Category Archives: Diocesan News

Welcome back to our Catholic schools

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Greetings everyone! Happy New Year!

Welcome back to school and to the 2022-2023 school year. This summer has undoubtedly been the hottest one in my recollection. Still, the Office of Catholic Education and your school principals have been working diligently to ensure that students have the best start to this new school year.

“Serve the Lord with gladness” is the theme for Catholic schools across the diocese this school year. (Artwork by Katie Fenstermacher)

We want to welcome four new administrators to the diocese this year. They bring a wealth of experience and a heart for service to their local schools. Robin Branton will serve as high school principal for Cathedral School in Natchez. Robert Calcote will serve as principal at St. Patrick School in Meridian. Christopher Payne will serve as principal of Sister Thea Bowman School in Jackson. Finally, Jon Graham will serve as assistant principal for St. Aloysius in Vicksburg. We are excited to have them with us for this new school year! Returning to Catholic education to support the new leaders at their schools are Pat Sanguinetti for Cathedral School in Natchez and Dr. Virgil Strickland for St. Aloysius Vicksburg. We sincerely thank them for their dedicated service to Catholic education and are excited they are with us, even if they are only with us temporarily.

Our committees have been busy reviewing test scores, evaluating programs and making plans to address the responses received in our surveys at the end of last year. We will soon share our findings in the Office of Catholic Education annual report and the plans for this school year.

Our 2022-2023 theme comes from Psalm 100:2; Serve the Lord with Gladness. “Serve Others” is one-third of the pastoral priorities for the Diocese of Jackson. This year, we have chosen to acknowledge the National Eucharistic Revival and the Catechetical theme “This is my Body given for you,” through the loving act of service to each other and our communities. From the young children at the early learning centers to the high school seniors, our students, faculties, staff and administrators will be looking this year for opportunities to serve each other and their communities meaningfully.

Finally, we welcome you to the mission of Catholic education. As baptized Catholic Christians, we graciously accepted the responsibility to evangelize during the sacrament of Confirmation. You can support this mission by praying, volunteering in your parish schools and supporting school fundraisers. Our Catholic schools are not only an investment in society’s future but the future of our church as well.

Sincerely,

Karla Luke, Executive Director of Catholic Schools

Four new principals for our Catholic schools

Robin Branton – Cathedral School, Natchez

Robin Branton is a native of Baton Rouge who attended Louisiana State University where she received her Bachelor’s of Science degree with a concentration in secondary english education. She obtained her Master’s of Education degree in educational leadership from Louisiana State University in Shreveport. She has eighteen years of educational experience, eleven of which have been spent in the Catholic school system including teaching English at St. Joseph’s Academy for six years before relocating to the Natchez area. She joined Cathedral School as an English teacher in 2017 before serving as the Middle School/High School Assistant Principal from 2020-2022.

Branton is married to John and they have five children – Tate (MSU c/o 2022), Searcy (Cathedral c/o 2024), Quin (Cathedral c/o 2029), Harrison (Cathedral c/o 2031) and Suzannah (Cathedral c/o 2033). Together they enjoy traveling, sports and family time. They are active members of St. Mary Basilica.

Catholic education and tradition is important to Branton, which is what brought her to Cathedral. It reminds her of her childhood schools and the educational background she received throughout her life. She hopes to continue to build on this wonderful, Catholic foundation, education and tradition that Cathedral carries with the trust and support of the school community.


Robert Calcote – St. Patrick School, Meridian

Rob Calcote is a native of Meridian. He received his Bachelors of Business Administration from the University of Mississippi and an undergraduate and masters degree in education from Mississippi State University.

Calcote has been married to his wife Melissa for 30 years. They have one daughter, Claire Calcote, that is a registered pharmacist practicing in a second year residency program at CHI St. Joseph in Lexington, Kentucky.

Recently retired with 30 years of public education experience as a teacher and administrator with a background in four different grade levels, Calcote is ready for the task of leading St. Patrick School.
Calcote says, he has always had the desire to lead a school that has a spiritual foundation with a tradition of academic excellence.

“My hope for St. Patrick Catholic School Meridian is that it will be a safe nurturing place where the dignity of each individual child is valued and the love of Christ is evident in everything we do,” says Calcote.


Jon C. Graham – St. Aloysius High School, Vicksburg

Jon Graham comes to St. Aloysius High School with a passion for preparing the minds, hearts and souls of young disciples for their academic success, future life endeavors, and meaningful opportunities to grow deeper in their faith in a Christ-centered environment enriched with Catholic values and traditions.

Graham has an extensive educational background with experiences in general education, special education, STEAM, curriculum development and management, and academic leadership and administration. He was honored in 2016, 2018 and 2020 as an educator of the month, and most recently was recognized as Vicksburg Daily News’ 2022 Swimming Coach of the Year.

Graham received a B.A. in interdisciplinary studies degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, a M.A. in education and teaching from Belhaven University, and an Ed.S. in educational leadership and administration from Delta State University. He is currently pursuing a Ed.D. in educational instruction and curriculum at Delta State University.

Graham, a Marine Corps veteran, is an active member of St. Paul of Vicksburg where he attends Mass with his supportive wife of 23 years, Christina and their three children – Noah (22), Jonah (14) and Emma Kate (12). As a family, they enjoy attending various sporting events and taking road trips to explore historical sites and trying out new foods.

Jon expressed, “I appreciate the rich traditions and esteemed reputation of St. Aloysius and I have great expectations for our future as we move forward into taking the school from good to great! My vision is to work collaboratively with all teachers, parents and stakeholders to strengthen our Catholic faith and the rigorous academics St. Aloysius already possesses as well as developing new opportunities to enrich our school, parish, community and, most importantly, our phenomenal students.”


