Category Archives: Entertainment

St. Joe state champions

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JACKSON – Greenville St. Joseph football players hoist the MAIS championship trophy after the game on Thursday, Nov. 16. This is the first state championship for the Fighting Irish. (Photo by Chris Todd of the Clarion Ledger)

By Maureen Smith
JACKSON – Greenville St. Joseph’s football team won its first MAIS state championship on Thursday, Nov. 16 in Jackson. The Fighting Irish beat Tri-County Academy 44-14. The team dominated all of their playoff opponents.
The honors don’t stop there. Three our seniors. Brice Johnson (QB), Jonathan Jordan (WR) and JoQuez Sanders (LB) were selected for the 2017 MAIS All Star Game. The boys reported to Jackson on Tuesday, Nov 28, to be honored at an awards banquet Thursday, Nov 30 and participate in the MAIS All-Star Game Friday, Dec 1 at Jackson Preperatory School.
Congratulations to the Greenville community on the big win.

Entertainment

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Thank You for Your Service

By Joseph McAleer
NEW YORK (CNS) – For many soldiers returning from war, a brand-new battle for survival begins at home. That struggle is depicted in “Thank You for Your Service” (Universal), a powerful drama about the devastating impact of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Writer-director Jason Hall, inspired by David Finkel’s eponymous nonfiction book, chronicles fact-based stories of veterans of the Iraq War as they work to reconnect with their civilian lives and seek healing, with mixed results.
At the heart of the film is Sgt. Adam Schumann (Miles Teller), who arrives in Kansas with his squad after their latest tour of duty. Outward appearances deceive: Schumann’s smiling demeanor masks an inner turmoil.
He is haunted by the recent death of fellow Sgt. James Doster (Brad Beyer), and the near-fatal wounding of squad member Michael Emory (Scott Haze), felled by a sniper’s bullet. Schumann feels responsible for Doster’s death, and is unable to face his grieving widow, Amanda – played by Amy Schumer, in a less-than-successful departure from her comedic persona – who demands to know how her husband died.

Miles Teller, Beulah Koale and Joe Cole star in a scene from the movie “Thank You for Your Service.” The Catholic News Service classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.(CNS/Universal)

Schumann reunites with his wife, Saskia (Haley Bennett), and his two small children. But despite the horrors of war, he misses his old life and the camaraderie of his men.
“I was a good soldier. I had purpose, and I loved it,” he says.
As Schumann bottles up his emotions, Saskia tries to break down the barrier between them. “Don’t spare me the details,” she pleads. “I can take anything but quiet.”
Meanwhile, another member of the unit, Tausolo Aeiti (Beulah Koale), is in even worse shape, coping with a brain injury sustained during a bomb explosion. As his world falls apart, Aeiti drifts into crime and drugs.
Both Schumann and Aeiti know they need help, and turn to the local Veterans Affairs hospital. But that institution is swamped with requests and low on resources. With waiting lists extending for weeks, returning soldiers are often forced to fend for themselves.
Hall, who wrote the screenplay for another Iraq War drama, 2014’s Best Picture-nominee “American Sniper,” offers a brutally honest portrayal with an emotional intensity that is at times difficult to watch. He evokes sympathy for the veterans and their plight as well as outrage at a bloated bureaucracy seemingly unable to cope with the PTSD crisis at hand.
The film contains graphic wartime violence and bloodshed, a suicide, drug use, a glimpse of full female nudity, sexual banter, a couple of uses of profanity and pervasive rough and crude language. The Catholic News Service classification is A-III – adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R – restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.
(McAleer is a guest reviewer for Catholic News Service.)

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A Bad Moms Christmas

By John Mulderig
NEW YORK (CNS) – Aggressive vulgarity is the incongruous hallmark of this holiday-themed sequel. As the trio of mothers (Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell and Kathryn Hahn) featured in the 2016 original deal with the wholly unrealistic problems caused when their own moms (Christine Baranski, Cheryl Hines and Susan Sarandon) show up for Christmas, with or without an invitation, the only thing more tiresome than their sex-obsessed wisecracking is their self-important resolve to take the feast back and celebrate it in their own fashion. Since that approach includes ogling male strippers dressed as “sexy Santas,” for one of whom (Justin Hartley) Hahn’s character falls, to say they’ve lost touch with the reason for the season is an understatement. Ditto returning co-writers and directors Jon Lucas and Scott Moore.

