Category Archives: Parish News

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
AMORY St. Helen, group discussion of the book “In the Sanctuary of Outcasts” by Neil White, Monday, April 13, at noon.
BROOKSVILLE The Dwelling Place, “Spiritual Doors,” Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cost is $45 and includes lunch. Led by Karen Dodges and Lee Oswald from Tupelo. Details: 662-738-5348.
CHATAWA St. Mary of the Pines, discernment retreat for women ages 18-49, “Listening to God While Making Life Decisions,” Saturday, April 11, from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Registration required by April 3. Details: Sister Mary Clared Coyne, 601-730-0433, ccoyne@ssndcp.org.
COLUMBUS Annunciation Parish, prayer of Divine Mercy Novena, Sunday, April 12, at 3 p.m.
CORINTH St. James Parish, prayer of Divine Mercy  Novena, Friday, April 3, at 3 p.m., Saturday, April 4, at noon, Sunday, April 5, at 3:30 p.m. Monday, April 6, at 6 p.m., other days during Easter Week after the Word and Communion Service and on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. On Mercy Sunday, prayer of the chaplet and a short prayer service at 3:30 p.m.
HERNANDO Holy Spirit Parish, study of “Joy of the Gospel,” Thursdays at 9 a.m. with Sarah Rauch; Sundays  at 9 a.m. with Chris Greer and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. with Bill Marking and at 4 p.m. with Barbara Smith.
INDIANOLA Immaculate Conception Parish vocation awareness day, (single, married or religious) Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Details: Presentation Sisters, 662-754-2154.
JACKSON Holy Ghost Parish, Divine Mercy Sunday Mass, April 12, at 3 p.m. Adoration at 2 p.m.
JACKSON St. Richard Parish Timely Topics, Divine Mercy Sunday, April 12, at 9:15 a.m. in the Chichester Room. Led by Susan Cox.
MERIDIAN St. Patrick Parish, four-week study of Pope Francis’ “The Joy of the Gospel,” Sundays beginning on April 12, at noon in the parish center. Lunch will be provided. Led by Mary Billups. Details: 601-693-132, marybillups@bellsouth.net.
NATCHEZ Ignatian retreat, “Fully Alive in Christ, Friday-Sunday, April 17-19, at the Natchez Grand Hotel, 111 S. Broadway St. Led by Father John Auther, Mindy Malik and Deacon Jim Long. All Masses will be held at St. Mary Basilica. Cost is $130 per person. Details: Hedy Boelte, 228-363-1700, hedyboelte@gmail.com.
PEARL St. Jude Parish, “Living the Eucharist,” retreat Sunday, April 19, from 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. Activities will be offered for ages three-year-old and older.
SHAW St. Francis of Assisi Parish mission, Sunday-Tuesday, April 19-21, beginning at 6 p.m. Led by the Redemptorist priest.
TUPELO St. James Parish, Ladies’ prayer breakfast at Traceway, Wednesday, April 8, at 7:30 am.
VICKSBURG St. Paul Catholic Parish, Divine Mercy Sunday, April 12, from 3 – 4 p.m. Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction in honor of the Divine Mercy of God.

PARISH & FAMILY EVENTS
BROOKHAVEN St. Francis of Assisi Parish, white elephant sale, Saturday, May 2, and sale of roasted chicken plates, $10 each.
CLEVELAND Our Lady of Victories, Women’s Resource Center Banquet, Tuesday, April 7, at 6 p.m. in the parish center. Details: 662-843-8877.
COLUMBUS Annunciation Parish, baptismal preparation class, Sunday, April 12, at 3 p.m. in the Activities Center. Details: Maria Dunser, 662-328-2927 ext. 12.
– Annunciation Middle School musical, “The Most Epic Birthday,” Thursday, April 9, at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children. Details: Heather Skaggs, 662-328-4479.
GREENWOOD Immaculate Heart of Mary Parishvintage/lagniappe sale, Saturday, April 18, from 2-4 p.m. Set up will begin on Monday, April 13. Details: Mary Jane, 662-453-3980, ihmgreenwood@gmail.com.
GREENVILLE Sacred Heart Parish  clean-up day for the city of Greenville is April 11, from 8 – 10 a.m.
GRENADA St. Peter Parish, Easter family fun, Saturday, April 4, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
HERNANDO Holy Spirit Theater Troupe, family dinner theater, “Dead Air,” Sunday, April 26, at 5 p.m. Tickets are $10 or $30 per family of four. Free child care will be available. Details: Dana Bradley-Hoover, 901-692-0859.
JACKSON St. Richard School tour, Wednesday, April 8, at 9 a.m. Details: Development Office, 601-366-1157.
– Registration going on now for Mother’s Morning Out program. Details: Daphne Logan, 601-955-6099.
JACKSON St. Richard Parish Bereavement Support Group “Walking the Mourner’s Path” Thursday, April 9, at 6:30 p.m. Speaker: Rev. Ann McLemore of St. James Episcopal Church. Details: Nancy McGhee 601-942-2078, email ncmcghee@bellsouth.net
JACKSON Knights of Peter Claver, Father Lawrence B. Watts, Council 199, fourth annual L. W. Sampson Awards Banquet, Saturday, April 11, at 6:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose building. Tickets are $15 per person.
JACKSON Sister Thea Bowman School annual drawdown, Saturday, April 25. Tickets are $100 for two people.
MADISON “Thea’s Turn,” a stage production celebrating the 25th anniversary death of Sister Thea Bowman staged by New Stage Theater at St. Joseph School’s Performing Arts Center, Friday and Saturday, April 10-11, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 12, at 2 p.m. Details: 601-960-8470, theasturntickets@gmail.com.
MADISON St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Cajun Fest’s General Store is collecting items for the fest. Take donations to the Social Concerns office.
MERIDIAN St. Patrick Parish, Countdown 2015, Friday, April 17, in the Family Life Center. Tickets are $100 each. Details: Mary Yarger, 601-482-6044.
– Servants of Mary annual tea, Sunday, April 12, at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph Kehrer Hall. Guest speaker will be Mary Billups.
MOUND BAYOU St. Gabriel Mercy Center presents “A Night to Remember,” honoring people in their community, Saturday, April 11, at 5 p.m. at the Fred B. Clark Family Life Center.
TUPELO Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive will be Friday and Saturday, April 24-25, benefiting the McDougal Center, serving patients in Northeast Mississippi. Volunteers are needed.
– St. James Parish bunco tournament, Friday, April 24, at 7 p.m. in the Life Center. Cost is $20 per person. Proceeds benefit the Jamaica mission trip. Details: Dawn, 662-871-5651.