Christopher Payne – Sister Thea Bowman School, Jackson

Christopher Payne was born and raised in Jackson. He graduated from Mississippi State University in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. After graduation, Payne began his career as a teacher at Sister Thea Bowman School.

Payne says he is committed to being a positive role model for my students. “Because of the promise I made to God, my family, my principal, Mrs. Shae Robinson and mostly to my students, I stayed ready in my position as their teacher to now transitioning as principal. It is indeed surreal, yet aligned by God.”

Payne’s vision for Sister Thea Bowman School is one with substantial growth in enrollment and community relations with the city of Jackson. “Within my first year, I hope to continue the quality academic education that has been established here and bring new ideas and customs that will increase the perspective of my school within our community,” said Payne.

August brings three “H’s” in Mississippi

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From the Archives
By Mary Woodward

JACKSON – In Mississippi, the month of August stirs a myriad of thoughts of the “3-H’s” for which we are so well-known – heat, humidity and hurricanes. This August is no different. I would like to share a couple of memories of Augusts gone by.

Two of the worst hurricanes to make landfall in the history of the state and country were August hurricanes named Camille (Aug. 17 and 18, 1969) and Katrina, which actually made landfall first across Miami on Aug. 23, 2005, then again in Mississippi on Aug. 29.

Well, let me now date myself. I remember Hurricane Camille. We grew up on Millsaps College campus in Jackson in faculty housing. When Camille came ashore 170 miles south of our house, the old-style metal two-inch green Venetian blinds stood out from the windows rattling in the wind all night long. That image is forever etched in my mind.

Destruction wrought by Hurricane Katrina is seen in Gulfport, Miss., Sept. 6. Hurricane Katrina and subsequent flooding left more than 500,000 people homeless. Catholic churches, organizations and schools were among the institutions taking in evacuees and providing temporary shelter and schooling. (CNS photo by Ed Foster, Jr.) (Sept. 8, 2005)

Prior to destroying all wind measuring tools, Camille was clocked at a one minute sustained 175 mph winds with a 25-foot storm surge. She was fierce and became the benchmark of storms for years to come until 2005, when Katrina made her way toward the Gulf Coast.

What many may not remember is Katrina had already made landfall near Miami and caused widespread flooding and power outages there a week before. I remember because Bishop Joseph Latino was in Miami when the first landfall occurred. He had that kind of luck throughout his life.

As I watched the path of Katrina develop, it became eerily similar to Camille’s path straight up the Gulf. When I picked up Bishop Latino at the airport upon his return from Miami a few days after the initial landfall, I made the remark that Katrina was following him. There was definitely a bad feeling about this storm.

That weekend, the Cathedral in Jackson experienced standing room only congregations – filled with evacuees from the Gulf Coast and Louisiana. As people came forward in the communion line, there was not a dry eye in the house.

While Katrina was making landfall early Monday morning, we in the chancery office were sent home and told to be where we needed to be for the next 12 hours by 11 a.m. When I arrived home after dropping off a couple of cases of Catholic Extension Bibles for evacuees at the Coliseum, I hunkered down with my pimento cheese and Zapp’s. Taking comfort in the fact that my 70-year-old house had survived Camille, I watched the news until the power was knocked out around noon.

Still, I was confident in the structure of my house even when the attic turbine snapped off, bounded down the roof and landed at my feet on the back porch. I was losing confidence when I took my nearly decapitated self into the attic to put a bucket under the hole in the roof left by the now absent turbine. I recall thinking “next stop Oz.”

After what seemed like a 10-hour tornado in slow motion, the next morning I ventured out following the sounds of the chainsaw to get neighbors to put me on their list of tree removal. They came and dispatched the tree on the fence, shared some cold water I had in an ice chest (I was prepared because of the really bad feeling about the storm), and moved on to the next neighbor.

We all pulled together to help because we knew if it was this bad in Jackson, it had to be 1000 times worse on the Coast. I recollect seeing the helicopter flyover of the Gulf Coast – we were wrong – it was a million times worse. Who could have ever imagined worse devastation than Camille? Those thoughts entered my mind in the attic the night before, but the reality of it in one flyover report removed all doubt.
After a day of clean up in the neighborhood, the next day provided a chancery office with electricity and air-conditioning. It also became a hub for evacuees to come and use email and Facebook on our computers to let family and friends around the world know they were ok.

Indeed, it was quite the time in Jackson, but nothing in comparison to our friends at the chancery office in Biloxi whom we did not know whether they were ok or not for a full two days due to shattered communication lines and towers.

From an archive’s perspective, after dealing with the humanitarian needs of these disasters, thoughts turn immediately to sacramental registers in destroyed churches. These registers contain our sacramental lives, which are often used to establish identity, get a passport and obtain pensions. In our diocese, every 10 years we bring in these registers and make copies of the contents in the event of such a disaster.
Because there were microfilm copies of registers in 1969, parishes that may have lost registers to the storm were able to get copies of them. Ideally, these registers would be stored in secure environments, but that is not always possible.

As we move through August and the Gulf continues to heat up, this is a prime time for parishes to reexamine plans for sacramental register safekeeping. Simple things such as large Ziploc bags on hand and portable watertight containers available can go a long way in protecting these lifelines for parishioners and the church.

Another handy thing to have is a disaster clean up kit in a bucket that includes bleach, gloves, masks and scrubbing brushes. As I write this, I remember there is a bucket is still in my attic… Take care and stay safe.