Mila Kunis and Jay Hernandez star in a scene from the movie “A Bad Moms Christmas.” The Catholic News Service classification is O — morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.(CNS photo/STX Entertainment)

Blasphemy, cohabitation, drug use, strong sexual content including partial nudity and much obscene humor, several uses of profanity, pervasive rough and crude language. The Catholic News Service classification is O – morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R – restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.
(Mulderig is on the staff of Catholic News Service.)

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Novitiate

By Sister Hosea Rupprecht
NEW YORK (CNS) – “Novitiate” (Sony Classics)
At a time when the reforms of Vatican II caused some nuns to leave the convent, a wide-eyed young woman (Margaret Qualley) decides to enter, having fallen in love with God.

Melissa Leo stars in a scene from the movie “Novitiate.” The Catholic News Service classification is O — morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (CNS photo/Sony Pictures Classics)

There a rigid tyrant of a mother superior (Melissa Leo) lords it over her new charges, making it her mission to scrutinize them to see if they are up to the rigors of life in the order. Writer-director Margaret Betts follows the novices as they struggle with faith, sexuality, and the effects of change in the church. An artistic drama with compelling performances, the film nonetheless reveals its creator’s lack of familiarity with Catholicism and ultimately takes a stand viewers of faith are bound to reject. Strong sexual content, including full nudity, same-sex kissing, implied masturbation and lesbian sexual activity, one use of profanity, several instances of rough language, at least one crude term. The Catholic News Service classification is O – morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R – restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.

(Sister Rupprecht, a Daughter of St. Paul, is a guest reviewer for Catholic News Service.)

American Assassin: morals surface in revenge thriller

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By Joseph MCaleer

Shiva Negar, Michael Keaton, Neg Adamson and Dylan O’Brien star in a scene from the movie “American Assassin.” The Catholic News Service classification is L — limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (CNS photo/CBS Films and Lionsgate) 

NEW YORK (CNS) – The award for the most obvious film title of the year goes to “American Assassin” (CBS Films), an action thriller about – you guessed it – a professional killer from the United States, specifically Rhode Island. This adaptation of the 2010 novel by Vince Flynn opens with a bang (multiple bangs, actually) and proceeds at a breakneck pace, leaving in its wake a veritable tsunami of bullets, blood and bodies. It’s a gory revenge fantasy reminiscent of the “Death Wish” films, requiring a strong stomach and extreme patience. But the movie does finally come to its senses, and good triumphs over evil. The story opens on a happy note before spiraling downhill. Mitch Rapp (Dylan O’Brien) has just proposed to his girlfriend, Katrina (Charlotte Vega), on a crowded beach in Ibiza. As he strolls off to get celebratory cocktails, gunmen burst onto the sand and open fire, killing just about everyone in sight, including Katrina. Flash forward two years, and Mitch has transformed himself into a lean, mean, fighting machine, a baby-faced version of Jason Bourne. He is driven by one desire: to avenge Katrina’s death by killing the terrorists responsible. This means learning Arabic, studying the Quran and joining shadowy chat rooms on the internet. Unbeknown to Mitch, the CIA is watching his every move, and deputy director Irene Kennedy (Sanaa Lathan) is impressed. “I like your agenda,” she says. “I know exactly what to do with you.” And so Mitch is recruited for a new black-ops program to infiltrate Iranian terrorists seeking to unleash nuclear war in the Middle East. First he must be trained, and that responsibility falls to Stan Hurley (Michael Keaton), a grizzled Cold War veteran. To his credit, Stan tries to temper Mitch’s rage, and the hothead’s belief that “we kill people who need to be killed.” “We need a higher cause,” Stan counters, discouraging Mitch’s vigilantism. “As soon as it starts feeling good, that’s when you stop being a professional.” As the Iranian plot unfolds, Batman and Robin – make that Stan and Mitch – join forces with Annika (Shiva Negar), a comely Turkish agent who has her own scores to settle. Director Michael Cuesta, channeling a Robert Ludlum thriller, keeps the audience guessing and the body count rising as the trio zips across Europe in search of a mysterious ringleader named Ghost (Taylor Kitsch), who just happens to be an old buddy of Stan’s. The film contains a vigilante theme, constant bloody violence, including torture and gunplay, brief upper female nudity, several uses of profanity and pervasive rough as well as much crude language. The Catholic News Service classification is L – limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R – restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (McAleer is a guest reviewer for Catholic News Service).

