By Michael O’Loughlin MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin – Twenty-three School Sisters of St. Francis of the United States Province celebrated milestone anniversaries of service as women religious on June 20, 2026 with a Jubilee Mass celebrated in St. Joseph Chapel at the sisters’ motherhouse in Milwaukee. In addition, nine lay women and men in Associate Relationship with the community celebrated their 25, 40, and 50-year Jubilees of partnership with the community.
One sister, who is celebrating seven decades of consecrated life, has significant service in the Diocese of Jackson. Sister Kathleen Kunze (70 years) was born in Milwaukee. In the Diocese of Jackson, she was a teacher at St. Francis School in Yazoo City (1962-1970), Holy Family School in Jackson (1977-1978), and Christ the King School in Jackson (1970-1973), where she also served as principal (1974-1977). She served as a religious education consultant from 1973-1974 at St. Francis Parish, Yazoo City; Holy Savior Parish, Raymond; and Immaculate Conception Parish, Clinton. Cards and donations in honor of sister’s years of service may be mailed to her attention, c/o Jubilee Committee, School Sisters of St. Francis, 1545 S. Layton Blvd., Milwaukee, WI 53215.
PEARL – Members of St. Jude Parish’s Feed My Sheep ministry served lunch at the Opportunity Center in Jackson on July 18, continuing their mission of providing meals and fellowship to those in need. From top left Suzie Dickson, Jon Matthews, Beth Paczak, Ellen Jenkins, David Peters and Ricky Marascalco. (Photo by Bob Summers)
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT GRAND COTEAU, La. – St. Charles College, The Chosen retreat experience, Dec. 10-13. Calling all women to relax, restore and reconnect, using the hit series – The Chosen. Details: www.gcretrets.org or text Betsy at (985) 517-1019. GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Catholic Roots of the Mass – Five-part journey through the Roman Missal, September 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 5:30 p.m. Discover the biblical, historical, and spiritual meaning of every part of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Be sure to bring your Bible. Details: church office (662) 335-5251. MADISON – Millions of Monicas will be praying at St. Catherine’s Village chapel (200 Dominican Drive), the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. When you arrive at the gate, let the team know you are joining the Millions of Monicas ministry. Please, mark your calendars for the following meeting dates: Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10 and Dec. 8, 2026. Details: call (601) 613-8526. OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Millions of Monicas, Thursdays from 6:15-7:15 pm. Join with other mothers as we pray to grow in holiness and for our children’s faithful return to the Church. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS CLARKSDALE – St. Elizabeth, Parish Fair, Tuesday, Sept. 22 – beginning at 5:30 p.m. Come join in the fun! Details: church office (662) 624-4301. FLOWOOD – St. Paul Early Learning Center, 13th Annual Golf Tournament, Friday, Sept. 18. Registration 11 a.m.; Lunch 11:30 a.m.; Shotgun start 1 p.m. Details: Register at https://bit.ly/3UeECf9. HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, Cocktails and Catholicism, Friday, Sept. 11 at the Family Life Center. Doors open 6 p.m.; Talk at 7 p.m. Guest speaker: Deacon Ted Schreck. Event for ages 21+ / BYOB. Details: church office (662) 429-7851. Holy Spirit, Discovering Christ, Thursdays, Oct. 8 through Dec. 3 in the Family Life Center. Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Come explore the meaning of life! Details: Call (662) 342-1073 or email nwms.evangelization@gmail.com. GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Parish Fair, Tuesday, Sept. 15 from 5-8 p.m. Spaghetti dinner, silent auction, carnival games and more. Event at St. Joseph School. Details: church office (662) 335-5251. GREENWOOD – St. Francis of Assisi, 75th Anniversary Mass and Celebration, Sunday, Oct. 4. Details: church office (662) 453-0623. JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, ABIDE High School Youth Group Kickoff Event, Saturday, Aug. 29 from 7-9 p.m. in Bolton. Bring a chair and join us for food, games and fellowship. Group for 9th-12th graders. Details: Jodi at (601) 383-4720. OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Men’s Club Golf Tournament, Sunday, Sept. 27 at 1 p.m. at the Wedgewood Golf Club. Cost: $125/player. Details: call Tim at (901) 515-8598. PEARL – St. Jude, Wise and Wonderful Luncheon, Friday, Sept. 4 after 10 a.m. Healing Mass. Guest speaker: Mary Woodward, chancellor of the Diocese of Jackson. She will share a presentation on the rich history of the Catholic Church in Mississippi. Details: RSVP on sign up sheet at church or call church office at (601) 939-3181. SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Fall Fest, Saturday, Oct. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Join us for a day of food, fun, games and fellowship. Details: church office (662) 342-1073. Christ the King, Mass of Thanksgiving for Father Hung Pham, SCJ, Sunday, Aug. 30 at 4 p.m. Dinner following Mass. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.
