OCTOBER 16, 2026
mississippicatholic.com
Father Robert Dore remembered for quiet kindness and 37 years of priestly service BY JOANNA PUDDISTER KING
VICKSBURG – Mourners filled St. Michael Church beyond capacity Oct. 1, gathering in side rooms and standing wherever space remained to bid farewell to Father Robert Hayden Dore, a priest whose 37 years of ministry touched parish communities across the Diocese of Jackson. Father Dore, 71, died Sept. 24 at his home in Vicksburg following a brief battle with cancer. He had served as pastor of St. Michael since 2017. Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz celebrated the Mass of Christian Burial and delivered the homily, joined by priests of the diocese and Father Dore’s priest friends. Family members, current and past parishioners and members of the Vicksburg Catholic School community, including students from the senior class, gathered to pray for the priest they had known as a pastor, friend and steady presence. In his homily, Bishop Kopacz reflected on the Scripture read-
VICKSBURG – Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz and concelebrating priests gather around the altar during the funeral Mass for Father Robert Dore at St. Michael Church Oct. 1, 2026. Mourners filled the church beyond capacity to honor Father Dore, who served the Diocese of Jackson for 37 years and had been pastor of St. Michael since 2017. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)
ings and the Christian hope that sustained Father Dore’s life and ministry. Before entering the priesthood, Father Dore worked as a nurse. His vocation continued that work of caring for others through the sacraments and accompanying people in illness, sorrow and the everyday life of faith. The bishop recalled phone calls, as well as visiting and praying with Father Dore during the final weeks of his life. Even as his illness progressed, Father Dore remained grateful for the prayers offered on his behalf and sought to keep his parish family informed through his sister, Lorraine. “He was so grateful for your prayers,” Bishop Kopacz said. The bishop connected Father Dore’s final days with the prayers priests offer each evening in the Liturgy of the Hours, entrusting themselves to God and asking for
– Continued on page 6 –
St. Francis parish celebrates 75 years of faith, service and welcome BY JOANNA PUDDISTER KING
GREENWOOD – With prayers in English and Spanish and a congregation answering the refrain “Rooted in faith, growing in grace,” St. Francis of Assisi Parish celebrated 75 years of a mission that has brought faith, education and a spirit of welcome to generations in the Mississippi Delta. The church was filled with parishioners and guests for the anniversary celebration. After Mass, the gathering continued with a festive reception in the former St. Francis School cafeteria,
where an abundant spread of food welcomed those celebrating the parish’s milestone. Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz presided at the anniversary Mass Oct. 4, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi. The celebration also marked 25 years of Hispanic ministry at the parish, bringing together its African American heritage and the faith and traditions of its Latino parishioners. The anniversary theme, “Rooted in Faith, Growing in Grace,” drawn from Colossians 2:6-7, connected the day’s remembrance of the parish’s beginnings with a call to continue its mission. Jackie Lewis, former principal of St. Francis School and chairperson of the anniversary celebration, welcomed those gathered by honoring the founders, religious and parishioners whose prayers
and service sustained the community. She invited the parish to give thanks for its history while looking forward with faith to what God would continue to accomplish through its members. In his homily, Deacon Henry Fulmer, OFM, a provincial councilor of the Franciscan Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe, made the anniversary theme a response shared by the congregation. One side answered, “Rooted in faith,” and the other, “Growing in grace.” Fulmer connected the parish’s story to St. Francis’ encounter with a man with leprosy, explaining how the saint came to recognize Christ in someone he had once rejected. “And in finding Christ in this leper, Francis found
– Continued on page 6 –
INSIDE THIS WEEK FOLLOW US
@jacksondiocese DIGITAL EDITION Text MSCATHOLIC to 84576
Milestone anniversary 15 St. John in Cranfield celebrates 110 years
Faith Formation Day 18 Formators gather for a day of learning at annual event
Beatification Mass 21 Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen declared ‘Blessed’
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
2 PARISH SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, Sister Thea Bowman, Servant of God – her legacy, speaker Karla Luke. Nov. 7, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost $10. Registration open through Oct. 23. Details: amelia.breton@jacksondiocese.org. MADISON – Millions of Monicas will be praying at St. Catherine’s Village chapel (200 Dominican Drive), the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. When you arrive at the gate, let the team know you are joining the Millions of Monicas ministry. Please, mark your calendars for the following meeting dates: Nov. 10 and Dec. 8, 2026. Details: call (601) 613-8526. MERIDIAN – St. Patrick, St. Anne and St. Catherine Brunch, Saturday, Oct. 24 at 10 a.m. in the Father Vally room. Join us as we remember and support those who have suffered from miscarriage, infertility or loss of a child. Details: church office (601) 693-1321. OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Millions of Monicas, Thursdays from 6:15-7:15 pm. Join with other mothers as we pray to grow in holiness and for our children’s faithful return to the Church. Details: church office (662) 895-5007. PASS CHRISTIAN – Dedeaux Sacred Heart Retreat Center, Annual Eagle Awakening XIV Retreat, Friday, Oct. 30 through Nov. 1. Any college students and young adults are invited to attend. Meet at St. Thomas Aquinas in Hattiesburg and bus transportation to and from Dedeaux will be provided. Cost: $50 (includes lodging for two nights, transportation, meals, t-shirt and retreat supplies). Scholarships available upon request for those in need. Details: contact Coral at usmcatholic@gmail.com to register. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Mother Teresa Institute and the St. John Paul II National Shrine is honored to host a temporary exhibit, entitled “Works of Love Are Works of Peace,” on the life and mission of St. Teresa of Calcutta, featuring more than 80 pho-
FEATURE PHOTO:
tographs by Collopy. Exhibt open through Nov. 11. Details: https://www.jp2shrine.org/exhibits.
purchase $20 ticket in advance. Details: church office (662) 754-5561.
PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
DIOCESE EVENTS
GREENVILLE – Greenville Cemetery, Light the Cemetery – A Community Evening of Remembrance, Monday, Nov. 2 at 3 p.m. Bring a candle in a plastic cemetery holder and join us as we remember and honor our loved ones. All are welcome. Details: St. Joseph Church office (662) 335-5251. JACKSON – St. Richard School, Krewe de Cardinal Raffle. Two cash prize drawings: $2,000 Prize drawn at Cardinal Fest on Oct. 24; and $3,000 Prize drawn at Krewe de Cardinal on Jan. 30, 2027. Purchase chances at https://strraffle.rallyup.com/kdcraffle2027/Campaign/Details. Details: H.berry.nicholas@gmail.com. MADISON – St. Francis, Feed My Faith: A Night in Italy with Father Leo Patalinghug, Saturday, Nov. 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Enjoy a live cooking demo with Father Leo, dinner, dessert and beverages. Books available for purchase and signing. Cost: $40/each. Sponsorships available. Details: church office (601) 856-5556. St. Francis, Parish Mission with Father Leo Patalinghug, Nov. 15-16 at 6:30 pm. in the Sanctuary. Bring your family and friends for an inspirational presentation on living our lives in an exciting with with our God-given gifts. Books availble for purchase and signing. Free dinner provided from 5:45-6:30 in the Family Life Center before the mission talk each night. Details: parish office (601) 856-5556. PEARL – St. Jude, St. Jude Fest, Sunday, Oct. 25 at 5 p.m. We will hold a rosary procession outdoors. Please bring a potluck dish. Details: church office (601) 939-3181. SHAW – St. Francis of Assisi, Spaghetti Dinner, Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 4-7 p.m. Drive-thru only. Must
... Fore a Good Cause ...
MADISON – Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz follows through on a swing during The Catholic Foundation’s 44th annual Bishop’s Cup Golf Tournament on Sept. 10 at Lake Caroline Golf Club. Proceeds from the event support youth ministries and grants that strengthen communities across the diocese. More photos from the event can be found at jacksondiocese. zenfoliosite.com.(Photo by Joanna Puddister King)
HOMEGROWN HARVEST – Clyde Muse Center in Pearl, Saturday, Oct. 24 6-8 p.m., VIP reception 5-6 p.m. Join us for a special evening celebrating and supporting future priests and enjoy some barbecue and blues, silent auction and presentations from our seminarians. Cost: $100/admits two. Details: https:// bit.ly/HomegrownHarvest26. SEARCH RETREAT 2027 – Camp Wesley Pines, Gallman, Jan. 15-17. Search is for 10-12th graders looking to go deeper in their faith. Cost: $125. Registration deadline is Dec. 1. Details: Apply to attend at https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/275730. YOUNG ADULT FALL RETREAT, – “Come Lord Jesus: Trusting God’s Timing,” Saturday, Nov. 7 from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at St. James Tupelo. Cost: $20. Details: Register by Friday, Oct. 30 at https:// jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/272464. Questions? Contact amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org or (601) 949-6931. THEOLOGY ON TAP – Nov. 3 with Father Will Foggo, Dec. 1 Trivia on Tap, Dec. 17 Christmas Party. Meeting at Blaylock Photography, 117 N. Whetley, Ridgeland, 39157. Must be 21 and older.
IN MEMORIAM
+FATHER ADAM SZUFEL, OFM Father Adam Szufel, OFM, 89, of St. Petersburg, Florida, passed away on Sept. 5, 2026. A Franciscan friar for 70 years, he faced his final days with courage, humility, joy and trust in God’s presence as he battled esophageal cancer. He is remembered for being a dedicated friar who was loving, kind, peaceful, deeply generous to the poor and a devoted U.S. Air Force chaplain. From 2011 to 2016, he served at St Francis of Assisi Church in Greenwood, Mississippi. A funeral Mass for Father Adam was held on Sept. 15 at St. Mary, Our Lady of Chrace Church in St. Petersburg, Florida.
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
let there be light 3
United in mission across borders BY BISHOP JOSEPH R. KOPACZ, D.D.
