen – St. Patrick, Meridian This young couple take God seriously and live out their catholic life in an exemplary way. They have five children and have committed their lives to serve God in all ways possible. I can proudly point them out say that they are the best examples of Christian faith. How ever busy they are, they will have time for church and God. – Father Augustine Palimattam Poulose
Marcia Prosen – Holy Cross, Philadelphia Marcia is a Catholic in her words and actions, serving our parish community over 18 years. She makes a huge difference in our parish and is a true companion to the poor, in addition to all in our parish community. – Father Darnis Selvanayakam
Josephine Pradia Rhymes – Immaculate Conception, Clarksdale Being a cradle Catholic, Josephine has been exposed to the faith her entire life and it shows through her daily life and the positive impact she has on both youth and adults within the parish, the community and on the numerous committee and projects she chairs. She is definitely a standout member of the parish because she can readily make assessments that are necessary for a viable and functional parish. – Father Raju Macherla
SAMUEL RUST – St. Joseph, Gluckstadt As a young adult, Samuel has shown exemplary service to the parish and on the diocesan level in evangelization, faith formation and service. He is a member and officer in the Knights of Columbus council, a youth ministry volunteer and catechist, and he acts as an altar server as needed. Samuel is truly committed to his Catholic faith. He exemplifies his commitment not only in the ministries he serves, but in all aspects of his work, social and prayer life. – Father Matthew Price Simmons
Sam and Jamie Sample – St. Thomas the Apostle, Lexington Sam and Jamie have been lovingly dedicated to the people of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Lexington. They have invested their personal resources of time, talent and treasure. They animate the congregation and work together as a team to build up the small parish community. Sam serves as coordinator and oversees the temporal affairs of the church, such as, making sure that both the parish church and the parish hall (former rectory) are in good shape and are safe for the people. Jamie serves as music minister and is diligent in selecting, practicing and executing the music that is selected (she plays the guitar). They undertake this work with great love and care. – Father Joachim Studwell, OFM
Marilyn Scott – St. Therese, Kosciusko Marilyn is a person committed to living her faith. A true example to her family and to the community. She has inspired our small community to live out our faith and welcome the migrant community. – Father Marco A. Sánchez, S.T.
Frank John and Rayetta Serio – St. Joseph, Greenville Without their leadership, Saint Vincent would not be where it is today. At our parish school, they serve on the school board, drive kids to games, provide meals to players and cheerleaders. When our church needs anything, whether it be our youth or anyone, they are hands on and helping. They take in every new priest and seminarian like he is their own. – Father Jose Sánchez
Louis and Carolyn Shipp – St. Mary, Yazoo City Louis and Carolyn are a model couple for Catholic life in Yazoo City. On the religious side, they serve as greeters, altar servers, lectors, religious instructors for children and adults RCIA Coordinators. On the charity side, both are very generous to help anybody in need. They volunteer to work in the Manna house to provide free meals for the needy. Their lives are exemplary as people see them involved in church activities regularly. – Father Panneer Selvam Arockiam
Andy and Gail Spinnato – St. Alphonsus, McComb Andy and Gail are very devoted in their faith, word and deed. They are truly charitable in giving of their time, talent and treasure to the church. They are an inspiration to all – young and old. – Father Suresh Thirumalareddy
Irene Stark – St. Peter, Grenada Irene is such a hard worker for our church and community. At our parish, she is a lector and Extraordinary Minister of Communion. Irene also takes care of liturgical preparations and our food pantry. Over the past 25 years she has been a vital part of our community. – Father Arokia Savio
Maria Tackett – Immaculate Heart of Mary, Houston Maria is an advocate for all people in need, especially Hispanics, connecting them with different resources. She is the first Hispanic person who came to the church in Houston, in 1976. Her service at the parish and to the community are exemplary. She truly lives out one of St. Francis of Assi’s quotes: “In all time, preach the Gospel, and if it is necessary, use words.” – Danna Johnson, LEM
Olinsser and Nadya Villafranca – St. Jude, Pearl Olinsser and Nadya are very active in service to the Hispanic community at St. Jude. Without their language skills and willingness to work as interpreters, as leaders at parents meetings, and as sacristans and community leaders at Mass, we would not be able to adequately communicate and minister to the that community. Their time and talents are freely given for the good of the Hispanic community without any renumeration. – Deacon John McGregor
Frank W. Washington – St. Joseph, Meridian Mr. Washington is the ‘go to person’ in any circumstances. Willing to do anything for the people of God and church. He is very generous with his time and talent, serving as a link between St. Joseph and St. Patrick parishes. – Father Augustine Palimattam Poulose
PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS COLUMBUS Annunciation, Blood Drive, Sunday, March 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Bank First parking lot. Sign-ups available soon.