DIOCESE EVENTS BISHOP’S CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT: Sept. 10 at the Lake Caroline Golf Club in Madison. Lunch at 12 p.m. Shotgun start at 1 p.m. Join the Catholic Foundation for this annual day of golf, fellowship and more. Details: https://bit.ly/BishopsCup26. ENGAGED ENCOUNTER 2026: Oct. 2-4 at Camp Garaywa in Clinton. Details: couples may register at https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/230073 or email debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org. SPANISH ENGAGED ENCOUNTER: Sept. 12-13 at Camp Garaywa in Clinton. Registration forms at https://bit.ly/cdjfamilyministry. FALL FAITH FORMATION DAY: Saturday, Sept. 19 at St. Francis of Assisi in Madison from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $10. Come for a day of learning, prayer and community for catechists, faith formation leaders, and all those involved in forming disciples of all ages. Registration is now open. Visit https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/267413. HOPE YOUTH FEST 2026 – Our Lady of Hope, Osyka (Chatawa) Oct. 10 for 9th and 12th graders. Registration is open. Contact your parish youth leader to sign up. MIDDLE SCHOOL FALL RETREAT – Registration is now open for the annual Middle School Fall Retreat. This year’s theme is “Others First” at Lake Forest Ranch, Oct. 17-18 for 7th and 8th graders. The retreat will be presented by Cooper Ray – Catholic speaker and worship leader. Cost: $75 per person with a registration deadline of Sept. 11. Contact your parish youth leader to sign up. SEARCH RETREAT 2027 – Camp Wesley Pines, Gallman Jan. 15-17, for 10th and 12th graders. Registration opens Fall 2026. Contact your parish youth leader to sign up.
By Joanna Puddister King FLOWOOD – Fifty years after a young Irish priest arrived in Mississippi and began learning that Southern English and Irish English were not always the same language. Father Gerry Hurley celebrated his golden jubilee surrounded by family, parishioners and brother priests who had accompanied him on the journey.
Newly ordained Father Gerry Hurley gives his first blessing to his father following his ordination to the priesthood June 12, 1976, in County Cork, Ireland. Fifty years later, Father Hurley celebrated his golden jubilee as the last active Irish-born priest serving in the Diocese of Jackson. (Photo by Father David O’Connor/Diocese of Jackson archives)
The church was full June 12 as more than two dozen priests concelebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving marking the 50th anniversary of Father Hurley’s ordination to the priesthood at St. Paul Catholic Church in Flowood.
Among the more than two dozen concelebrating priests were fellow Irish-born clergy who had shared in Mississippi’s long tradition of Irish missionary priests, including retired priests from the Diocese of Jackson and priests serving in the Diocese of Biloxi.
Their presence served as a reminder of the Irish missionary influence that shaped the Diocese of Jackson for decades.
Members of Father Hurley’s family traveled from Ireland for the celebration, joining parishioners and friends in marking the milestone.
The date carried special significance. Father Hurley was ordained June 12, 1976, at St. Patrick Church in Bandon, County Cork, Ireland, for the Diocese of Natchez-Jackson, making the anniversary celebration exactly 50 years to the day from his ordination.
Today, he is the last active Irish-born priest serving in the Diocese of Jackson.
“I remember going to a 50th anniversary 25 years ago and I thought to myself, those guys are old,” Father Hurley said during his homily, drawing laughter from the congregation. “And now I’m old.”