EASTER EGG HUNTS
Batesville St. Mary, Easter Sunday, April 5, at 11:30 a.m.
Clarksdale St. Elizabeth, Easter Sunday, April 5, at 3 p.m. in the field next to the St Elizabeth rectory.
Corinth St. James, Easter Sunday, April 5, at 10 a.m.
Gluckstadt St. Joseph, Easter Sunday, April 5, at 9:15 a.m. for children toddlers to age 9.
Pearl St. Jude, Easter Sunday, April 5, at 10 a.m. for toddlers-sixth graders.
Greenwood Sacred Heart, Sunday, April 5, after the 9 a.m. Mass.
Yazoo City St. Mary, Saturday, April 11 at 10:30  a.m. Parents are asked to bring a dozen plastic eggs filled with candy and a basket.
Grenada St. Peter, Easter Sunday, April 5, after the 9 a.m. Mass.

Good Friday collection helps Holy Land Christians

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“Pro Terra Sancta”
Why, we might ask, do we take up a collection for the Holy Land during the Good Friday service of Holy Week?
This collection is upheld each year by the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, who sends out a pastoral letter to each diocese over the entire world, describing the needs of the church in the Holy Land. The collection is allocated in portions to the Franciscans for their pastoral and social work and to other institutions that work in the Holy Land.
The Franciscans first established a presence in the Holy Land in 1217. Over the next century, they were allowed by the Sultans to occupy sites in Jerusalem, including the Cenacle, or Upper Room, on Mount Zion and later, the site of the Holy Sepulchre and the site of the Nativity in Bethlehem.
In 1974, Pope Paul VI, in his Apostolic Exhortation “Nobis in animo” (The Needs of the Churches in the Holy Land), elevated the work of the Franciscans. He wrote the following:
1. That in all churches a collection shall take place on Good Friday or on any other day, that shall serve the purpose of “maintaining not only the Holy places above all, but also all pastoral, welfare, educational and social works that the Church carries out in the Holy Land to the benefit of the Christian brothers and the local population;”
2. “the collection shall be delivered to the nearest Commissary of the Holy Land, whose activity, so worthy in the past, is still valid and functional, or it shall be delivered by any other appropriate means;”
3. The Congregation for the Oriental Churches shall grant that “the Custody of the Holy Land and the local hierarchy, with respect to its competences, may continue their work, consolidate it and develop it further.”
The Franciscans’ mission was and still is to acquire and maintain the sites associated with Jesus’ ministry and to make significant investment into the Christian people’s life in the Holy Land. Their ‘custody’ has resulted in orphanages, schools, universities, seminaries, parishes, healthcare institutions, all open to those of all faiths. The organization also builds new homes for Christian families and aid in housing rehabilitation. The procurement and maintenance of the 79 holy sites are part of the mission. There are many international groups of religious who come to care for the holy sites. These missionaries are given the title of ‘Procurators or Commissaries of the Holy Land”. The present Custos of the Holy Land is Father Pierbattista Pizzabella, OFM.

Knights and Ladies of the
Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre
This order was founded by Sir Geoffrey de Bouillon, of the first Crusade, whose knights liberated Jerusalem. The Order is the only lay institution of the Vatican State charged with the task of providing for the needs of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and of all the activities and initiatives to support the Christian presence in the Holy Land. The contributions made by the members of this Order are the main source of funding for the Latin Patriarchate.