Earlier this year, Pope Leo XIV announced the theme for the 100th anniversary of World Mission Sunday as “One in Christ, united in mission.” It is inspired by his crest and motto, which illustrate the central charism of his papacy which is In illo uno, unum which translates, “In the One, we are one.” Fittingly, his message was released on the feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, the greatest of missionaries in the early church. The cornerstone of Pope Leo’s teaching during this milestone century commemoration is centered in the Lord’s prayer for unity at the Last Supper in the Gospel of John, chapter 17: “that they may be one as we are one, Father.” The power of the Lord’s love in action gives purpose to his Great Commission to bring the Gospel to all the nations. Our call to be united in mission has its source in the waters of Baptism and the communion of life and love that we know in God who is love, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Like the first Christian community in Jerusalem, we are called to be of one heart and mind in the Holy Spirit, eager to live the Gospel and to invite others to know the Lord. Ideally, as we pray for and support missionaries throughout the world, we recognize that many local encounters are ripe for our own missionary activity. The missionary labors of the Church are unrelenting throughout the world, and not surprisingly, the generosity of many in the Church in the United States substantially supports these efforts. The recent beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen who headed the Society for the Propagation of the Faith from 1950 to 1966 in the United States is timely in anticipation of World Mission Sunday. He raised impressive amounts of money during his tenure and his ministry as an evangelist and teacher inspired many to a deeper faith in the crucified Lord and greater generosity to propagate the faith. In a timely manner, his final year as director of the Propagation of the Faith in 1966 was the beginning of a renewed missionary impetus in the Church in the aftermath of the Second Vatican Council. The Council Fathers under the gaze of the Holy Spirit produced the document Ad Gentes (To the Nations) which was promulgated by Pope St. Paul
VI on Dec. 7, 1965. In particular, the Church in the them in hope! Mary, Queen of Missions, accompany United States was given marching orders to partner our work of evangelization in every corner of the with dioceses in Mexico, Central and South Amerearth: make us instruments of peace, and grant that ica in order to strengthen the evangelizing mission the whole world may recognize in Christ the light of the Catholic Church in the western world. Many that saves. Amen.” dioceses took to heart this call to action. The Diocese of Natchez-Jackson partnered with the Diocese of (For photos from Bishop Kopacz’s trip to Saltillo, Saltillo, Mexico, in 1969, inaugurating a bond of Gos- see page 7 of Mississippi Catholic or visit jacksondiopel solidarity that has evolved and flourished to the cese.zenfoliosite.com.) present day. For the past 57 years the Lord has mutually blessed thousands of Mississippi Catholics who went on mission to Saltillo, as well as the católicos mexicanos who opened their hearts and homes to the pilgrims from the north. Presently, it is too dangerous to go on mission overland, but we are in solidarity through prayer, generosity and social media as last month’s visit demonstrated. The physical distance that separates us has not severed the bonds of faith, hope and love that unite us in the Body of Christ. Finally, the digital landscape is another domain that is ripe for missionary disciples. Pope Leo has repeatedly encouraged many in the Church to SALTILLO, Mexico – Bishop Hilario González García of Saltillo be heralds of the Gospel in the digital celebrates a confirmation Mass at San Miguel Parish on Sept. realm, recognizing that there are many 27 with Bishop Joseph Kopacz of Jackson and Bishop Louis creative ways in this domain to illumi- F. Kihneman III of Biloxi. nate with the light of the Gospel the darkness and shadows that afflict modBISHOP’S SCHEDULE ern men and women. Let us offer the prayer that Monday, Oct. 19, 1 p.m. – School Mass, Holy Family, Holly Springs concludes Pope Leo’s message. Tuesday, Oct. 20, 12:05 p.m. – Mass, Cathedral of St. Peter, Jack“Holy Father, make us one in Christ, rooted son in his love that unites and renews. May all Tuesday, Oct. 20, 6 p.m. – United in Mission Parish Reception, Camembers of the Church thedral of St. Peter, Jackson be united in mission, docile to the Holy Spirit, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 9 a.m. – School Mass, St. Patrick, Meridian courageous in bearing witness to the Gospel, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 5 p.m. – United in Mission Capital Campaign, proclaiming and daily St. Therese, Kosciusko embodying your faithful love for all creatures. Tuesday, Nov. 3, 7:30 a.m. – Mass, Carmelite Monastery, Jackson Bless all missionary men and women, supWednesday, Nov. 4, 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. – United in Mission Capport them in their efital Campaign, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Houston forts, and watch over Volume 72 Number 12 (ISSN 1529-1693)
PRESS DATE: OCT. 9, 2026
P.O. Box 2130 Jackson, MS 39225-2130 Phone: 601-969-3581 E-mail: editor@jacksondiocese.org Publisher ........................................................................................... Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz Communications Director ...................................................................... Joanna Puddister King
Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m. – A Day of Reflection on the Legacy of Sister Thea Bowman, Servant of God, Sacred Heart Camden Sunday, Nov. 8, 10:30 a.m. – 175th Anniversary Mass of Thanksgiving and Celebration, St. Mary, Yazoo City Saturday, Nov. 14, 8:30 a.m. – 75th Anniversary Mass and Celebration for Founding of Discalced Carmelite Sisters of Jackson, Carmelite Monastery, Jackson
Production Manager ...................................................................................................Tereza Ma
Saturday, Nov. 14, 6:30 p.m. – Faith & Food: A Night in Italy with Father Leo Patalinghug, St. Francis of Assisi, Madison
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC is an official publication of the Diocese of Jackson, 601-969-1880, 237 E. Amite St., Jackson, MS 39201. Published once per month, Mississippi Catholic mails 12 editions per year.
Monday, Nov. 16-19 – USCCB Fall Plenary Assembly, Baltimore, Maryland
For address changes, corrections or to join the email list for the digital edition, email: editor@ jacksondiocese.org. Subscription rate: $20 a year in Mississippi, $21 out-of-state. Periodical postage at Jackson, MS 39201 and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mississippi Catholic, P.O. Box 2130, Jackson, MS 39225-2130.
Sunday, Nov. 22, 9 a.m. – Feast of Christ the King Celebration, Christ the King, Jackson
Website: www.mississippicatholic.com www.jacksondiocese.org
All events are subject to change. Check with parishes and schools for further details.
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
4 VOCATIONs CALLED BY NAME Father Tristan Stovall and I attended the National Conference of Diocesan Vocation Directors this past month in the New York Metro Area. NCDVD provides us with invaluable information and support each year. Vocation directors from across the country provide workshops to help us with things that may Father Nick Adam be mundane (how to keep track of your seminarian files better), but they are very important. They also provide encouragement and help us to re-focus on things that are vital parts of our seminary program (like preparing seminarians, pastors and parishioners for summer pastoral assignments, and building a culture of accompaniment and accountability for our seminarians). Most of all, I just appreciate being with priests who love being priests and support staff who are engaged and committed to the mission of priestly formation. The spirit of this conference is always engaged and encouraging. As is the case with many events like this one, the best networking happens ‘in-between’ conferences. I had great conversations and gleaned important tips and information from fellow vocation directors as we sat down at lunch and dinner or stood in the lobby waiting
for the next ‘thing’ to happen. The best part of NCDVD are the Masses and the communal prayer. The leadership team does a great job of centering the conference on the worship of the Lord at Mass and Adoration. Bishops from around the country made the trip to celebrate Mass with us, which meant a great deal, and it was wonderful to hear their perspective on what is most important in the work that we are doing. NCDVD reminds us all: priesthood is beautiful, keep inviting young men to it. Gratefully, we are in a springtime of interest and engagement in priestly formation. With 12 men currently studying for the priesthood for our diocese, we already have numbers that have rarely been seen in our diocese. But I expect that our numbers will continue to grow. There are already four applicants for next year and I believe we could see 6-10 new seminarians (and maybe more) enrolling by next summer. This is the kind of interest I believe we can sustain, and so we need your help to make sure we never have to turn away a man because we (or he) cannot afford his tuition and other formation costs. It costs between $55,000-$60,000 per year/ per man to form a seminarian, and we want to honor the men who come forward to make this sacrifice by supporting their education and formation as much as possible. We can’t do that without you. Remember that the United in Mission Capital Campaign is building up longterm sustainability by establishing a $10 Million trust for seminarian education; and the Homegrown Harvest annual event (coming up Oct. 24) helps us cover our annual expenses. Please prioritize gifts to one or both of these if you are able. Priesthood is beautiful, we are going to continue inviting young men to consider it, and we want to be ready to support them when they say yes! (Father Nick Adam is Director of Vocations for the Diocese of Jackson.)
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
Relating to our loved ones after they die IN EXILE By Father Ron Rolheiser, OMI
Spirituality 5
I felt their presence now as a deep consolation and their loss no longer hurt as before. I no longer felt a need to pray for them. Instead, now I felt a need (which I still feel today) to pray to them. They were still my parents, but something had changed. I hesitate to use words to describe this because they might sound vague and wishful, but what I felt can only be characterized this way: They were still my parents – alive, deeply concerned for me, and more present in my life than they ever could be while still in this life. But now I felt that presence as something higher, more universally shared with others, and more tied to God’s love and presence to me. It became harder to differentiate their presence from the general feeling of divine providence that I sense in my life, I come from a large family. Basically, all my siblings had a similar experience. Moreover, many people have shared similar stories concerning how they continue to feel their relationships with their deceased loved ones change and grow even after their deaths. Vanauken’s story of an ongoing, developing relationship with a loved one who has died is paralleled everywhere. Relationships continue to grow and develop even after death. Exotic stuff? No! Tis the stuff of dogma. One of the essential articles of our faith teaches that death doesn’t end a relationship.