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

New aspirants for Carmelite Seculars

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PEARL – On Saturday, June 25 the St. Joseph and St. Therese of Lisieux Order of Discalced Carmelite Seculars welcomed three Aspirants to the group at the Rite of Admission at St. Jude Parish in Pearl. The Aspirants are Father Lincoln Dall, Michael McFadden and Gabriela Thompson. They now enter a deeper level of study and formation into Carmelite spirituality and Community life that will continue for the next two years. Each one was given a Bible and the brown scapular of the Order. (Photo by Rhonda Bowden)

Catholic students, ‘Steer Clear Deer’ is a national winner

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By Monica Walton
JACKSON – This wasn’t your typical middle school class project, nor what it a typical summer for Neel Boteler, Lily Frances Garner, Benjamin Manhein and Maley Thornhill. These four St. Richard School students spent their time engaging in creative, critical thinking, and lots of hard work — and it paid off big time! After winning the local, state and regional levels, they completed their sixth grade year with a trip to Washington DC, and earned first place in the nation at the 20th annual eCyberMission Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Competition sponsored by the US Army. More than 8,400 students registered to compete in the event, and our local students took home top honors in their division with a device to help reduce deer-related vehicle collisions. “Our team put in a lot of prep time,” said Maley Thornhill. “I didn’t realize it was going to take so much work, but at nationals it paid off!”

This was an experience unlike any other for these students. “We felt like kings!” said Neel Boteler. All agreed it was most definitely worth the hard work, and they felt proud to represent our state so well. “Hearing our name called was amazing,” said Lily Frances Garner. “We couldn’t believe our Mississippi team actually brought home the title for the first time. We showed that Mississippi kids are smart, too. It was awesome!”

WASHINGTON – Graduating sixth grade students at St. Richard stop for a shot with their award winning project “Steer Clear Deer” at the 20th annual eCyberMission STEM competition in July. Pictured left to right, Maley Thornhill, Ben Manhein, Neel Boteler and Lily Frances Garner. (Photo courtesy of St. Richard School)

Benjamin Manhein recalled the many hours of research and sorting through all their findings to determine what information would be most helpful to the project. “It was a good feeling when we knew we had what we needed and could begin building the Steer Clear Device,” he said.

The STEM competition invites students in grades six through nine across America to develop a “mission challenge” for their local communities and present a four-minute oral presentation followed by a question and answer session. The panel of judges consisted of U.S. Army scientists and engineers who work at Army laboratories and centers across the country. Ultimately, the goal is to foster student interest in a STEM career thus “cultivating an enduring, high-caliber workforce to provide tomorrow’s soldiers with the capabilities they need to protect our national interests across the globe.”

The St. Richard team named, “Oh Deer!” decided to take on the challenge of a common Mississippi problem – deer-related vehicle accidents. Their project was inspired by personal experience when one teammate’s father was involved in a deer collision causing extensive damage to his car. The team wanted to develop something that would deter deer without harming them and prevent them from running out into oncoming traffic potentially saving countless lives and thousands of dollars in vehicle damage. As they began their research, they discovered that current devices on the market aren’t very effective. They learned that deer can hear at higher pitches than humans, and while deer can see ultraviolet light, they do not see well above eye level. The resulting invention is “Steer Clear Deer” — a device that can be attached to a vehicle or placed on the roadside. It uses light and sound with changing patterns in ranges deer can see and hear, but humans cannot. Field testing and trials using those two deer senses showed great success in deterring deer with the least amount of risk to humans. “Don’t be surprised if you see ‘Steer Deer Clear’ on the shelves one day!” said Jennifer David, St. Richard School principal.

Team “Oh, Deer” brought home much more than a national title, though. Each team member received US Series EE Savings Bonds worth $10,000 at maturity, and they have new friends and great memories to treasure. While in Washington DC for the finals, the students participated in several activities including a Department of Defense Career Workshop Day, working in Army labs, learning about weapons systems, touring the National Zoo and several national monuments, and a showcase event highlighting all the student projects. “I learned more about the Army and how they do more than fight battles,” said Thornhill. “The activities showed us they also use science, technology and math to help our country in other ways.”

The weeklong event was also a unique opportunity to get to know the other students and advisors from around the country. They fostered new friendships and plan to stay in touch with some of them. “The future is very bright,” said advisor Ashley Klein. “I watched the kids grow, particularly in how they presented themselves. They were poised and confident and worked together beautifully. It was great seeing the amazing projects these kids undertook.” The seventh grade winning team from Texas featured the use of marine and freshwater algae as bioaccumulators of microplastics; the eighth grade winners from Illinois studied the impact of different soil additives on increasing the magnesium content in food crops, and determined a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution; and the ninth grade first place team from New Jersey determined the necessary components of a smart beehive system to optimize colony health.

During the awards ceremony, Maj. Gen. Brown, commanding general of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, inspired the students with these words, “Lots of careers can be exciting, many careers can be rewarding — financially and personally. But a smaller number of careers give you the chance to do something meaningful. To launch a first of its kind product, secure a patent or produce something that changes our way of life for the better is meaningful. Supporting our mutual defense and doing something that brings a soldier home alive is meaningful in a way that few other things are.”

The students were indeed inspired and feel this experience has opened up more opportunities for their future. Lily Frances Garner said it makes her feel like she can do anything she puts her mind to, including succeeding in high school. She is even considering the possibility of pursuing a STEM career like Engineering.

Natchez hosts choral festival

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By Father Aaron Williams
NATCHEZ – On July 29, 2022, the choir and parishioners of St. Joseph church in Rayne, Louisiana arrived in Natchez to take part in the inaugural Basilica of St. Mary Choral Festival. The Basilica’s director of sacred music, Max Tenney, who also serves as director of music for Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans, was approached by Father Brent Smith, pastor of St. Joseph in Rayne, to inquire about available conferences for his choir and musicians to receive formation in choral singing and the church’s vision of sacred music.