When Father Hurley arrived in Mississippi in 1976, Irish-born priests made up a significant portion of the clergy serving throughout the diocese.
“When I arrived in 1976, a majority of our priests were from Ireland,” he recalled. “And now we have new foreign-born Indian priests. They do such a great job and we are very happy … Being the last of the Irish that came in a time of transition for our Church, it is in great hands with you brothers.”
In many ways, the moment reflected the changing face of the Church Father Hurley has witnessed throughout his ministry: missionary priests from Ireland giving way to local vocations and missionaries from around the world continuing the work in Mississippi.
Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz reflected on that continuity in remarks following Mass.
“The Lord taught the disciples that a good scribe in the kingdom can reach into the storeroom and bring out the best of the old and the best of the new,” the bishop said. “I think that describes Father Gerry in a good way.”
The bishop also praised Father Hurley’s gift for community and his remarkable ability to remember names.
“I don’t know if there are priests with a better memory for names than Father Gerry does,” Bishop Kopacz said. “He’s learned ‘Who’s your momma?’ and all of that – very Southern.”
Father Hurley’s family offered their own glimpse into the priest they had known long before Mississippi did, sharing memories of a young boy in Ireland who announced early in life that he intended to become a priest.
“He did try his hand at surgery,” one sister joked during remarks after Mass. “But the patient – my doll – didn’t make it. The surgery was not a success.”
His own journey began in Cork City, Ireland, where he was born Jan. 25, 1952. He studied at Carlow College before being ordained for the Diocese of Natchez-Jackson and arriving in Mississippi later that year.
His first assignment was as associate pastor at St. Paul in Vicksburg, where he quickly discovered that adapting to life in Mississippi involved more than a change in geography.
“One Saturday evening a senior lady came up to me after Mass and said, ‘Father, I just love hearing you talk.’ She said, ‘I can’t understand you, but I love hearing you talk,’” he recalled, drawing laughter from those gathered. “It has taken most of 50 years to learn how to speak properly again.”
A program commemorating Father Gerry Hurley’s 50th anniversary of priesthood reflects the Irish roots and Mississippi ministry that have shaped his vocation. (Photo by Matt Torres)
Over the next five decades, Father Hurley’s ministry would take him across the Diocese of Jackson, serving at St. Joseph in Greenville, as diocesan youth director, at St. Richard in Jackson, St. Joseph in Starkville, Annunciation in Columbus, St. Jude in Pearl and finally St. Paul in Flowood, where he has served since 2010.
St. Paul has become his longest assignment – longer, he noted, than he lived anywhere growing up in Ireland. “What a great place to spend that time,” he said. “I’m grateful to you all for your welcome and support over the years.”
For Father Hurley, the readings chosen for the Mass reflected the heart of priestly ministry and discipleship. In the Gospel, Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” before instructing him to feed his sheep.
“Jesus does not ask Peter, ‘Are you sorry?’ nor does he ask him to never fail again,” Father Hurley said. “He asks, ‘Do you love me?’ Because for Jesus, the foundation of ministry is love of Christ and care for his people.”
After five decades of priesthood, Father Hurley remains grateful for the vocation that brought him across the Atlantic and for the people who have walked beside him.
“After 50 years, I’m grateful for all that God has given me and the abundant blessings he has bestowed on me through each of you and the many others who have gone before us,” he said.
As the celebration concluded, the congregation joined in singing “Irish Blessing,” sending the priest who came from County Cork to Mississippi 50 years ago into the next chapter of ministry with the words that have long connected both places he now calls home:
“May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back.”
