Category Archives: Diocesan News

Oxford Knights of Columbus support life through ultrasound program

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By Jacob Eftink
OXFORD – For many years, Knights of Columbus Council 10901 has faithfully supported the Oxford Pregnancy Center, a local resource that offers compassionate, confidential and high-quality care to women and families. The center provides free services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasound imaging and counseling – all made possible through the generosity of community donors.

Located in an area of visible need and serving a major university community, the center reaches many women in vulnerable situations. The nearest abortion facility is more than 75 miles away in Memphis, making the Oxford Pregnancy Center’s presence all the more essential.

Recognizing the importance of life-affirming care, the Oxford council partnered with the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council Ultrasound Program, which helps pregnancy centers obtain state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment. In 2018, after a survey conducted by the Diocese of Jackson, the Oxford Pregnancy Center qualified for the program and dedicated its first ultrasound machine that December.

By 2024, the center’s leadership identified the need for an upgraded machine to continue providing the highest level of care. Once again, Council 10901 stepped forward. Through its major fundraiser – the St. John’s Knights of Columbus Car Parking Event – the council raised about $30,000, covering half the total cost. The Supreme Council’s Ultrasound Program matched the amount, bringing the final purchase price to $59,243.

OXFORD – St. John the Evangelist Knights of Columbus Council 10901 recently donated a new ultrasound machine to the Pregnancy Center of Oxford. On Nov. 13, Father Mark Shoffner blessed the machine during a small gathering. Pictured from left are Danielle Lewis, Theodore Cutcliffe, Father Mark Shoffner, Father Robert Antony, Louis Cutcliffe and Grand Knight Jim Herzog. (Photo courtesy of Jennifer Newsom)

The collaboration among the Oxford Pregnancy Center, the Diocese of Jackson, the local council and the Supreme Council was a testament to faith in action and a shared commitment to the sanctity of life.
The new ultrasound machine was dedicated Nov. 13, 2025, at a ceremony held at the Oxford Pregnancy Center. Father Mark Shoffner offered a blessing over the machine, and attendees included staff, board members, parishioners from St. John’s Catholic Church, and members of Council 10901.

A highlight of the celebration came when the center’s sonographer demonstrated the clarity of the new equipment, showing guests the vivid images it produces. She noted that the difference in image quality was dramatic – and potentially life-changing.

As one Knight observed, “The ultrasound room is truly sacred space – where decisions for life are made every day.”

Through their faith, generosity and unity, the Oxford Knights of Columbus and their partners have once again brought hope, compassion and life-affirming care to their community.

Carmelite community celebrates first vows of Sister Marie Claire

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By Joanna Puddister King and Tereza Ma
JACKSON – The small community of Discalced Carmelite Nuns in Jackson celebrated a milestone in their monastery on Saturday, Nov. 22, as Sister Marie Claire professed her first vows during a quiet morning ceremony in the chapel.

Originally from the Congo, Sister Marie Claire made her temporary vows of poverty, chastity and obedience before a small gathering that included members of the Carmelite Seculars and supporters from the greater Jackson community. After Mass, she greeted guests with a radiant smile, wearing a crown of flowers symbolizing her vocation as a bride of Christ and her commitment to a life of purity and devotion.

Sister Marie Claire and Bishop Joseph Kopacz on Nov. 22. (Photo by Tereza Ma)

Founded in 1951, the Carmelite monastery has long served the diocese as a place of contemplation, where the nuns devote their lives to prayer, silence and simplicity in service to the People of God.

For those present, the ceremony was a moment of deep joy and inspiration.

“It was a day of great joy,” said Dorothy Ashley, a Carmelite Secular. “I praise God for her vocation and will be praying for her – and hope she’ll be praying for us too.”

For Taylor Coe, who entered the church this past Easter, witnessing his first profession of vows was especially moving. “It was a very enlightening experience,” he said. “Seeing someone commit their entire life to God was beautiful. The nuns have been such a blessing in my life, especially their prayers and their presence.”

