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Parish News

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JACKSON – St. Therese parishioners select gifts during the “CWA Christmas shopping days” held Nov. 26-27 and Dec. 3-4 after all Masses. All proceeds from this sale and the tamale sale will go to the 2016 Catholic Habitat Build on Greenview Street. (Photo by Elsa Baughman)

JACKSON – St. Therese parishioners select gifts during the “CWA Christmas shopping days” held Nov. 26-27 and Dec. 3-4 after all Masses. All proceeds from this sale and the tamale sale will go to the 2016 Catholic Habitat Build on Greenview Street. (Photo by Elsa Baughman)

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
AMORY St. Helen Parish, book discussion group of “Miss Jane” by Brad Watson, Monday, Dec. 12, at noon.
GRENADA St. Peter Parish, Advent Mission, Dec. 11-13, from 6:30 – 8 p.m. Presented by the Sisters of St. Cecilia out of Nashville, Tenn.
VICKSBURG St. Paul Parish, “Discovering Christ,” a seven-week experience, Tuesdays, Jan. 10-Feb. 21,   2017, at night in Farrell Hall. Details: Parish office: 601-636-0140

PARISH, SCHOOL & FAMILY EVENTS
AMORY St. Helen Parish, Mission Mississippi meeting and pancake breakfast, Saturday, Dec. 17, at 8  a.m. followed by wrapping and delivering of Christmas presents to two families.
BROOKHAVEN St. Francis Parish, young adult Catholic group meeting and Christmas gathering, Friday, Dec. 16, at 6 p.m. at the home of Linda and Joe Moak.
CLARKSDALE St. Elizabeth Parish CYO, pancakes, pictures, and the Polar Express fund-raiser, Saturday, Dec. 17, from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. in McKenna Hall for Pre-3 through sixth-graders. Admission is $10.
– Luminaries will be sold before and after Mass Sunday, Dec. 18, for $5. A special prayer service will be held by the youth on Jan. 8, 2017, at 5:30 p.m. in honor and memory of those luminary names.
CLEVELAND Our Lady of Victories, the Knights of Columbus is collecting pajamas for needy children until Thursday, Dec. 15. Bring them unwrapped to Mass or the office.
COLUMBUS Annunciation Parish, “The Messiah,” Tuesday, Dec. 13. Performances are at 6 and 8 p.m. in the church. Tickets are free, available in the church office.
– Annunciation School Christmas Extravaganza, Tuesday, De. 20, at 6:30 p.m. at Rent Auditorium on the MUW campus. The event is free and open to the public.
GREENVILLE Sacred Heart Parish, potluck Christmas party, Sunday, Dec. 18, at 1 p.m. Participants will play Dirty Santa, bring a $10 gift and a child’s gift.
GREENVILLE Our Lady of Lourdes School, Christmas play, Thursday, Dec. 15. Performances are at 1 and 6 p.m.
HERNANDO Holy Spirit Parish, “A Christmas Remembered,” Sunday, Dec. 11, at 6 p.m. Children and youth are invited to participate. Details: Barbara Smith, 662-233-4833 or 901-413-8102.
HOLLY SPRINGS St. Joseph Parish, senior yoga classes, Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. You must be at least 55 years of age and a registered member of the parish.
JACKSON Holy Family Parish is collecting caps, gloves, scarves, socks, toothbrushes, toothpaste, individually wrapped snacks, cookies, and crackers for the Christmas bags which will be distributed Sunday, Dec. 17.
OLIVE BRANCH Queen of Peace Parish, celebration of the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mass, Monday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. followed by a potluck dinner.
– Women’s Club December pizza night, Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the church. All women of the parish are invited to attend. Parishioner Diana Lyons will speak about the parish’s retreat.
– Women’s Club bake sale, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 17-18, after Mass. All women of the parish are asked to donate a baked good for the sale.
SOUTHAVEN Catholic young adults from Northern Mississippi are invited to an “Ugly Christmas sweater fiesta” on Thursday, Dec. 15, at Fiesta Grill (7065 Airways Blvd. Suite 101, Southaven) at 7 p.m. Wear your ugliest Christmas sweater.
– Christ the King Parish, la posada, Monday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m. The night will end with hot chocolate and sweet bread.
VICKSBURG St. Michael Parish, children’s Christmas party, Sunday, Dec. 18, from 2 – 4 p.m. All families are invited to attend. Bring a wrapped gift with your child’s name on it as well as an unwrapped gift for a boy or girl ages seven-12 to be donated to the children’s shelter. The party will feature arts and crafts for the kids, food, and a special appearance by Santa.

Advent reconciliation services
– Amory St. Helen, Thursday, Dec. 15, after 6 p.m. Mass.
– Brookhaven St. Francis, Wednesday, Dec. 14, at 6 p.m.
– Gluckstadt St. Joseph, Wednesday, Dec. 14, 5 – 7 pm.
– Greenville Sacred Heart, Thursday, Dec. 15, at 6 p.m.
– Holly Springs St. Joseph, Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m.
– Jackson St. Richard, Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m.
– Jackson St. Therese, Thursday, Dec. 15, at 6 p.m.
– Meridian St. Patrick, Monday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m.
– Olive Branch Queen of Peace, Dec. 14, at 7 p.m.
– Robinsonville Good Shepherd, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.
– Senatobia St. Gregory, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m.
– Shaw St. Francis, Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 6:30 p.m.
– Tupelo St. James, Tuesday, Dec 13, at 6:30 p.m.
– Vicksburg St. Michael, Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.
* St. Paul, Thursday, Dec. 15, at 7 p.m.
* St. Mary, Friday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m.
– Yazoo City St. Mary, Monday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m.