PEARL – Members of the Knights of Columbus worked behind the scenes preparing hot dogs and hamburgers for St. Jude’s July 5 celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Pictured are Jose Arellano, Jeff Paczak, Nat Zummo, and (back, from left) Basil Demarest, Caleb Hall and Jeff Alderman. The parish celebrated the occasion with food, fellowship and they even completed their goal of 250 hours of Eucharistic adoration honoring the anniversary. (Photo by Beth Paczak)
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT ALEXANDRIA, La. – Genesis of Eve Catholic Women’s Conference, Sept. 18-20 at the Randolph Riverfront Center. Spend time with Jesus in an Adoration service, access priests for confession, shop amazing Catholic artists, authors and vendors; and hear faith-filled Catholic speakers, including Kendra Tierney Norton, Rachel Bullman, Katie Prejean McGrady and Father Brice Higgenbotham. All are welcome. Open to ages 18+. General admission cost: $295.29. Details: visit www.genesisofeve.org.
CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, “Woke in Christ” Mission Revival, Sunday, Aug. 23 at 9 a.m. and Aug. 24-25 at 7 p.m. Guest priest is Father Anthony Bozeman, SSJ. Come be renewed. Encounter Christ. Live the mission. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome. Details: church office (662) 468-2354.
GRAND COTEAU, La. – St. Charles College, The Chosen retreat experience, Dec. 10-13. Calling all women to relax, restore and reconnect, using the hit series – The Chosen. Details: www.gcretrets.org or text Betsy at (985) 517-1019.
OXFORD – St. John the Evangelist, Catechist Workshop, Saturday, Aug. 1, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m, with speaker, Dr. Tom Neal. Details: register at https://bit.ly/oxford-catechist-event-26.
MADISON – Millions of Monicas will be praying at St. Catherine’s Village chapel (200 Dominican Drive), the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. When you arrive at the gate, let the team know you are joining the Millions of Monicas ministry. Please, mark your calendars for the following meeting dates: Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10 and Dec. 8, 2026. Details: call (601) 613-8526.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Millions of Monicas, Thursdays from 6:15-7:15 pm. Join with other mothers as we pray to grow in holiness and for our children’s faithful return to the Church. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
RIPLEY – St. Matthew, Liturgical workshop in Spanish, Saturday, July 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. All are welcome. Details: church office (662) 993-8832 or stmatthewcatholicchurch@ripleycable.net.
YOUNG ADULTS – Young adults are invited to join the Archdiocese of New Orleans on a Pilgrimage to Seoul, South Korea, August 1-10, 2027. Details: contact James Behan at (504) 836-0551 ext. 3228 or email: yam@arch-no.org.
PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS BATESVILE – St. Mary, Rummage Sale, Aug. 7-8. Details: church office at (662) 563-2273.
GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, “Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God” Vacation Bible School, July 27-29. Details: church office (662) 335-5251.
JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, ABIDE High School Youth Group Kickoff Event, Saturday, Aug. 29 from 7-9 p.m. in Bolton. Bring a chair and join us for food, games and fellowship. Group for 9th-12th graders. Details: Jodi at (601) 383-4720.
MERIDIAN – Catholic Youth of Meridian, Summer Retreat at Pine Lake Camp, July 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from 5th through 12th graders. Cost: $15 Enjoy fun summer activities, build friendships and encounter Christ. Details: Kristen at (850) 305-1771.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Indoor Yard Sale, Save the Date – Saturday, Aug. 1. Details: church office (662) 895 5007.
Queen of Peace, Family Bowling, Sunday, July 26 at 2 p.m. at Strik Zone in Southaven. Cost: $15.50 per person (must prepay). Fee includes two hours of bowling and shoe rental. Invite your family and friends – we need a minimum of 30 participants. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
PONTOTOC – St. Christopher, Vacation Bible School, Saturday, July 25 for ages 14-17 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Details: Sister Raquel – raquelssnd@gmail.com.
DIOCESE EVENTS ENGAGED ENCOUNTER 2026: Aug. 28-30; and Oct. 2-4. Details: couples may register at https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/230073 or email debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org.
FALL FAITH FORMATION DAY: Save the Date – Sept. 19 at St. Francis of Assisi in Madison. Come for a day of learning, prayer and community for catechists, faith formation leaders, and all those involved in forming disciples of all ages.
MIDDLE SCHOOL FALL RETREAT – Registration is now open for the annual Middle School Fall Retreat. This year’s theme is “Others First” at Lake Forest Ranch, Oct. 17-18 for 7th and 8th graders. The retreat will be presented by Cooper Ray – Catholic speaker and worship leader. Cost: $75 per person with a registration deadline of Sept. 11. Contact your parish youth leader to sign up.