GLUCKSTADT St. Joseph, KC Ladies Auxiliary Charity Tea, Saturday, March 25 at 2 p.m. in the parish hall. Tickets on sale after Masses on March 12. Details: church office (601) 856-2054.
GREENVILLE St. Joseph School, Muffuletta Sale, Pick up on April 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tickets available at school or church office. Details: church office (662) 335-5251.
JACKSON St. Richard, Men’s Prayer Breakfast with Bishop Kopacz, Monday, April 3 at 7 a.m. in Foley Hall following Mass at 6:30 a.m. Details: contact Anthony at (601) 573-8574 or eanthonythomas@gmail.com. St. Richard, Special Kids Art Show, Thursday, March 23 from 5-7 p.m. at the Special Kids House on Lynwood. Unique artworks (ceramics, platters, “peeps,” icons, religious items, wine glasses and more) for sale. Kendra Scott will also be there with 20% of proceeds to Special Kids. Details: church office (601) 366-2335.
MADISON St. Joseph School, 17th annual Bruin Classic Golf Tournament, Monday, March 27. Register or sponsor a hole by visiting https://bit.ly/17thStJoeGolfTournament. Details: email danacaskey15@gmail.com.
St. Joseph School, Egg My Yard Fundraiser, for Madison County residents only. Order your pre-filled eggs to be hidden in your yard the night before Easter. Book your spot today. Orders due by March 24. Cost: 30 eggs $30; 50 eggs $45; 70 eggs $60. Proceeds benefit St. Joe cheer programs. Order at https://bit.ly/StJoeEggMyYard2023. Details: email sjcheer@stjoebruins.com with questions.
MADISON St. Catherine’s Village, Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group, meets fourth Wednesday of each month from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Campbell Cove building. Lunch provided. All are welcome. Details: call to RSVP (601) 856-0123 or email cynthia.armstrong@fmolhs.org.
RIDGELAND Catholic Charities, Sleep Safe Event, Friday, March 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Event for expectant women, couples, fathers and caregivers on awareness of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Free giveaways and resources with guest speaker. Event at 731 S. Pear Orchard Rd, Ste. 51, Ridgeland. Details: Register at https://bit.ly/March17SleepSafeEvent or call (601) 355-8634.
SOUTHAVEN Christ the King, Forgiveness Walk, Tuesday, March 21 from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Walk is a silent meditative prayer journey reflecting on our own need for forgiveness and need to forgive. Opportunity to stop at nine different stations each with its own theme to read a short scripture passage and reflect on questions. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.
Christ the King, Blood Drive, Sunday, March 26 from 12-3 p.m. Sign up sheets in gathering space. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.
Sacred Heart School, Trivia Night and Auction, Saturday, March 25. Doors open 6 p.m; Trivia at 7 p.m. Cost $25 per player or $160 per team. Groups under eight members will be assigned to a team. Eat, drink and tease your brain. Door prizes, giveaways, split the pot raffle and more. BYOB and snacks. Details: email Allison to register abaskin@shsm.org.
SAVE THE DATE COLUMBUS Annunciation School, Draw Down and Art Auction, Friday, April 14 at the Trotter Convention Center from 6:30-11 p.m. Adults only (21 and up). Event includes dinner and open bar.
HERNANDO Holy Spirit, Yard Sale, Friday, May 19-20. Start saving item donations now. Donations accepted beginning May 8. Details: church office (662) 429-7851.
JACKSON 17th Annual Sister Thea Bowman School Draw Down, Saturday, April 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the school multi-purpose building. $5,000 Grand prize. Cost $100, second chance insurance extra $20 per ticket. Details: (601) 351-5197 or stbdrawdown@gmail.com.
MADISON St. Francis, Rocky Railway VBS express, June 19-22 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. All pre-K4 through fourth graders are invited. Details: mc.george@stfrancismadison.org.
MERIDIAN St. Patrick School, Countdown scheduled for April 21. Grand prize $5,000. Tickets on sale soon!
MERIDIAN Knights of Columbus State Convention, April 28-30 at the Threefoot Hotel. For more information visit: kofc-ms.org/convention/2023.
PEARL St. Jude, Easter Egg Hunt after Mass on April 9.
REMINDERS/NOTICES NATIONAL BLACK CATHOLIC CONGRESS GATHERING, July 20-23 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Join with other Black Catholics and those who minister to Black Catholics for a celebration of faith and culture. Details: nbccongress.org.
INDIANAPOLIS Eucharistic Congress, July 17-21, 2024. Registration is now open. See what Our Lord has in store for this next chapter for the Catholic Church in United States. Purchase tickets at https://bit.ly/3ydav9Q. Details: EucharisticCongress.org.
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS Sunday, March 12 at 2 a.m. Remember to set your clock AHEAD one hour before you go to bed. Don’t miss church!