Franciscan Foundation for the Holy Land
This non-profit organization, based in New York City, is headed by Father Peter Vasko, OFM.  Father Vasko travels to the U.S. twice a year. The main object of the mission is to fund scholarships for the higher education of Christian youth. An education at Bethlehem University, for instance, costs about $6,000 a year. So the price of four years of school in Israel is about the cost of one year at a state university in the U.S. In order to stem the emigration of young adults from Israel, it is crucial to give them a quality education. In the job market, the Jewish citizen in the State of Israel will be chosen over the young Christian adult (or Muslim). Therefore, a good education and skills are imperative. See www.ffhl.org for more information.
(Sara Weisenberger, a member of the EHOS, edited and contributed to this story using materials made available from the Franciscans who work in the Holy Land.)

St. Therese women gather to reflect on Joy of Gospel

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By Elsa Baughman
CHATAWA – During a weekend free of the rain we have been experiencing during this winter season, 24 women, former and present members of Jackson St. Therese Parish and a few of their friends, gathered at St. Mary of the Pines for a retreat focused on the task of “Finding Joy in Everything!”
And joy we found in the small and large group discussions, activities and presentations led by Karla Luke,

Teresa Hayes (center) reads one of the Stations of the Cross using a version from the book “When Silence Falls.” Participants took terms reflecting in each of the stations. (Photos courtesy of Cathy Eaves)

Teresa Hayes (center) reads one of the Stations of the Cross using a version from the book “When Silence Falls.” Participants took terms reflecting in each of the stations. (Photos courtesy of Cathy Eaves)

a member of St. Therese. Luke, who is the coordinator of operations and support services for the diocesan Office of Catholic Education. She centered her reflection on Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium, The Joy of the Gospel.
Activities included an art project using mandalas and a version of the Stations of the Cross from the book “When Silence Falls” by Anna Burke. The booklet is designed for those questioning why they need to spend Lent meditating on Jesus’ suffering and crucifixion.
After learning about the significance of the mandalas, each participant colored one while meditating on suggestions which included, giving thanks for things in our life, asking for peace, direction, hope; saying the serenity prayer, feeling God’s peace or even daydreaming.
About her own experience, Mary Parker said, “To some of us, our comfort zones meant going back to using crayons and coloring the mandala, signifying the circle – that life is never ending, eternal life. It’s a praying with color. Each mandala was uniquely different just as each of us are on our own journeys and our lives lead us on different paths.”

Participants colored mandalas meditating, giving thanks, asking for peace, etc.

Participants colored mandalas meditating, giving thanks, asking for peace, etc.

She said what she liked most about this particular retreat was the reminder, “that we have to make choices every day of our lives.  If we make the choice to allow the Lord to lead us and to find joy in each situation, we will have a peace and joy that sooner or later will come naturally. We put the stress in our lives; no one else can be held responsible.  We can handle ANYTHING if we allow the Lord to lead us and make the right choices.”
For Cathy Eaves the retreat was about “the joy of each other’s company, food, fellowship, prayer, and rest. We learned and we created. And we were led by our fellow parishioner and friend, Karla Luke.”
St. Therese Parish has been holding this retreat at St. Mary of the Pines for more than 30 years.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT

  • CHATAWA St. Mary of the Pines, discernment retreat for women ages 18-49, “Listening to God While Making Life Decisions,” Saturday, April 11, from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Registration required by April 3. Details: Sister Mary Clared Coyne, 601-730-0433, ccoyne@ssndcp.org.
  • CLARKSDALE St. Elizabeth Parish, Scripture study group, 24-session walk through the Bible, Sundays at 4 p.m. in the school library. Led by scholar Jeff Cavins.
  • GLUCKSTADT St. Joseph Parish, men’s Lenten retreat, Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the church. Led by Father Kevin Slattery. Details: Duane Stevens, duane@stevensmechanical.com.
  • JACKSON Christ the King Lenten mission, March 22-24 at 6:30 p.m. Led by Brother Gerard Jordan. Will focus on Pope Francis’ Joy of the Gospel. Details: 601-948-8867.
  • JACKSON St. Richard Parish, men’s Lenten prayer breakfasts on Mondays at 7 a.m. in Foley Hall. Father Juan Chavajay, associate pastor, will lead the prayer on  March 23 and Bishop Joseph Kopacz on March 30.
    – New book study, “Mercy – The Essence of the Gospel and the Key of Christian Life,” by Cardinal Walter Kasper, beginning Wednesday, April 8, at 6:30 p.m. in Mercy Room. Details: George Evans, 601-366-2335.
  • LEXINGTON St. Thomas Parish, continuing adult education class, Thursdays, at 6 p.m. in the parish hall,  featuring the series “Priest, Prophet and King.
  • MADISON St. Francis Parish, rosary on Fridays at 6 p.m. followed by the Stations of the Cross.
  • NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, Palm Sunday multi-parish Mass, will begin in the green space of the O’Connor Family Life Center at 9:45 a.m. and proceed through Memorial Park to the basilica. This will be the only Mass in Natchez on Palm Sunday morning.
    – Living Stations of the Cross, March 29, at 5 p.m. Begins at St. Mary Basilica and will move throughout the downtown area. Presented by St. Mary youth.
    – Ignatian retreat, “Fully Alive in Christ, Friday-Sunday, April 17-19, at the Natchez Grand Hotel, 111 S. Broadway St. Led by Father John Auther, Mindy Malik and Deacon Jim Long. All Masses will be held at St. Mary Basilica. Cost is $130 per person. Details: Hedy Boelte, 228-363-1700, hedyboelte@gmail.com.
  • PEARL St. Jude Parish retreat, “Living the Eucharist,” Sunday, April 19, from 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. Activities will be offered for ages 3 years – adults.
  • TUPELO St. James Parish ladies’ outdoor prayer journey, Monday, March 30, leaving the church parking lot at 8:30 a.m.; return no later than 2:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Details: Call Karen, 662-844-3701.
    – Apologetics, audio course by Gus Lloyd, Sundays at 9:15 a.m. in Shelton Hall.
    – Tuesday Faith Enrichment Group, Tuesdays at 10 a.m. at Trace Way.
    – Threshold Bible study group, Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. in the library. Studying the Names of Jesus.
  • WINONA Sacred Heart Parish Stations of the Cross on Fridays at 6 p.m.
    – Bible study, Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in the parish hall.