The Carmelite community continues to welcome visitors seeking quiet, prayer and the presence of Christ – a mission they describe as sharing “an overflow of contemplation” with the world.

‘Hope does not disappoint:’ A Jubilee for the history books

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By Junno Arocho Esteves
(OSV News) – In his papal bull proclaiming the Jubilee Year, the late Pope Francis emphasized the theme of hope, a much-needed virtue in a time of uncertainty, war and tribulation.

Yet in “Spes Non Confundit” (“Hope Does Not Disappoint”), the pope unknowingly described what many Catholics would feel in the year to come.

“Everyone knows what it is to hope. In the heart of each person, hope dwells as the desire and expectation of good things to come, despite our not knowing what the future may bring,” he wrote.

While the intense monthly schedule of Jubilee events was worrisome, there was still the hope that the ailing pontiff would be able to participate.

Pilgrims from the Diocese of Jackson prepare to enter the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, led by Bishop Joseph Kopacz in October 2025. (Photo by Abbey Schuhmann)

However, those hopes were dashed once his health took a turn for the worse in February, and on April 21, just one day after delivering what would be his final Easter Sunday “urbi et orbi” blessing, Pope Francis died.

For Archbishop Rino Fisichella, organizer of the Jubilee 2025 events and pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, the pope’s death “created a silence that was felt in the streets of Rome and the world, as well as in every Christian community.”

In an interview via email Dec. 3, Archbishop Fisichella told OSV News that it was in those days of mourning that “the motto of the Jubilee took on a different light.”
“The faithful understood that Christian hope is not a sentiment, but a promise,” he said.

Interregnum
Despite his ill health, Pope Francis’ death still came as a shock to many and triggered a series of events that occurred only once in the Catholic Church’s history.

The last time the death of a pope and the election of his successor occurred in a Jubilee Year was in 1700 with the death of Pope Innocent XII and the election of Pope Clement XI.

Aside from the uncertainty regarding who would be the next leader of the Catholic Church, Archbishop Fisichella acknowledged that it “was useless to deny” that the interregnum period caused “a certain objective difficulty.”

Alessandro Gisotti, deputy editorial director of Vatican Media, told OSV News Nov. 11 that the Jubilee faced challenges even before the pope’s death.

“When the pope was at Gemelli Hospital, the Jubilee continued, but without the pope, it was naturally more subdued,” Gisotti said.

For both Archbishop Fisichella and Gisotti, the death of Pope Francis and the conclave and election of Pope Leo XIV did not stop the Jubilee but instead redefined it.

Despite the demanding schedule, the archbishop added, “Pope Leo XIV accepted the calendar without fear and, from the beginning, chose to maintain the programmed Jubilee commitments.”

A door opened, a door closed
In December 2024, Pope Francis opened the Holy Door in St. Peter’s, marking the beginning of the Jubilee. The task of closing that door now falls to his successor, Pope Leo XIV.

For Archbishop Fisichella, the fact that Pope Francis would not be the one to end the Jubilee of Hope is one of “profound symbolic value.”

“Let this unfinished gesture become an invitation for every believer: The mission of the church never closes,” he said.

“Crossing the Holy Door means assuming the responsibility to bring hope where it is missing,” he said.

“The ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ return to their dioceses with a stronger sense of belonging and, above all, with the awareness that daily witness is the first place of evangelization.”

(Junno Arocho Esteves writes for OSV News from Malmö, Sweden.)

Calendar of Events

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

CANTON – Sacred Heart, Advent Penance Service, Monday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m. Details: church office (601) 859-3749.

CLEVELAND – Our Lady of Victories, Advent Confessions, Tuesday, Dec. 16 from 4-6:30 p.m. Several priests will be available.