In 1979, Sheldon Vanauken published a book entitled “A Severe Mercy”; in it he tells the story of the death of his wife, Davey. The book is an account of an extraordinary romance, cut short while still in full bloom by Davey’s premature death. This story has intrigued many people, both because of the extraordinary relationship between Sheldon and Davey before her death and because of the relationship between them after her death. Vanauken describes how after her death he still felt her presence strongly and vividly. She was gone, in that brutal and irrevocable way death takes loved ones away, but he still felt her presence – as real as he had before she died. In the early months after her death, her presence to him was constant, guiding, sure, consoling, the same as it had been while she was alive. She had died, but inside himself he felt her present – as wife, lover, best friend, soulmate. And during those months he always carried her wedding ring in his pocket, which he fingered tenderly many times each day. Touching it helped keep him aware of her presence. One day, while on a ship crossing the Atlantic, he felt her presence change. (Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser is a professor of spirituality at Oblate School of In the silence of his heart and soul, he felt her speaking to him, telling him that, up to now, they had needed that kind of presence with each other, but that this Theology and award-winning author.) now needed to change. They needed to move to a different plane in their relaThe Pope’s Corner tionship. She was telling him that she needed to “let him go” in the way she had been present to him until now and she needed to ask him to “let her go” in the way they were now present to each other. It was a difficult moment, but Sheldon understood its meaning. He The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem also issued a By Junno Arocho Esteves took the ring from his pocket and quistatement on behalf of Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, (OSV News) – The pastor of Gaza’s only Catholic paretly dropped it into the ocean. who expressed condolences to the families of those who ish revealed that Pope Leo XIV sent a personal condolence From then onward, Davey was still message following an Israeli missile strike that killed five died and to the Christian community in Gaza. present to him, but now in a new way. “His Beatitude offers his prayers to the Lord, asking people, including a Christian mother and daughter. Her presence now was less explicit, Him to receive the two deceased in His abundant mercy, In his daily video update posted to YouTube Oct. 4, though not more distant. Now her presFather Gabriel Romanelli, pastor of Holy Family Parish, grant them eternal rest in His Kingdom, and bestow upon ence was less that of the earthly wife, read the pope’s”beautiful message” he received earli- their families and loved ones the grace of consolation, soulmate and best friend, and more the er, just one day after the missile strike that killed May- strength, and hope,” the patriarchate said. presence of a person who loves you and In his video update, Father Romanelli said he was sa Khader Ibrahim Abu Daoud and her daughter, Mary holds you in a way that’s harder to degrateful for Pope Leo’s message and said the airstrike conHafez Michel Najjar. scribe. “Good morning, Father Gabriele. Ever since hearing firmed fears “that there is not a single safe place in Gaza.” Thousands of persons who have “Let us pray intensely for the Church, let us pray inthe painful news about Maysa and Mary, I’ve been praying lost loved ones to death, including myfor them, their families, and everyone in Gaza. ‘How long, tensely for Pope Leo XIV, and let us pray intensely for self, can identify with that story, both Lord?’” Pope Leo wrote, echoing a lament from Psalm 13. peace between Palestine and Israel,” Father Romanelli in terms of feeling the presence of a de“Thank you for standing by the parish and so many said. “May these innocent victims from this part of the ceased loved one inside ourselves, and people who only want to live in peace. God bless, with a Holy Land, like Maysa and Mary and so many others, in terms of feeling this relationship, serve – united to the redeeming sacrifice of Christ – to warm embrace,” he wrote to Father Gabriele. at a point, develop and move to a new grant us peace of soul, peace among families, peace in soAccording to Turkey’s state-run news agency Anadolu plane. ciety, and peace throughout the world.” Agency, the two women were among five people killed in In my own case, I lost both parents the early hours Oct. 3 in an Israeli airstrike on a residenwhen I was 23 years old. For nearly (Junno Arocho Esteves is an international correspontial building in Gaza City. two years, like Sheldon Vanauken, I dent for OSV News. Follow him on X @jae_journalist.) “Maysa and her daughter Mary had devoted their time felt their presence as sure, guiding and to serving parishioners and displaced people sheltering at parental (they were still very much my the Holy Family Church in Gaza, providing support and mom and dad, still very much with me); assistance amid the devastating humanitarian conditions though, in my case, it was not always facing the Gaza Strip,” Ramzi Khouri, head of the Higher a consoling and warm presence. The Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine, pain of their loss would occasionally said. bring me feelings and tears that were He added that the deaths of two women were “a painnot warm. My mom and dad were still ful loss for their families ... and the parish community, with me, but at this early stage their and add to the growing number of martyrs among the deaths still left a cold scar. Palestinian people in Gaza, who continue to endure death, However, sometime between the destruction, and suffering on a daily basis.” first and second year after their deaths The mother and daughter were laid to rest hours after this changed. For me, unlike for Vatheir deaths, following a funeral at St. Porphyrios Greek nauken, there wasn’t a clear moment Orthodox Church in Gaza. when this happened. It happened gradIn an Oct. 3 statement, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchually and imperceptibly, their presence ate of Jerusalem prayed for their eternal rest, as well as to me and within me changed. “an end to the war and bombardment and for the protec- Christians attend the funeral of Mary Hafez Michel But, parallel to Vanauken’s experition of civilians. Najjar and her mother, Maysa Khader Ibrahim Abu ence, what I experienced was a shift in “May a just peace prevail, so that the people of Gaza Daoud, at St. Porphyrios Greek Orthodox Church in presence from one plane to another. I may live without fear for their children and loved ones. Gaza City Oct. 3, 2026. (OSV News/courtesy X, @ still felt their presence, just as before, May their memory be eternal,” the statement read. but now something had let go, even as PGabRomanelli) something else took its place.
Pope writes to Gaza priest after strike kills 5, including Christian mother, daughter
6 DIOCESE
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
‘... A humble man ...’ – Continued from page 1 – a restful night and a peaceful death. “What a great gift our faith is for all of us,” he said. “We walk by faith, not by sight.” Born Oct. 16, 1954, in Jacksonville, Florida, Father Dore was the son of Noel Hayden Dore Jr. and Louise Ann May Dore. His family, originally from Natchez, was living in Jacksonville while his father served in the Marine Corps. They later returned to Natchez, where Father Dore grew up. He graduated from Cathedral School in 1973 and earned a nursing degree at Hinds Junior College in Raymond. He later entered the pre-theology program at St. Pius X Seminary in Erlanger, Kentucky, before continuing his formation at the University of St. Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein, Illinois, where he earned a Master of Divinity degree. Father Dore was ordained June 10, 1989, and celebrated his first Mass the following day at St. Mary Church in Natchez, now St. Mary Basilica. His ministry included service as associate pastor at St. Joseph in Greenville and St. Paul in Vicksburg. He served as pastor at St. Therese in Chatawa, St. James in Magnolia and Annunciation in Columbus before returning to Vicks-
burg as pastor of St. Michael. His other responsibilities included serving as dean of Deanery II, chaplain to the School Sisters of Notre Dame in Chatawa and auxiliary chaplain at Columbus Air Force Base. He also served as state chaplain for the Knights of Columbus and, at the time of his death, as chaplain for Council 898. In reflections shared with the Vicksburg Post, parishioners and school leaders remembered Father Dore’s quiet manner, kindness and attentiveness to others. Dean Andrews described him as “a happy, friendly priest” who made people feel good. His wife, Kelly Andrews, said Father Dore had been like a member of their family. Mary Arledge, principal of St. Francis Xavier Elementary School, recalled his calming presence and support for the school’s faculty and students. “He was very quiet and calming and a humble man,” Arledge told the Vicksburg Post. The farewell continued Oct. 2 in Father Dore’s hometown of Natchez. At St. Mary Basilica, mourners gathered for Lauds, or Morning Prayer, from the Office of the Dead. Father Aaron Williams sang much of the service, and Father Alex Waraksa, a friend from seminary days, delivered the homily. The Rite of Committal followed at Greenlawn Memorial Park. Father Dore was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his sisters, Lorraine Dore Arnold and Rhonda Dore, and his nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, great-grandnephews and cousins. At the conclusion of the funeral Mass, Bishop Kopacz commended Father Dore to God’s mercy and prayed for those left to mourn him: “Help us who remain, to comfort one another with assurances of faith.”
‘... Celebrate as one ...’ The Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis himself,” Fulmer said. opened St. Francis School that He traced that same call to recog- September with kindergarten nize the dignity of others through the and two elementary grades. friars’ ministry among African Amer- Classes began in a building icans in Greenwood. They learned the formerly known as the Blue community’s culture, shared its joys Moon, and the school expanded and sorrows and stood alongside peo- over time to serve generations ple facing racism and exclusion. of families. Today, he said, that welcome emThe parish’s commitment braces Latino families and all who to its neighbors also took shape enter the church. The community’s through the Pax Christi Franability to worship together across ra- ciscans, founded in 1952. Their cial and cultural differences offers a St. Francis Center offered witness beyond its walls. classes, recreation and commu“You changed Greenwood,” Fulmer nity services and became a hub told the congregation. of the Greenwood Movement That witness began decades before during the civil rights era. the anniversary gathering. According Father Nathaniel Machesto the parish’s history, Franciscan ky, OFM, helped lead that friars from Wisconsin came to the Di- movement’s work for racial ocese of Natchez-Jackson in 1948 at equality. In March 1968, the GREENWOOD – Deacon Henry Fulmer, OFM, and Father Aloys Jost, OFM, deliver Bishop R. O. Gerow’s invitation. Prop- Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. a bilingual homily during the Mass celebrating St. Francis of Assisi Parish’s 75th erty for a church and school was pur- visited St. Francis School, just anniversary on Sunday, Oct. 4. (Photos by Joanna Puddister King) chased in Greenwood in 1950, and St. weeks before his assassination. Francis was formally established as a The ministry endured threats can American community. his life. parish Aug. 15, 1951. The anniversary celebration was He acknowledged the sorrow of and violence as it stood with the Afridedicated to the Franciscan Sisters of St. Francis School’s closure while emSt. Joseph and the Franciscan Sisters phasizing that its legacy continues in of Christian Charity, honoring their the people formed by its teachers and work as educators, mentors and spir- religious sisters. He urged the parish itual guides. to carry that legacy forward through During a memorial led by Edith prayer, care for young people, service Spells, candles were lit in remem- to neighbors and a continued commitbrance of deceased friars, sisters, Pax ment to justice and human dignity. Christi members and parishioners. “Let us listen to our children and Their contributions were recalled our young people, teach them, encourthrough the children they taught, fam- age them, make room for their gifts, ilies they strengthened and neighbors and show how by our lives, that they they served. have a home in this church,” White Guest speaker John E. White re- said. turned to the parish where he grew Bishop Kopacz offered a closing up to reflect on that enduring influ- reflection on the unity expressed ence. A former senior vice president throughout the celebration, recalling at Sodexo and a longtime Catholic lay Pope Leo XIV’s motto, “In the One, we leader, White described how the parish are one.” Members of the choir lead music during the Mass celebrating St. Francis shaped his faith during the 1970s and “We have celebrated that here toof Assisi Parish’s 75th anniversary on Sunday, Oct. 4. (More photos on 1980s and gave him a sense of belong- day,” the bishop said. “It was such a joy ing that traveled with him throughout to be here and celebrate as one.” jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com)
– Continued from page 1 –
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
DIOCESE 7
Faith across borders: Bishops make annual mission trip to Saltillo Bishop Joseph Kopacz traveled to Saltillo, Mexico, Sept. 24-30 with Bishop Louis F. Kihneman III of the Diocese of Biloxi. The bishops visited communities served through the dioceses’ shared Saltillo Mission. During the trip, they visited several churches and mission communities, including San Miguel, Divina Misericordia, San José and the future chapel of El Niño de la Salud. On Sept. 27, Bishop Kopacz and Bishop Kihneman joined Bishop Hilario González García of Saltillo for a Confirmation Mass at San Miguel. The visit celebrated the longstanding mission partnership connecting Catholics in Saltillo with the dioceses of Jackson and Biloxi. Through prayer, worship and fellowship, the trip strengthened the bonds of faith and solidarity shared across the three dioceses. (Photos by Tereza Ma – To view more visit jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com.)