VOCATIONS RETREAT Come and See event for men ages 16-24 at St. Joseph Seminary College, March 31 through April 2. Details: for more information or to sign-up contact nick.adam@jacksondiocese.org or (601) 969-4020.
WORLD YOUTH DAY: LISBON 2023 Event for young Catholics ages 16-35, though all are welcomed to attend in Lisbon, Portugal. For more information visit: https://www.lisboa2023.org/en/
Through the kindness of Most Reverend Chinnabathini Bagyaiah, Bishop of Guntur; and the acceptance of Most Reverend Joseph R. Kopacz, Bishop of Jackson; Reverend Suresh Reddy Thirumalareddy, pastor of St. James the Greater Parish in Magnolia and St. Alphonsus Parish in McComb, has been incardinated into the Diocese of Jackson, effective Feb. 14, 2023.
JACKSON – The Diocese of Jackson celebrated the anniversaries of married couples from around the diocese with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Joseph Kopacz on Sunday, Feb. 12 at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. According to World Marriage Day history, the idea of celebrating marriage began in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 1981, when couples encouraged the Mayor, the Governor and the Bishop to proclaim St. Valentine’s Day as “We Believe in Marriage Day.” The event was so successful, the idea was presented to and was adopted by Worldwide Marriage Encounter’s National Leadership.
JACKSON – Deacon Denzil Lobo and his wife Gina celebrate their 25th anniversary at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle on Sunday, Feb. 12 for World Marriage Day. For more pictures turn to page 6. (Photos by Tereza Ma)
By 1982, 43 Governors officially proclaimed the day, and celebrations spread to U.S. military bases in several foreign countries. In 1983, the name was changed to “World Marriage Day,” designated to be celebrated each year in February. In 1993, St. Pope John Paul II imparted his Apostolic blessings on World Marriage Day. World Marriage Day celebrations continue to grow and spread to more countries and faith expressions every year.
To honor couples in 2023, the Office of Family Ministry on behalf of the Diocese of Jackson asked parishes to submit the names of couples celebrating their 60th, 50th, 25th or any significant anniversary. This year, 36 couples from throughout the diocese submitted their names in celebration of their anniversaries. At the World Marriage Day celebration at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, couples received an anniversary certificate blessed and signed by Bishop Kopacz.
Please join us in celebrating the anniversaries of the following couples:
71 Years Al & Bea Katool St. Richard, Jackson
62 Years Henry & Corinne Anderson Holy Family, Jackson
60 Years James & Gloria Culver St. Paul, Flowood
Jody & Judy Hill St. Francis of Assisi, Madison
John & Mary Kraft St. Francis of Assisi, Madison
Jimmy & Mary Frances Lang St. Joseph, Greenville
John & Luise Lauzon Holy Spirit, Hernando
Millard & Mary Lynn Powers St. Joseph, Greenville
53 Years Gary & Marie McCall Holy Cross, Philadelphia
50 Years Ron & Jo Ann Brumfield St. Mary Basilica, Natchez
Dennis & Gina Conner St. Patrick, Meridian
Dr. James & Naomi Cook St. Paul, Vicksburg
Joseph & Nancy Harben Immaculate Conception, Raymond
Ed and Corley Marsalis St. Francis of Assisi, Madison
James & Kathy Mathews St. Paul, Flowood
James & Roxanne McIngvale Holy Spirit, Hernando
Manny & Melanie Mitchell St. Patrick, Meridian
Jerry & Linda Perez Sacred Heart, Canton
Ken & Carolyn Pribyla St. Francis of Assisi, Madison Leslie & Sharon Southwick St. Richard, Jackson
John & Cathy Stone St. Patrick, Meridian
44 Years Ned & Debbye Garner Christ the King, Jackson
31 Years Dan & Rosa Buzzarde St. Peter, Grenada
30 Years Tommy & Traci Avalon Cathedral of St. Peter, Jackson
27 Years Pete & Janys Canizaro St. Paul, Flowood
26 Years Aracely & Reynaldo Acosta St. James, Tupelo
Leonel & Cristina Blanco St. James, Tupelo
Mario & Conny Villasenor St. Therese, Jackson
25 Years Eddie & Renee Borne St. Paul, Flowood
Lawrence & Patti Greene St. Joseph, Gluckstadt
Denzil & Gina Lobo Christ the King, Jackson
James & Katrina Maier St. Mary Basilica, Natchez
Burkie & Debora McGee St. Jude, Pearl
Sean & Heidi Summers Cathedral of St. Peter, Jackson
Ron & Laura Tarbutton Cathedral of St. Peter, Jackson
21 Years Lee & Ashley McCall Holy Cross, Philadelphia
JACKSON – Rev. Liam Pentony, PE entered eternal life on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023 at Silver Stream Nursing Home in Duleek, Co. Meath, Ireland. Father Pentony was 94 years old and celebrated 67 years in priestly life.