DIOCESE – Engaged Encounter 2026 dates, Feb. 27-March 1; April 24-26; Aug. 28-30; Oct. 2 -4. Details: couples may register at https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/230073 or email debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Ladies Retreat, Feb. 6-8, 2026 at Our Lady of Hope Retreat Center in Chatawa. Open to women age 21+. Cost: $300/person, includes accommodations and all meals. Deadline to register is Jan. 16. Details: email claudiaaddison@mac.com.

MERIDIAN – St. Patrick, Advent Penance Service, Monday, Dec. 15 at 5:30 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Details: church office (601) 693-1321.

OXFORD – Diocesan Campus Ministry Winter Retreat “Radical Grace: Living the Gospel Upside Down,” Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church. Cost: $20 – Registration deadine is Jan. 23. Come and be renewed! Details: amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Christmas Tree Sale, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 1-6 p.m. Details: church office (662) 335-5251.

GREENWOOD – St. Francis, Christmas Bingo Night, Tuesday, Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria. Fun for the whole family, with prizes, concessions and more. Details: church office (662) 453-0623.

JACKSON – Carmelite Monestary, during this holiday season, they are currently taking orders for their famous Rum Cakes and Brown Breads. To order yours, please call the Gift Shop at (601) 373-1460 during store hours (Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. When you pick up your order check out the wonderful gift shop. Details: www.jacksoncarmel.com or (601) 373-1460.

MADISON – St. Joseph School, Annual Draw Down, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, at Reunion Country Club. Details: school office (601) 898-4800.

OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Christmas Tree Sale, Monday through Friday 4-7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday 12-5 p.m. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.

PARISHES OF NORTHWEST MS – World Youth Day in South Korea, Aug. 3-7, 2027. Join the Priests of the Sacred Heart on an unforgettable pilgrimage that includes Mass with Pope Leo and so much more. For ages 16-23. Cost: $1,333 plus fundraising efforts. Application packets available in the parish office. Details: Contact Vickie at (662) 895-5007.

PEARL – St. Jude, Posadas, Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 6:30 p.m. Details: church office (601) 939-3181.

EMPLOYMENT
DIOCESE – The Diocese seeks a Facilities Manager to support parishes/schools. Oversees contract review, construction, and diocesan property/life-health-safety policies; manages maintenance and repairs for the Chancery and diocesan sites. Bachelor’s/associate degree in facilities or construction preferred; CFM preferred; 5+ years facilities/construction management required. Email résumé and cover letter to cathy.pendleton@jacksondiocese.org.

CATHOLIC SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR POSITIONS – The Diocese seeks qualified, faith-filled leaders to serve as administrators in our Catholic schools. Positions available at St. Joseph School, Madison (Grades 7–12), St. Joseph School, Greenville (Grades PK3–12), and St. Elizabeth School, Clarksdale (Grades PK3–6). Applicants should be practicing Catholics with leadership experience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to Catholic education. For details, visit jacksondiocese.org/administrator-employment.

Fall Faith Formation Day gathers parish leaders for renewal, connection and new pathways for lay formation

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By Joanna Puddister King
MADISON – Parish leaders from across the Diocese of Jackson gathered at St. Francis of Assisi Church on Saturday, Nov. 15, for the annual Fall Faith Formation Day, a one-day workshop hosted each November by the Department of Faith Formation. This year’s theme, “Pilgrims of Hope: Journeying Together,” invited catechists, youth ministers, DREs and parish volunteers to reflect on their call to accompany the people of God with renewed purpose.

The keynote presenter was Robert Feduccia, a nationally recognized speaker who grew up in Brookhaven and attributes his own call to ministry to formative experiences in the Diocese of Jackson. He opened the day with lively “would you rather” questions that had participants laughing, moving and interacting with one another before leading them into deeper conversations about the heart of ministry.