PARISH & FAMILY EVENTS

  • CLEVELAND Our Lady of Victories, blood drive, Friday, March 27, from 1 – 6 p.m. Sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 5556.
  • COLUMBUS Annunciation Parish Easter egg hunt, Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. – noon at the school.
  • GLUCKSTADT St. Joseph Parish Seder Supper,   Monday, March 23, at 6 p.m.
    – St. Joseph Altar, Sunday, March 22, between the 8:15 and 10:45 a.m. Masses. Everyone is asked to bring something for the altar. Details: Mindy Fertitta,  601-853-1718.
  • GREENVILLE Sacred Heart Parish, participation in the Relay for Life walk on Friday, March 27. Volunteers are needed.
  • GREENWOOD Immaculate Heart of Mary Parishvintage/lagniappe sale, Saturday, April 18, from 2-4 p.m. Details: Mary Jane, 662-453-3980, ihmgreenwood@gmail.com.
  • GRENADA St. Peter Parish, fish fry, Friday, March 27, from 5 – 7 p.m. Plates are $10 each. Proceeds benefit the education of future priests.
  • HERNANDO Holy Spirit Parish, Men’s Association’s fish fry, Friday, March 27, beginning at 4 p.m. Plates are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12.
    – The Stations of the Cross on Fridays at 6:30 p.m.
    – Set up for indoor yard sale begins Monday, April 6. Yard sale is Friday and Saturday, April 17-18. Details: Barbara Wilder, 901-832-0672.
  • JACKSON Christ the King Parish, Knights of Peter Claver Council 199, fourth annual L.W. Sampson Awards banquet, Saturday, April 11, at 6:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room. Tickets are $15.
  • JACKSON Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Mass of Thanksgiving and reception honoring Msgr. Elvin Sunds for his 10 years of service as vicar general, vicar for priests, and chancellor, Thursday, March 26, at 12:05 p.m. followed by a reception.
  • MADISON St. Joseph School, annual senior art exhibit, Sunday, March 22, from 2 – 4 p.m. in the Fine Arts building on the St. Joe campus. Art will be available for sale. Light refreshments will be served.
  • MADISON St. Anthony School’s “Sayin’ Grace” Cookbook party, Saturday, March 28, at the home of John and Julie Lancon. The book features recipes from St. Francis parishioners. Tickets are $50 for two.
  • NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica blood drive, Monday, March 23, from noon -6 .p.m. in the Family Life Center.
  • TUPELO St. James Parish, Tootsie Roll Drive, Friday and Saturday, April 24-25. Proceeds benefit the McDougal Center, serving patients in Northeast Mississippi.

LENTEN RECONCILIATION SERVICES

  • Greenville Sacred Heart, March 24.
  • Greenwood St. Francis, Thursday, March 26, from 6 – 8 p.m.
  • Madison St. Francis, Wednesday, March 25, at 6:30 p.m.
  • Meridian St. Patrick, Monday, March 23, at 6 p.m.
  • Natchez St. Mary Basilica, Wednesday, March 25,  at 6:15 p.m.
  • New Albany St. Francis, Wednesday, March 25, at 6:30 p.m.
  • West Point Immaculate Conception, Wednesday, March 25, at 6 p.m.

SPECIAL AWARD
OKOLONA St. Theresa Church has been selected for the 2015 Best of Okolona Award in the Places of Worship category by the Okolona Award Program. The program identifies companies it believes have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category.