In Memoriam
DUBUQUE, Iowa – Sister Veronica Grennan, BVM, 103, died Nov. 22, at Marian Hall in Dubuque. Burial is in Mount Carmel cemetery, Dubuque.
In the Diocese of Jackson, Sister Grennan was superior/principal at Clarksdale Immaculate Conception School. She taught elementary and secondary school in Chicago; Cedar Rapids, Cascade and Iowa City, Iowa; Portland, Ore.; Seattle; and Rock Island, Ill., where she also served as counselor and in pastoral ministry.
She was born in Sterling, Ill., on Sept. 17, 1913. She entered the BVM congregation on Sept. 8, 1931, and professed first vows on March 19, 1934, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1939.

WORLD MARRIAGE DAY 2016
JACKSON – World Marriage Day 2017, Sunday, Feb. 12, at 3 p.m. Mass and reception at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. The celebration honors all married couples, but those celebrating their 25th, 50th or 60th anniversaries or any significant anniversary are invited to participate. Submit your name, address and wedding date to your pastor or parish secretary by Friday, Dec. 30.

Nativities display
CARY, Miss. – Nativity open house featuring more than 400 Nativities, Saturday, Dec. 17, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 18, from 1 – 4 p.m. at Goodman Memorial United Methodist Church, Highway 61. Admission is free, donations are accepted for Cary Cemetery. Details: 662-873-2365.

Behavioral Health unit named for Sr. Paulinus

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By Maureen Smith and Elsa Baughman
JACKSON – On Tuesday, Nov. 29, Sister Paulinus Oakes, RSM, and a few friends gathered for the dedication in her honor of “The Oakes,” a unit in the Behavioral Health building at St. Dominic Hospital.
The Oakes provides compassionate care for those with psychiatric conditions secondary to a cognitive disorder such a dementia and those suffering from depression or other acute mental illnesses. Treatments include social and group therapy, one-on-one therapy and family support and education. It has been open for several years, but was only recently renamed in honor of Sister Oakes.

Sister Paulinus Oakes, RSM, donated a painting by a fellow sister to the unit.

Sister Paulinus Oakes, RSM, donated a painting by a fellow sister to the unit.

“The reasoning for naming the unit The Oakes is for all of sister’s dedication and service to our patients and the community,” explained Kim Mathis, director of outreach services for St. Dominic Behavioral Health Services. “She worked at St. Dominic’s for 16 years and was a faithful servant to those less fortunate and always had a heart for those suffering with mental illness and alcohol and drug abuse,” she added.
“Thank you for doing this for me. I was choked up out of my mind when I learned about this honor,” she said. As is her custom, she brought a gift with her to the dedication, a painting by a fellow sister to hang in the unit. Sister Oakes declined to talk about the honor, wanting instead to talk about the painting and the sister who donated it.
“No one has a heart for the homeless, down-and-out and those who are considered ‘the least’ by society quite like Sister Paulinus,” said Pat Walden, director of pastoral care for St. Dominic. “By her life and example, she showed us that they need love and care,” she added.
Sister Oakes, a native of Vicksburg, started working at St. Dominic’s in 1996 as chaplain for behavioral health. Trace Swartzfager, vice-president of business development at St. Dominic’s, introduced Sister Oakes and noted he started working at the hospital the same day she did and was beyond thrilled when he realized who she was. “This was the Sister Paulinus who was known for her unwavering passion for helping those suffering from chemical dependency and psychiatric disorders,” he said.
“I can’t tell you what a joy it was working with Sister Paulinus during her tenure here at St. Dominic’s,” he added.
Swartzfager commented he received routine phone calls from referring physicians telling him they were sending their patient to St. Dominic “because I know Sister Paulinus is there and I am confident my patient will be well cared for.” He said that when they starting brainstorming about names for the new patient care unit, the name “The Oakes” came to mind immediately.
Present at the dedication were retired Bishop Joseph Latino, Msgr. Elvin Sunds, several priests, a large group of Sisters of Mercy, lay Mercy Associates friends and members of the hospital personnel.
Sister Oakes has masters degree from Xavier University in St. Louis and Loyola University in New Orleans. She also served as school principal and taught in various Mercy school in Mississippi and Oklahoma.

Sister Paulinus Oakes, RSM, speaks with staff at the behavioral health unit now named in her honor at St. Dominic's Hospital. (Photos by Elsa Baughman)

Sister Paulinus Oakes, RSM, speaks with staff at the behavioral health unit now named in her honor at St. Dominic’s Hospital. (Photos by Elsa Baughman)

For more than 20 years she was an adjunct faculty member for Hinds Community College in Hinds and Warren counties teaching American literature. She volunteered with the National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) for more than 18 years and was one of the founders of Born Free, a residential treatment program for women.
She has also published to books. Last year she retired to her order’s motherhouse in St. Louis, Mo.

St Joseph – praying for the church in his sleep

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By Sister Donna Marie Degnan, OCD
St. Joseph, Mary’s spouse, patron of workers and fathers, continues to offer his gifts to the church.

A common sleeping St. Joseph Statue. (Image courtesy of Fontanini Company)

A common sleeping St. Joseph Statue. (Image courtesy of Fontanini Company)

Before the birth of Jesus, God sent His angels down to St. Joseph to relay messages to him in his sleep. In his dreams, angels sent him heavenly messages about Mary, Jesus’ name, and warnings of the danger that Herod threatened. God sent these angels with messages to St. Joseph in the late hours as he slept, so that in the morning, Joseph could relay those messages and act to protect himself, Mary and Jesus.
Even today, God depends on St. Joseph to help relay messages and answer prayers. As a carpenter, St. Joseph learned the importance of concentration and perfection; a demonstration that we, too, must exhibit patience while waiting for our prayers to be answered. St. Joseph takes each prayer he receives seriously and works hard to relay them to God in order that they may be answered in a way that is beneficial for our salvation.