In other regions of the United States, groups such as the Church Music Association of America and the National Association of Pastoral Musicians provide brief conferences designed specifically for parish musicians, but no such conferences or resources are available in the South. Tenney proposed that, instead of encouraging Father Smith to send his musicians to a distant conference, the Basilica in Natchez host a private weekend of formation for his entire choir, which would rehearse along-side the Basilica’s own choir.

In a matter of about a month, a committee of volunteers from Natchez sprang into action and planned a three-day conference including musical workshops, tours of antebellum homes and historic sites, and good food for the combined attendance of over forty singers. The weekend culminated in the combined festival choir singing for the 10 a.m. Solemn Sunday Mass. The Basilica was packed to capacity with many visitors from other parishes and even non-Catholic churches in the area that had seen advertisements about the choral display planned for the Sunday Mass.

The choir prepared an impressive repertoire including choral works of Ralph Vaughan Williams, Marco Frisna and James Chepponis, as well as Gregorian chant and classic English hymnody. The weekend left an impression of the beauty of sacred music on all the attendants and many of those who were present for the Sunday Mass.

Owing to the success of this weekend, St. Mary Basilica looks forward to planning a second Choral Festival for the summer of 2023 which will be open for registration for other interested choirs and musicians. The program will include a similar schedule of workshops and historic tours, but also time for informative conferences on the Catholic vision of sacred music. It is hoped that this festival will become a recognized source of musical formation in the Southern United States, and an opportunity for networking among Catholic musicians. Information on next Summer’s conference is forthcoming toward the end of 2022.

Calendar of events

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
CLARKSDALE St. Elizabeth, “Life in the Spirit” retreat, Saturday, Aug. 27 at 9 a.m. and ends with closing Mass at 4 p.m. Topics include: God’s Gifts of Love, Salvation, New Life; Baptism of the Holy Spirit; and Healing prayer. Retreat led by Father Bill Henry. Lunch provided. Request registration by Aug. 22, but late welcome too! Details: church office (662) 624-4301.

MCCOMB St. Alphonsus, “The Fullness of Truth,” Sept. 12-14 at 6 p.m. Join us as we come together to know God in his fullness at our parish mission, presented by Jimmy Seghers, founder of Totus Ministries. All are welcome! Details: call (601) 684-5648.

PEARL St. Jude, Retreat for Healing and Hope, Friday Oct. 14, 6:30-9 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parish hall. Featured speakers: Father Bill Henry, Janet Constantine, LMHC and spiritual director, sponsored by Marian Servants of Jesus the Lamb of God. Registration free, lunch provided. Topics: Our Brokenness; Blocks to Healing; and Receiving God’s Love. All are welcome. Details: Contact Maureen at (601) 278-0423 or Pat at (601) 955-0755 or email msofjlog@gmail.com.

PARISH, FAMILY AND SCHOOL EVENTS
FLOWOOD St. Paul Early Learning Center Golf Tournament, Friday, Sept. 16 at Bay Pointe Golf Club. Register at bit.ly/StPaulELCGolfTournament. Details: contact stpaullearningcenter@gmail.com.

GLUCKSTADT St. Joseph, Germanfest 2022, Sunday, Sept. 25 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The family-oriented festival is best known for its authentic German food and music. Admission and parking are free. Festival goers may wish to bring a lawn chair. Details: church office (601) 856-2054.

HERNANDO Holy Spirit, Annual Bazaar, Saturday Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy games, silent auction, craft booths, homemade goods at the Country Kitchen and more. Details: contact Julie Stefanik at julieastefanik@gmail.com or call the church office at (662) 429-7851.

JACKSON St. Richard, ChristLife: Discovering Christ, a seven-week series begins Sept. 28 and ends Nov. 9. Held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in Foley Hall. Come enjoy dinner and explore answers to important life questions. Registration required, child care for ages 3+ is provided. Details: register at StRChristlife@gmail.com or visit https://saintrichard.com/christlife.

MADISON 40th annual Bishops Cup Golf Tournament at Lake Caroline, Thursday, Sept.. 15. Tee time 1 p.m. To sponsor or sign up as an individual or team visit bit.ly/BishopsCup2022. Details: contact Julia Williams (601) 960-8481.

NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, Blood Drive, Tuesday, Aug. 30 from 1-6 p.m. Details: church office: (601) 445-5616.

RIPLEY St. Matthew, Parish Feast Day Celebration. Saturday, Sept. 24 enjoy fun with sports tournaments, food booths and more. On Sunday, Sept. 25, Bilingual Mass of Thanksgiving at 3 p.m., followed by a potluck meal. Details: church office (662) 993-8832.

YOUTH EVENTS
DIOCESE Middle School Fall Retreat with NET Ministries, Oct. 15-16 at Lake Forest Ranch, Macon. Retreat is for 7th/8th graders with opportunity for prayer, faith sharing, fellowship and more. Details: contact Abbey Schuhmann at (601) 949-6934 or abbey.schuhmann@jacksondiocese.org.

Gratitude, humility, awe: Dominican Sisters celebrating 150 years of ministry for the life of the world

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By Sister Beth Murphy, OP

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A yearlong sesquicentennial celebration of the founding of the Dominican Sisters of Springfield begins this summer.

The celebration opens at 6 p.m., Friday, Aug. 19, with a Mass livestreamed from Sacred Heart Convent Chapel. The celebrant is The Most Reverend Thomas John Paprocki, Bishop of the Diocese of Springfield-in-Illinois. The year will include multiple prayerful and celebratory events, culminating in a public Eucharistic celebration on Aug. 19, 2023, to mark the 150th anniversary of the arrival in Jacksonville of the pioneer sisters in 1873.