Bishop Kihneman and Bishop Kopacz visit the tomb of Padre Patrick Quinn during the annual mission trip to Saltillo, Mexico, on Sept. 25. (Left) Young Confirmation candidates travel by caravan to San Francisco del Ejido Nuevo Gómez Rancho on Sept. 25. (Right) The bishops participate in activities with Rancho catechists during a faith formation program Sept. 26.
(Below and Right) Bishops bless a parade and ride alongside Confirmation candidates to San José La Ventura on Sept. 26.
(Above) Bishop Kopacz shares a fist bump with a young parishioner at Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, where he celebrated Mass on Sept. 27.
Bishop Joseph Kopacz walks in procession from St. Miguel to the future rancho chapel of El Niño de la Salud on Sept. 28.
Please, Give Generously! Nov. 14 &15, 2026
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
All Saints’ Day: History and traditions
FAITH ALIVE By Russell Shaw
(OSV News) – The author of the Letter to the Hebrews wrote, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith” (12:1-2). This passage is a beautiful description of the communion of saints, something so fundamental to the Christian faith that all Christians express their belief in it when reciting the Apostles’ Creed. A saint is someone who is in heaven – it is as simple as that. While “saint” as a title is reserved to those whose lives the church has thoroughly investigated (typically through whose intercession two miracles can be demonstrated to have occurred), the term applies to anyone in heaven. Everyone from your saintly grandmother to the martyrs facing death for Christ: They are all part of the communion of saints. The church commemorates all these saints on All Saints’ Day. The history of the feast reveals a great deal about the church’s understanding of the communion of saints. The communion of saints is the church, both the living and dead. All Saints’ Day was not always a solemnity observed by the universal church, and is not celebrated everywhere on Nov. 1. The feast originated in the earliest centuries of the church, when Christians commemorated the many martyrs who died at the hands of their Roman persecutors. Because there were so many martyrs, they could not each have their own feast day; but they were seen as such important witnesses that the Christians did not want to leave any of them out. As a result, a single commemoration for “all the martyrs” was observed each spring, which celebrated those who did not have their own unique feast. This is the earliest observance we know about of something similar to All Saints’ Day. Many of the Eastern Catholic churches still commemorate All Saints’ Day in the spring. After Christianity was legalized throughout the Roman Empire in 313 and the violent and bloody persecutions came to an end, it was common to commemorate the martyrs in various areas around the empire. We even see this referred to in the writings of the saints, with St. Ephrem (d. 373) and St. John Chrysostom (d. 407) making reference to a commemoration of all saints. This practice spread far throughout the Mediterranean and beyond, with
FALL FESTIVAL AND TRUNK-OR-TREAT EVENTS
BATESVILLE – Batesville Main Street’s Trick-or-Trunk on the Square, Saturday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. St. Mary’s Altar Society participating with a trunk. Candy donations appreciated. CLARKSDALE – St. Elizabeth, Trunk-or-Treat and Canned Food Drive, Sunday, Oct. 25 at 5:30 p.m. Details: church office (662) 624-4301. CLEVELAND – Our Lady of Victories, CYO Halloween Carnival, Sunday, Oct. 25. Details: church office (662) 8466273. COLUMBUS – Multi-Church event, Fall Festival, Sunday, Oct. 25 from 4-6:30 pm on College Street downtown. No pets. Details: annunciationcyo@ gmail.com. GREENVILLE – St. Joseph School, Trunk-or-Treat, Wednesday, Oct. 28 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Children of all ages welcome. Enjoy games, trick-or-treating and more. Details: church office (662) 335-5251 or sduthu@stjosephgreenville.org. GLUCKSTADT – St. Joseph, Trunk-or-Treat, Saturday, Oct. 24 after 4 p.m. Mass. Details: church office (601)
856-2054. HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, Trunkor-Treat, Sunday, Oct. 25 from 2-4 p.m. Event for ages 0 through fifth grade. Enjoy games, face painting, costume contest, treats and more. Details: church office (662) 429-7851. JACKSON – St. Richard School, Cardinal Fest, Saturday, Oct. 24. Enjoy food, live performances, games, art, chili cookoff and more! Visit https:// bit.ly/cardinalfest2026 for tickets, chili cookoff registration, sponsorship or more info. Details: school office (601) 366-1157. JACKSON – Holy Family, Fall Festival, Saturday, Oct. 24 from 9 a.m. to
DIOCESE 9
commemorations of all saints showing up in Antioch, Rome, England, Salzburg and more. In the early seventh century, Pope Boniface IV dedicated the Roman Pantheon – formerly a shrine to all the gods of Roman mythology – as a Christian church of the Blessed Virgin and all the martyrs. Pope Gregory III consecrated a chapel at St. Peter’s Basilica to all the saints, as well, with an anniversary date of Nov. 1. Rome adopted Nov. 1 as the date of the feast of All Saints in the eighth century, and in the ninth century Pope Gregory IV extended that observance to the whole of the Latin Church. Now, centuries later, All Saints’ Day is a holy day of obligation and recognized as one of the most important feasts on the liturgical calendar. However, the celebration of Halloween typically overshadows the commemoration of All Saints’ Day. Most of us realize that Halloween is in reality the vigil of All Saints’ (“Allhallows Eve” or “Hallow E’en”), but All Saints’ Day itself has become a bit of an afterthought. It shouldn’t be this way! The saints are our friends, our intercessors, our brothers and sisters in Christ. They care deeply for us, and their lives are recognized by the church as exemplary, as models to follow. So how can we celebrate this wonderful feast of All Saints’ Day? Whether you are commemorating individually or in a group or a family, there are many ways to observe this solemnity. The most obvious is: Go to Mass! It is a holy day of obligation, and there is no more appropriate way to commemorate the saintly lives of those who have gone before us than the eucharistic sacrifice. It is also good to do other liturgical or prayerful things to mark the day: Pray the Divine Office for All Saints’ Day; read the lives of the saints; watch a movie about a saint; pray the litany of saints; think back to your confirmation saint and study that saint’s life. Similarly, if any of your children share the name of a saint, learn about that saint together: Read about the saint and pray together, asking for the saint’s intercession. There are also a number of creative and fun games that can be played to help celebrate All Saints’ Day. Try putting on a play of the life of a saint (many Halloween costumes can be repurposed to be saints costumes). There are books for all ages, coloring books and even comic books featuring the saints. All Saints’ Day is the perfect time to pray to all these holy men and women, asking for their intercession for the conversion of sinners, so that we might all become saints. (Senz works for Ignatius Press and is a freelance writer who lives with his wife and four children in Oregon.) 5 p.m. Enjoy a day filled with international food booths, bingo, football watch party, bounce houses, and children’s games and activities, in addition to a two-day soccer tournament (Oct. 24-25) for male and female teams. Activities require the purchase of tickets for a small fee. The entire community is invited to attend. Come out to celebrate the first activity in our year-long celebration leading up to our 70th anniversary. Details: church office (601) 362-1888. MADISON – St. Anthony School, Fall Fest and Chili Cook-off, Sunday, Oct. 18. Details: school office (601) 6077054.
Illustration created through ChatGPT.
MADISON – St. Joseph School, Trunk-or-Treat, Tuesday, Oct. 27 from 5:30-7 p.m. Details: school office (601) 898-4800. MERIDIAN – St. Patrick School Fall Festival, Friday, Oct. 23, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Trunk-or-Treat, hayride, games, crafts, Touch-a-Truck, petting zoo and more. Details: school office (601) 482-6044. OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Trunk-or-Treat, Sunday, Oct. 25 at 5 p.m. Haunted trail, cake walk, music, food and more. Details: church office (662) 895-5007. SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Trunk-or-Treat, Friday, Oct. 30 from 6-8:30 p.m. Come enjoy music, games, free food and more. Details: church office (662) 342-1073. VICKSBURG – Vicksburg Catholic School, 12th annual Spooky Sprint, Thursday, Oct. 29 at 6 p.m. Join us for a 5k run or walk 1 mile fun run and carnival. Event is open to all ages. Costumes are encouraged. Register at https://vicksburgcatholicschool.redpodium.com/2026-spooky-sprintor $10 cash at gate for carnival entry only. Details: school office (601) 636-2256.