Born on Nov. 25, 1928 in Brittas, Dunleer Co. Louth, Ireland, Father Pentony enrolled at St. Mary’s School in Knockbeg and then St. Patrick’s College in Carlow. He was ordained for the Diocese of Jackson (nee Natchez) after completing his seminary studies on June 5, 1955.
Arriving in the diocese on Oct. 5, 1955, when the Diocese of Jackson was known as the Diocese of Natchez, Father Pentony was assigned to St. Paul’s Church in Vicksburg by Bishop R.O. Gerow. In 1958, he served as an assistant in Clarksdale at St. Elizabeth parish.
Moving south, Father Pentony was assigned as pastor of St. Joseph parish in Woodville on July 1, 1964. After spending three years in Woodville, Father Pentony was then assigned as pastor of St. Peter parish in Grenada in 1967 by Bishop Joseph Brunini.
In 1969, he was assigned as pastor of St. Therese parish in Jackson for six months before his assignment at St. Joseph parish in Moss Point on July, 1, 1969, only a month and a half before Hurricane Camille struck causing immense damage to the coastal region of the state.
After three and a half years in Moss Point, Father Pentony was assigned as pastor of Immaculate Conception parish in Laurel on Jan. 15, 1973. While in Laurel, the Diocese of Natchez-Jackson was divided, with the southern counties being reorganized as the Diocese of Biloxi in March of 1977.
After serving in Laurel, in 1981 Father Pentony was assigned to Sacred Heart parish in Hattiesburg, serving until he was moved from the Diocese of Biloxi to the Diocese of Jackson in 1982.
Father Pentony was then appointed administrator for St. James parish in Tupelo on Jan. 14, 1983 and then incardinated and appointed as pastor in September of 1984 by Bishop William Houck.
From Tupelo, Father Pentony was assigned as pastor of St. Francis parish in Brookhaven for a period of nine years before retiring from the Diocese of Jackson and moving to Ireland in 2001, where he served in the parish of Darver and Dromiskin for another sixteen years.
Father Pentony was a much loved brother to Clare, Seamus, Tom, Sile and Lily. He will be sadly missed by his brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
A wake service was held at McGeough’s Funeral Home Jocelyn Street, Dundalk (A91WX66) on Saturday, Feb. 11.
A Funeral Mass was held on Sunday, Feb. 12 at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Tenure. Father Pentony is buried in Monasterboice Cemetery.
The Mass can be viewed online at https://www.churchservices.tv/monasterboice.
La CROSSE, Wis. – Sister Dorothy Ann Kundinger, Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration, 81, died on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023, at Hospice Ministries in Ridgeland, Mississippi, where she had been chaplain for many years. She was in her sixty-second year of religious profession. She made first profession of vows on Aug. 12, 1961.
Dorothy Agnes was born on Oct. 8, 1941 in Auburndale, Wisconsin to Joseph and Martha (Bayerl) Kundinger.
She earned a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in English from Viterbo College (University) and an MS in Education from Xavier University, Cincinnati.
The first 26 years of her ministry were spent as a middle grade and junior high teacher. She taught in Wisconsin at Platteville (1962-65), Blessed Sacrament School in La Crosse (1966-70 and 1977-79) and Dodgeville (1973-77) also serving as principal.
In 1979, Sister Dorothy Ann moved to Holy Child Jesus School in Canton, Mississippi where she taught junior high for 10 years. During her time in Canton, Sister Dorothy Ann became a companion to Sister Thea Bowman, an FSPA who gained prominence as a teacher, musician and civil rights activist to the African American community. She traveled across the country with Sister Thea, until Sister Thea eventually succumbed to cancer in 1990.
After Sister Thea’s death, Sister Dorothy Ann remained in Canton as a volunteer hospice worker, ministering to people with HIV/AIDS. In 1993, she moved to Jackson, Mississippi where she served as chaplain and hospice worker, providing care for people with HIV/AIDS at Grace House.
Sister Dorothy Ann is survived by her religious community, her brother Thomas (Diana), Marshfield, Wis., her sisters Patricia Kust, Bellingham, Washington, Kathleen Kundinger, San Jose, California, Elizabeth Hocking, Washington, D.C., her sister-in-law Dolores Kundinger, Marshfield, Wisconsin and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother James.
There was a wake service for Sister Dorothy Ann on Monday, Feb. 20 at Mary of the Angels Chapel in La Crosse. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Mary of the Angels Chapel on Tuesday, Feb. 21. Sister Dorothy Ann is buried at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, La Crosse.
Memorials may be sent to Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, 912 Market Street, La Crosse, WI 54601-4782.