SPECIAL EVENT
JACKSON Sister Thea Bowman School, “This Little Light of Mine – A Tribute to the life of Sister Thea Bowman,” Thursday, March 26, at 6:15 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
BROOKHAVEN St. Francis Parish Lenten mission, Friday, March 20, at 6 p.m.; Saturday, March 21, at 10 a.m., 6 and 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 22, at 4 p.m. in Spanish. Led by Hector Molina.
AMORY St. Helen Parish, Scripture class on Parables  on Wednesdays, from 6 – 7 p.m.
CAMDEN Sacred Heart Parish, Bible reflection, Thursdays of Lent at 6:30 p.m.
CLARKSDALE St. Elizabeth Parish, “A Quick Journey through the Bible in eight sessions,” Tuesdays at 12:10 p.m. in the St Elizabeth rectory. DVD presentation led by scholar Jeff Cavins.
GREENVILLE Sacred Heart Parish Lenten mission, March 23-25, from 7 – 8:15 p.m. Led by the Redemptorist priests who will be at the parish March 17-20 to visit families.
GREENWOOD St. Francis Parish, Sunday night Vespers; March 15, at 4:30 p.m.
HOLLY SPRINGS Sisters of the Living Word immersion experience March 15-19 in Holly Springs for single woman 18-40 years of age. Details: Sister Colette Fahrner, 847-636-9822, cfahrner@slw.com.
IUKA St. Mary Parish retreat, “How Accessible am I to God?” Wednesday, March 11, begins with Mass at 10 a.m. Led by Father Henry Shelton.
JACKSON Holy Family Parish mission, March 14-17, beginning Saturday at 5:30 p.m. Led by Father Henry Shelton. Details: Parish office, 601-362-1888, or Joyce Adams, 601-214-6123.
JACKSON St. Richard Parish, “United In Prayer, United in Silence,”  Saturday, March 21, from 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. in Mercy Room. Brown bag lunch. Free will offering. Details: Sister Therese Jacobs, 601-366-2335   jacobsbvm@gmail.com.
JACKSON Christ the King Parish Lenten mission, March 22-24. Led by Brother A. Gerard Jordan, OPraem.
LEXINGTON St. Thomas Bible study, meal and fellowship, Thursdays at 6 p.m. Studying Father Robert Barron’s series on the Eucharist, “Priest, Prophet and King.”
MERIDIAN St. Patrick, “Tridiuum and the Redemptive Messiah,” Sunday, March 8, from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. in the parish center and Sunday, March 15, from 9:45 – 10:45 p.m. in Kehrer Hall.
– Grief healing workshop, Monday, March 9, from 8:15 – noon for health professionals and from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. for anyone. Led by Bob Willis, sculptor and counselor.
NEW ALBANY St. Francis of Assisi Parish Lenten reflection, Sunday, March 8, at 12:45 p.m.
TUPELO St. James Parish ladies’ outdoor prayer journey, Monday, March 30, leaving the church parking lot at 8:30 a.m.; return no later than 2:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Details: Call Karen, 662-844-3701.

PARISH & FAMILY EVENTS
CORINTH St. James Parish, pizza supper and presentation of the movie “The Lord of the Rings and the Catholic Imagination” by Cody Daniel, Thursday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m.
GLUCKSTADT St. Joseph Lenten suppers, Fridays, March 13 and March 27.
JACKSON St. Richard Parish Bereavement Support Group, Thursday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m. “Losses, Powerlessness, and Blessings” led by Sister Therese Jacobs. Details: Nancy McGhee, 601-942-2078.
MERIDIAN St. Patrick School Irish Fest, Sunday, March 21, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
NATCHEZ Knights of Columbus dinner, catfish ($10), shrimp ($8), and combo ($10), Fridays from 5 – 7 p.m. in the O’Connor Family Life Center.
– St. Mary Basilica, St. Patrick celebration dinner, Wednesday, March 18, from 5:30 – 6:15 p.m.
PEARL St. Jude Parish Knights of Columbus chili cook-off, Saturday March 14, after the 5:30 p.m. Mass in the Parish Hall. Plates are $8 for all adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Details: Nat Zummo, 601-573.3184, zummonat@bellsouth.net.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS
Amory St. Helen, Fridays at 5 p.m.
Booneville St. Francis, Fridays at 5 p.m.
Brookhaven St. Francis, Fridays at 5:30 p.m. followed by the Knights of Columbus fish fry.
Camden Sacred Heart, Fridays at 6 p.m.
Clarksdale St. Elizabeth and Immaculate Conception, Fridays at 5:30 p.m. At St. Elizabeth School at   2:15 p.m. Parishioners are welcome.
Cleveland Our Lady of Victories, Fridays at 6 p.m.
Corinth St. James, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Soup will be served at 5:30 p.m.
Gluckstadt St. Joseph, Wednesdays, March 11 and 25, at 6 p.m. Lenten suppers: Fridays, March 13 & 27
Greenwood Immaculate Heart of Mary, Fridays at 6 p.m. Fish fry from 5-7 p.m.
Grenada St. Peter, Fridays at 6:15 p.m. Includes a Scripture reading with meditation followed by Holy Communion  and a light supper at the Family Life Center.
Jackson Holy Family, Fridays at 6 p.m
Natchez St. Mary Basilica, Wednesdays at 4:45 p.m. at the Family Life Center and on Fridays at 12:05 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. in the Basilica.
– Assumption Parish, Fridays at 5:30 p.m.
New Albany St. Francis, Fridays at 12:30 p.m.  followed by a light Lenten lunch.
Tupelo St. James, Fridays after the 12:10 p.m. Mass, at 6 p.m. in English and at 7 p.m. in Spanish.
Yazoo City St. Mary Parish, Fridays at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria. On Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the cafeteria, followed by a soup supper in the parish hall.