10 DIOCESE
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
Faith and fellowship around the diocese CLARKSDALE – Former St. Elizabeth School eighthgrade classmates from 1962 reunite during the 60th joint reunion of the Clarksdale High School and Coahoma County High School classes of 1966. Pictured are Lucretia Luckett Boyle, Margaret Birdsong Johnson, Ronnie Demilio, Susan Matthews Young and Sue Haaga Craig. Classmate Carolyn Hannan Evans is not pictured. (Photo courtesy of Ronnie Demilio)
JACKSON – Chancery staff serve lunch during the Shower Power event in downtown Jackson on Sept. 11. Pictured from left are Joni House, Debbie Moore, Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz, Father Lincoln Dall and Rebecca Harris. (Photos by Tereza Ma)
MOBILE, AL – Monsignor Elvin Sunds is invested as a Knight Commander of the Order of the Fleur de Lis on June 5 in the chapel of the archdiocesan chancery in Mobile. He is joined in the investiture by Archbishop Mark S. Rivituso of Mobile and Father Robert P. Higginbotham of the Diocese of Biloxi. (Photo by Michael Horten)
RIDGELAND – Local Catholic parishioners, Brian Lott and John Dorsa joined together to serve meals to about 70 first responders Sept. 11 in remembrance of the 25th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks. (Photo courtesy of John Dorsa)
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
DIOCESE 11
Around the diocese and beyond VATICAN CITY – Christ the King Jackson parishioner Carrie Robinson greets Pope Leo XIV during an audience with a U.S. delegation from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Robinson spoke briefly with the pope and shook his hand during the group’s visit to the Vatican. Robinson shared that Pope Leo had some wonderful things to say about the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. (Photo by Vatican Media)
JACKSON – Norman McDonald, a member of the Order of the Fleur de Lis Board of Governors, presents a $1,500 check to Sister Jane at the Carmelite Monastery on Monday, Oct. 5. The gift will assist with building repairs and HVAC needs. Pictured in back from left are Knight Commanders Jim McCraw and Craig Harrell, Sister Clare, Sister Jovi, Monsignor Elvin Sunds and Sister Evelyn. (Photo courtesy of Michael Horton)
OXFORD – Bishop Joseph Kopacz, accompanied by pastor, Father Mark Shoffner, teaches 160 inquirers about the sign of the cross during the opening night of OCIA at St. John the Evangelist Parish. (Photo by Jennifer Newsom)
Dozens of countries were represented at this year’s Taste of St. Francis on Sunday, Oct. 4. Teresa Karki, left, serves chicken momos with tomato sauce from Nepal, while Alejandro Banda serves Oaxacan tamales from Oaxaca, Mexico. (Photos by Sallie Ann Inman)
YOUR GIFT STAYS HERE AT HOME
This special second collection supports our parishes, schools and ministries across the diocese – funding vital projects that strengthen our faith community. Together, we can keep our parishes welcoming, our schools inspiring, and our ministries reaching those in need.
DIOCESAN MINISTRY ASSISTANCE FUND OCT. 31 & NOV. 1, 2026
ROOTED. GROWING. SERVING.
Serving the parishes that sustain our faith United in Mission supports three essential needs across the Diocese of Jackson: forming future priests, funding the 2027 Catholic Service Appeal and strengthening our 89 parishes. Including the 2027 CSA in the campaign helps sustain the essential ministries, programs and works of mercy your generosity makes possible each year, while investing in the future of our Catholic communities. The campaign will provide $10 million for parish needs. Parishes will participate in two phases, called blocks: Block 1 is underway, and Block 2 begins in January 2027, allowing each community to participate when it best suits them. Each parish has a campaign goal – a good faith target to raise over five years. The first funds raised will fulfill the parish’s 2027 CSA obligation. Once that obligation is met, 50% of additional funds raised up to the campaign goal will remain at the parish for its needs. For funds raised above the goal, the parish will retain 70%, creating greater opportunities to support its plans. Recognizing that strong parishes build a strong diocese, Bishop Joseph Kopacz has asked each parish to develop a “parish case” – projects funded through the campaign that address its specific needs, from facilities and ministries to plans for the future.
GATHERED.
$10 MILLION
Strengthening our Parishes The campaign’s $10 Million parish support goal will help parishes and missions address local needs – improving facilities, supporting ministries and preparing for the future.
A parish hall with room for ministry and community. HOLY CHILD JESUS | CANTON At Holy Child Jesus, we have initiated the United In Mission Campaign with a two-fold hope: building a fund to educate the future priests for our diocese and building a space to gather all who cherish the life and impact of Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA, Servant of God. Father Guy Wilson, ST recognizes the importance of a hall the parish can utilize for ministry, meeting, and social events throughout the week, helping the parish to be a second home for the faithful who worship there. Holy Child Jesus has been working towards raising the funds necessary to build the hall for some time and recognize that their participation in the United In Mission campaign will allow them the final push to make this long-awaited need a reality.
Parishioners at Holy Child Jesus gather for fellowship following their annual Sister Thea Bowman musical celebration. Through the United in Mission campaign, the parish will raise funds to build a parish hall and make this long-awaited dream a reality.
Additionally, parishes will be able to begin accessing these funds well before the five-year redemption period of the campaign has elapsed. The United In Mission campaign is designed so that once a parish’s 2027 Catholic Service Appeal goal is met, funds will be deposited in each parish’s account quarterly throughout the pledge redemption period. This assures that each parish can not only begin their projects in a timely manner, they can also gauge the flow of funds over the five years of redemption and confidently plan for future projects.
A place to gather. A place to serve. A parish that feels like home.
STRENGTHENED.
Local needs. Parish plans. Lasting possibilities. A PRAYER GARDEN FOR ALL AGES At Holy Savior Parish in Clinton, Father Lincoln Dall serves a community with many young families and children. A vacant lot across the street from the church offers space for a prayer garden – a place for quiet contemplation and fellowship. Through United in Mission, the garden will provide a gathering place for parishioners of all ages. For young people, it may also become a place to discern God’s call – perhaps even a vocation to the priesthood, supported by the campaign’s Seminarian Education Endowment.
Children gather before the congregation at Holy Savior Parish in Clinton for a special program. Through the United in Mission campaign, the parish plans to develop a prayer garden, providing its many young families and parishioners of all ages a space for prayer and fellowship.
Each parish has its own strengths and challenges. A parish that makes a good faith campaign effort will receive its share of funds even if it does not reach its overall goal. Once its 2027 Catholic Service Appeal obligation is met, the parish will receive 50% of additional funds raised up to its campaign goal through quarterly distributions. The par“Our youth are excited to ish retains 70% of have a dedicated place funds raised above outside to pray the Rosary its goal. Distribuand to have prayerful tions will continue for five years conversations.” or until all parish – Father Lincoln Dall, pastor of pledges are fulHoly Savior parish in Clinton filled.
CARING FOR A GROWING COMMUNITY St. Martin of Tours in Hazelhurst is a vibrant parish that serves both English and Spanish speaking communities. With their share of the United In Mission funds, they plan to address areas of need that benefit both communities and set the stage for the continued growth of the Spanish community. The first project involves repairing the pews in the church, erasing scratches and reupholstering torn cushions. This active parish also needs a larger shed to store items used throughout the year. Finally, a sign will be purchased identifying the area where the Spanish Masses are held. Currently, the English community celebrates Mass in the small church, while the Spanish Community celebrates in the parish hall because the church is too small for the growing community. The ability to complete these projects now through the United In Mission campaign sets the stage for a potential expansion later so that all communities can worship in the same holy space. Parishioners fill the seats during Mass at St. Martin in Hazlehurst. The United in Mission campaign will help fund needed repairs and lay the groundwork for a possible future expansion, creating space for the parish’s English- and Spanish-speaking communities to worship together.
How the Parish Share Works 1.
2.
3.
2027 CSA First
50% to the Parish
70% Above the Goal
The first funds raised through the United In Mission campaign satisfy the parish’s 2027 Catholic Service Appeal obligation.
After the Catholic Service Appeal is funded, 50% of funds raised up to the parish’s campaign goal stays at the parish. The other half of the funds support an Endowment for Seminarian Education.
The parish retains 70% of new funds raised above its campaign goal, offering unlimited potential to strengthen the parish.
16 de octubre de 2026
mississippicatholic.com
Sirviendo a los Católicos Hispanos de la Diócesis de Jackson desde 1997
El Padre Robert Dore recordado por su silenciosa bondad y 37 anos de servicio sacerdotal Por JoaNNa PUDDisTer KiNG
vida cotidiana y su fe. El obispo recordó llamadas VICKSBURG – Los dolientes llentelefónicas, así como visitas y moaron la iglesia de St. Michael más mentos de oración con el padre Dore allá de su capacidad el 1 de octubre, durante las últimas semanas de su ocupando salas laterales y permanvida. Incluso mientras su enfermeeciendo de pie donde hubiera espadad avanzaba, el padre Dore permacio, para despedir al padre Robert neció agradecido por las oraciones Hayden Dore, un sacerdote cuyos 37 ofrecidas por él y procuró mantener años de ministerio tocaron comuniinformada a su familia parroquial a dades parroquiales en toda la Diócetravés de su hermana, Lorraine. sis de Jackson. “Él estaba tan agradecido por sus El padre Dore, de 71 años, muoraciones,” dijo el obispo Kopacz. rió el 24 de septiembre en su hogar El obispo relacionó los últimos en Vicksburg tras una breve batalla días del padre Dore con las oracontra el cáncer. Había servido como ciones que los sacerdotes ofrecen párroco de St. Michael desde 2017. cada noche en la Liturgia de las El obispo Joseph R. Kopacz celeHoras, confiándose a Dios y pidiendo bró la Misa de Exequias y pronunció una noche tranquila y una muerte la homilía, acompañado por saceren paz. dotes de la diócesis y amigos sacer“Qué gran regalo es nuestra fe dotes del padre Dore. Miembros de para todos nosotros,” dijo. “Caminasu familia, feligreses actuales y anteriores, y miembros de la comunidad VICKSBURG – El obispo Joseph R. Kopacz y los sacerdotes concelebrantes se mos por fe, no por vista.” Nacido el 16 de octubre de 1954 en de la escuela católica de Vicksburg reúnen alrededor del altar durante la misa fúnebre del padre Robert Dore en la Jacksonville, Florida, el padre Dore —incluyendo estudiantes del último iglesia de San Miguel el 1 de octubre de 2026. Los dolientes llenaron la iglesia era hijo de Noel Hayden Dore Jr. y año— se reunieron para orar por el sacerdote a quien habían conocido por encima de su capacidad para honrar al padre Dore, quien sirvió a la Diócesis Louise Ann May Dore. Su familia, como pastor, amigo y presencia con- de Jackson durante 37 años y había sido párroco de San Miguel desde 2017. originaria de Natchez, vivía en Jack(Foto de Joanna Puddister King) sonville mientras su padre servía en stante. el Cuerpo de Marines. Más tarde reEn su homilía, el obispo Kopacz gresaron a Natchez, donde el padre reflexionó sobre las lecturas bíblicas y la esperanza cristiana que sostuvo la vida y el ministerio del padre Dore. Antes de entrar al sacerdocio, el padre Dore traba- Dore creció. Se graduó de Cathedral School en 1973 y obtuvo un título en enfermería en jó como enfermero. Su vocación continuó esa labor de cuidar a los demás a través de los sacramentos y acompañando a las personas en la enfermedad, el dolor la
– Continúa en la página 2 –
San Francis celebra 75 años de fe, servicio y bienvenida Por JoaNNa PUDDisTer KiNG
GREENWOOD – Con oraciones en inglés y español y una congregación respondiendo a la el estribillo “Enraizados en la fe, creciendo en la gracia,” la parroquia de San Francisco de Asís celebró 75 años de una misión que ha llevado fe, educación y un espíritu de bienvenida a generaciones en el Delta de Mississippi. La iglesia se llenó de feligreses e invitados para la celebración del aniversario. Después de la Misa, la reunión continuó con una recepción festiva en San Francis, en la antigua cafetería de la Escuela donde una abundante variedad de alimentos dio la bienvenida a quienes celebraban este hito parroquial. El obispo Joseph R. Kopacz presidió la Misa de aniversario el 4 de octubre, la fiesta de San Francisco de Asís. La celebración también marcó 25 años de ministerio hispano en la parroquia, reuniendo su herencia afroamericana con la fe y las tradiciones de sus feligreses latinos. La temática del aniversario, “Enraizados en la fe, creciendo en la gracia,” tomado de Colosenses 2:6-7, conectó el recuerdo de los inicios de la parroquia con un llamado a continuar su misión. Jackie Lewis, la exdirectora de la Escuela St.