Pope Francis shows the sleeping posture of a statue of St. Joseph he keeps on his desk while giving a talk during a meeting with families in the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines, Jan. 16. The pope spoke about his devotion to St. Joseph, foster-father of Jesus, and his practice of writing prayers on pieces of paper and slipping them under the statue so St. Joseph could sleep on them. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) See PHILIPPINES-MARRIAGE Jan. 16, 2015.

Pope Francis shows the sleeping posture of a statue of St. Joseph he keeps on his desk while giving a talk during a meeting with families in the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines, Jan. 16. The pope spoke about his devotion to St. Joseph, foster-father of Jesus, and his practice of writing prayers on pieces of paper and slipping them under the statue so St. Joseph could sleep on them. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) See PHILIPPINES-MARRIAGE Jan. 16, 2015.

There is a sweet tradition of placing prayers under a statue of sleeping St. Joseph at night. The petitioner hopes for an answer to his or her prayers as they sleep.
Surprisingly, Pope Francis is a strong believer in God’s dependability on St. Joseph while he is sleeping. The Pope has his own wooden Sleeping St. Joseph figure that he keeps in his room. He spoke about it at the World Meeting of Families in the Philippines in 2015.
“I would like to tell you something very personal. I like St Joseph very much. He is a strong man of silence. On my desk I have a statue of St Joseph sleeping. While sleeping he looks after the church. Yes, he can do it!  We know that. When I have a problem or a difficulty, I write on a piece of paper and I put it under his statue so he can dream about it. This means please pray to St Joseph for this problem,” he said.
As Christmas approaches and families look for gifts and traditions to incorporate into their celebration of the holiday, it might be good to consider adding a devotion to St. Joseph to your Christmas.
(Sister Donna Marie Degnan, OCD, is a member of the Carmelite community in Jackson. This story also contains an excerpt from a Vatican Radio report.)

Parish News

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
AMORY St. Helen Parish, book discussion group will read “Miss Jane” by Brad Watson for discussion on Monday, Dec. 12. All are invited to read the book and participate in the discussion.
BOONEVILLE St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Advent day of reflection, Sunday, Dec. 4, beginning at 8:30 a.m. with Mass. There will be prayers, discussions, including a viewing of a film about the newly canonized St. Teresa of Calcutta.
IUKA St. Mary Parish, “With Great Love,” a day-long retreat, Saturday, Dec. 3, beginning at 9 a.m. with coffee. A film and discussion about the newly canonized St. Teresa of Calcutta will be part of the retreat.
JACKSON St. Peter Cathedral Parish, Advent retreat, “Christ is Christmas,” anointing Mass and lunch, Saturday, Dec. 3, from 9 a.m. – noon.
JACKSON St. Richard Parish, Lectio Divina during Advent, Tuesdays from 10 – 11:30 a.m. in the Mercy Room – facilitated by Mary Louise Jones and Claudia Addison. Details: claudiaaddison@mac.com.

PARISH, SCHOOL & FAMILY EVENTS
AMORY St. Helen Parish, adult Christmas dinner, Saturday, Dec. 3, beginning with appetizers and auction from 6 – 7 p.m. followed by dinner. Special guest for the dinner and Mass on Sunday will be Bishop Joseph Kopacz.
– Grandparents’ Day play, Sunday, Dec. 11, after Mass.
BROOKHAVEN St. Francis Parish, family Advent wreath, Sunday, Nov. 27, after the 9:30 a.m. Mass in the parish center, Materials will be supplied. Extra greenery is needed.
COLUMBUS Annunciation School community, ringing the Salvation Army bell, Saturday, Nov. 26, at Wal-Mart and Saturday, Dec. 10, at Kroger. To sign up for an hour call the school office, 662-328-4479.
GLUCKSTADT St. Joseph Parish, “The ABC’s of Christmas,” Saturday, Dec. 3. All children (K–12) are invited to participate. Details: Karen Worrell, kworrellcre@hotmail.com.
GRENADA St. Peter Parish Jubilee History Committee is putting together a slide show for its jubilee. Pictures are needed of weddings, VBS, baptisms, senior class, First Communion, etc.. The older the better. Note the event and year. Names too if desired. Email pictures to: Livingstonclan@cableone.net.
HERNANDO Holy Spirit Parish, “A Christmas Remembered,” Sunday, Dec. 11, at 6 p.m. Children and youth are invited to participate. Details: Barbara Smith, 662-233-4833 or 901-413-8102.
JACKSON Holy Family Parish is collecting caps, gloves, scarves, socks, toothbrushes, toothpaste, individually wrapped snacks, cookies, and crackers for the Christmas bags which will be distributed Sunday, Dec. 17.
JACKSON St. Therese Parish, all children, ages seven and older, are encouraged to participate in the church choir on Saturday, Dec. 24, at the 4 p.m. Christmas Mass and posadas. Practices are on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m.
JACKSON St. Richard Parish, special Christmas remembrance for deceased loved ones, Thursday, Dec. 8, at 7 p.m. in Foley Hall. Please RSVP. Details: Linda Lalor 601-853-8840, or Nancy McGhee, 601-942-2078.
NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, Advent wreath workshop, Wednesday, Nov. 30, after the dinner.
– Alcorn State University choir Christmas concert, Sunday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m.
SOUTHAVEN Christ the King Parish, Advent/Christmas concert, Sunday, Dec. 4, at 4 p.m. followed by a chili supper. Everyone is invited.
YAZOO CITY St. Mary Parish, holiday bonfire, Sunday, Dec. 11, at 4:30 p.m. at Janet Whittington’s home in Bentonia. Hot dogs, hamburgers, sodas, beer, and all the fixings will be served.

