Category Archives: Parish News

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
GLUCKSTADT – St. Joseph, Millions of Monicas – Praying with confidence for our children, each Tuesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the church. Join with other mothers and grandmothers as we pray for our children’s faithful return to the church. Details: email millionsofmonicas@stjosephgluckstadt.com.
Knights of Columbus – Grow in your faith with five short videos produced by the Knights of Columbus called the “Mission of The Family.” The Mission of the Family” videos can be found at https://www.kofc.org/en/campaigns/into-the-breach.html. Videos are less than 14 minutes in length.

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

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

PILGRIMAGE – Pilgrimage to Marian Shrines (Fatima, Spain and Lourdes) with Father Lincoln Dall and Deacon John McGregor, Sept, 15-24, 2025. Details: for more information visit www.206tours.com/frlincoln.

PILGRIMAGE – Pilgrimage to Rome, Assisi, Lisbon and Fatima with Father Carlisle Beggerly, Oct. 4-15, 2025. Cost: $5,799 per person (includes airfare from anywhere in the U.S.) Details: contact Pat Nause at (601) 604-0412; Proximo Travel at (855) 842-8001 or proximotravel.com. Mention trip #1181.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURE PHOTO: … This Little Light of Mine …

Posted on by
JACKSON – On Saturday, Dec. 21, the Sister Thea Bowman School choir, with assistance from St. Joe choir members, perform “This Little Light of Mine” at a special Mass at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle with Bishop Joseph Kopacz in honor of the dedication of the new bronze statue of Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, a gift of the bishops of the Province of Mobile. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

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

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

OFFICE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION – The OCE hosts a Zoom Rosary the first Wednesday of each month during the school year at 7 p.m. On Jan. 8, St. Anthony School will lead us in prayer. Join early and place your intentions in the chat. Details: Join the rosary via zoom at https://bit.ly/zoomrosary2024 or check the diocese calendar of events.

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

PILGRIMAGE – Pilgrimage to Marian Shrines (Fatima, Spain and Lourdes) with Father Lincoln Dall and Deacon John McGregor, Sept, 15-24, 2025. Details: for more information visit www.206tours.com/frlincoln.

PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS
JACKSON – Holy Family, Simbang Gabi Mass with a Novena, Dec. 16-24 at 4 a.m. Come join this Filipino tradition on the nine days before Christmas.

Holy Family, Las Posadas, Monday, Dec. 23 at 6 p.m. Details: church office (601) 362-1888.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, Statue Dedication of Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, Saturday, Dec. 21 at 11 a.m. The statue is a gift from the Bishops of the Province of Mobile. The celebration will begin with Mass, followed by the blessing of the statue, then a reception to follow.

Cathedral of St. Peter, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025 from 1-2:30 p.m. with speaker Constance Slaughter Harvey. You may write a short reflection on how Dr. King’s message impacted your life or society. Submit by Jan. 10. Details: amelia.breton@jacksondiocese.org.

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

MADISON – St. Francis, Ring in Your Faith 10k/5k, Wednesday, Jan. 1 at 8 a.m. You are guaranteed a delicious New Year’s Day meal and fellowship after the race. Cost is $30, with proceeds to assist Knights ongoing service projects. Register at https://bit.ly/RingInYourFaith2025. Details: Joe at leslieslee@hotmail.com.

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

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

WORLD MARRIAGE DAY – Event recognizes couples celebrating special anniversaries in 2025 – 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th or longer. Celebrations held in Jackson at the Cathedral of St. Peter on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 1 p.m. and in Tupelo at St. James on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 5 p.m. Register by Jan. 7, 2025. Details: email debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org.

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

Holy Family School marks 75 years of faith, education and service

Posted on by

By Laura Grisham
HOLLY SPRINGS – Holy Family School recently celebrated its 75th anniversary with a three-day event filled with faith, fellowship and festivities. The school, a cornerstone of Catholic education in the region, has evolved from its beginnings as St. Mary’s School in 1948 to Cadet in 1969, and finally Holy Family in 1994.

The celebration began with a special Mass led by Bishop Joseph Kopacz. He was joined by SCJ Fathers Jack Kurps, Vien Nguyen, David Szatkowski and Guy Blair as co-celebrants. The Mass, enhanced by the angelic voices of St. Mary’s choir, set a reverent tone for the festive weekend.