“Looking back over the span of our history is an exercise in gratitude, humility and awe,” said Sister Rebecca Ann Gemma, OP, the prioress general of the congregation. “I am grateful to those six women who, with 48 hours’ notice, said yes to a mission they could never had imagined. I am humbled by God’s continued fidelity. I stand in awe of the mission to which we are called for the life of the world.”

“This time of prayerful contemplation on our history is as much about looking toward the future with hope as it is about reflecting back on a storied past,” Sister Rebecca Ann insists. “As it was for our founding sisters 150 years ago, our mission of standing in solidarity with persons on the peripheries of our nation, church, and world is ongoing and responsive to the needs of the world today.”

In the past, being in solidarity with the rostros concretos — as it is expressed in Spanish — meant building educational and healthcare institutions to serve a growing nation of immigrants. With the institution-building phase of the U.S. Catholic Church’s story now long past, an authentic response to the world’s needs looks different that it did in the 19th century.

In 2014, when he declared a year dedicated to consecrated life, Pope Francis told the church’s religious women and men — sisters, brothers, and priests — “Come out of yourselves and go forth to the existential peripheries.” He asked religious women and men to go to those who have lost all hope, feel abandoned, without purpose, and “thirsting for the divine.”

Since 1873, Dominican Sisters from the Springfield-based congregation have done just that at hundreds of ministry sites in 21 states and multiple locations in Peru.

Current ministries on the peripheries include education and advocacy for racial justice, immigration reform, accompaniment of Native Americans and literacy education centers. Springfield Dominican sisters are engaged in the support of asylum seekers, persons with mental illness, and children living in impoverishment. Though no longer sponsors of health care institutions, Dominican sisters continue in healthcare ministry as hospital chaplains, home visitors, clinicians, lab technicians, and providers of nursing care.

In addition, the educational mission begun by the founding sisters continues on through three sponsored high schools, two literacy centers, a program of formation of associate candidates, and in multiple other ways of educating, forming, and supporting the faith journeys of individuals, families, and parish communities.

Since 1999, when the sisters took responsibility for Jubilee Farm on Springfield’s western border, the congregation has grown increasingly active in educating and advocating for personal and policy changes that will mitigate the climate crisis and support a healthier planet. The sisters and their associates are active participants in the Vatican’s Laudato Si’ Action Platform.

In 2022 the sisters have been among several dozen communities of women religious to broaden the reach of the global synod of the Catholic Church, an ongoing process initiated by Pope Francis to transform the way the church approaches self-governance and its mission of evangelization.

Visit https://springfieldop.org/150years for more about the Springfield Dominican Sisters’ response to God’s call, their history, and all the events planned for the anniversary celebration throughout the year.

(The Springfield Dominican Sisters are members of the global Order of Preachers founded by St. Dominic de Guzman in 1206. For more than 800 years, Dominicans have preached the Gospel in word and deed. Today, thousands of Dominican sisters, nuns, priests, brothers, associates and laity minister in more than 100 countries around the world).

Six new deacons ordained for diocese

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By Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – On Saturday, July 16, Bishop Joseph Kopacz ordained six men into the permanent diaconate at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. The men spent the last five years in formation, studying spirituality, canon law, homiletics and learning how to administer sacraments.

To full pews and those standing behind at the entrance to the Cathedral, Bishop Kopacz acknowledged the evident joy and love for Mark Andrew Bowden of St. Jude Pearl, Dien L. Hoang of the Cathedral of St. Peter, Dixon Wesley Lindsay of the Cathedral of St. Peter, John Anh Pham of St. Michael Forest, David Preston Rouch of St. Michael Vicksburg and Anthony William Schmidt of St. Paul Flowood, being ordained to the diaconate.

JACKSON – Six men were ordained into the permanent diaconate at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle on Saturday, July 16. Pictured during the ordination are Tony Schmidt, David Rouch, John Pham, Wesley Lindsay, Dien Hoang and Mark Bowden. (Picture by Michael Barrett photography)

“The joy is so obvious this morning as we come together in the Lord … to celebrate so much of our tradition of faith … and in the ministries that are such a blessing for our church and our parish communities,” said Bishop Kopacz. “And this morning, we celebrate the great gift of the diaconate.”
In his remarks about the readings, Bishop Kopacz pointed out the sacredness and gifts of the office of the diaconate.

“As we appreciate over a long tradition, nearly 2000 years, its service in Jesus Christ. Its His ministry and right at the beginning the Apostles realized we need to designate this and we need to select those who are going to be faithful to the Lord and to the needs of the communities with whom they are entrusted,” said Bishop Kopacz.

“So, we continue that many years later and the church has indeed worked with you over these past five years – give or take – to arrive at this moment,” Bishop Kopacz told the diaconate candidates.
He also reminded the new deacons that their ministry is one of service through the word, sacrament and charity.

Drawing on their experience of marriage or family experience, Bishop Kopacz acknowledged that “all have learned how to sacrifice, serve and care up to this point their lives.”

“Now opens another door where they will serve in the midst of our parish communities, serving the Lord and serving those entrusted to them.”

Ordained deacons are assigned to parishes in the diocese and they may administer baptism, serve at the altar at Mass and distribute the Eucharist; bring the Eucharist to the dying; read the sacred Scriptures to the faithful and on occasion, to preach; to administer sacramentals; to assist at and bless marriages and to officiate at funeral and burial rites.

Another group of men have begun their formation process in hopes of being ordained to the diaconate in 2026. For more information on the permanent diaconate visit www.jacksondiocese.org/offices/diaconate.