YOUNG ADULT PILGRIMAGE – Young adults ages 21-35 are invited on an unforgettable pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion in Wisconsin, the site of the only Church-approved Marian apparition in the United States. This eight-day pilgrimage, taking place May 15-22, 2027, includes visits to the Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament, Ave Maria Grotto, Gethsemane Abbey, Saint Meinrad Seminary, the Basilica of Saint Louis King of France, Sister Thea Bowman’s gravesite and more. Daily Mass, prayer and fellowship will make this a journey to remember. Registration deadline: July 31. Cost: $925, includes admission to all pilgrimage stops, transportation, lodging and donations to shrines. Excludes cost of meals. Details: amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.
Por Joanna Puddister King FLOWOOD – Cincuenta años después de que un joven sacerdote irlandés llegara a Misisipi y comenzara a darse cuenta de que el inglés del sur y el inglés irlandés no siempre eran la misma lengua, el padre Gerry Hurley celebró su jubileo de oro rodeado de su familia, feligreses y compañeros sacerdotes que lo habían acompañado en este camino.
La iglesia estaba llena el 12 de junio, cuando más de dos docenas de sacerdotes concelebraron una misa de acción de gracias para conmemorar el 50.º aniversario de la ordenación sacerdotal del padre Hurley en la iglesia católica de San Pablo, en Flowood. Entre los más de dos docenas de sacerdotes concelebrantes se encontraban otros clérigos nacidos en Irlanda que habían formado parte de la larga tradición de sacerdotes misioneros irlandeses en Misisipi, incluidos sacerdotes jubilados de la Diócesis de Jackson y sacerdotes que prestan servicio en la Diócesis de Biloxi.
Su presencia sirvió como un recordatorio de la influencia misionera irlandesa que dio forma a la Diócesis de Jackson durante décadas.
Miembros de la familia del padre Hurley viajaron desde Irlanda para la celebración, uniéndose a feligreses y amigos para conmemorar este hito.
FLOWOOD – El padre Gerry Hurley celebró una misa de acción de gracias con motivo del 50.º aniversario de su ordenación sacerdotal el 12 de junio en la iglesia católica de San Pablo, en Flowood. La iglesia se llenó de feligreses, familiares y más de dos docenas de sacerdotes concelebrantes para la celebración del jubileo de oro. (Foto por Tereza Ma) Vea más fotografías en jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com.
La fecha tenía un significado especial. El padre Hurley fue ordenado el 12 de junio de 1976 en la iglesia de San Patricio en Bandon, condado de Cork, Irlanda, para la Diócesis de Natchez-Jackson, por lo que la celebración del aniversario se realizó exactamente 50 años después de su ordenación.
Hoy en día, es el último sacerdote nacido en Irlanda que sigue en activo en la Diócesis de Jackson.
“Recuerdo haber asistido a un 50.º aniversario hace 25 años y pensé para mis adentros: “Esos tipos son viejos””, dijo el padre Hurley durante su homilía, lo que provocó las risas de la congregación. “Y ahora yo soy viejo”. Cuando el padre Hurley llegó a Misisipi en 1976, los sacerdotes nacidos en Irlanda constituían una parte significativa del clero que prestaba servicio en toda la diócesis.
“Cuando llegué en 1976, la mayoría de nuestros sacerdotes eran de Irlanda”, recordó. “Y ahora contamos con nuevos sacerdotes indios nacidos en el extranjero. Hacen un trabajo magnífico y estamos muy contentos… Como último de los irlandeses que llegué en una época de transición para nuestra Iglesia, sé que está en muy buenas manos con ustedes, hermanos”.
En muchos sentidos, ese momento reflejó el cambio que ha vivido la Iglesia y del que el padre Hurley ha sido testigo a lo largo de su ministerio: los sacerdotes misioneros de Irlanda dieron paso a las vocaciones locales y a misioneros de todo el mundo que continúan la labor en Misisipi.