GLUCKSTADT – St. Joseph parishioner Rene Bodin gives Communion to Ken Pribyla during the Knights of Columbus Council 9543 annual rosary, Mass and supper on the grounds of parishioners Chris and Mary Manning’s home in Gluckstadt. (Photo by Sheri Krause)

GLUCKSTADT – St. Joseph parishioner Rene Bodin gives Communion to Ken Pribyla during the Knights of Columbus Council 9543 annual rosary, Mass and supper on the grounds of parishioners Chris and Mary Manning’s home in Gluckstadt. (Photo by Sheri Krause)

Advent reconciliation services
– Amory St. Helen, Thursday, Dec. 15, after 6 p.m. Mass.
– Columbus Annunciation, Tuesday, Nov. 29, at 6:30 p.m.
– Corinth St. James, Wednesday, Nov. 30, at 6 p.m.
– Greenville Sacred Heart, Thursday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m.
– Hernando Holy Spirit, Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m.
– Holly Springs St. Joseph, Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m.
– Senatobia St. Gregory, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m.
– Olive Branch Queen of Peace, Dec. 14, at 7 p.m.
– Robinsoville Good Shepherd, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.
– Southaven Christ the King, Nov. 30 at 7 p.m.
– Tupelo St. James, Tuesday, Dec 13, at 6:30 p.m.
– Yazoo City St. Mary, Monday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m.

Guadalupe celebrations
Amory St. Helen, Monday., Dec. 12, Mass at 7 p.m.
Carthage St. Anne, Saturday, Dec. 10, mañanitas at 9 a.m. followed by a procession, Mass and fiesta. The Aztec dancing group from Jackson St. Peter Parish will perform during the celebration.
Cleveland Our Lady of Victories Parish, Monday, Dec. 12, procession at 6 p.m., followed by Mass and dinner.
Corinth St. James Parish, Monday, Dec. 12, rosary at 5 a.m. followed by mañanitas and breakfast. At 6 p.m. procession followed by Mass and dinner.
Forest St. Michael Parish, Saturday, Dec. 10, mañanitas from 7 – 10 p.m. On Sunday, Dec. 11, parishioners will gather at the Court House at 10 a.m. and process to the Crudup Activity Center where Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. A light meal will be served after Mass.
Hazlehurst St. Martin Parish, Monday, Dec. 12, Mass at 6 p.m. followed by a fiesta.
Greenville Sacred Heart Parish, Sunday, Dec. 11, Mass at 6 p.m. followed by dinner. A mariachi band from Memphis will provide the music for Mass and dinner.
Holly Springs St. Joseph Parish, Monday, Dec. 12, Mass at 7 p.m. followed by a reception.
Jackson Cathedral of St. Peter, Sunday, Dec. 11, procession at noon followed by Mass and dinner.
Kosciusco St. Teresa, Saturday, Dec. 10, bilingual Mass at 2 p.m. followed by a fiesta. The Hispanic Aztec dancing group from Jackson St. Therese Parish will perform during the celebration.
Morton St. Martin Center, Saturday, Dec. 10, mañanitas from 7 a 9 p.m. (See Forest for Mass details)
New Albany St. Francis of Assisi Parish, novena from Dec. 4-11at 7 p.m.
– Monday, Dec. 12, rosary (last day of novena) at 5 a.m. followed by mañanitas, breakfast, procession, Mass and community meal.
Senatobia St. Gregory Parish, Monday, Dec. 12, Mass at 7 p.m. followed by a reception.
Southaven Christ the King Parish, Monday, Dec. 12, mañanitas a las 5:30 a.m. Mass at 7 p.m. followed by a reception.
Olive Branch Queen of Peace Parish, Monday, Dec. 12, Mass at 7 p.m. followed by a reception.

Jubilee Year of Mercy Ends, Holy Door Closed

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By Cindy Wooden

Pope Francis closes the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica to mark the closing of the jubilee Year of Mercy at the Vatican Nov. 20. (CNS photo/Tiziana Fabi, pool via Reuters) See POPE-MERCY-CLOSE Nov. 20, 2016.

Pope Francis closes the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica to mark the closing of the jubilee Year of Mercy at the Vatican Nov. 20. (CNS photo/Tiziana Fabi, pool via Reuters) See POPE-MERCY-CLOSE Nov. 20, 2016.

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Acknowledging and sharing God’s mercy is a permanent part of the Christian life, so initiatives undertaken during the special Year of Mercy must continue, Pope Francis said.
“Mercy cannot become a mere parenthesis in the life of the church,” the pope wrote in an apostolic letter, “Misericordia et Misera,” (“Mercy and Misery”), which he signed Nov. 20 at the end of the Year of Mercy. The Vatican released the text the next day.
The Catholic Church’s focus on God’s mercy must continue with individual acts of kindness, assistance to the poor and, particularly, with encouraging Catholics to participate in the sacrament of reconciliation and making it easier for them to do so, the pope wrote.

Faithful from across the diocese came for the Mass to close the Holy Door at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle.

Faithful from across the diocese came for the Mass to close the Holy Door at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle.