Feduccia encouraged parish leaders to see themselves not as program directors who simply manage logistics, but as ministry leaders rooted in the church’s tradition and attentive to the lived reality of their parish communities. He noted that Mississippi’s Catholic population, though small and diverse, is uniquely positioned for authentic accompaniment and relationship-based ministry. He urged participants to present the faith as truly good news, helping people encounter Christ rather than focusing solely on intellectual debates or apologetics.

MADISON – Robert Feduccia engages participants during his keynote presentation at Fall Faith Formation Day on Nov. 15 at St. Francis of Assisi Parish. Leaders from parishes across the diocese gathered for a day of workshops, prayer and formation. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)

Sister Amelia Breton provided live translation during the keynote, allowing Spanish-speaking participants to engage fully. For the first time, the event also offered breakout sessions presented entirely in Spanish.

Throughout the day, attendees chose from a range of practical workshops addressing real needs in parish life. Presenters included Sister Amelia Breton, who spoke on accompaniment of migrant communities; Rebecca Harris, who discussed parish fundraising and stewardship; Emily Moran, who explored the confirmation journey with young people; Ruth Powers, who addressed reclaiming community life within parishes; Amelia Rizor, who focused on small-group ministry; and Debbie Tubertini, who offered insights on marriage enrichment. Spanish-language sessions were led by Danna Johnson and Raquel Thompson, who both presented on developing community involvement and small groups within parish settings.

In the closing session, Fran Lavelle, director of Faith Formation, introduced the work of the Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation. She emphasized that one of the most important lessons learned through the diocesan synod and pastoral reimagining process is the need to respond when the faithful are asked to share their needs and hopes. She said the Center represents a concrete response to that input and thanked those who helped develop its formation path.

MADISON – Robert Feduccia speaks to faith formators from across the diocese for Faith Formation Day on Saturday, Nov. 15. (Photo by Joanna King)

The Bishop Houck Center for Lay Formation is designed to help lay leaders grow in faith, knowledge and service through programs grounded in education, evangelization and leadership development. The initiative builds on Bishop Houck’s legacy of supporting lay ministry and evangelization and offers formation opportunities in both English and Spanish for parish teams and individual leaders across the diocese.

The event closed with a final keynote from Feduccia, sending participants back to their parishes encouraged, energized and reminded that God works powerfully through the faithful who say yes to serving his church.

(To learn more about the Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation and upcoming opportunities for training and enrichment, visit jacksondiocese.org/bishop-houck-center-for-lay-formation.)

Check out our photo gallery on Zenfolio

Calendar of Events

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

CANTON – Sacred Heart, Advent Penance Service, Monday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m. Details: church office (601) 859-3749.

PEARL – St. Jude, Advent Penance Service, Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. Details: church office (601) 939-3181.

PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
FLOWOOD – St. Paul, Rededication Mass, Sunday, Nov. 23 at 3 p.m. Details: church office (601) 992-9547.

HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, Advent/Christmas Concert, on Sunday, Nov. 30 at 4 p.m. Details: church office (662) 429-7851.

MADISON – St. Anthony School, Starry Night Gala, Friday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Bill Waller Craft Center. Details: school office at (601) 607-7054.

MADISON – St. Joseph School, Annual Draw Down, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, at Reunion Country Club. Details: school office (601) 898-4800.

PEARL – St. Jude, Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Thursday Dec. 11 after 6:30 p.m. Mass the parish will have a special rosary and serenade. On Friday Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. join us for a procession and Mass, plus a potluck after mass.

St. Jude, Posadas, Wednesday Dec. 17 at 6:30 pm. Details: church office (601) 939-3181.

EMPLOYMENT
JACKSON – Diocese of Jackson seeks a Facilities Manager to support parishes and schools. Oversees contract review, construction, and diocesan property/life-health-safety policies; manages maintenance and repairs for the Chancery and diocesan sites. Bachelor’s/associate degree in facilities or construction preferred; CFM preferred; 5+ years facilities/construction management required. Email résumé and cover letter to Cathy Pendleton at cathy.pendleton@jacksondiocese.org.