Review of faith, culture, politics of past 50 years essential reading

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By Brian T. Olszewski (CNS)

This is the cover of “Getting Religion: Faith, Culture and Politics from the Age of Eisenhower to the Era of Obama” by Kenneth L. Woodward. The book is reviewed by Brian T. Olszewski. 

”Getting Religion: Faith, Culture and Politics from the Age of Eisenhower to the Era of Obama” by Kenneth L. Woodward. Convergent (New York, 2016). 447 pp. $30. In the introduction to “Getting Religion,” Kenneth L. Woodward states two goals for writing it: to “provide an account of American religion, culture and politics over the past 50 years by someone who was fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time to witness events and people in ways that others never could or did; and to challenge some competing narratives through my personal reflections on what happened and why.” That he far surpasses those goals is just one reason why this book is essential reading. In the first two chapters, Woodward blends autobiography with a description of how he saw the United States during the 1940s and ‘50s. Of the latter decade he writes, “religion was embedded in the national culture as well as in the landscape — though, like minerals in the soil, particular religious traditions were deposited at different depths and levels of concentration.” Although the Second Vatican Council and some of its effects, and the “birth control encyclical,” “Humanae Vitae,” fill volumes of reporting and commentary, Catholic readers should appreciate Woodward’s take on these critical moments in Catholic history even though they occupy only a fraction of the pages. The issues, events and personalities he covers go far beyond the Catholic Church. The second part of the book provides an extensive look at what was occurring in the ‘60s and early ‘70s — the civil rights movement, feminization of theology and entrepreneurial religion, i.e. the evangelists, whom he describes as “performance artists.” In each of these areas, Woodward shows how those facets of culture grew out of organized religion or seeped into it, depending on the movement, issue or cause.
Segments of interviews done during his Newsweek stint with the Rev. Billy Graham, Hillary Clinton, New York Gov. Mario Cuomo, the Dalai Lama, Elisabeth Kubler-Ross and others add context to the narrative about the respective times in which they were prominent national and world figures. While “Getting Religion” can be heavy reading due to the subject matter, Woodward adds a smattering of humor throughout. For example, he recalls when Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade for Christ, asked him, “Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal lord and savior?” Woodward replied, “No, I don’t want a personal lord and savior. I prefer the one everyone else has.” Two factual errors detract from the overall quality of this work. One is that the promulgation date for Blessed Paul VI’s encyclical “Populorum Progressio” (“On the Development of Peoples”) is listed as 1961 instead of 1967. Blessed Paul VI was not elected pope until 1963. Woodward also refers to Jesuit Father Robert Drinan of Massachusetts as “the only Catholic priest ever elected to the U.S. Congress.” Father Gabriel Richard was elected to the U.S. House as a nonvoting member from the Michigan Territory in 1822. Norbertine Father Robert Cornell of Wisconsin was elected to the U.S. House in 1974 and 1976. Nonetheless, one would be hard pressed to find anyone else who could compile and organize its contents, and write this book as well as Woodward. His 38-year tenure as the religion editor at Newsweek, combined with knowledge of and lifelong practice of his Catholic faith, are all the credentials he needs. With that combination Woodward provides an engaging story for readers who “were there,” either by participation or merely by living through those times.
For those who only know what they read about those decades and the people, events and movements integral to them, they will feel as though they “were there” once they have read “Getting Religion.”
(Olszewski has written for and edited diocesan publications for more than 40 years.)