In his letter, Pope Francis said he formally was giving all priests permanent permission to grant absolution to those who confess to having procured an abortion. Priests in the Diocese of Jackson have had this faculty for many years. While many bishops around the world, and almost all bishops in the United States, routinely grant that faculty to all their priests, Pope Francis had made it universal during the Holy Year.
According to canon law, procuring an abortion brings automatic excommunication to those who know of the penalty, but procure the abortion anyway. Without formal permission, priests had been required to refer the case to their bishops before the excommunication could be lifted and sacramental absolution could be granted to a woman who had an abortion or those directly involved in the procedure.
“I wish to restate as firmly as I can that abortion is a grave sin, since it puts an end to an innocent life,” the pope wrote. “In the same way, however, I can and must state that there is no sin that God’s mercy cannot reach and wipe away when it finds a repentant heart seeking to be reconciled with the Father.”
Speaking to reporters during a Vatican news conference Nov. 21, Archbishop Rino Fisichella said procuring an abortion still results in automatic excommunication the very moment the procedure is carried out.
Sacramental absolution, therefore, is not just forgiving the sin of abortion, but also means “the excommunication is removed,” he said.
Now that all priests have been given the faculty to lift the excommunication and grant absolution, the Code of Canon Law will have to be updated, said the archbishop, who is president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization, the office that organized events for the Year of Mercy.
The pope also formally extended the provision he made during the Year of Mercy of recognizing as valid the sacramental absolution received by “those faithful who, for various reasons, attend churches officiated by the priests of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Pius X,” the traditionalist society founded by the late Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre.
Although the Vatican and the society continue talks aimed at formally restoring the society’s full communion with the church, Pope Francis said he was extending the pastoral provision “lest anyone ever be deprived of the sacramental sign of reconciliation through the church’s pardon.”
The title of the document is taken from a sermon by St. Augustine about Jesus’ encounter with the woman caught in adultery. After those who wanted to stone her slinked away, only Jesus and the woman — mercy and misery — remained.
In the Gospel story, the pope wrote, and in the sacraments of the church, particularly confession and the anointing of the sick, “references to mercy, far from being merely exhortative, are highly performative, which is to say that as we invoke mercy with faith, it is granted to us, and as we confess it to be vital and real, it transforms us,” as it did with the woman caught in adultery.
“This is a fundamental element of our faith,” Pope Francis wrote.
“Even before the revelation of sin, there is the revelation of the love by which God created the world and human beings,” he wrote. “His love always precedes us, accompanies us and remains with us, despite our sin.”
In celebrating and welcoming God’s love and mercy, he said, a special place in the church must be given to families, especially at a time when the very meaning of family is in crisis.
“The beauty of the family endures unchanged, despite so many problems and alternative proposals,” he said. “The grace of the sacrament of marriage not only strengthens the family to be a privileged place for practicing mercy, but also commits the Christian community and all its pastoral activity to uphold the great positive value of the family.”
Still, he wrote, “the experience of mercy enables us to regard all human problems from the standpoint of God’s love, which never tires of welcoming and accompanying,” even in situations marked by failure or sin.
“Our life, with its joys and sorrows, is something unique and unrepeatable that takes place under the merciful gaze of God,” he said. In counseling couples priests must use “a careful, profound and far-sighted spiritual discernment, so that everyone, none excluded, can feel accepted by God, participate actively in the life of the community and be part of that People of God which journeys tirelessly toward the fullness of his kingdom of justice, love, forgiveness and mercy.”
“Nothing of what a repentant sinner places before God’s mercy can be excluded from the embrace of his forgiveness,” the pope wrote. “For this reason, none of us has the right to make forgiveness conditional.”
In the letter, Pope Francis also asked dioceses that have not yet done so to consider joining the “24 Hours for the Lord” initiative. Near the fourth Sunday of Lent, dioceses choose a church or churches to stay open for 24 hours to offer the sacrament of reconciliation and eucharistic adoration. The pope opens the Rome celebration with a penance service in St. Peter’s Basilica.
After his Year of Mercy celebration Nov. 13 with the homeless and other people who are “socially excluded,” the pope wrote that he would like a similar celebration to be held annually in every diocese.
“The entire church might celebrate, on the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time, the World Day of the Poor,” he said. The celebration, a week before the feast of Christ the King, would be “the worthiest way to prepare” to acknowledge the kingship of Christ, “who identified with the little ones and the poor and who will judge us on our works of mercy.”
“It would be a day to help communities and each of the baptized to reflect on how poverty is at the very heart of the Gospel and that, as long as Lazarus lies at the door of our homes, there can be no justice or social peace,” he said.
Calling the Bible “the great story of the marvels of God’s mercy,” Pope Francis also asked every Catholic parish in the world to set aside at least one Sunday a year to promote reading, studying and praying with the Scriptures.
Teaching people “lectio divina,” the prayerful reading of the Bible, especially when focused on texts that speak of God’s mercy and love, will help “give rise to concrete gestures and works of charity,” he wrote.
In another continuation of a Year of Mercy project, Pope Francis asked the more than 1,100 priests he commissioned as “missionaries of mercy” to continue leading retreats, missions, prayer services and offering confession in dioceses around the world.
“Their pastoral activity sought to emphasize that God places no roadblocks in the way of those who seek him with a contrite heart, because he goes out to meet everyone like a father,” the pope said.
While he said he did not have specifics about how the missionaries’ work should continue, Pope Francis said the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization “will supervise them and find the most suitable forms for the exercise of this valuable ministry.”
(Contributing to this story was Carol Glatz at the Vatican.)

Bishop emeritus Joseph Latino and Bishop Joseph Kopacz enter the Holy Door at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle to start the Mass that would end the Jubilee Year of Mercy. Mary Woodward, Chancellor, assisted at the Mass.

Bishop emeritus Joseph Latino and Bishop Joseph Kopacz enter the Holy Door at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle to start the Mass that would end the Jubilee Year of Mercy. Mary Woodward, Chancellor, assisted at the Mass.

