MADISON – Father Albeen Vatti led a pet blessing at St. Anthony School on Tuesday, Oct. 9. Students who could not bring a pet were invited to bring a photo of their pet for a blessing. (Photos by Msgr. Michael Flannery)
PEARL – Father Lincoln Dall, pastor of St. Jude Parish, blesses the pets who gathered with their families on the lawn for Mass and blessing on Thursday, Oct. 4. (Photos by Rhonda Bowden)
By Galen Holley
NEW ALBANY – A scrim of tall pines shaded the altar, and even in the late summer heat, a cool, long shadow provided relief for Mass, during which the members of St. Francis of Assisi Parish honored their patron saint.
Strong men carried St. Francis from his niche, overlooking the front courtyard. They placed him alongside the altar, as the faithful strewed bouquets of flowers at his feet. St. Francis watched over our celebration with a benevolent countenance.
The faithful sat in lawn-chairs and on blankets, some standing, some on tailgates, watching as Father Jesuraj (Raj) Xavier lifted high the Bread of Life. Here, amid nature, the saint would be pleased to see the parish celebrate the church’s highest form of prayer.
After the great commission, Aztec dancers from throughout northeast Mississippi invited all to the festivities. They danced northward, toward the delicious scent of frying chorizo and carne asada, garnished with the sharp, fresh scent of cilantro and onion.
NEW ALBANY – Some 400 parishioners attended the bilingual, outdoor Mass in honor of St. Francis of Assisi on Oct. 7. (Photos by Galen Holley)
“Today, we are part of nature, and part of something bigger than ourselves,” said Barbra Weaver, as she sipped her rusa – a drink with lime and cliantro and watched children scurrying around the midway. “As Father Raj said, St. Francis is known internationally, and we have a diversity of cultures and nationalities celebrating together, today,” Weaver said.
The lyrics of “Mexico Lindo,” rang out over the celebration. “The voice of my guitar, sings it’s joy,” sang Betty Acosta, of Tupelo, as children squealed with delight, bouncing, like popcorn, in the bounce-house, while others formed a circle for a soccer-ball kick-about.
Humble, Hispanic men sat on the ground, clustered, under shade trees. Women served food and tended beautiful children, the little ones dressed in celebratory costumes — girls in elaborate dresses, boys in starched, white shirts, with red and green neck-ties — honoring St. Francis.
The church was open for adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Some ate, while others prayed and danced. Strong, hardworking men danced with their good, holy, loving women, all celebrating our respective, mutual roles in the glorious design of God. It was a good day, a holy day. We enjoyed the wonder of children, the sacredness of marriage, and the goodness of the Catholic faith.
By Berta Mexidor
JACKSON – Hispanic Heritage month runs from mid-September through mid-October in the U.S. It began in 1968 when President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed a national week honoring Hispanic Heritage.
For many, Columbus Day marks when cultures from several continents blended to create what is now a multitude of Latino-Hispanic cultures. Spanish language is now dominant among thousands of dialects, Portuguese, English or French and Catholicism was adopted as the main religion among African and indigenous rites.
A notable percentage of the Hispanic population in the U.S. is devoted to maintaining and promoting the main religious heritage, Catholicism. Data from the Pew Research Institute released in 2016 showed a 129 percent growth in the population of Hispanics in Mississippi since 2000. With around 85 thousand people and with an average age of 26, in 2016 Hispanics made up three percent of the population of the state.
This month’s Mississippi Católico is dedicated to honoring the members of this community building up the church – celebrating a special connection to Virgin Mary and their parish patron saints, marking the fifth anniversary of Pope Francis as first Latin American Pope, showcasing their hard work, their bond with the family and their sense of service to the community. Many parishes celebrated during this month with a fiesta or special liturgy. Look inside the special edition for more photos from these events.
Berta Mexidor asked several leaders in the Hispanic community in the state to finish this sentence:
Hispanic Heritage for me is …
“Very rich and traditional culture – ‘Las mañanitas’ (the birthday song) to Our Lady of Guadalupe and phrases such as: ‘Vaya con Dios (go with God), ‘adios’ (to God), ‘como Dios quiere’ (as God wishes). The elderly always held a place of respect in the home, good sense of humor. They lived at a slower pace by the phrase ‘Hasta mañana’ (until tomorrow) and their faith is centered at home with novenas, respect for the dead, posadas and generosity with guests.” Msgr. Michael Flannery, retired pastor who still works to support the mission in Saltillo, Mexico
“It is the privilege to spread the traditions and culture that characterizes us as Hispanics in the country that gives us so many opportunities.” Karla Vélez, community leader. Mississippi Hispanic Association.