Click on the name to learn more: (left to right) Mark Bowden, Wesley Lindsay, John Anh Pham, John McGregor, Dien Hoang, David Rouch and Tony Schmidt
(Pictures by Michael Barrett photography)
(Photos by Joanna King)

Seis nuevos diáconos ordenados en Diócesis de Jackson

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Por Juana King

JACKSON — El obispo Joseph Kopacz ordenó a seis hombres al Diaconado permanente en la Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol, el sábado 16 de julio.

Los hombres pasaron los últimos cinco años en formación, estudiando espiritualidad, derecho canónico, homilética y aprendiendo a administrar los sacramentos.

Con las bancas de la Catedral llenas, el obispo Kopacz reconoció la alegría y el amor evidentes por Mark Bowden de St. Jude Pearl, Dien Hoang y Wesley Lindsay de la Catedral de St. Pedro jackson, John Pham de St. Michael Forest, David Rouch de St. Michael Vicksburg y Tony Schmidt de St. Paul Flowood, siendo ordenados al diaconado.

JACKSON – Seis hombres fueron ordenados al diaconado permanente en la Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol el sábado 16 de julio. En la foto durante la ordenación están Tony Schmidt, David Rouch, John Pham, Wesley Lindsay, Dien Hoang y Mark Bowden. (Foto de Michael Barrett)

“La alegría es tan obvia esta mañana cuando nos reunimos en el Señor… para celebrar gran parte de nuestra tradición de fe… y en los ministerios que son una gran bendición para nuestra iglesia y nuestras comunidades parroquiales,” dijo el obispo Kopacz “… esta mañana celebramos el gran don del Diaconado.”

En sus comentarios sobre las lecturas, el obispo Kopacz señaló la santidad y los dones del oficio del Diaconado.

“Como apreciamos a lo largo de una larga tradición, de casi 2000 años, su servicio en Jesucristo. Es su ministerio y desde el principio los Apóstoles se dieron cuenta de que tenemos que designar esto y tenemos que seleccionar a aquellos que van a ser fieles al Señor y a las necesidades de las comunidades,” dijo el obispo Kopacz.

“Entonces, ustedes y la iglesia continuaremos muchos años después. De hecho, ya hemos trabajado durante los últimos cinco años, más o menos, para llegar a este momento,” dijo el obispo Kopacz a los candidatos al Diaconado.

También recordó a los nuevos Diáconos que su ministerio es de servicio a través de la palabra, el sacramento y la caridad, basándose en su experiencia matrimonial o familiar; el obispo Kopacz reconoció que “todos han aprendido a sacrificarse, servir y cuidar a su familia, hasta este momento de sus vidas; Ahora se abre otra puerta donde servirán en medio de nuestras comunidades parroquiales, sirviendo al Señor y sirviendo a los que les están encomendados”.

Los Diáconos ordenados se asignan a las parroquias de la diócesis y pueden administrar el bautismo, servir en el altar en la Misa y distribuir la Eucaristía; llevar la Eucaristía como viático a los moribundos; leer las Sagradas Escrituras a los fieles y, en ocasiones, predicar; administrar sacramentales; asistir y bendecir matrimonios y oficiar ritos funerarios y de entierro a difuntos.

Otro grupo de hombres ha comenzado su proceso de formación con la esperanza de ser ordenados al Diaconado en 2026. Para obtener más información sobre el Diaconado permanente, visite:

www.jacksondiocese.org/offices/diaconate.

(izquierda- derecha) Nuevos diáconos Mark Bowden, Wesley Lindsay, John Anh Pham, junto a John McGregor( también diacono permanente y encargado del programa diocesano de Diaconado Permanente), Dien Hoang, David Rouch y Tony Schmidt. (Foto de Michael Barrett)

En sus propias palabras.

¿Quiénes son los nuevos Diáconos?

Mark Bowden

60 años. Parroquia St. Jude, Pearl

“Soy un católico de cuna, y uno que durante mucho tiempo realmente dio por sentada mi fe.

Ningún pasaje de las Escrituras se destaca realmente sobre los demás, ya que muchos me tocan en diferentes puntos y etapas de mi vida. Pero Santiago 2:14-17, que discute que la fe sin obras es muerta, está entre mis favoritos perennes.

Tantas veces durante este viaje, estuve a punto de tirar la toalla y rendirme. Pero a través de MUCHA ORACION, discernimiento y apoyo de muchos, finalmente acepté este llamado.

 Creo que mi corazón está en hacer trabajo pastoral, como visitar a los confinados en casa, a los que están en el hospital, a los que están en prisión, y hacer evangelización en pequeñas comunidades.

Mi esposa Rhonda y yo tenemos dos hijos. Andrew fue recientemente ordenado sacerdote y nuestra hija Laura enseña educación especial en Pearl.

David Rouch

50 años. Parroquia St. Michael, Vicksburg

“Soy católico nacido y criado. Producto de las Escuelas Católicas de Vicksburg.

Mi pasaje favorito de las Escrituras es Lucas 1:46-49, “Y María dijo: ‘Mi alma proclama la grandeza del Señor; mi espíritu se regocija en Dios mi salvador” ¡porque describe la forma en que Él ha obrado en mi vida!

Mi santo favorito es San Tomás de Aquino. Aprecio sus esfuerzos por reconciliar la razón con la fe de la iglesia. Esta reconciliación ha sido muy importante para mi propio viaje y es vital para el futuro de la iglesia.

Mi santa favorita es la Madre Teresa. Su fidelidad al llamado del Señor para ella y su dedicación a hacer la obra del Señor es una inspiración para mí y habla a personas de todas las naciones, religiones y estilos de vida.