El obispo Joseph R. Kopacz reflexionó sobre esa continuidad en sus comentarios tras la misa.
“El Señor enseñó a los discípulos que un buen escriba en el reino puede acudir al almacén y sacar lo mejor de lo antiguo y lo mejor de lo nuevo”, dijo el obispo. “Creo que eso describe muy bien al padre Gerry”.
El obispo también elogió el don del padre Hurley para la vida comunitaria y su extraordinaria capacidad para recordar nombres. “No sé si hay sacerdotes con mejor memoria para los nombres que el padre Gerry”, dijo el obispo Kopacz. “Ha aprendido a preguntar “¿Quién es tu mamá?” y todo eso –muy al estilo sureño”.
La familia del padre Hurley ofreció su propia visión del sacerdote que habían conocido mucho antes de que Mississippi lo conociera, compartiendo recuerdos de un niño en Irlanda que anunció desde muy temprana edad que tenía la intención de convertirse en sacerdote.
“Intentó dedicarse a la cirugía”, bromeó una de sus hermanas durante sus comentarios después de la misa. “Pero la paciente –mi muñeca– no sobrevivió. La cirugía no fue un éxito”.
Su propia trayectoria comenzó en la ciudad de Cork, Irlanda, donde nació el 25 de enero de 1952. Estudió en el Carlow College antes de ser ordenado para la Diócesis de Natchez-Jackson y llegar a Misisipi más tarde ese mismo año.
Su primer cargo fue como vicario en la parroquia de San Pablo en Vicksburg, donde pronto descubrió que adaptarse a la vida en Misisipi implicaba algo más que un simple cambio de lugar.
“Un sábado por la noche, una señora mayor se me acercó después de la misa y me dijo: “Padre, me encanta escucharlo hablar”. Me dijo: “No lo entiendo, pero me encanta escucharlo hablar””, recordó, provocando las risas de los presentes. “Me ha llevado casi 50 años aprender a hablar correctamente de nuevo”.
Durante las siguientes cinco décadas, el ministerio del padre Hurley lo llevaría por toda la Diócesis de Jackson, prestando servicio en San José en Greenville, como director diocesano de jóvenes, en San Ricardo en Jackson, San José en Starkville, la Anunciación en Columbus, San Judas en Pearl y, finalmente, San Pablo en Flowood, donde ha prestado servicio desde 2010.
San Pablo se ha convertido en su asignación más prolongada –más larga, señaló, que cualquier lugar en el que haya vivido durante su infancia en Irlanda–.
“Qué lugar tan maravilloso para pasar ese tiempo”, dijo. “Les agradezco a todos por su bienvenida y su apoyo a lo largo de los años”.
Para el padre Hurley, las lecturas elegidas para la misa reflejaban la esencia del ministerio sacerdotal y el discipulado.
En el Evangelio, Jesús le pregunta a Pedro tres veces: “¿Me amas?”, antes de encargarle que apaciente a sus ovejas.
“Jesús no le pregunta a Pedro: “¿Te arrepientes?”, ni le pide que nunca vuelva a fallar”, dijo el padre Hurley. “Le pregunta: “¿Me amas?”. Porque para Jesús, el fundamento del ministerio es el amor a Cristo y el cuidado de su pueblo”.
Tras cinco décadas de sacerdocio, el padre Hurley sigue agradecido por la vocación que lo llevó a cruzar el Atlántico y por las personas que han caminado a su lado.
“Después de 50 años, estoy agradecido por todo lo que Dios me ha dado y por las abundantes bendiciones que me ha concedido a través de cada uno de ustedes y de los muchos otros que nos han precedido”, dijo.
Al concluir la celebración, la congregación se unió para cantar “Irish Blessing”, despidiendo al sacerdote que llegó desde el condado de Cork a Misisipi hace 50 años hacia el siguiente capítulo de su ministerio con las palabras que desde hace mucho conectan a ambos lugares que ahora considera su hogar:
“Que el camino se levante para recibirte. Que el viento siempre sople a tu favor.”
Father Darrell Kelly, SVD Father Darrell “Chuck” Kelly, SVD, died May 7, 2026, after a lengthy illness in Bay St. Louis.