JACKSON – Miembros de la Catedral de San Pedro pasan por la puerta santa de la catedral el domingo 13 de noviembre antes de que el Obispo Joseph Kopacz la cerrara como símbolo del fin del Año de la Misericordia que oficialmente terminó el 20 de noviembre. Esta conmemoración anual, anunciada y proclamada por el Papa Francisco comenzó el 8 de diciembre de 2015. (Foto de Maureen Smith) JACKSON – Faithful process into the Holy Door at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle at the start of the Mass to close the Jubilee Year of Mercy on Sunday, Nov. 13. Holy Doors across the world, including the ones in Rome, will be closed by Sunday, Nov. 27 in preparation for a new liturgical year to begin. (Photo by Maureen Smith)

JACKSON – Miembros de la Catedral de San Pedro pasan por la puerta santa de la catedral el domingo 13 de noviembre antes de que el Obispo Joseph Kopacz la cerrara como símbolo del fin del Año de la Misericordia que oficialmente terminó el 20 de noviembre. Esta conmemoración anual, anunciada y proclamada por el Papa Francisco comenzó el 8 de diciembre de 2015. (Foto de Maureen Smith)
JACKSON – Faithful process into the Holy Door at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle at the start of the Mass to close the Jubilee Year of Mercy on Sunday, Nov. 13. Holy Doors across the world, including the ones in Rome, will be closed by Sunday, Nov. 27 in preparation for a new liturgical year to begin. (Photo by Maureen Smith)

Holy Family sponsors ecumenical ministry

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JACKSON – Since July, Holy Family Parish has been involving parishioners, especially the youth, in an ecumenical outreach ministry to the senior citizens and the elementary-aged children from nearby churches. There are eight churches within three miles of the parish.
In October, residents of NCBA Estates, an independent living residence for senior citizens, attended a “Meet and greet our neighbors” activity at which 35 of the 40 plus residents were present. Residents filled out a survey of preferred activities and Holy Family worked to arrange those things, such as rides to Mass Sundays and to the polls on election day.
The Nov. 11 fish fry and bingo night activity was also well-attended. Father Xavier

Jackson Holy Family hosted a fish fry and bingo night for local seniors as part of an ecumenical outreach ministry.

Jackson Holy Family hosted a fish fry and bingo night for local seniors as part of an ecumenical outreach ministry.

Amirtham, pastor, and the pastoral council prepared and served more than 50 meals. The next opportunity to fellowship, at the residents’ request, is a Christmas celebration. (Submitted by Corinne W. Anderson)

Jackson Holy Family hosted a fish fry and bingo night for local seniors as part of an ecumenical outreach ministry.

Jackson Holy Family hosted a fish fry and bingo night for local seniors as part of an ecumenical outreach ministry.

Jackson Holy Family hosted a fish fry and bingo night for local seniors as part of an ecumenical outreach ministry.

Jackson Holy Family hosted a fish fry and bingo night for local seniors as part of an ecumenical outreach ministry.

Jackson Holy Family hosted a fish fry and bingo night for local seniors as part of an ecumenical outreach ministry.

Jackson Holy Family hosted a fish fry and bingo night for local seniors as part of an ecumenical outreach ministry.

Jubilee Year of Mercy: Meridian’s Merciful Mufflers fills need

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Members of the Merciful Mufflers knitting and crocheting ministry created hats, mufflers and even bags as a work of mercy this year.

Members of the Merciful Mufflers knitting and crocheting ministry created hats, mufflers and even bags as a work of mercy this year.

By Mary Billups
MERIDIAN – Inspired by the Jubilee Year of Mercy declared by Pope Francis, this spring the Catholic Community of Meridian launched a new faith-sharing opportunity called Merciful Mufflers. This ministry seeks to respond to the corporal work of mercy “Clothe the Naked” in a meaningful way through prayer, fellowship and service to others.
Many parishes embraced the Year of Mercy with projects such as this one, finding personal ways to incorporate the works of mercy into their ministries.
Several dedicated ladies meet each Monday at the St. Patrick Parish Center to share their time and talents by creating handmade scarves, hats, ear warmers and hand warmers for those in need.
Since May, the group has knitted or crocheted more than 150 items which the ladies will distribute to agencies in Meridian that provide relief to the poor, the homeless and victims of domestic violence.
For more information or to join this ministry, contact Mary Billups, 601-693-1321, marybillups@bellsouth.net.

(Mary Billups is director of Adult Faith Formation for the Catholic Community of Meridian.
Editor’s note: if your parish embraced a project or new ministry for the Jubilee Year of Mercy, send it to editor@mississippicatholic.com.)

Turn back time: visit Cranfield St. John the Baptist mission

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Cranfield St. John the Baptist mission is a country church, often the Sunday home to Louisiana Catholics who are visiting nearby hunting camps.

Cranfield St. John the Baptist mission is a country church, often the Sunday home to Louisiana Catholics who are visiting nearby hunting camps.

By Mary Woodward

CRANFIELD – On Sunday, Nov. 6, a beautiful, fresh autumn day, more than 100 people gathered with Bishop Joseph Kopacz to mark the centennial of St. John the Baptist Mission at an early afternoon Mass. The wood-framed church holds roughly 50 people. The overflow congregation was sheltered in a tent outside under the trees.

Shortly before the Mass was scheduled to begin at 1 p.m., a communicant arrived on a four-wheeler, reflecting the mission’s proximity to nearby hunting camps where many Louisiana Catholics come during hunting season. She zipped in and parked opposite the tents and took her place among the congregation.
The windows of the church were wide open and the breeze of the day kept the natural flow of creation present as those gathered entered into the Divine Liturgy. The setting of the day brought us back to 100 years ago when Bishop John Gunn, SM, preached an eloquent sermon on the parable of the Good Samaritan likening the Cranfield mission to the protagonist who cared for the one in need.
The history of the mission is a prime example of a dedicated shepherd who traversed fields and valleys, climbed hills and braved thickets to find his flock. In his time Father Matthew Morrissey, SSJ, became known as the “Father of Missions” in the southwest corner of the diocese.