Francis y presidenta de la celebración del aniversario, dio la bienvenida a los presentes honrando a los fundadores, religiosos y feligreses cuyas oraciones y servicio sostuvieron a la comunidad. Invitó a la parroquia a dar gracias por su historia mientras mira con fe hacia lo que Dios seguirá realizando a través de sus miembros. En su homilía, el diácono Henry Fulmer, consejero provincial de la Provincia Franciscana de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, convirtió el tema del aniversario en una respuesta compartida por la congregación. Un lado respondía: “Enraizados en la fe,” y el otro: “Creciendo en la gracia.” Fulmer conectó la historia de la parroquia con el encuentro de San Francisco con un hombre con lepra, explicando cómo el santo llegó a reconocer a Cristo en alguien a quien antes había rechazado. “Y al encontrar a Cristo en este leproso, Francisco se encontró a sí mismo,” dijo Fulmer. tras ese mismo llamado a reconocer la dignidad de los demás a través del ministerio de los religiosos entre los afroamericanos en Greenwood. Aprendieron la cultura de la comunidad, compartieron sus alegrías y tristezas y se mantuvieron al lado de personas que enfrentaban racismo y exclusión.
Hoy, dijo, ese acogimiento abraza a las familias latinas y a todos los que entran en la iglesia. La capacidad de la comunidad para adorar juntos a través de diferencias raciales y culturales ofrece un testimonio más allá de sus muros. “Ustedes cambiaron Greenwood,” dijo Fulmer a la congregación. Ese testimonio comenzó décadas antes de la celebración del aniversario. Según la historia de la parroquia, frailes franciscanos de Wisconsin llegaron a la Diócesis de Natchez-Jackson en 1948 por invitación del obispo R. O. Gerow. Se compró propiedad para una iglesia y una escuela en Greenwood en 1950, y San Francisco fue establecido formalmente como parroquia el 15 de agosto de 1951. Las Hermanas de San José de la Tercera Orden de San Francisco abrieron la Escuela St. Francis ese septiembre con kindergarten y dos grados de primaria. Las clases comenzaron en un edificio conocido anteriormente como el Blue Moon, y la escuela se expandió con el tiempo para servir a generaciones de familias. El compromiso de la parroquia con sus vecinos también tomó forma a través de los Francisca-
– Continúa en la página 2 –
16 de octubre de 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATÓLICO
2
'... Un hombre humilde ...' – Viene de la página 1 – Hinds Junior College en Raymond. Posteriormente ingresó al programa de pre-teología en el Seminario St. Pius X en Erlanger, Kentucky, antes de continuar su formación en el Seminario de la Universidad de St. Mary en el lago de Mundelein, Illinois, donde obtuvo una Maestría en Divinidad. El padre Dore fue ordenado el 10 de junio de 1989 y celebró su primera misa al día siguiente en la iglesia de St. Mary en Natchez, ahora Basílica de St. Mary. Su ministerio incluyó servicio como vicario par-
roquial en St. Joseph en Greenville y St. Paul en Vicksburg. Sirvió como párroco en St. Therese en Chatawa, St. James en Magnolia y Annunciation en Columbus antes de regresar a Vicksburg como párroco de St. Michael. Otras responsabilidades incluyeron servir como decano del Decanato II, capellán de las Hermanas Escolares de Notre Dame en Chatawa y capellán auxiliar en la Base Aérea de Columbus. También fue capellán estatal de los Caballeros de Colón y, al momento de su muerte, capellán del Consejo 898. En reflexiones compartidas con el Vicksburg Post, feligreses y líderes escolares recordaron el carácter tranquilo del padre Dore, su bondad y su atención hacia los demás. Dean Andrews lo describió como “un sacerdote feliz y amigable” que hacía sentir bien a la gente. Su esposa, Kelly Andrews, dijo que el padre Dore había sido como un miembro de su familia. Mary Arledge, directora de St. Francis Xavier Elementary School, recordó su presencia calmada y su
apoyo al personal y a los estudiantes. “Era muy callado, calmado y un hombre humilde,” dijo Arledge al Vicksburg Post. La despedida continuó el 2 de octubre en la ciudad natal del padre Dore, Natchez. En la Basílica de St. Mary, los dolientes se reunieron para Laudes, o la Oración de la Mañana, del Oficio de Difuntos. El padre Aaron Williams cantó gran parte del servicio y el padre Alex Waraksa pronunció la homilía. El Rito de Sepultura siguió en Greenlawn Memorial Park. El padre Dore fue precedido en la muerte por sus padres. Le sobreviven sus hermanas, Lorraine Dore Arnold y Rhonda Dore, así como sus sobrinas, sobrinos, sobrinas nietas, sobrinos nietos, tatarasobrinos y primos. Al concluir la Misa de funeral, el obispo Kopacz encomendó al padre Dore a la misericordia de Dios y oró por quienes quedaron para llorarlo: “Ayúdanos a quienes permanecemos, a consolarnos unos a otros con las promesas de la fe.”
' ... Celebremos todos juntos ...' – Viene de la página 1 – nos Pax Christi, fundados en 1952. Su Centro St. Francis ofrecía clases, recreación y servicios comunitarios y se convirtió en un centro del Movimiento de Greenwood durante la era de los derechos civiles. El padre Nathaniel Machesky, OFM, ayudó a liderar el trabajo del movimiento por la igualdad racial. En marzo de 1968, el Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. visitó la Escuela St. Francis, solo semanas antes de su asesinato. El ministerio soportó amenazas y violencia mientras se mantenía junto a la comunidad afroamericana. La celebración del aniversario fue dedicada a las Hermanas Franciscanas de San José y a las Hermanas Franciscanas de la Caridad Cristiana, honrando su labor como educadoras, mentoras y guías espirituales. Durante un memorial dirigido por Edith Spells, se encendieron velas en recuerdo de frailes, hermanas, miem-
bros de Christi Pax y feligreses fallecidos. Sus contribuciones fueron recordadas a través de los niños que enseñaron, las familias que fortalecieron y los vecinos a quienes sirvieron. El invitado para la oración John E. White regresó a la parroquia donde creció para reflexionar sobre esa influencia perdurable. Exvicepresidente senior de Sodexo y líder laico católico de larga trayectoria, White describió cómo la parroquia moldeó su fe durante las décadas de 1970 y 1980 y le dio un sentido
GREENWOOD – El diácono Henry Fulmer, OFM, y el padre Aloys Jost, OFM, pronuncian una homilía bilingüe durante la misa celebrada con motivo del 75.º aniversario de la parroquia de San Francisco de Asís el domingo 4 de octubre. (Fotos de Joanna Puddister King)
Los miembros del coro dirigieron la música durante la misa celebrada con motivo del 75.º aniversario de la parroquia de San Francisco de Asís el domingo 4 de octubre. (Más fotos en jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com)
de pertenencia quien lo a acompañó toda su vida. Reconoció la tristeza por el cierre de la Escuela St. Francis, pero enfatizó que su legado continúa en las personas formadas por sus maestras y hermanas religiosas. Invito a la parroquia a llevar ese legado adelante mediante la oración, el cuidado de los jóvenes, el servicio a los vecinos y un compromiso continuo con la justicia y la dignidad hu-
mana. “Escuchemos a nuestros niños y jóvenes, enseñémosles, animémoslos, hagamos espacio para sus dones y mostremos, con nuestras vidas, que tienen un hogar en esta iglesia,” dijo White. El obispo Kopacz ofreció una reflexión final sobre la unidad expresada durante la celebración, recordando el llamado del papa León XIV: “En Cristo somos uno.” “Lo hemos celebrado aquí hoy,” dijo el obispo. “Fue una gran alegría estar aquí y celebrar como uno solo.
16 de octubre de 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATÓLICO
Unidos en una misión a través de las fronteras Por Obispo Joseph R. Kopacz, D.D.