Movie reviews

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By John Mulderig
NEW YORK (CNS) – Tech savvy viewers will especially enjoy the wacky proceedings of “The Emoji Movie” (Columbia). But patrons of all stripes will appreciate the film’s themes of loyal friendship and faithful romance.
Set within the smartphone of high school freshman Alex (voice of Jake T. Austin), this lighthearted animated comedy tracks the adventures of a trio of misfits on their quest to reach the internet Cloud.
Gene (voice of T.J. Miller) is a “Meh” icon meant to express only indifference. But the first time Alex makes use of him, the native enthusiasm of his personality, together with nervousness at making his professional debut, causes him to register a strange mix of emotions instead of the bland apathy he was supposed to convey.
This malfunction immediately makes Gene an outcast and draws the ire of the chief emoji, maniacally cheerful Smiler (voice of Maya Rudolph). She condemns Gene to be deleted. So he goes on the run, and joins forces with upbeat hand symbol Hi-5 (voiced by James Corden) and rebellious codebreaker Jailbreak (voice of Anna Faris).
Once one of Alex’s favorites, Hi-5 has fallen into disuse and longs to regain his former popularity. Jailbreak resents the regulated life she is forced to lead on the phone, and hopes to enjoy much greater freedom by transferring herself permanently to the Cloud.
As the three newfound friends bond, and something more than friendship blossoms between Gene and Jailbreak, the challenges of their journey force them to prove their mutual devotion. Messages about teamwork and putting the interests of others ahead of your own goals balance the emphasis on Gene’s right to break the mold and be himself.
The presence of a minor character named Poop – voiced, amusingly, by no less a personage than Sir Patrick Stewart – typifies the predictable potty humor running through director and co-writer Tony Leondis’ script, penned with Eric Siegel and Mike White. Together with episodes of peril, these jokes may make “The Emoji Movie” a less than ideal choice for the youngest film fans.
The feature is preceded by an eccentric, enjoyable short called “Puppy!” which involves a young lad, a giant, disruptive dog named Tinkles and the boy’s indulgent grandfather – who just happens to be Count Dracula.
The film contains characters in jeopardy, mild scatological humor, a suppressed crude expression and a slightly crass term. The Catholic News Service classification is A-II – adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG – parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

Alex, voiced by Jake T. Austin, appears in the animated movie “The Emoji Movie.” The Catholic News Service classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating, PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (CNS photo/Sony) See MOVIE-REVIEW-EMOJI-(EMBARGOED) July 27, 2017.

By Joseph McAleer
NEW YORK (CNS) – A dark chapter of the Motor City’s history is revisited in “Detroit” (Annapurna), a searing period drama.
The setting is the summer of 1967, when race riots broke out in several cities across the country. In Detroit, simmering discontent over systemic discrimination and growing unemployment erupted in African-American neighborhoods. As protesters clashed with police, businesses were set afire and looting was widespread.
The crisis, which lasted four days, resulted in 43 dead, over 7,200 arrests, and the destruction of more than 2,000 buildings. “Detroit” zeroes in on one notorious incident of the so-called “12th Street Riot”: the police raid of the Algiers Motel that caused the death of three unarmed men and the brutal beating of several others.
As violence engulfed the city, the hotel became a refuge of sorts, harboring both innocent patrons and shady characters. Among the former are Larry Reed (Algee Smith) and Fred Temple (Jacob Latimore), members of an up-and-coming musical group, The Dramatics. Separated from their friends, they seek shelter at the Algiers.
At the hotel pool they meet two giggly prostitutes, Karen (Kaitlyn Dever) and Julie (Hannah Murray), white women from Ohio who are making the most of the “Summer of Love.”
Upstairs, 17-year-old Carl Cooper (Jason Mitchell) decides to show off by shooting blanks from a toy pistol. Turning his attention to the growing police presence outside, he next fires the gun into the crowd.
Suspecting a sniper, the police respond in droves, and a reign of terror descends on the Algiers and its residents, including Greene (Anthony Mackie), a decorated Vietnam vet.
The raid is led by a trigger-happy cop, Philip Krauss (Will Poulter), who has a reputation for shooting looters in the back. Krauss rounds up everyone and, with the assistance of fellow officer Flynn (Ben O’Toole), unleashes a ruthless, demeaning interrogation.
A witness to the unfolding horror is Melvin Dismukes (John Boyega), a black security guard charged with protecting a nearby grocery store from looters. Dismukes suspects wrongdoing, and inserts himself into the maelstrom at a key moment.
Needless to say, “Detroit” is not for the squeamish. Kathryn Bigelow (“Zero Dark Thirty”), working from a script by Mark Boal, directs at a furious, gut-wrenching pace, placing the viewer in the very center of the fast-moving storm and incorporating real-life news footage to enhance the immediacy.
However, though graphic, the portrayal of police brutality is never gratuitous. Coupled with the subsequent miscarriage of justice, the harrowing events re-enacted in “Detroit” offer a powerful reminder to mature viewers of a sad but significant incident in America’s past.
The film contains intense bloody violence and torture, brief female nudity and pervasive profane and crude language. The Catholic News Service classification is L – limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R – restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.