Bishop Kopacz’s homily highlighted the school’s journey and the enduring contributions of its educators. “For 75 years, teachers, administrators and community leaders at Holy Family School have embodied the mind and heart of Christ, serving as beacons of hope and faith for students and families,” he said.
Drawing on the words of St. Paul, the Bishop celebrated the gifts of teaching, prophecy and service in the community of faith. He also tied the celebration to the upcoming Jubilee Year of Hope, declared by Pope Francis for 2025. “Rejoice in hope, persevere in affliction, and be faithful in prayer,” he urged attendees, calling the milestone a testament to faith and resilience.

HOLLY SPRINGS – Several staff members were honored at the 75th anniversary celebration at Holy Family School on Saturday, Nov. 9. (Photo by Laura Grisham)

The festivities reflected the vibrancy of Holy Family’s legacy. Alumni traveled from as far as Alaska, Michigan and Illinois to reconnect and reminisce. St. Mary’s School alumni gathered to sing their school song, “The Bells of St. Mary’s,” rekindling fond memories.

Despite the dreary weather, celebration was attended by Holy Family students and parents, school alumni and people from across the Marshall County community. Throughout the weekend, participants enjoyed a mix of family-friendly activities, including performances by the students, basketball scrimmages, a bazaar, carnival games, a cake walk, grab bags, bingo and a silent auction. The celebration also featured a catered alumni dinner and dance, bringing together past and present members of the school community.

A Legacy of Service
Holy Family School’s story is one of adaptation and commitment to its mission. When it opened in 1948 as St. Mary’s School, it served 55 students across eight grades with just one teacher. The following year, enrollment grew, aided by the arrival of four School Sisters of St. Francis. By 1950, a high school was added, accommodating the rhythms of the cotton harvest by pausing classes in autumn.

In 1969, the school merged with St. Joseph School to become CADET (Christian Aided Development Through Extraordinary Training). In 1994, it adopted the name Holy Family to honor its Catholic roots and its dedication to serving children and families in Holly Springs.

Honoring Staff
Several staff members were recognized for their tenure and enduring commitment to the school, including Holy Family’s new principal, Cynthia Dixon, school secretary Cathy Walker (45 years) and teachers Artheria Relliford (35 years), Shirley Daugherty (50 years) and Srs. Julene Stromberg and Ramona Schmidknecht, OSFs, (retired).

As part of the anniversary, the Marshall County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution honoring Sister Ramona Schmidknecht, OSF, for her 56 years of service as an educator at St. Mary’s, CADET, and Holy Family School and 61 years of service to the Marshall County community.

Looking Ahead
Bishop Kopacz concluded his remarks by reflecting on the Sacred Heart of Jesus as a model for the community.

“May we strive to beat with the heart of Christ and serve with His mind,” he said, adding his hope that Holy Family’s legacy will endure for another 75 years.

With its rich history and unwavering mission, Holy Family School remains a beacon of hope, faith and service in Holly Springs and beyond.

(Laura Grisham is the PR and Communications manager for Sacred Heart Southern Missions in Walls, Mississippi.)

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

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, grandmothers and step-mothers as we pray for our children’s faithful return to the church. Details: church office (601) 856-2054 or email millionsofmonicas@stjosephgluckstadt.com.

St. Joseph, Fatima Five First Saturdays Devotion, Jan. 4, Feb. 1, March 1, April 5 and May 3, 2025. Confession begins at 8 a.m. and ends with a period of meditation beginning at 10 a.m. Details: church office (601) 856-2054.

PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS
COLUMBUS – Annunciation Parish, “Columbus Sings G.F. Handel’s Messiah,” Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. Tickets available in church office. No charge. Details: church office (662) 328-2927.

GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Christmas Tree Sale, Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays 1-6 p.m. Proceeds go to St. Joseph School. Lot located next to Chillie’s store on Hwy 82. Details: church office (662) 335-5251.

JACKSON – Holy Family, Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration, Sunday, Dec. 15 after 10:30 a.m. Mass. Details: church office (601) 362-1888.

Holy Family, Simbang Gabi Mass with a Novena, Dec. 16-24 at 4 a.m. Come join this Filipino spiritual tradtion on the nine days before Christmas.

Holy Family, Las Posadas, Monday, Dec. 23 at 6 p.m. in Balsar Hall.

JACKSON – St. Peter, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025 from 1-2:30 p.m. with speaker Constance Slaughter Harvey. You may write a short reflection on how Dr. King’s message impacted your life or society. Submit by Jan. 10. Details: amelia.breton@jacksondiocese.org.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Christmas Candlelighting Celebration for Deceased Loved Ones, Thursday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. in Foley Hall. A ceremony of prayer and rememberance is included, followed by refreshments. Details: RSVP to Nancy at (601) 942-2078 or ncmcghee@bellsouth.net.