Born Oct. 8, 1961, in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, he attended St. Gabriel School and Immaculate Conception High School. He studied at Mississippi Valley State University, served in the U.S. Army, including during Operation Desert Storm, and later worked as a correctional officer with the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
After converting to the Catholic faith, Father Kelly discerned a vocation to the priesthood. He attended Divine Word College, completed his novitiate with the Divine Word Missionaries and studied at Catholic Theological Union. He was ordained May 28, 2005, in Techny, Illinois.
His assignments included Notre Dame Parish in St. Martinville, Louisiana; Holy Ghost Parish in Jackson; and Our Mother of Mercy Parish in Fort Worth, Texas. Despite significant health challenges, he continued to serve faithfully in ministry.
Funeral services were held May 13 at St. Augustine Parish in Bay St. Louis, with burial and full military honors.
Father Gerald Joseph Peterson Father Gerald Peterson, 96, a Glenmary Home Missioner for 73 years, died May 13, 2026, in Cincinnati.
A native of Loretto, Kentucky, Father Peterson joined Glenmary as one of its earliest members and was part of the second novitiate class in 1952. He earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Vanderbilt University and later studied Spanish in Mexico to better serve immigrant communities.
Throughout his ministry, he served in Appalachia, Virginia; Georgia; Tennessee; Alabama; and Mississippi. From 2001 to 2013, he ministered in Pontotoc, Mississippi, serving local Catholics and the broader community.
Known for his creativity and concern for those in need, Father Peterson helped establish transportation, housing, childcare, health-care and food programs in mission communities. Fellow Glenmarians remembered him as a tireless missionary dedicated to evangelization and service.
He is survived by his twin sister, Geraldine. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated June 3 in Cincinnati.
Sister Mary Elisa Bauman, RSM Sister Mary Elisa Bauman, RSM, died May 16, 2026, at Catherine’s Residence in St. Louis. She was 88 and had been a Sister of Mercy for 70 years.
Born Mary Louise Bauman on Nov. 2, 1937, in North Little Rock, Arkansas, she entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1955 and professed perpetual vows in 1961. She earned degrees in education and English and devoted much of her religious life to Catholic education.
Sister Elisa taught at schools in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Mississippi, including Our Lady Academy in Bay St. Louis. She also served as principal and administrator at Mount St. Mary Academy in Little Rock, Mercy Cross High School in Biloxi and Our Lady Academy.
After retiring from education, she remained active in the Bay St. Louis community before moving to St. Louis in 2022. She is survived by four nieces, members of her Mercy community and many friends. Funeral services were held privately, with a memorial Mass and burial planned in Little Rock.
Meyrl Schmit Meyrl Schmit, a former priest of the Diocese of Jackson, died April 27, 2026, at age 87.
Born April 20, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, he later served as a priest in the Diocese of Jackson and subsequently taught as an adjunct professor at community colleges in Illinois.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn. Funeral services were held June 12 in Bryant, Indiana, with burial in the parish cemetery.
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT GREENWOOD – Locus Benedictus, Healing Retreat with Maria Vadia, Saturday, July 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Details: contact (662) 299-1232 or email contactlocusbenedictus@gmail.com.
OXFORD – St. John the Evangelist, Catechist Workshop, Saturday, Aug. 1, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m, with speaker, Dr. Tom Neal. Details: register at https://bit.ly/oxford-catechist-event-26.
PILGRMAGE – Travel with Father Carlisle Beggerly to Italy/Greece, Oct. 7-20, 2026. Cost: $5,999 per person. Details: Contact Proximo Travel (855-842-8001) or visit proximotravel.com (enter Fr. Carlisle in search box). Travel with Father Raju Macherla to Portugal, Spain and France, July 6-17, 2026. Cost: $5,500 per person (sharing room), with departure from Memphis. Details: visit https://bit.ly/4efWoql.