John Boyega stars in a scene from the movie “Detroit.” The Catholic News Service classification is L — limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.(CNS photo/Annapurna Pictures) See MOVIE-REVIEW-DETROIT Aug. 2, 2017.

By John Mulderig
NEW YORK (CNS) – The annulment process provides the unusual courtroom setting for the romantic drama “The Tribunal” (Freestyle). While the movie’s Catholic values are strong, they come filtered through some faulty filmmaking.
Divorced musician Joe Seacker (Chris Petty) pursues a decree of nullity so that he can wed his devout girlfriend, Emily Vanderslice (Laura Mock). But his case requires the testimony of his estranged former bandmate and best friend, Tony Mirakul (Ryan Wesley Gilreath).
Tony was once Emily’s boyfriend, and still carries a torch for her while also harboring resentment against Joe for stepping into his shoes after he and Emily split. But Tony has firsthand knowledge of the fact that Joe’s ex, Jessie (Victoria McDevitt), disdained the permanence of marriage as well as the prospect of having kids.
Joe’s cause is represented by Emily’s father, Ben (Jim Damron), and opposed by the tribunals’ “defender of the bond,” Michael Constantino (Chuck Gillespie). Both men are permanent deacons.
Religious themes, including the countercultural message that sex before marriage is a damaging mistake as well as a sin – Tony’s seduction of Emily was the eventual cause of their breakup – will resonate with viewers of faith. But sometimes subpar acting, an amateurish musical score and unlikely plot developments chip away at this small-scale project’s credibility.
Still, the good intentions motivating screenwriter Michael C. Mergler and director Marc Leif are as obvious as they are honorable. And moviegoers used to being immersed in the loose morals of contemporary society will find the earnest ethics surrounding this love triangle a refreshing change.
In that light, at least some parents may consider “The Tribunal” acceptable for older teens, despite the elements listed below.
The film contains bedroom scenes, including a nongraphic premarital sexual encounter, some irreverent images, a mild oath and a few crass terms. The Catholic News Service classification is A-III – adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 – parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

Tom Morton and Ryan Wesley Gilreath star in a scene from the movie “The Tribunal.” The Catholic News Service classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (CNS photo/107 Productions) See MOVIE-REVIEW-TRIBUNAL July 27, 2017.

Youth

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Summer service close to home

SOUTHAVEN – Catholic Service Initiative is an annual event for the six parishes in northern Mississippi served by the priests of the Sacred Heart: St Gregory, Holy Spirit, Good Shepherd, Christ the King, Queen of Peace and St. Joseph. This year groups of teens, including a few from the neighboring Diocese of Memphis, stayed for a week at the Sacred Heart Southern Missions’ volunteer house in Walls so they could do service work. They were able to completely redo a roof for one family and begin work on a wheel chair ramp for another. The boys served one night at the Garden Cafe in Holly Springs which offers a hot meal to the working poor and homeless of the area. One of the pastors, Father Thi Pham, SCJ, was the chef for the night..  
The parishioners and Knights of Columbus of the parishes provided skilled workmen to help at the job sites, volunteer chaperones, food each night and transportation to and from the work/play sites. “CSI helps our teens realize that charity begins at home and that you do not have to travel across the country or to a foreign land in order to help. There are people in need in our own backyards,” wrote parishioner Donna Williamson.