A principios de este año, el papa León XIV anuncio el tema del 100˚ aniversario del Domingo mundial de las Misiones: “uno en cristo, Unidos en misión’. Está inspirado en su escudo y lema, que ilustran el carisma central de su papado, que está en illo uno, unum que se traduce, “En él, somos uno.” De manera apropiada, su mensaje fue publicado en la fiesta de la conversión de San Pablo, el más grande de los misioneros de la Iglesia primitiva. La piedra angular de la enseñanza del papa León durante esta conmemoración del siglo histórico se centra en la oración del Señor por la unidad en la última Cena en el Evangelio de Juan, capítulo 17: Para que ellos sean uno como nosotros somos uno, padre”. El poder del amor del Señor en acción le da propósito a su gran comisión de llevar el Evangelio a todas las naciones. Nuestro llamado a estar Unidos en misión tiene su Fuente en las aguas de Bautismo y la comunión de la vida y el amor que conocemos en Dios es amor, padre, Hijo, y Espíritu Santo. Como la primera comunidad cristiana en Jerusalem, estamos llamados a ser de un solo corazón y mente en el Espíritu Santo, ansiosos por vivir el Evangelio e invitar a otros a conocer al señor. Idealmente, mientras oramos y apoyamos a los misioneros en todo el mundo, reconocemos que muchos encuentros locales están maduros para nuestra propia actividad misionera. El trabajo misionero de la Iglesia es implacable en todo el mundo, y no es sorprendente que la generosidad de muchos en la Iglesia en los estados Unidos apoye sustancialmente estos esfuerzos. La reciente beatificación del arzobispo Fulton J, Sheen, quien dirigió la Sociedad para la propagación de la Fe de 1950 a 1966 en los Estados Unidos, es oportuno en previsión del Domingo de la Misión Mundial. Recaudo cantidades impresionantes de dinero durante su mandato y su ministerio como evangelista y maestro inspiro a muchos a una fe más profunda en el Señor crucificado y una mayor generosidad para propagar la fe. De manera oportuna, su último año como director de la propagación de la Fe en 1966 fue el comienzo de una renovación de un impulso misionero en la Iglesia después del Concilio Vaticano II. Los padres del Concilio bajo la mirada del Espíritu Santo produjeron el documento Ad Gentes (A las Naciones) que fue promulgado por el papa San Pablo VI el 7 de diciembre de 1965. En particular,
la Iglesia en los estados Unidos recibió ordenes de marcha para asociarse con Diocesis en México, Centroamérica y del sur con el fin de fortalecer la misión de evangelización de la iglesia católica en el mundo occidental. Muchas Diocesis se tomaron enserio esta llamada a la acción. La Diocesis de Natchez-Jackson se asoció con la Diocesis de Saltillo México, en1969, inaugurando un vínculo de solidaridad evangélica que ha evolucionado y florecido hasta el día de hoy. Durante los últimos 57 anos El Señor ha bendecido mutuamente a miles de católicos de Mississippi que fueron en misión a Saltillo, así como a los católicos mexicanos que abrieron sus corazones y hogares a los peregrinos del norte. Actualmente, es demasiado peligroso ir a una misión por tierra, pero somos solidarios a través de la oración, la generosidad y las redes sociales, como demostró la visita del mes pasado. La distancia física que nos separa no ha cortado los lazos de fe, Esperanza y amor que nos unen en el cuerpo de Cristo. Finalmente, el panorama digital es otro dominio que está acertando para los discípulos misioneros. EL Papa León ha alentado repetidamente a muchos en la Iglesia a ser heraldos del Evangelio en el ámbito digital, reconociendo que hay muchas formas creativas en este dominio de iluminación con la luz del evangelio la oscuridad y las sombras que afligen a los hombres y mujeres modernos. Ofrezcamos la oración que concluye el mensaje del Papa León. “Santo Padre, haznos uno en cristo, arraigado en su amor que nos une y renueva. Que todos los miembros de la Iglesia estén unidos en una misión dócil
al Espíritu Santo, Valientes en dar testimonio del Evangelio, proclamado y encarnado diariamente tu amor fiel por todas las criaturas. ¡Bendice a todos los hombres y mujeres misioneros, sostén sus esfuerzos y protégelos en la Esperanza! María, Reina de las misiones, acompaña nuestra labor de evangelización en cada rincón de la tierra: haznos instrumentos de paz y concede que todo el mundo reconozca en cristo la luz que salva. Amen.” (Para. Ver fotos del viaje del obispo Kopaz a Saltillo, consulte la página 7 de Missississippi Catholic o visite jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com.)
El obispo Joseph Kopacz, de la Diócesis de Jackson, y el obispo Louis F. Kihneman III, de la Diócesis de Biloxi, participan en diversas actividades pastorales y comunitarias durante su viaje misionero anual a Saltillo, México.
16 de octubre de 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATÓLICO en persona. El evento de 2027 se llevará a cabo en un momento en que el movimiento pro-vida enfrenta varios desafíos clave, tales como la preservación de la Enmienda Hyde, la reciente aprobación de un nuevo medicamento genérico para el aborto, una política que permite la distribución de ese medicamento por correo y una tasa de abortos en aumento.
VATICANO
CIUDAD DEL VATICANO (Vatican News) – El Vaticano publicará el diario privado del papa Francisco, lo que ofrecerá a los lectores una nueva perspectiva sobre la vida interior del difunto pontífice. El 4 de octubre de 2026, en Asís, Italia, el arzobispo Felice Ac- El Vaticano anunció el 5 de octubre crocca de Asís sostiene en alto una reliquia para bendecir a Italia, que "El diario privado del papa mientras cardenales, frailes y miles de peregrinos se unen a la Francisco" incluirá notas que el celebración del 800.º aniversario de la muerte de San Francisco. papa Francisco escribió entre 1992 y 2024. El libro está escrito por el La fiesta del "Pequeño Pobre de Asís" fue el evento culminante de cardenal Víctor Manuel Fernánun año de celebraciones jubilares, que comenzaron con la histórica dez, prefecto del Dicasterio para la exposición de sus reliquias para la veneración pública. (Foto de Doctrina de la Fe, quien presenta y OSV News/cortesía de Sala Stampa Sacro Convento Assisi) comenta los escritos del papa Francisco. El libro saldrá a la venta el 24 de noviembre en cinco idiomas WASHINGTON (OSV News) – Los líderes de la y se distribuirá en 94 países. La Editorial Vaticana educación católica aplauden las regulaciones pro- publicará la edición en italiano, mientras que Penpuestas para el Crédito Fiscal por Becas Federales, guin Random House se encargará de las ediciones en que incentiva las contribuciones privadas a becas de español, inglés y portugués. Éditions Albin Michel educación primaria y secundaria (K-12) que benefi- publicará la edición en francés. Andrea Tornielli, dician a estudiantes de escuelas públicas, autónomas o rector editorial del Dicasterio para la Comunicación privadas, incluidas las religiosas. El 1 de octubre, el del Vaticano, afirmó que el diario permitirá a los lecDepartamento del Tesoro de EE. UU. y el IRS anun- tores obtener "una comprensión aún más profunda" ciaron conjuntamente las regulaciones propuestas de la vida interior del papa argentino. La Editorial para el programa, también conocido como Crédito Vaticana tiene previsto presentar el libro a los ediFiscal por Libertad Educativa, que se promulgó en tores internacionales en la Feria del Libro de Fránc2025 y entrará en vigor el 1 de enero. Este crédito fis- fort, que se llevará a cabo del 7 al 11 de octubre. Las cal "transformador" "creará oportunidades para que notas del papa Francisco abarcan más de tres décalas familias accedan a recursos muy necesarios que das, incluyendo sus años como obispo en Argentina y amplíen sus opciones a la hora de elegir las mejores sus 12 años de pontificado.
NACIÓN
herramientas y el mejor entorno de aprendizaje para sus hijos", afirmó el obispo David M. O’Connell, de Trenton, Nueva Jersey, presidente del Comité de Educación Católica de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de EE. UU., en un comunicado del 2 de octubre. El anuncio del 1 de octubre "brinda mayor claridad a los estados, los donantes y las organizaciones que otorgan becas", señaló Steven F. Cheeseman, presidente y director ejecutivo de la Asociación Nacional de Educación Católica, en un comunicado del 1 de octubre. Cheeseman destacó que el anuncio confirma que las parejas casadas que presenten una declaración conjunta podrán reclamar hasta 3.400 dólares en crédito fiscal por contribuciones elegibles, "en lugar del límite por hogar de 1.700 dólares que se entendía anteriormente". Con 30 estados inscritos, Cheeseman instó a los gobernadores estatales a sumarse rápidamente al programa, señalando: "El crédito fiscal no se detiene en las fronteras estatales, pero las becas sí". WASHINGTON (OSV News) – El tema de la Marcha Nacional por la Vida de 2027 es "La verdad es pro-vida", según anunció el 29 de septiembre el Fondo para la Educación y la Defensa de la Marcha por la Vida. Hayden Sledge, jefe de gabinete de la Marcha por la Vida, dijo a los periodistas que "el terreno está propicio para que defendamos la verdad, la vida". "Cada enero, personas de diferentes edades, orígenes, creencias y experiencias de vida se reúnen en Washington en torno a una verdad compartida: que toda vida humana tiene valor", dijo. Durante el segundo mandato de Trump, el presidente Trump ha enviado mensajes en video a la manifestación, mientras que el vicepresidente Vance ha pronunciado discursos
MUNDO
ASÍS, Italia (OSV News) – Las campanas de la iglesia repicaron por toda Asís a la medianoche del 4 de octubre, conmemorando los 800 años de la muerte de San Francisco de Asís. Las celebraciones de la festividad comenzaron el 3 de octubre con una procesión nocturna y una conmemoración solemne del "Transitus" ("paso"), el tradicional servicio de oración franciscano en la Basílica de Santa María de los Ángeles que conmemora el paso de San Francisco a la vida eterna. La basílica alberga la capilla donde San Francisco falleció la noche del 3 de octubre de 1226. Alrededor de 3.000 personas participaron en la procesión en la víspera de la festividad del querido santo, entonando himnos y oraciones mientras recorrían el mismo camino que siguió el féretro de San Francisco de Asís en 1226, caminando unas 2 millas cuesta arriba desde la Basílica de Santa María de
los Ángeles hasta la Basílica de San Francisco, donde actualmente yace enterrado. En una misa de medianoche, el cardenal Ángel Fernández Artime reflexionó sobre la pobreza radical de Francisco, diciendo que, al final, "el amor permanecerá. Cristo permanecerá". A la mañana siguiente, el cardenal Matteo Zuppi celebró la misa en presencia del presidente italiano Sergio Mattarella. El cardenal Zuppi instó a los cristianos a seguir el ejemplo de Francisco como artífices de la paz, desarmando "nuestras manos y nuestros corazones". Mattarella también invocó a San Francisco en medio de las guerras actuales, expresando la esperanza de que su ejemplo ayude a convertir los corazones endurecidos por el odio y guíe a la humanidad hacia la paz. El Año Jubilar Franciscano continúa hasta el 10 de enero de 2027. VARSOVIA, Polonia (OSV News) – Dos días después de sobrevivir a un ataque con navaja en el que murió un compañero sacerdote, el padre Adrian Mantykiewicz regresó al altar de la abadía de las hermanas benedictinas en Jaroslaw, Polonia, con un mensaje centrado en el perdón. Al celebrar la primera misa en la abadía desde el ataque del 24 de septiembre, en el que cinco personas resultaron apuñaladas, el padre Mantykiewicz dijo: "Como discípulo de Jesucristo, en mi propio nombre, en nombre del padre Marek y en nombre del padre Stanislaw, quiero decir muy claramente que perdonamos". El padre Stanislaw Zbojniewicz falleció a causa de sus heridas, mientras que el padre Marek Pienkowski permaneció hospitalizado en estado grave pero estable. El padre Mantykiewicz, quien recibió atención médica y fue dado de alta el mismo día, pidió oraciones por el sospechoso, un ciudadano ucraniano de 31 años. "Les pido que recen por nuestro agresor y por la gracia de la conversión para él", dijo. "Él es quien más necesita esta oración". Advirtiendo contra el hecho de culpar a todo un pueblo por las acciones de un solo hombre, el padre Mantykiewicz hizo un llamado al respeto y la solidaridad entre polacos y ucranianos, recordando el apoyo de la abadía a los refugiados tras la invasión rusa de Ucrania en 2022. La fiscalía ha presentado cargos por homicidio, intento de homicidio y lesiones corporales graves contra el sospechoso, identificado como Ihor M.