The inside view of the church.

The inside view of the church.

The Natchez ministry of Father Morrissey began in 1901 when he arrived at Holy Family Church. The parish was established in 1890 to serve African American Catholics in the Natchez area. Having been invited by Bishop Thomas Heslin, the Josephites have staffed Holy Family since 1895.
Under Father Morrissey, Holy Family soon became the mother church of four missions – Cranfield, Harriston, Laurel Park and Springfield. On Monday mornings after his weekend duties at Holy Family, Father Morrissey would head out into the county in search of any Catholics and also those who were not church-going. During his circuit he often came upon Catholics who were not able to get into Natchez very often to receive the sacraments. This is where the story of Cranfield has its roots.
According to a history of the Cranfield mission written in 1945 by Father Arthur Flanagan, SSJ, pastor of Holy Family at the time, Soon after his arrival in Natchez, Father Morrissey came upon the Irish Catholic family of John Gordon Fleming living on the outskirts of Cranfield. Fleming told Father Morrissey the family originally came from County Mayo, Ireland in the late 1870s. Fleming’s relative, Holliday Fleming, was the oldest son of the immigrants and brought with him his wife and children. The family would go to Mass in Natchez at St. Mary on Easter and Christmas – weather permitting. The children were all baptized and received sacraments from St. Mary.

Before the anniversary Mass, Father George Ajuruchi, SSJ, was installed as pastor at Natchez Holy Family and Fayette St. Anne. Some of his friends and family, pictured above, from his home country of Nigeria came for the day of celebrations. (Photo by Valencia Hall)

Before the anniversary Mass, Father George Ajuruchi, SSJ, was installed as pastor at Natchez Holy Family and Fayette St. Anne. Some of his friends and family, pictured above, from his home country of Nigeria came for the day of celebrations. (Photo by Valencia Hall)

The next half of the story told by Fleming holds a true Mississippi cultural twist and a wonderful image of the people of God. Fleming explained to Father Morrissey that Holliday Fleming had been “true to his name, [and] went holidaying with the result that he was blessed” with a growing African-American family. Father Morrissey made sure these children were brought to Holy Family for sacraments and given their father’s name.
Soon after meeting the Flemings, Father Morrissey laid plans to build a church in Cranfield. After a few years of saving pennies and nickels from various appeals, there finally were enough funds to build the church on the land donated by Mrs. Boggart, a local Catholic. The mission priest, along with the older African-American Fleming children, built the church themselves. As great artists often sign their masterpieces, Linda Floyd, a descendant of the original Fleming family, relayed that the young men who worked on the church inscribed their names in the steeple.
Initially religious education, taught by Rosie Washington, was held in the church as there was no other building on the site. In 1938, a bus from Natchez came to bring the children to St. Francis School at Holy Family. On the weekend when Mass was not celebrated in the mission the bus often was used to bring people from the missions to Mass at Holy Family.
As the years passed, the other three missions closed. Today Cranfield is the last of the four built by Father Morrissey. His missionary zeal reflects the true spirit of our diocese as a rural mission territory. For Bishop Kopacz – 100 years later – the day began in Natchez with the installation of Father George Ajuruchi, SSJ, as new pastor of Holy Family; then we traveled to Fayette St. Anne for Father Ajuruchi’s installation there as pastor.
From Fayette we headed to Cranfield. The road soon became narrower and less paved and we witnessed the terrain of Father Morrissey. Driving from Holy Family to Fayette and then down to Cranfield gave us a great lesson in history and an even greater perspective on mission life in the church.

A sweet personal touch to the celebration -- cookies made in the image of the church.

A sweet personal touch to the celebration — cookies made in the image of the church.

It was 100 years ago on Sept. 3, 1916, when Bishop John Gunn, SM, dedicated the mission church built by Father Matthew Morrissey, SSJ, and his flock. Since then many striking autumn days have filled the hearts and minds of the people of this unique mission. For those who live in larger parishes, a trip to Cranfield St. John the Baptist would be good for the Catholic soul.
(Mary Woodward is the diocesan chancellor.)

SHSM hosts international educational mission convention

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Holly Springs Holy Family Principal Clara Isom leads the choir of educators throughout the conference. Holy Family students also participated in the event.

Holly Springs Holy Family Principal Clara Isom leads the choir of educators throughout the conference. Holy Family students also participated in the event.

By Laura Grisham
SOUTHAVEN – Mission Education. Every few years a contingency from the U.S. Province of the Priests of the Sacred Heart (SCJ) and their affiliated organizations gather to learn about Father Leo John Dehon, founder of the Priests of the Sacred Heart, as well as the congregation that carries on his ministries. This October, Sacred Heart Southern Missions (SHSM) hosted the eighth such gathering of the SCJs. The two-day conference was the second one held here in North Mississippi.
The time and talent exerted in putting the event together did not hold a candle to the spiritual treasure and fellowship received by all who attended.
Titled “Mission in Mercy,” the conference was infused with music and prayer — a celebration of God’s mercy and the opportunity to extend that mercy to others through all of our various missions and daily tasks.
On Monday, Sacred Heart School welcomed attendees. The activities began with the voices of the ‘educators’ choir, lead by Holy Family School principal Clara Isom. Among their musical selections, the group sang “Who Will Speak?” encouraging audience participation and setting the tone for the conference.
Father Jack Kurps, SCJ, greeted the crowd, visually introduced the contingents from all corners of the country and in doing so, showed our solidarity – united in our common mission of mercy. With so many facets, one might think it a “Mission Impossible,” but in a clever video production, Father Kurps showed that our mission is possible, relevant and much needed, especially today. The superior general of the congregation, Father Heiner Wilmer, SCJ, who also appeared via video, echoed Father Jack’s sentiments.
“An Interview with Father Dehon,” provided a look back to the challenges he faced more than a century ago. It was a clever presentation involving a reporter, Province Communications Director Mary Gorski, and Father Dehon, played by Dave Schimmel, province director of Dehonian Associates, helped participants gain an understanding of his work.