 

WALLS –Above, left, teens from the six parishes stack new shingles on a roof they are repairing on a house. Above, Girls from the six parishes of northern Mississippi worked to help unload trailers of donations for those in need.  (Photos by Donna Williamson )

Colorful Vacation Bible School

GLUCKSTADT –The theme for St. Joseph Parish’s Vacation Bible School this year was Summertime Blast. Students learned about St. Teresa, St. Paul and Mary, Mother of the Church, while focusing on the Eucharist, the commandment to love one snother and the rosary. As part of the closing day organizers prayed a living rosary with the children. (Photos by Karen Worrell)

  

PHILADELPHIA –  Vacation Bible School for Holy Cross Parish ended in a mess for pastor Augustine Palimattam and his youth group as they made “human ice cream sundaes.” (Photo by Brett Moran)

Workshop aims to connect ministers, music, liturgy

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By Mary Woodward
PEARL – “Sacred music and liturgical chant have the task of giving us a sense of the glory of God, of his beauty, of his holiness which wraps us in a ‘luminous cloud.’”
With this quote from Pope Francis given at an international conference on sacred music in March of this year, Alexis Kutarna, director of music and professor at St. Mary Seminary in Houston, Texas, began a two day retreat-style gathering for parish liturgical music ministers and pastors on June 8-9.
The gathering was designed to bring music ministers together to refresh and strengthen their knowledge of the role of music in the liturgy. Pearl St. Jude Parish graciously hosted the event.  

Alexis Kutarna, director of music and professor at St. Mary Seminary in Houston, Texas, led the workshop, hosted at Pearl St. Jude Parish.

Kutarna based her talks in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Roman Missal and Sing to the Lord,  the U.S. Bishops’ document on music in the liturgy. Though the presentations were in English, the substance of the talks applied to the celebration of Mass in any language.
On the first day, Kutarna expounded on the mystery of liturgy and how it is the work of the Blessed Trinity, which draws us into a glimpse of the heavenly banquet and towards our salvation. Quoting the Catechism, Kutarna further explained the liturgy as the work of God, the work of Christ and the work of the Church:
 …the Father accomplishes the ‘mystery of his will’ by giving his beloved Son and his Holy Spirit for the salvation of the world and for the glory of his name. Such is the mystery of Christ, revealed and fulfilled in history according to the wisely ordered plan that St. Paul calls the ‘plan of the mystery’ and the patristic tradition will call the ‘economy of the Word incarnate’ or the ‘economy of salvation.’
For this reason, the Church celebrates in the liturgy above all the Paschal mystery by which Christ accomplished the work of our salvation.
It is this mystery of Christ that the Church proclaims and celebrates in her liturgy so that the faithful may live from it and bear witness to the world… (CCC 1066-1068)
From these foundational statements, Kutarna then took participants on a journey through signs, symbols and sacraments, touching on art, architecture and ultimately music and the role of these in creating and developing our awareness of and participation in the divine liturgy whenever the people of God come together to worship.
She stressed the liturgy is a corporate act of worship by the people of God, where the “eternal event of Christ intersects with chronological time.” Therefore, this should be kept in mind when planning liturgical celebrations.
Art, architecture and music are not intended to be the center of worship but integral parts that lead the community into worship and giving glory to God. The Mass is not a concert or an opportunity to show off voices. Music ministers should seek to enhance the corporate act of worship by striving to connect the worshippers with the choirs of angels and the heavenly hosts.
In the evening, Kutarna took participants through the parts of the Mass offering practical suggestions for various aspects, such as: not to use the Gloria as a “sprinkling” song, when to begin the alleluia, singing a hymn of praise after Communion, and more.
On the second day, Kutarna shared resources and practical information on the role of music ministers and the types of music and instrument choices. While the organ still has pride of place in worship, other instruments may be incorporated as long as they are played in a manner that does not distract or remind worshippers of their other uses, such as electric guitars, which have often been smashed on amplifiers by crazed rock stars.  Music and instruments should reflect the dignity of the celebration and the sacredness of the transcendent moment.
Careful attention should be placed on selecting appropriate hymns based in Scripture and theology. Musical texts reinforce Scripture, the teachings of the church and liturgical theology for worshippers. If you constantly use communion songs that refer to bread, then worshippers are going to continue to think of it as bread, Kutarna emphasized.
She suggested musicians look at the options for selecting music provided by the Church in the liturgical books. Entrance and Communion antiphons are the first three of the four options for music. These antiphons are steeped in Scripture and Catholic theology and can easily be used as an opening or communion hymn.  
They have been developed over the past 19 centuries and can be sung as chant or in more modern settings. Hymns are certainly an option, but once again musicians need to be careful to select hymns that are consistent with Scripture and Church teachings.  
Kutarna also spoke on ways to incorporate the Liturgy of the Hours into parish life.  As part of the retreat, participants gathered to sing Vespers or Evening Prayer; Compline or Night Prayer; Lauds or Morning Prayer; and Sext or Midday Prayer.  
The Liturgy of the Hours has been prayed in parish communities for more than 18 centuries.  For the retreat, Evening Prayer was combined with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Participants were able to learn more about how the hours could be prayed in a parish setting and reflected on those possibilities such as ecumenical gatherings and times when Mass may not be available, especially during the week.
Speaking as the director of the diocesan liturgy office, we wanted to provide an opportunity for liturgical music ministers to come together and refresh their knowledge of the liturgy and music’s role in it. We also wanted to offer some solid foundations and resources on broadening their horizons from just the traditional four hymn Masses.
Kutarna certainly gave us plenty to think about. We thank those who partook and are working on ways to follow up with resources and networking for all parishes.
The retreat was sponsored by the diocesan office of liturgy. Deacon Aaron Williams assisted in planning and was the retreat organ master.