Travel with Father Jesus Sanchez to “Rome and Marian Shrines” Portugal: Fátima and Lisbon, France: Lourdes, Spain: Garabandal, Covadonga and Santiago de Compostela, Italy: Rome and Assisi and Bosnia and Herzegovina: Medjugorje. July 26 – Aug. 10, 2026. Cost: $4,900. Details: Contact (626) 379-0944 or email gpilgrimages@yahoo.com.
MADISON – Millions of Monicas will be praying at St. Catherine’s Village chapel (200 Dominican Drive), the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. When you arrive at the gate, let the team know you are joining the Millions of Monicas ministry. Please, mark your calendars for the following meeting dates: July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10 and Dec. 8, 2026. Details: call (601) 613-8526.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Millions of Monicas, Thursdays from 6:15-7:15 pm. Join with other mothers as we pray to grow in holiness and for our children’s faithful return to the Church. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
YOUNG ADULTS – Young adults are invited to join the Archdiocese of New Orleans on a Pilgrimage to Seoul, South Korea, August 1-10, 2027. Details: contact James Behan at (504) 836-0551 ext. 3228 or email: yam@arch-no.org.
PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS BATESVILE – St. Mary, Rummage Sale, Aug. 7-8. Details: church office at (662) 563-2273.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, 100th Anniversary Celebration of Franciscan Sisters of Charity’s Ministry in Northwest Miss., Sunday, July 12, with Mass at 10 a.m. and reception following. Queen of Peace, Indoor Yard Sale, Save the Date – Saturday, Aug. 1. Details: church office (662) 895 5007.
VBS – VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL BROOKHAVEN – St. Francis of Assisi, “Rainforest Falls” Vacation Bible School, Friday, July 12-15 from 5:30-8:00 p.m., with dinner at 5:30 p.m. Ages PreK-4 through sixth grade. Details: church office at (601) 833-1799.
FLOWOOD – St. Paul, “Cathletics” Vacation Bible School, Monday, June 29 – July 2 from 6-8 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Open to PreK-4 through sixth. Details: church office at (601) 992-9547.
GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Vacation Bible School, Monday, July 27-29. Details: church office at (662) 335-5251.
MAGEE – St. Stephen, “Deep Sea of Faith” Vacation Bible School, Friday, July 17, 6-8 p.m. – Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring a towel and swimsuit. Details: church office at (601) 849-3237.
NATCHEZ – St. Mary Basilica, Vacation Bible School presented by the Sister Servants of the Eternal Word, July 7-10. Details: church office (601) 445-5616.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Vacation Bible School, Monday, June 22-26, from 6-8 p.m. Details: church office at (662) 342 1073.
DIOCESE EVENTS ENGAGED ENCOUNTER 2026: Aug. 28-30; and Oct. 2-4. Details: couples may register at https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/230073 or email debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org. PERMANENT DIACONATE ORDINATION: Six men will be ordained to the Permanent Diaconate on Saturday, July 18 at 10:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Jackson. Blessings to Enrique Amador, Donald Clinton Coker, Jeff Cook, Pablo Garcia, Christopher Halliwell, William Griffith Vautrot and Hunter Yentzen.
PASTORAL MINISTRIES WORKSHOP: July 31 through Aug. 2 at Egale Ridge Conference Center in Raymond. Cost is $300, which includes room, meals, and course materials. (Communter rate: $125) Registration deadline is July 10. Register at https://bit.ly/pmw2026. Details: fran.lavelle@jacksondiocese.org.
FALL FAITH FORMATION DAY: Save the Date – Sept. 19 at St. Francis of Assisi in Madison. Come for a day of learning, prayer and community for catechists, faith formation leaders, and all those involved in forming disciples of all ages.
ANNOUNCEMENT Mississippi Catholic will publish a Sacraments edition in July. This means we need First Communion and Confirmation photos. This is your only chance to submit posed group photos for publication. The final due date for submissions is be Friday, July 3. Details: email editor@jacksondiocese.org.
JACKSON – Newly installed pastor Father Vijaya Madanu speaks to parishioners with gratitude and joy following his installation at Holy Ghost Parish on Pentecost Sunday, May 24. Bishop Joseph Kopacz celebrated the Mass and formally installed Father Madanu as pastor. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King) More photos at jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com.