LENTEN RECONCILIATION SERVICES
Brookhaven St. Francis, Wednesday March 18,
Camden Sacred Heart, Friday, March 13, at 6pm.
Gluckstadt St. Joseph, Wednesday, March 18, from 5 – 7 p.m.
Greenville Sacred Heart, March 24.
Houston Immaculate Heart of Mary, Saturday, March 21, at 5 p.m.
Natchez St. Mary Basilica, Wednesday, March 11,  at 6:15 p.m.
New Albany St. Francis, Wednesday, March 25, at 6:30 p.m.
West Point Immaculate Conception, Wednesday, March 25, at 6 p.m.
Yazoo City St. Mary, Monday, March 16, at 6 p.m.

SPECIAL EVENT
PEARL “An Evening with Phil Robertson,” star of A&E’s Duck Dynasty, Saturday, March 28, at 7 p.m. at Clyde Muse Center, 515 County Place in Pearl. Benefits the Center for Pregnancy Choices. Tickets on sale at Revell Hardware stores. Prices range from $35-$200. Details: 601-713-2322.

Correction:
In the Feb. 20 edition of Mississippi Catholic two sisters in a photo on page 4 were identified incorrectly. Bringing the gifts to Bishop Kopacz during the Golden Jubilee celebration of Sisters Teresa Shields and Maureen Delaney were Sisters Joann Blomme, OP, and Cora Lee Middleton SSND. We regret the error.

Upcoming Retreats

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St. Mary of the Pines
Eight-day retreats –  $640
Five-day retreats –  $400
Weekend directed retreats – $160
Directed Retreats: The resident retreat director is Sister Dorez Mehrtens, SSND. To schedule a retreat contact Sister Dorez, 601-783-0411 or 601-810-7758 (cell), dorezm37@yahoo.com.
Private Retreats: A private retreat is a retreat without a director and may be scheduled any time space is available. The individual chooses his/her own resources and rhythm of prayer and reflection throughout the day. Suggested donation: $65 per night. Financial assistance for any retreat is available upon request.
“A Lenten Day of Reflection,” Saturday, Feb. 28, from 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cost is $30, lunch is included.
Contact: St. Mary of the Pines Retreat Center, 3167 Old Highway 51 South, Osyka, MS, 39657, 601-783-3494, retreatcenter@ssnddallas.org.

The Dwelling Place
“Spiritual Doors, Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cost is $45 and includes lunch.
This experience is a time to open the doors of our hearts to the fruits of the spirit. Going beyond the door we discover God’s unique gifts. Led by Karen Hodges and Lee Oswalt from Tupelo
Contact: The Dwelling Place, 2824 Dwelling Place Road, Brooksville, MS, 39739, 662-738-5348, www.dwellingplace.com.

Benedictine Center
“Holy Week at the Monastery,” April 2-5. Experience the days of the Sacred Triduum immersed in the beauty of Sacred Heart Monastery. Join the monastic community in their silence and in their prayer as they celebrate the special liturgies of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, the Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday.  Limited Enrollment. Silence.
Cost is $210 for private rooms; and $185/person for shared rooms.
Contact: Benedictine Sisters Retreat Center, 916 Convent Road, Cullman, AL 35055, 256-734-8302, retreats@shmon.org.

JESUIT SPIRITUALITY CENTER
Directed Retreats: The Jesuit Spirituality Center specializes in personally directed retreats based on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Loyola. Solitude and silence are important aspects of these retreats. Retreats may range from three days, five days, or eight days, to a full month.
Dates: Feb. 23 or 26, March 9 or 12, March 23 or 26, April 13 or 16. Retreats of eight-days begin on the first date. Retreats of five or three days begin on either date. Costs vary according to the length of the retreat.
“In Your Presence is Fullness of Joy: Yoga and Contemplative Prayer,” Thursday Sunday, March 5-8. Led by Andrea Vidrine. Cost is $240
Come and experience a weekend of prayer, joy, and fellowship. In this retreat participants will practice contemplative awareness through Christian chanting, centering prayer, conscious breathing, lectio divina, body prayer, art as prayer and drumming as prayer.
Included is one full day of silence which may be extended throughout the retreat, according to the desire of the retreatant. No prior experience with yoga is necessary.
Contact: Jesuit Spirituality Center, 313 Martin Luther King Dr., Grand Coteau, La. 70541, 337-662-5251.