Algunos son llamados al sacerdocio y otros son llamados al diaconado. Ya sea como una persona soltera o una pareja casada, todos somos llamados. Se trata de reconocer a qué estás llamado y decidir cómo responderás.

Quiero llegar a la iglesia de jóvenes adultos, involucrarlos y “reconstruir la marca.”

Ann y yo tenemos cuatro hijos adultos y tres nietos: Reece y su esposa Nicole y su hijo Jack, de siete meses. Viven en Olive Branch.

Destin y su esposo Jonathan y sus dos hijos, James (6) y Benjamin (2). Viven en Alemania.

Meredith, nuestra hija, que vive en Shreveport, Louisiana

Conner y su esposo Zach, que viven en Knoxville, Tennessee

Dien L Hoang

48 años. Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol. Oriundo de Saigon, Vietnam

“Soy “católico de cuna. Me gustaría agradecerles mucho a mis padres porque nos enseñaron sobre el amor de Dios por nosotros y Dios es un Padre misericordioso, no un Dios irascible y crítico. Por eso, mi padre nos educa para amar a todos, ante todo, amarnos unos a otros en la familia.

La parábola del hijo perdido porque Dios creó al hombre a su imagen y también le dio razón y libertad para vivir según su voluntad. La libertad es un regalo invaluable que Dios ha dado para que los humanos sean libres de ser fieles a Dios o de traicionarlo. Dios siempre respeta la libertad humana. Fue porque los humanos tenían derecho a la libertad que pecaron contra Dios. Pero Dios es rico en misericordia y aún ama a las personas cuando todavía están en pecado. Dios espera pacientemente, invita y crea todas las condiciones para que regresen a vivir en su gracia. Mi santo favorito es San Antonio Por su caridad. Tengo la necesidad de ir a buscar algo más elevado, más significativo, más sostenible. Esos valores sostenibles son dar sin calcular, encontrar el amor más que ser amado, y encontrar el consuelo más que ser consolado por los demás. Estoy deseando visitar a los  enfermos, ayudar a los pobres y devolver al hombre a la dignidad humana.

Mi esposa, Honghuong T Nguyen, y yo no tenemos hijos.”

Tony Schmidt 

53 años. Parroquia de St. Paul Flowood

Soy católico de cuna, de Gluckstadt y he vivido en Brandon, MS durante los últimos 30 años.

Mi pasaje bíblico favorito es Romanos 14:7-9. Me gusta este pasaje porque es un recordatorio de nuestro verdadero propósito en la vida, que es ser responsables ante el Señor.

Mi santo favorito es San Matías. Matías fue elegido para reemplazar a Judas y su proceso de selección se llevó a cabo echando suertes después de la oración de los Apóstoles. Matias fue elegido no porque fuera digno, sino porque llegaría a ser digno.

Matias era el nombre de mi abuelo paterno. Mi origen católico se lo debo a mis abuelos paternos. Fueron una de las cinco familias fundadoras de Gluckstadt y tienen una maravillosa historia con la Diócesis de Jackson.

Estoy orgulloso de continuar la fe católica en mi vida y en mi servicio como diácono. El estar en una relación personal y auténtica con los demás es la mejor forma en que puedo dejar que brille el rostro de Dios. El diaconado se trata menos de mí y más de que no me interponga en el camino de Dios, mientras él me usa para continuar construyendo esta Iglesia. También espero visitar a los enfermos. El cuidado de hospicio ocupa un lugar especial en mi corazón y espero poder ayudar en el cuidado espiritual y pastoral de los moribundos y sus familias.

 Mi esposa Karen y yo tenemos dos hijos Houston (26) y Parker (24) y tres perritas Terrier: Butterbean, Izzy y Stella.”

John Pham

60 años de St. Michael Forest, Vicksburg

“Soy un ‘católico de cuna’. Mi profunda experiencia de fe en Dios y la Iglesia sucedió durante 25 años de vida religiosa.

Mi pasaje favorito de las Escrituras es Mateo 6:33 “Buscad el Reino de Dios sobre todas las cosas, y vivid rectamente, y él os dará todo lo que necesitéis.”

Mis santos favoritos son san Juan Apóstol y santa Teresa, la florecita de Jesús. Amo a San Juan porque es verdaderamente un amigo de Jesús; y me gusta santa Teresita porque descubrió el camino sencillo y fácil hacia la santidad. Mi imagen favorita es el sagrado corazón de Jesús.

Sabiendo que “la mies es mucha, pero los obreros pocos,” quiero

contribuir con todo lo que pueda para aliviar la carga de mi pastor.

Tengo muchas ganas de crear un ambiente animado en la Iglesia, para que el servicio litúrgico sea más agradable.”

Wesley Lindsay

Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol Jackson. Ciudad natal: Jackson

“Nací, me crié y pasé 40 años en la iglesia bautista. En 2004, dejé la denominación bautista para convertirme en episcopal. Casi cuatro años después, “vi la luz” y me hice católico a través de RCIA.

Mi Escritura favorita es Juan 8:32 – ¡La propia libertad de Dios!

Entregué mi vida a Dios hace más de 40 años. ¡Él me ha llevado a esta maravillosa oportunidad de servicio, el diaconado!

Anhelo ayudar en hacer avanzar el Reino de Dios a través del servicio a Su pueblo.”

Beloved priest celebrates milestone, bids farewell for now

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By Monica Walton
CANTON – The final chapter as a full-time pastor came to a close where the first chapter began.

On June 20, 2022, on the occasion of his 50th Ordination Anniversary and retirement, Father Mike O’Brien came full circle, celebrating one of his last Masses as pastor in the very same parish where he had his first experience as pastor of any church. He was only 35 years old when he first moved to Sacred Heart in Canton in 1983. How fitting that this be the location of his final assignment in the Magnolia State.