“It is a time when we celebrate the Hispanic people, how they are a part of our national legacy and heritage, how they have contributed to our country, and how their traditions and culture enrich our society.” Father Lincoln Dall, forner missionary in Latin America and current pastor of Pearl St. Jude Parish
“It is the extremely important celebration, which evokes the achievements and contributions of the Hispanic community in this country.” Julio del Castillo, community leader. Mississippi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
“Family.” Shane Aguirre, first Hispanic descendant on the Mississippi House of Representatives. District 17.
“They are the customs, beliefs and traditions of my country that I can pass to my daughters so they can feel proud to be Mexican.” Karla Vázquez, Lawyer. Elmore & Peterson Law Firm
“A great blessing. It shows the work and achievements of generations and culture contributions to this country beyond language, typical foods and traditions. I feel very proud to be Hispanic and be able to transmit my Latin roots to maintain a friendly dialogue.” Raquel Thompson, Mexican, Coordinator for Hispanic Ministry at Tupelo St. James Parish.
“A gift from God, to be born and to be Hispanic is a wonderful gift, for which I give thanks to the Creator and I am proud of my race and I surrender myself day by day, with faith, hope and love, so that all Hispanics are recognized as a gift for this Church in the U.S. Sister Maria Josefa Garcia Alvarez, MGSpS, coordinator of Hispanic Ministry diocese.
“It is to accept my roots from the country where I came from and see how I can apply and adapt them in the country where I live.” Father Roberto Mena, ST, Guatemalan, sacramental minister of Forest St. Michael and Carthage St. Anne Parishes.
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
BROOKSVILLE The Dwelling Place, Feel the need to get away for one or several days of solitude and self-care? The Dwelling Place is a place of hospitality and prayer open to people of all Christian traditions. Treat yourself to an overnight, a weekend or longer to let God in. Details: (662) 738-5348 or email dwellpl@gmail.com for more information.
CULLMAN, Ala., Benedictine Sisters Retreat Center, Weekend Intensive Centering Prayer, November 16-18. Develop further the discipline of Centering Prayer and deepen your relationship with God. Director: Diana Tschache. The weekend will be spent in silence. Prerequisite: Introduction to Centering Prayer. Cost: Private Room $245. Details: (256) 734-8302, retreats@shmon.org or www.shmon.org.
GREENWOOD Locus Benedictus Retreat Center, Ephphatha “Inner Healing Through the Healing Miracle of Jesus,” Friday, November 2 at 6 p.m. and Saturday, November 3 at 8:30 a.m., ending with Mass at 4 p.m. Cost: $50. Finance assistance is available. Details: (662) 299-1232.
PARISH, SCHOOL AND FAMILY EVENTS
BROOKHAVEN St. Francis, Trunk or Treat, Wednesday, October 31, at 6 p.m. Parishioners are invited to pass out candy on the playground of the Parish Center in vehicles. Includes a meal, Saints Bio and a hayride. Details: church office (662) 833-1799.
CLARKSDALE St. Elizabeth, Bible Study “Who Am I to Judge: Responding to Relativism with Logic and Love,” noon on Wednesdays in the rectory. Join scholar Edward Sri in discussing cultural questions about morality for all people. Details: church office (662) 624-4301.
HERNANDO Holy Spirit, Weight Loss Support Group, Tuesday mornings at 8:30 a.m. for a weigh in and sharing. Details: Liz Brown (901) 331-3419.
JACKSON St. Peter Cathedral, Fall Gala, Saturday, November 10, 6:30-10 p.m. at the Railroad District, 824 South State Street Cost: $60 per person or $100 per couple. Details: Traci Avalon (601) 969-3125 or tavalon@cathedralsaintpeter.org or www.cathedralsaintpeter.org.
St. Richard, Team Bass Challenge, Saturday, November 10 at Ross Barnett Reservoir. You do not have to be a parishioner to participate. Cost: $100 per two man team with optional third member plus $50. This is a fundraiser for retired priests. Details: Tommy Lamas at (601) 366-2335 or email lamas@saintrichard.com.
MOUND BAYOU St. Gabriel Mercy Center, Harvest Festival, Saturday November 3, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Family fun, including Christmas store, country store, Delta Boutique, live music and more. Raffle tickets being sold for $1,000, $250 and $100 prizes. Details: Trena Robinson at (662) 741-3255 ext. 103 or trenar@saintgabrielmc.org
NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, Haunted House, Tuesday, October 30, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. and Wednesday, October 31, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Cost: $5 admission. Details: church office (601) 445-5616.
PEARL St. Jude, Tom Logue Memorial Chili Cook-off, Sunday, November 11, at 5:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Cost: $5 for all you can eat; $3 for children 12 and younger and $20 entry fee for each team. Details: Nat Zummo, (601) 573-3184 or zummonat@bellsouth.net.