St. Richard School, Cardinal Christmas at the new campus (4261 I-55 N Frontage Road), Thursday, Dec. 12 from 5:30-8 p.m. Enjoy a chili supper, arts and crafts, Santa, Advent pew auction and Special Kids Art Show. Details: school office (601) 366-1157.

MADISON – St. Joseph School, Gifts of the Season Performance, Sunday, Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. in the Fine Arts Auditorium. Details: school office (601) 898-4800.

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

NATCHEZ – St. Mary Basilica, Lessons and Carols, Sunday, Dec. 15 at 5 p.m. Donations welcome. Christmas party to follow in the Family Life Center. Details: church office (601) 445-5616.

OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Cocktails and Catholicism with Father Stephen Huffstetter, SCJ, Friday, Dec. 13, doors open at 6 p.m. Event for 21+. BYOB. Details: register at https://bit.ly/494yJ7L.

Queen of Peace, Christmas Tree Sale, Monday through Friday 4-7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday from 12-5 p.m. Fraser trees available from 5-10 feet. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.

TUPELO – St. James, Misa Mesa Musa, Sunday, Dec. 15, potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m. with testimony, scripture and music beginning at 7 p.m. Details: church office (662) 842-4881.

St. James, Family VBS: “I Wonder,” Sunday, Dec. 15 at 10:15 a.m. in Shelton Hall. Details: church office (662) 842-4881.

DIOCESE
HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION – Feast of the Immaculate Conception on Monday, Dec. 9. Consult your local parish for Mass times.

YOUNG ADULTS – Theology on Tap Karaoke Christmas, Thursday, Dec. 19 from 7-9 p.m. at Mr. Chen’s Restaurant in Jackson. Adults 21+ are welcome for an evening of food, fellowship and karaoke. Guest are responsible for cost of drinks and dinner. Details: amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

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

Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage, May 12-27. Father Lincoln Dall will be leading this once in a lifetime journey. Space is limited. Email amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org for more information.

YOUTH – Diocesan SEARCH Retreat for tenth through twelfth graders, Jan. 17-19, 2025 at Camp Wesley Pines, Gallman. Cost: $125. Search weekend is an encounter that will transform youth and lead to a deeper more fulfilling relationship with the Lord. Details: sign up at https://bit.ly/SEARCH2025 or email abbey.schuhmann@jacksondiocese.org for more information.

DCYC for ninth through twelfth grades, March 21-23, 2025 at the Vicksburg Convention Center. Theme is “Here I am Lord Work in Me.” Keynote presenter is Ali Hoffman with worship led by Josh Blakesley. Featuring talks, music, liturgy, games, small groups and more. Registration deadline Feb. 21, contact your parish to register. Details: contact your individual parish offices or contact Abbey at (601) 949-6934 or abbey.schuhmann@jacksondiocese.org.

WORLD MARRIAGE DAY – Event recognizes couples celebrating special anniversaries in 2025 – 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th or longer. Celebrations held in Jackson at the Cathedral of St. Peter on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 1 p.m. and in Tupelo at St. James on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 5 p.m. Register by Jan. 7, 2025. Details: email debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org.

PENANCE SERVICES
BROOKHAVEN – St. Francis, Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m.
CLINTON – Holy Savior, Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 6 p.m.
CANTON – Sacred Heart, Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 6 p.m.
COLUMBUS – Annunciation, Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m.
GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Monday, Dec. 16 at 5:30 p.m.
HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m.
JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, Tuesday, Dec. 17 from 5:30-7 p.m.
MAGEE – St. Stephen, Monday, Dec. 9 at 6 p.m.
MERIDIAN – St. Patrick, Thursday, Dec. 12 at 5:30 p.m. in the Family Life Center.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 7 p.m.
PEARL – St. Jude, Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m.
SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m.

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE – DEC. 12
HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, 8 a.m.
HOLLY SPRINGS – St. Joseph, 7 p.m.
JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, procession at 5:30 p.m. and Mass at 7 p.m.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Mass at 7 p.m. with dinner following in social hall.
SENATOBIA – St. Gregory, 5:30 p.m.
SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Las Manañitas, 5:30 a.m.
Christ the King, 12 p.m. and bilingual celebration at 7 p.m.
TUPELO – St. James, 6 p.m. in Shelton Hall.