CATHOLIC SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR POSITIONS – The Diocese of Jackson seeks qualified, faith-filled leaders to serve as administrators in our Catholic schools. Positions available at St. Joseph School, Madison (Grades 7–12), St. Joseph School, Greenville (Grades PK3–12), and St. Elizabeth School, Clarksdale (Grades PK3–6). Applicants should be practicing Catholics with leadership experience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to Catholic education. For details and applications, visit jacksondiocese.org/administrator-employment.

JACKSON PARENTS SHARE YOUR VOICE IN THE METRO SCHOOL SURVEY
JACKSON – Families with children from early childhood through 12th grade are invited to take part in the Jackson Catholic Schools Family Survey on Education.

Whether your children attend Catholic schools or not, your feedback will help us better serve families across our Catholic community. The short survey asks about your experiences and how you make schooling decisions. Take the survey today at https://tinyurl.com/JacksonCatholicEd.

IN MEMORIAM – DEACON MARK WHITE
OLIVE BRANCH – Please pray for the repose of the soul of Deacon Emeritus Mark White, who died on Nov. 17, 2025. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 1, at Queen of Peace, 8455 Germantown Rd., Olive Branch, MS 38651. Visitation will be held one hour before the Mass. Bishop Joseph Kopacz will be the principal celebrant, with Father Hendrik “Ardi” Ardianto, SCJ and Father David Szatkowski, SCJ concelebrating and Deacon Ted Schreck preaching the Gospel. Eternal rest grant upton him, O Lord.

CSA feature: Catelin Britt – saying ‘yes’ to God’s call

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At St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Clarksdale, faith is growing strong among the parish’s young people thanks to Catelin Britt’s “yes” to God’s call – and the vital support of the Catholic Service Appeal (CSA).
For the past eight years, Catelin has served the parish in various ways and now leads as the Coordinator of Religious Education. Her journey in ministry began long before she joined the Catholic Church.

“It started when I was in ninth grade,” Catelin said. “I was asked to be a WYLD Life leader for middle school students. Sharing faith with them and walking through life together really shaped me.”

When she entered the Catholic Church in 2017, Catelin jumped right into parish life. “I was asked to help with Vacation Bible School and said yes right away,” she recalls. “It was chaotic, tiring, but so fulfilling!” That experience led to more opportunities – teaching First Communion prep, Sunday School, and eventually youth ministry. “Whenever I’ve been asked to share my faith, I’ve always said yes. God calls us to use our gifts to evangelize.”

Serving youth has also deepened her own faith. “I spend a lot more time in prayer now, especially for each child in our program,” Catelin said. “It’s also pushed me to keep learning about my faith so I can better guide them.”

Over the past few years, Catelin has witnessed incredible growth among the parish’s youth. “We’ve seen more participation not just in youth group, but at Mass,” she said. “We even have several young men discerning entering the church, inspired by their peers’ love for the faith.”

Thanks to support from the Catholic Service Appeal, ministries like Catelin’s continue to thrive. “The CSA eases financial burdens and allows us to focus on the kids,” she said. “Every dollar helps create opportunities for them to grow in faith. Generosity truly changes lives – and it’s helping form the church of today and tomorrow.”

To support youth ministry and other vital diocesan programs, visit jacksondiocese.org and make your gift to the Catholic Service Appeal today.

The annual Catholic Service Appeal unites Catholics across the Diocese of Jackson to support 14 vital ministries that serve local communities. From faith formation and youth ministry to seminarian education and clergy healthcare, these initiatives help carry the Gospel’s message to those in need throughout the diocese. Give today to help these ministries thrive.