WEST POINT The Knights of Columbus at Immaculate Conception Parish will offer “Senate Bean Soup” on Tuesday, Nov. 6, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., as a fundraiser for the Mission, an alcohol recovery and transtional housing program for men. Bowls are $5. Quarts are $15. Details: Chuck Bailey (662) 312-4588
YOUTH BRIEFS
PEARL St. Jude, Faith and Fun Sunday, November 4, from 3-5 p.m. Join us as we learn more about the saints through fun activities. Includes snacks and a short movie about St. Francis of Assisi. Details: church office (601) 939-3181.
JACKSON Carmelite Monastery Gift Shop will have Open House weekends and holiday hours with bake sale, November 17 – December 23. Emanuele Fontanini will make a special visit on Saturday, December 1, from 1-5 p.m. Details: 601-373-3412
MADISON St. Anthony School Starry Night Gala, Saturday, December 8. Guests can bid on live and silent auction items, plus have an opportunity to win a $5,000 raffle. The Tip Tops of Mobile will provide entertainment. Details: Jennifer Schmidt (601) 214-9656 or StAnthonyEagles.org.
St. Joseph School, Open House, Sunday, November 11 at 2 p.m. St. Joe is known for its incredible art, academics, theater, music, and athletics – not to mention that one-of-a-kind spirit. Details: Tricia Harris, at (601) 898.4803 or tharris@stjoebruins.com.
MERIDIAN St. Patrick School, Candy Cane 5K Dash and Kid’s 1-mile Fun Run, Saturday, December 1, 8:30 a.m. Registration Fees: 5K -$20 – Fun Run $15. To guarantee a t-shirt, register by November 13. Details: school office (601) 482-6044, candycane5kdash@yahoo.com, sign up at www.time2run.net.
CORRECTION
A caption misidentified the winning team from the Bishop’s Cup Golf Tournament sponsored by the Catholic Foundation. The winning team from Flowood St. Paul Parish had a score of 53. The team was sponsored by Tico’s Steakhouse and players included Father Gerry Hurley, Tico Hoffman, Joe Beal and Paul Aron.
The Bishop’s Cup Committee would like to thank all players and sponsors. Proceeds from the tournament went into the Rev. Patrick Noonan Memorial Trust which will help to fund grant projects around the diocese.
MADISON – In observance of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, the staff and residents at St. Catherine’s Village’s Campbell Cove celebrated Paint it Purple Day on Friday, Sept. 28.
Much of the day centers on fun carnival-themed games and food, including cotton candy. Employees honored all those who are living with dementia as well as those who have transitioned with a prayer service at which workers read the names of patients who have died. They ring a bell for each person. Jenzel Craft said her heart breaks with each loss.
Residents helped with an eco-friendly balloon release, a game of “Family Feud” and a fashion show. Wearing purple to show support is encouraged.
Latoya Thomas, a long-time employee, said she always makes sure her residents are having fun and appreciates the loyal, dedicated team who work at Campbell Cove. (Photos by Tereza Ma)
PEARL – St. Jude Parish offered a Blue Mass on Thursday, September 27. The parish hosted a reception after the Mass. Blue Masses are a Catholic tradition to pray for first responders. (Photos by Rhonda Bowden)
MERIDIAN – St. Patrick School held its annual Blue Mass Thursday, Sept. 27. Many first responders including policemen and EMTs in the Meridian and Lauderdale County area attended. A reception was held after the service in the Family Life Center. (Photo
by Celeste Saucier)
MERIDIAN – St. Patrick School students sing a song during their Pinwheels for Peace program on Friday, Sept. 21, which is the International Day of Peace. Fourth, fifth and sixth grade students gave speeches on what peace means to them and students made pinwheels for peace which they displayed outside the school. (Photo by Celeste Saucier)
COLUMBUS – Fourth grade students learn the basics and fundamentals of coding in STREAM class on Thursday, Sept. 27. STREAM classes integrate science, technology, religion, engineering, art and mathematics. (Photo by Katie Fenstermacher)
MADISON – The current confirmation class at St. Francis of Assisi parish participated in the signing of the cenus during the entrance ritual for Mass on Sunday, Sept. 30. This is part of the formation process before confirmation. Pictured (l-r) Chase Crawford, Julie Clayton, Emily George, Leigh Ann Peroni, Anna Roberson, Zenowia Wendel, Taylor Smith and Michelle Glorioso. (Photos by Melissa Smalley)
SOUTHAVEN – Sacred Heart students got to taste the fruit of their labor on Wednesday, Sept. 26, with a tomato-tasting party. Sister Margaret Sue Broker planted tomatoes with the students last year so they could eat their harvest this fall. (Photo by Sister Margaret Sue Broker)