St. Joseph abbey – Christian Life center
Married Couples Retreat, “Growing in Faith and Love,” Saturday and Sunday, March 21-22. Begins at 9 a.m. Cost is $275.
Contact: Jason Angelette, 504-830-3716, www.faithandmarriage.org.

Cathedral parish prays for consecrated communities

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022015concecratedlifeJACKSON – The Mary and Martha Circle of St. Peter Cathedral parish has developed a prayer book for parishioners to share in celebrating the Year for Consecrated Life. Individuals or families have signed up at each of the cathedral parish’s Masses to take home a copy of the book and pray for religious communities serving in the diocese.
The book contains an intention for each day of the week followed by an interesting fact about the consecrated life and prayers. Each section concludes with the Our Father, three Hail Marys and the Glory Be.
At the end of each Mass the book is passed from the current holder to the next person or family who has taken on the responsibility of praying that week. A prayer of blessing is prayed over them before the final blessing of the Mass.
Mississippi Catholic would like to hear about what different parishes are doing to celebrate the year so we may share those ideas with others and lift up all those who have been called to serve the church in the consecrated life. Email editor@mississippicatholic.com or call 601-969-3581.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT

  • BATESVILLE St. Mary Parish, mission, “The Sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, and Eucharist as they relate to Pope Francis’ book, Joy of the Gospel,” March 2-4, at 6 p.m. Led by the Redemptorist priests serving in Greenwood.
  • BOONEVILLE St. Francis Parish, mission “How Accessible am I to God?” Sunday, March 8, beginning with lunch after the 11 a.m. Mass, and ending at 3:30 p.m. Led by Father Henry Shelton.
  • CLARKSDALE St. Elizabeth Parish, mission March 16-18. More details to come.
  • COLLIERVILLE, Tenn, Women’s Morning of Spirituality, Saturday, Feb. 28, 8:15 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Catholic Church of the Incarnation. To register: www.womensmorning.com or Mary Beth Trouy, 901-853-1819.
  • CORINTH St. James Parish, Father Robert Barron’s “Catholicism” video series, Wednesdays at 2:30 p.m.
    – Study of the Book of Revelation, Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. – noon in room #1 downstairs, and on Sundays at 10:45 a.m.
  • GREENVILLE St. Joseph Parish mission Sunday-Tuesday, Feb. 22-24. Led by Michael Cumbie. Reconciliation service on Tuesday after the mission.
  • GREENWOOD Retreat, “Mary in the Mystery of Christ and the Church,” Saturday, March 7, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Locus Benedictus Retreat Center. Led by Brother Daniel Korn, C.Ss.R. Cost is $25 and includes lunch. Details: Magdalene Abraham, 662-299-1232.
  • HOLLY SPRINGS Immersion Experience with Sisters of the Living Word, March 15-19. Open to single women age 18-40. Details: Sister Collette Fahrner, 847-636-9822 or cfahrner@slw.com.
  • IUKA St. Mary Parish, retreat, “How Accessible am I to God?” Wednesday, March 11, begins with Mass at 10 a.m. Led by Father Henry Shelton.
  • JACKSON Christ the King Parish, Lenten mission, March 22-24. Led by Brother A. Gerard Jordan, O. Praem.
  • JACKSON Holy Family Parish, mission Saturday, Tuesday, March 14-17. Led by Father Henry Shelton on the theme, “How Accessible Am I to God,” an opportunity to examine ourselves during this Lenten season. Reconciliation will be available on Monday night, March 16. Details: Church office, 601-362-1888, or Joyce Adams, 601-214-6123.
  • JACKSON St. Peter Parish, Lenten retreat, “How to Make Lent the Springtime of the Soul,” Saturday, March 14, from 9:30 a.m. – noon, followed by a Mass of anointing. Lunch will be served.
    – Mary & Martha Circle retreat, “The Seven Deadly Sins and the Seven Lively Virtues of Our Blessed Mother,” Saturday, May 21, at the Norbertine Priory, from 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Breakfast and lunch will be served.
  • JACKSON St. Richard Parish, Lectio Divina on the Lenten Sunday Scriptures, Mondays at 10 a.m. in the Mercy Room. There will be a retreat day on Monday, March 16, from 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Details: Sister Therese Jacobs, 601-366-2335.
  • JACKSON St. Therese Parish, annual women’s retreat, March 6-8 at St. Mary of the Pines in Chatawa. “Finding Joy in Everything,” led by Karla Luke. Registration deadline is Feb. 25. Details: stheresecc@yahoo.com, 601-372-4481.
  • MERIDIAN St. Patrick Parish, downtown Lenten service, Thursday, March 5, at noon, followed by lunch.
    – Six-week series on “Living the Eucharist,” Wednesdays from 6 – 7 p.m. in Kehrer Hall. Details: Ida Bea Tomlin, idatomlin@gmail.com, 601-880-9542.
    – Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m. in the parish center. Led by Christy Price. Details: Mary Billups, marybillups@bellsouth.net, 601-693-1321.
  • – Thursdays at 2 p.m. Led by Jo Anne Zettler. Details: Mary Billups.
    SHAW St. Francis of Assisi Parish, one-hour Lenten reflection based on the teachings of Pope Francis, Tuesdays of Lent from 10 – 11 a.m. at the home of Grace Venuti, beginning Feb. 24.
  • YAZOO CITY St. Mary Parish, penance mission, Sunday-Wednesday, March 1-4. Led by Father Henry Shelton. Volunteers are needed to help with preparations for lunches and suppers. Details: Diane Melton 662-571-3136.