 

Calendar of events

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Correction
JACKSON Tickets for the Catholic Charities Bishops’ Ball scheduled for Saturday, June 10, at Jackson Country Club are $85 per person. The dinner and auction event starts at 6:30 p.m. Details: 601-355-8634. The price printed in the last edition was incorrect. We regret the error.

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
ABERDEEN St. Francis of Assisi, Bible study, held on the last Sunday of each month after Mass in the parish hall. Details: (662) 813-2295.
BROOKSVILLE Dwelling Place Retreat Center, “Transitions and Transformation,” June 9-11. Facilitators: Dr. Francis Baird, LPC, has a private counseling practice in Columbus & Starkville; Clare Van Lent, MA CSp, Dwelling Place director. Begins at 5:30 p.m. Some of the topics that will be dealt with during this retreat will be: realizing my gifts, overcoming my fears, addressing my regrets, exploring my lost dreams. This weekend will be a time to explore these issues in the light of faith. Donation $180. Details: Sheila Avery, secretary, (662) 738-5348 or www.dwellingplace.com to register online.
HERNANDO Holy Spirit, Cursillistas interested in forming a men’s prayer group. Details: call Wayne Miller at (901) 679-3400.
RIDGELAND Hospice Ministries volunteer training program, June 9-10. Volunteers are always in need to answer the call of helping others during one of life’s most trying experiences, terminal illness. It is a fast-paced program filled with speakers (and refreshments). Friday, June 9 – 5:30-8:30 p.m. and Saturday, June 10 1-5 p.m. Details: call Volunteer Services at (601) 898-1053 ext. 258.
JACKSON St. James Episcopal Church “Walking the Mourners’ Path” a 6-week course beginning Sunday, June 4, offers comfort and healing for whatever stage of grief you may be in. Details: call Ann at (769) 257-2377 or mclemore.a@a@gmail.com.
NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, Book Club resumes with a study of a Christian classic, “Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis. Beginning Tuesday, June 6 on the 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of the month at 6 p.m. in the O’Connor Family Life Center. You can download the discussion questions at cslewis.org/resources/studyguides. Details:  (601) 445-5616.

PARISH, SCHOOL AND FAMILY EVENTS
GREENVILLE Steve Azar Delta Soul Celebrity Golf and Charity Event, June 8-10. Details: General Info: info@steveazarsaintceciliafoundation.org or Delta Soul deltasoul@sascf.org.
– Reggie Smith Baseball Clinic, Thursday, June 8, 8 a.m. – noon, Delta Sportsplex, held in conjunction with Delta Soul Celebrity and Charity event. Ages 9 years and older. Cost: $10 per player and all proceeds will benefit the Delta Sportsplex. Details: Beth Giachelli (662) 822-6632 giachelliphotography@hotmail.com or Jeffrey Giachelli (662) 822-6836 jeffrey.giachelli@farmsourceag.com.
JACKSON St. Therese, CWA Garage Sale, Saturday, June 10, 7 a.m. – noon in the gym. Proceeds benefit the parish projects of the St. Therese CWA. Drop-off times are Saturday, June 3, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. & June 5-8, 5-7 p.m. Details: church office, (601) 372-4481.
MERIDIAN Catholic Community of St. Patrick and St. Joseph, the Knights of Peter Claver will be selling fish and rib plates on Saturday, June 3, 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. on the corner of 8th Street and 26th Avenue. If 10 or more tickets are purchased, knights will deliver within the city limits. Details: tickets may be purchased from any Knights of Peter Claver member or call (601) 938-5757.
VICKSBURG St. Michael, meals on wheels next service day is Friday, June 9, 8 a.m. in the Parish Hall. Help is needed with cooking, boxing or delivering the meals, or if you like to donate a dessert, salad, or bread. Details: contact Carrie Meyer at (601) 218-1007 or Jennifer Vincent at (601) 529-3230.