Father Mike O’Brien pictured in Feb. 1976.

“I’ve had a wonderful life,” Father Mike reflected during his homily. “I love being a priest, and I’m very blessed to have these two worlds: Mississippi, I love ya’ll (he drawled)… and Ireland, I love my Ireland.” As he recaptured highlights of the many memories he lived during his childhood and priesthood, he noted that this was the longest sermon he’d given in all his 50 years. But he made certain to proclaim this truth, “I always knew God was with me, especially in the hard times of our Starkville church burning, Hurricane Katrina and the ICE raids.”

The beautiful, little church on Center Street was filled to the brim with the faithful from the many parishes and cities where Father Mike has served. Several who came to honor him had to watch the Mass on monitors in the Parish Center due to lack of seating, but they didn’t mind. They were simply happy to be there to bid farewell to this priest who had touched their lives in such a special way.

The evening was a beautiful blending of cultures — just as the church is meant to be — with the readings, songs, and food representing English, Spanish and, of course, Irish flair. Fifteen members of Father Mike’s family made the trip from Ireland to Mississippi for this incredibly special occasion. Four generations were represented with the youngest of the clan being present, his great niece, Aoivhinn, only 2 1/2 years old. “We just couldn’t miss it,” said Paul Hickey, nephew of Father Mike. “Michael always came for us. He came back to Ireland for holiday, and for our special celebrations.”

Local parishioners as well as members of Father Mike’s family took part in the Mass. The First Reading was proclaimed by the eldest in the family, Sister Margaret O’Brien, a Sister of Mercy and biological sister to Mike. Nieces Roisin O’Brien and Ciara Todd each read a prayer petition.

Father Mike’s younger brother, Tom, who bears strikingly close resemblance, spoke on behalf of the family at his big brother’s ordination reception although he was only a teenager when Father Mike was ordained. Tom once again delivered a reflection for the family at the end of Father Mike’s 50th Anniversary Mass. “When Bishop Brunini visited our home, we were proud, but a bit apprehensive,” Tom said. “Afterall, our brother was going to a place he couldn’t even spell! But our fears and reservations disappeared quickly. Mom and Dad visited Mike in Mississippi first, then all us siblings made trips. We brought our kids, and our kids brought their kids.” Tom closed with these final thoughts on his older brother, “First and foremost, he is a decent man. We are very, very proud of him.” When speaking of how thrilled the family is that he is going home to begin his retirement, Tom added, “But, we take note that he hasn’t sold his car!”

CANTON – Father Mike O’Brien is pictured at a Mass of Thanksgiving for his 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on Monday, June 20.

More than 40 priests from throughout the state of Mississippi were in attendance, along with Bishop Joseph Kopacz. They led a moving, prayerful, a capella singing of “Salve Regina” just before the whole place joined in the recessional hymn, “This Little Light of Mine,” in honor of the light of Christ evident in Father Mike.

It was a night filled with immense joy, a living testimony to the effect Father Mike has had on this community. “I was so humbled and inspired by the awesome celebration,” Father Mike said. “I enjoyed it and appreciated everything so much.”

But how did this Irishman, born in Roscommon and ordained in Kilbegnet, wind up in Jackson, Mississippi? “It was the Holy Spirit,” he says. “I knew I wanted an adventure. I wanted to go away somewhere to be a priest, someplace like China or Sudan. My cousin was going to be a priest in Mississippi. I knew it was a river, but he said, ‘It’s also a state!’ So, I asked him, ‘Do they speak English there?’ He answered, ‘Well, sort of. …’” The church filled with laughter, as happened many times while Father Mike recounted stories of growing up with seven siblings, his deep love of family clearly shown.

His sister, Assumpta, said their Mom was worried about Mike going so far away because he was so young and didn’t even know not to wear white socks. “It was difficult in the beginning, but then as we heard about the wonderful local people, Mom knew he had a family here.” Assumpta recalled a few memories of her first visit to Mississippi. “We were thrilled with so many new things. I remember Mike had a waffle maker, and we had never seen one before!”

Sacred Heart parish was filled to the brim with the faithful from the many parishes and cities where Father Mike O’Brien served over his 50 years as a priest. (Photos by Berta Mexidor)

Father Mike credited Father Sam Messina with naming the reality that priests have three families – their birth family, their parish family and their family of brother priests. That is why the decision to return to Ireland upon retirement was not an easy one to make. Father Mike left his family and home at the young age of 24 to serve and has lived in Mississippi for 50 years. Father Mike said he has had mixed emotions about leaving, going back and forth over where to spend his retirement years. He had finally decided to stay in Mississippi when his sister, Marie, called with a creative proposition. “Marie said, ‘Why not come (back to Ireland) for just one year?’ and I thought that was a good idea.” said Father Mike.

Assumpta said their parents would be so thrilled that he is returning home to Ireland. “He will be a center for us all,” she said. That seems to be the effect he has on everyone in his midst. “Father Mike has been a great priests’ priest, as well as a great servant to the people,” said his close friend, Father Gerry Hurley, who also hails from Ireland. “Fellow priests could always look to Mike for encouragement, direction and assistance. He is a classic representation of all the good things of Ireland, and the hopes of the seminary that sent him.”

Ten days after the joyous 50th Anniversary celebration in the packed house of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Father Mike O’Brien celebrated his final Mass there as pastor. He bid a bittersweet “slán agat” (goodbye) to his Beloved Mississippi, but with the assurance that he will be back! “I am open,” he said. “I’m not saying that I’m going to Ireland forever.”

This faithful, humble priest with a most gentle heart and endearing smile will be greatly missed. Go with our sincere prayers, love, and blessings, Father Mike!