PARISH & FAMILY EVENTS

  • CLEVELAND The annual Lent lunches begin on Wednesday, Feb. 25, every week at First United Methodist Church. Our Lady of Victories Parish will prepare lunch on March 11. Details: Frances Janoush, 662-347-0499.
    – The Solomon Counseling Center offers counseling services for Catholic adults, children/adolescents, couples and families in the Delta area. Hours are flexible. Fee scale is from $5 to $35 per hour. The center is connected with Catholic Charities in Jackson. Details: Jennifer Medders, 662-832-5519.
  • GREENVILLE Sacred Heart confirmation class clothing and food drive for St Vincent de Paul from now until the end of this month. Leave donations in the back of the church.
    – Black History Program will be held Sunday, March 1, at 3 p.m.
  • GREENVILLE St. Joseph parishioners invited to Our Lady of the Lake Altar Society’s 105th spaghetti dinner at St. Mary Parish in Arkansas, Sunday, March 1, from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Plates are $12 for adults and $6 for children.
    – Healing Mass, Thursday, Feb. 26. Prelude music begins at 11:15 a.m. Lunch will be served and afterwards there will be five games of dime bingo.
  • McCOMB St. Alphonsus Parish, blood drive, Monday, March 9, from 2 – 7 p.m. in Liguori Hall.
  • OLIVE BRANCH Queen of Peace Parish, blood drive, Sunday, March 1, from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • PEARL St. Jude Parish, garage sale, Saturday, March 7. The Young Apostles are collecting items for the sale. Items can be dropped off at the parish office during office hours, before/after Sunday Masses. Details: Rhonda or Stacy, 601-939-3181.
  • SHAW St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Lenten luncheons begins on Wednesday, Feb. 25, at noon.
  • YAZOO CITY St. Mary Parish, service at Manna House Feb. 23-27. Call the office to volunteer.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS

  • Batesville St. Mary, Fridays at noon followed by Mass.
  • Clarksdale St. Elizabeth, Fridays at 5:30 p.m.
  • Columbus Annunciation, Fridays at 5:30 p.m. in the chapel followed by a fish fry in the Activities Center.
  • Greenville Sacred Heart Parish, Fridays, Feb. 20, March 3 and 20 at 6 p.m.
  • Greenville St. Joseph Parish, Fridays, Feb. 27, March 13 and 27 at 5:30 p.m.
  • Grenada St. Peter, Fridays at 6:15 p.m. Holy Communion and a short meditation followed by a light supper.
  • Hernando Holy Spirit Parish, Fridays at 6:30 p.m. followed by a soup supper.
  • Iuka St. Mary Parish, Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m.
  • Jackson St. Mary Parish, Fridays at noon.
  • Jackson St. Richard, Fridays at 2:15
  • Jackson St. Therese, Fridays at 5:30 p.m.
  • Jackson Christ the King Parish, Fridays at 6:30 p.m.
  • Pearl St. Jude, Fridays at 6 p.m. followed by a catfish dinner cooked by the Knights of Columbus.
  • Sardis St. John, Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.
  • Shaw St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Fridays at 6 p.m.

LENTEN DAILY MASS

  • Hernando Holy Spirit, Monday-Friday at 8 a.m.
  • Southaven Christ the King, Monday-Friday at 9 a.m.
  • Olive Branch Queen of Peace, Monday-Friday at 9 a.m.

Clarksdale Sisters celebrate jubilee

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Sisters Theresa Shields and Maureen Delaney bring up the gifts during a Mass to celebrate their golden jubilees at Immaculate Conception Parish Sunday, Feb. 8. (Photos and story submitted by Sister Shields)

Sisters Theresa Shields and Maureen Delaney bring up the gifts during a Mass to celebrate their golden jubilees at Immaculate Conception Parish Sunday, Feb. 8. (Photos and story submitted by Sister Shields)

CLARKSDALE – Sisters Teresa Shields and Maureen Delaney, both SNJM, celebrated their Golden Jubilees on Sunday, Feb. 8, at Immaculate Conception Parish with the Eucharistic Liturgy celebrated by Bishop Joseph Kopacz. The Immaculate Conception Gospel choir led the congregation in spirited gospel songs.
The meditation after Communion, a well-known gospel standard, “I made a Vow,” touched the whole congregation when Teresa’s and Maureen’s names were sung in one of the verses. Parishioners, friends and sisters from neighboring towns then joined for a reception prepared by the women of the parish.
Both the parish and a representative from the City of Clarksdale presented the women with plaques commending them on their “…50 years of dedicated service  to the church and to the children and families of the Mississippi Delta.”