YOUTH BRIEFS
HERNANDO Holy Spirit, Vacation Bible School, June 26-30, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Teen helpers ages 12+ only. Please fill out registration forms and put in basket in back of the church starting the first Sunday in June. Details: Lucy Holland at (662) 429-1188.
JACKSON Sister Thea Bowman School, Enrollment is now underway for 2017-18 school year. Details: contact Shae Robinson at (601) 352-5441.
MADISON St. Francis of Assisi, Hero Central Vacation Bible School. Many heroes are needed to volunteer to teach, assist, work in the kitchen, decorate, and babysit on June 19-23. Details: contact Mary Catherine at mc.george@stfrancismadison.org or (601)-856-5556 to volunteer.
MERIDIAN St. Patrick School, Pre-registration continues for the 2017-18 school year. Registration fee is $300. Details: (601) 482-6044
OXFORD St. John, Vacation Bible School, June 5-9, youth- ages 4 – entering 4th grade. pro-life themed program where kids will learn to discover, respect, protect, serve and celebrate life. Volunteers welcome. Details: contact Kristin Whelan at (404) 538-9100 or kmwhelan8@gmail.com.
SOUTHAVEN Sacred Heart School (PreK-4 through 8th grade) is holding open enrollment for new families.  Sacred Heart is one of three national finalists for Innovations in Catholic Education for Promoting Catholic Identity. Details: Contact principal Bridget Martin (662) 349-0900 or bmartin@shsm.org  

Correction
JACKSON Tickets for the Catholic Charities Bishops’ Ball scheduled for Saturday, June 10, at Jackson Country Club are $85 per person. The dinner and auction event starts at 6:30 p.m. Details: 601-355-8634. The price printed in the last edition was incorrect. We regret the error.

Jóvenes hispanos celebran la resurrección de Cristo

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El 22 de abril, unos 30 jóvenes hispanos celebraron la resurrección de nuestro Señor durante el primer “Pascua Juvenil, Viva Cristo Rey” en el Locus Benedictus en Greenwood. El día consistió en oración, canciones, actividades al aire libre, videos, sesiones de escucha y más. Sacerdotes Redentoristas del Delta estaban disponibles para escuchar confesiones y el día terminó con la celebración de la Santa Misa.

Los jóvenes rezan el Rosario mientras celebran la resurrección de nuestro Señor.

Birthright offers inaugural ‘Mom’s Day 5k’ fund-raiser

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By Melisa Munoz
FLOWOOD – On Saturday, May 6, almost three dozen walkers and runners came out to the Flowood Nature Center to support Birthright of Jackson’s inaugural Mom’s Day 5K and 1-mile Stroller Stroll. Participants honored their moms, both living and deceased, and walked or ran in support of all women who may be struggling with unplanned pregnancies.
In the 5K Run, Sammy Lemonis was the male overall winner and Amber McKenzie was the overall female winner. In the 5K Walk, Larry Sykes was the overall male winner and Julia Gaines was the overall female winner.  All four overall winners were from Brandon.
The funds raised in the 5K are a true blessing to Birthright, which relies solely on donations and is staffed only by volunteers. The money goes directly to provide services and help Birthright achieve its mission to offer free, confidential and non-judgmental love, friendship and support to women who are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy.  Birthright believes that “It is the right of every pregnant woman to give birth, and the right of every child to be born.” Its focus is on loving the mother, reminding her that there is hope and ensuring her that she is not alone.
 Save the date for next year’s Mom’s Day 5K, scheduled for Mother’s Day weekend, Saturday, May 12, 2018.

‘Mom’s Day 5k’