CLARKSDALE – Catelin Britt (far left), coordinator of religious education at St. Elizabeth Parish, stands with the parish’s 2024 Confirmation class on April 6. Pictured with Catelin Britt, Bishop Joseph Kopacz and Father Raju Macherla are Kevin Elias, Angel Zuniga, Dominic Birdsong, Priscila Lopez, Bella Favi, Ayden Lutts and Bailey Martin. (Photo courtesy of the parish)

Click here to DONATE to the CSA in support of faith formation

Faith and friendship flourish in Saltillo

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By Joanna Puddister King
SALTILLO, Mexico – Bishop Joseph Kopacz and Bishop Louis Kihneman of Biloxi traveled together to Saltillo, Mexico, October 15–20, continuing a long tradition of friendship and shared faith between Mississippi and the Diocese of Saltillo.

The trip marked Bishop Kopacz’s eleventh visit to the mission founded by Father Patrick Quinn more than 50 years ago. Father Quinn, who served in Mississippi before being assigned to Mexico in 1969, worked tirelessly to build bridges of faith between the people of Saltillo and the faithful of Mississippi. Today, his legacy continues to thrive through the Mission of San Miguel and the many chapels that extend across the desert landscape.

During their five-day pilgrimage, the bishops celebrated the Eucharist in city parishes and rural communities, visited Father Quinn’s tomb at Parroquia del Perpetuo Socorro, and joined local families in joyful processions honoring the Holy Infant of Good Health. At San Miguel, they gathered with parishioners for Mass before walking through the streets in celebration, surrounded by color, song, and faith-filled joy.

The visit also included confirmation Masses in Garambullo and Tanque del Cerro, meals and fellowship with local priests, and time spent at small desert ranchos where the people welcomed the bishops with open hearts. On the fourth day, rain fell over the desert for the first time in Bishop Kopacz’s eleven years of visits – a moment that filled the communities with thanksgiving and praise.

While in Saltillo, the bishops also visited Father Adolfo Suárez, a diocesan priest from St. Michael Parish in Forest and its missions, who has been serving at the Mission of San Miguel since April. Father Adolfo returned to Mexico earlier this year due to U.S. immigration limits that affect many foreign-born priests and religious serving in dioceses across the country.

Bishop Kopacz continues to raise awareness about the Religious Worker Protection Act (RWPA) – bipartisan legislation that would allow priests, sisters and other ministers like Father Adolfo to remain in the U.S. while awaiting permanent residency. “These faithful men and women serve our parishes and our people with dedication and love,” Bishop Kopacz said. “Their ministry is essential to the life of our church.”
“Every visit to Saltillo is a reminder of the universality of our church,” Bishop Kopacz added. “We may live far apart, but we share the same faith, the same hope, and the same joy in Christ.”

The Mission of Saltillo remains a living partnership between the Dioceses of Jackson and Saltillo – a bond strengthened through prayer, presence and a shared mission to serve God’s people.

SALTILLO, Mexico – Bishops Joseph Kopacz and Louis Kihneman of Biloxi celebrate the first Mass of their trip at Santos Mártires Parish on Oct. 15 with Father David Martínez Rubio and Father Adolfo Suárez Pasillas.
Bishop Joseph Kopacz concelebrates Mass at San Juan Diego Parish on Oct. 16 with Father Adolfo Suárez (right) and visiting clergy from the Diocese of Saltillo.
Bishop Joseph Kopacz blesses parishioners with the cape of the Holy Infant of Good Health after a rosary and procession at San Miguel Parish. Earlier, two parishioners changed the infant’s garment, with the previous cape used in the blessing.
NUEVO GÓMEZ RANCHO, Mexico –Bishop Joseph Kopacz checks in with his ride before joining the procession to San Francisco del Ejido.
NUEVO GÓMEZ RANCHO, Mexico –Students celebrate Confirmation and one First Communion at Santa Teresa Parish.
TONQUE DEL CERRO, Mexico – Bishop Louis Kihneman of Biloxi and Bishop Joseph Kopacz of Jackson celebrate an outdoor Mass with confirmations at Sagrado Corazón Parish on Oct. 19. (Photos by Tereza Ma)

Journey of Hope inspires faithful to “live God’s dream” through service and discipleship

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By Joanna Puddister King
JACKSON – Catholic Charities’ annual Journey of Hope took on a new format this year, reaching across the diocese with two gatherings that drew nearly 800 people to celebrate faith, service and hope.