Father Quang Nguyen, SCJ,spoke of the economics of proverty. He demonstrated the gripping realities that so many in the country face every day.

Father Quang Nguyen, SCJ,spoke of the economics of proverty. He demonstrated the gripping realities that so many in the country face every day.

Father Quang Nguyen, SCJ, spoke of the economics of poverty while SHSM’s director of programs, Shakebra Young, made the numbers personal as she shared her own struggles of poverty here in the Mississippi Delta. Both demonstrated the gripping realities that so many in our country face every day.
Ekpe, a local entertainer, and his band, told the story of “From Africa to Beale Street.” This performance highlighted a rich legacy of music. Ekpe moved the audience and had them on their feet.
Sister Cathy Bertrand, SSND, a member of the SHSM board of directors, facilitated several panel discussions about Mercy In Action throughout the conference. The discussions brought members from the various service aspects of SHSM and other SCJ affiliated organizations to the table to share how they perceive their role of mercy in their particular area or ministry.
Bishop Joseph Kopacz, bishop for the Diocese of Jackson, and Mary Woodward, diocesan chancellor, also addressed the gathering, speaking about the Church and its challenges in Mississippi. The largest diocese east of the Mississippi River, it encompasses some of the poorest areas of the nation. He lauded the contributions and accomplishments of Sacred Heart Southern Missions and the SCJs in caring physically and spiritually for those living in the northwestern counties of the diocese.
Bishop Kopacz was also the main celebrant at Mass on Monday afternoon at Holy Spirit Church in Hernando. A traditional southern barbecue dinner was served immediately following with a performance by local blues artists Sean “Bad Apple” Appel and Stud Ford to close the day.
Tuesday morning attendees were bused to Holly Springs to continue the conference at Holy Family School.
The day began with praise and thanksgiving. Isom and the ‘educators choir’ mesmerized the audience, singing ‘Jesus Love and Mercy’ and “I Feel Like Traveling Home.” Images from the Heart of Christ, narrated by Dave Schimmel, also gave participants an opportunity to reflect on how they saw and related to Jesus in the Sacred Heart. Holy Family students presented a “Live Wax Museum” of African American inventors, surprising many with their knowledge of historical facts.

Music and dancing was part of the event. A performance by local blues artists Sean “Bad Apple” Appel and Stud Ford closed the day.

Music and dancing was part of the event. A performance by local blues artists Sean “Bad Apple” Appel and Stud Ford closed the day.

Panel discussions continued, facilitated by Sister Bertrand, and were sprinkled with opportunities for table and room discussions by all in attendance before and after lunch. And speaking of lunch, there was not a soul present that did not have rave reviews for the traditional “Thanksgiving” dinner, cooked by the fine members of Strawberry Baptist Church.
The conference began as it ended, in song. Mercy in Mission.
(Reprinted with permission from SHSM’s newsletter. )

Southaven Christ the King to celebrate anniversary

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By Donna Williamson
SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King Parish will celebrate its 50th anniversary on the feast of Christ the King, Saturday, Nov. 19.
The celebration will begin with a bilingual Mass at 5 p.m. celebrated by Bishop Joseph Kopacz. Dinner will be served following the Mass. All are welcome. A special invitation is extended to anyone who has been a part of the parish in the past 50 years. Those planning to attend should call the church office, 662-342-1073, so that enough food is prepared for dinner.
Christ the King began as a mission of Sacred Heart Church in Walls. In 1966, having no church building, 18 families gathered in a car auction barn every week for Mass. Father Bob Werner, SCJ, the first full-time priest, was welcome in August 1966 with a big reception at the barn.
In 1969 a church was built on Stateline Road in Southaven. The mission grew into a parish at this location.
After more than 30 years, Christ the King began building a new church at its present location on Church Road in order to better meet the needs of the fast growing community. The parish now serves 1,800 families.
The Priests of the Sacred Heart have served Christ the King since the beginning. Now, a team of three priests work together to serve a cluster of six parishes: Christ the King, Hernando Holy Spirit, Olive Branch Queen of Peace, Senatobia St. Gregory, Robinsonville Good Shepherd and Holly Springs St. Joseph.
This collaboration of the priests and the people give all six parishes many opportunities to come together in celebration and faith sharing.
Cooperation marked the mission’s infancy. One parishioner built the portable altar. Responsibility for setting up the barn for Mass was shared by various families. Everyone helped clean up afterward.

The parish picnic draws many families. (File Photo courtesy of the parish)

The parish picnic draws many families. (File Photo courtesy of the parish)

The parish picnic draws many families. (File Photo courtesy of the parish)

The parish picnic draws many families. (File Photo courtesy of the parish)

The blessing of the fire at Easter. (photos courtesy of the parish)

The blessing of the fire at Easter. (photos courtesy of the parish)

The parish also celebrates a blessing of the pets in honor of St. Francis. (Photos courtesy of the parish.

The parish also celebrates a blessing of the pets in honor of St. Francis. (Photos courtesy of the parish.