More than 550 guests attended the Oct. 22 luncheon at the Country Club of Jackson, while another 250 gathered the following day at St. James Parish in Tupelo, where the focus centered on the outreach of Catholic Charities’ Vardaman office in Northeast Mississippi.

“Each event reflected how Catholic Charities and our programs are guided by our faith,” said Michael Thomas, development director for Catholic Charities of Jackson. “The goal is always that everyone leaves with a positive sense of what Catholic Charities is doing throughout our state to better the lives of so many.”

JACKSON – Father Burke Masters speaks to a crowd of over 550 gathered at the Country Club of Jackson for Catholic Charities annual Journey of Hope event on Wednesday, Oct. 22. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)

Featured speaker Father Burke Masters, a former Mississippi State University baseball standout, Chicago Cubs chaplain and priest of the Diocese of Joliet, told guests that discipleship requires the same commitment and discipline once demanded of him on the field.

Scouts, he said, used to rate ballplayers on six “tools”: hitting, power, running, fielding, throwing and baseball IQ. “I was good at everything but great at nothing,” he recalled with a smile. “Not all of us can become Major League ballplayers, but all of us can become better disciples of Jesus Christ.”

He offered a spiritual parallel – the six tools of a disciple: grow, give, serve, worship, imitate Jesus, and build community. “Everybody looks for meaning and purpose,” he said. “And I can’t imagine anything more meaningful or purposeful than eternal life.”

Father Masters urged guests to make time for daily formation. “We practiced five hours a day to be the best baseball players we could be,” he said. “How much time do you and I invest in our spiritual lives?”
He also challenged listeners to approach worship with gratitude. “You don’t have to go to church – you get to go,” he said. “You get to worship the God of the universe.”

Thomas said proceeds from the Jackson event will benefit all Catholic Charities programs, while donations from Tupelo will remain in the Vardaman regional office, supporting ministries that serve families and individuals across the northeast region. “Donors know that they have a vested interest in what is accomplished in their own communities,” he said.

This year’s events highlighted Catholic Charities’ mission to bring hope and healing statewide through more than two dozen programs, from adoption and counseling to domestic-violence intervention and outreach for immigrants and refugees.

TUPELO – Wayne Hereford of WTVA interviews Father Burke Masters after his Journey of Hope talk at St. James Parish. (Photo by Tereza Ma)

Thomas credited widespread collaboration for the Jackson events’ success, noting leadership from St. Paul, Flowood; St. Francis of Assisi, Madison; and St. Richard, Jackson, who “led parish participation this year and set an example we hope others will follow.”

He also expressed appreciation for Christina Bach, executive director of Catholic Charities; Father Tim Murphy and the St. James staff in Tupelo; Michele Harris, board chair; and Julie Gibert, who chaired the development committee. “Everyone worked so hard to bring back our Journey of Hope and make it a success in both Jackson and Tupelo,” Thomas said.

Thomas said the dual-location format may continue in future years depending on the speaker, noting how fortunate organizers were that Father Masters could address both gatherings.

“Great things are happening with our programs,” he added. “Our Kinship Navigator Program is expanding to Greenwood and Jackson; and Born Free has a new director.”

In closing, Father Masters shared a story about receiving a replica Chicago Cubs World Series ring from seminarians while serving as vocation director. He often shows it to students, who “ooh and ahh” before he explains it is a $15 imitation. “It looks real, but it’s not,” he said, adding that his real focus is on a greater prize. “The crown of eternal glory doesn’t collect dust, it doesn’t fade away, and it lasts forever. Let’s live today as disciples preparing for that face-to-face meeting with God.”