TOME NOTA
Vírgenes, Santos y Días Festivos San Pedro de Alcántara. 19 de octubre San Pablo de la Cruz. 20 de octubre
18 de noviembre Descubrimiento de Puerto Rico. 19 de noviembre Síganos en Facebook: @DiócesisCatólicadeJackson
San Juan Pablo, Papa. 22 de octubre
Únase a lista de correos electrónicos Mande un texto: MSCATHOLIC a 84576
San Simón y San Judas, Ápostoles. 28 de octubre
LÍNEA DIRECTA DE PREVENCIÓN DE FRAUDE
Día de Todos los Santos. 1 de noviembre
El Departamento de Asuntos Temporales de la Diócesis de Jackson ha contratado a Lighthouse Services para proporcionar una línea directa anónima de fraude financiero, cumplimiento, ética y recursos humanos. Esta línea directa permite un método adecuado para reportar sucesos relacionados con la administración temporal dentro de parroquias, escuelas y la oficina de cancillería.
La Conmemoracíon de los Fieles Difuntos. 2 de noviembre San Carlos Borromeo. 4 de noviembre San Martín de Tours. 11 de noviembre Santa Francissca Javier Cabrini. 13 de noviembre Dedicación de las Basilicas de Santos Pedro y Pablo Ápostoles.
www.lighthouse-services.com/ jacksondiocese Hispanohablante USA: 800-216-1288
SERVING.
The Catholic Service Appeal puts generosity into action.
Your generosity makes the everyday work of the diocese possible. Each year, gifts to the Catholic Service Appeal help fund essential ministries and programs in the diocesan annual budget, while also supporting seminarians and strengthening parishes. Including the 2027 CSA in the United In Mission campaign helps these ministries and works of mercy continue as the campaign invests in the future of priests, parishes and Catholic communities across the diocese.
Ministries Supported by the CSA 73% Diocesan Ministries Campus Ministry
Family Ministry
Evangelization/PR
Seminarian Education
Clergy Assistance
Youth Ministry
Retired Priests
Young Adult Ministry
Parish/School Assistance
Diaconate Ministry
Intercultural Ministry
Prison Ministry
27% Catholic Charities Catholic Charities Inc. of Jackson Children’s Services Born Free Substance Abuse Services Counseling Services Adoption Services
SUPPORTED.
One campaign. Shared responsibility. A future built together.
L e a d i ng By E x a mp l e In parishes, there are always needs, there are always hopes. This is a good opportunity for us to give, to the diocese, but also to know that we’ll be able to get something back as an individual parish that we can benefit from. – Father Mark Shoffner, pastor of St. John the Evangelist, Oxford
Father Sebastian Myladiyil, SVD and Father Tom Mullally, SVD of Sacred Heart Parish in Greenville and St. Francis of Assisi in Shaw, recognize the impact a strong leadership effort to the United In Mission campaign can make to the overall success of their parish. They decided to be the first gift to the parish campaign and totaled their gift to cover the parishes’ commitment to the 2027 CSA. This allows their parishioners’ gifts to be split 50% to their parish needs and 50% to the Endowment for Seminarian Education and set the parishes well on their way to their goals.
Funds for Today and the Years Ahead Parishes do not have to wait until the five-year pledge period ends to begin receiving their share. Once a parish’s 2027 CSA goal is met, funds will be deposited into the parish’s account quarterly during the pledge redemption period. A parish that makes a good faith campaign effort will receive its parish portion even if it does not reach its overall goal. Quarterly distributions continue for five years or until all parish pledges are satisfied.
The Catholic Foundation is here to help you throughout the United In Mission Capital Campaign. Whether you have questions about the campaign, your parish’s participation, making a gift, or other campaign-related matters, we are happy to assist you.
LEARN MORE. MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Visit our website to learn more about United In Mission or make a gift.
QUESTIONS?
CONTACT THE CATHOLIC FOUNDATION
Rebecca Harris, Executive Director (601) 960-8477 rebecca.harris@jacksondiocese.org
unitedinmissionjackson.org
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
BRIEFS 13 VATICAN
the traditional Franciscan prayer service in the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels marking St. Francis’ transition into eternal life. The basilica houses the chapel where St. Francis died on the night of Oct. 3, 1226. About 3,000 people took part in the procession on the eve of the beloved saint’s feast day, singing hymns and prayers as they retraced the route made by St. Francis of Assisi’s coffin 1226, walking about 2 miles uphill from the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels to the Basilica of St. Francis where he is currently buried. At a midnight Mass, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime reflected on Francis’ radical poverty, saying that in the end, “Love will remain. Christ will remain.” The following morning, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi celebrated Mass with Italian President Sergio Mattarella in attendance. Cardinal Zuppi urged Christians to follow Francis as peacemakers by disarming “our hands and our hearts.” Mattarella also invoked St. Francis amid today’s wars, expressing hope that his example would help convert hearts hardened by hatred and point humanity toward peace. The Franciscan Jubilee Year continues through Jan. 10, 2027. WARSAW, Poland (OSV News) – Two days after surviving a knife attack that killed a fellow priest, Father Adrian Mantykiewicz returned to the altar at the Benedictine sisters’ abbey in Jaroslaw, Poland, with a message centered on forgiveness. Celebrating the abbey’s first Mass since the Sept. 24 attack, in which five people were stabbed, Father Mantykiewicz said: “As a disciple of Jesus Christ, in my own name, in Father Marek’s name and in Father Stanislaw’s name, I want to say very clearly that we forgive.” Father Stanislaw Zbojniewicz died of his injuries, while Father Marek Pienkowski remained hospitalized in serious but stable condition. Father Mantykiewicz, who was treated and released the same day, urged prayers for the suspect, a 31-year-old Ukrainian citizen. “I ask you to pray for our attacker and for the grace of conversion for him,” he said. “He needs this prayer most of all.” Warning against blaming an entire people for one man’s actions, Father Mantykiewicz appealed for respect and solidarity between Poles and Ukrainians, recalling the abbey’s support for refugees following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Prosecutors have filed murder, attempted murder and grievous bodily harm charges against the suspect, identified as Ihor M.
VATICAN CITY (Vatican News) – The Vatican will publish the private diary of Pope Francis, offering readers a new window into the late pope’s inner life. The Vatican announced Oct. 5 that “The Private Diary of Pope Francis” will feature notes Pope Francis kept from 1992 to 2024. The book is written by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, who presents and comments on On Oct. 4, 2026, in Assisi, Italy, Archbishop Felice Accrocca of Assisi, holds Pope Francis’ writup a relic blessing Italy as cardinals, friars, and thousands of pilgrims join in ings. The book will be released Nov. 24 the celebration of the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis. The feast in five languages of the “the Little Poor Man of Assisi” was the culminating event of a yearlong and distributed in 94 jubilee celebration, which began with the historic exposition of his relics for countries. The Vatipublic veneration. (OSV News photo/courtesy Sala Stampa Sacro Convento can Publishing House Assisi) will publish the Italian edition, with Penguin Random House WASHINGTON (OSV News) – Catholic education handling the Spanish, English and Portuguese edileaders are applauding proposed regulations for the tions. Éditions Albin Michel will publish the French Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, which incentivizes edition. Andrea Tornielli, editorial director of the private contributions to K-12 scholarships benefit- Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, said the diaing students in public, charter or private schools, ry will allow readers to gain “an even deeper underincluding religious. On Oct. 1, the U.S. Treasury standing” of the Argentine pope’s inner life. The VatDepartment and the IRS jointly announced the pro- ican Publishing House plans to present the book to posed regulations for the program, also known as international publishers at the Frankfurt Book Fair, the Education Freedom Tax Credit, which was en- taking place Oct. 7 through 11. Pope Francis’ notes acted in 2025 and is set to launch Jan. 1. The “trans- span more than three decades, including his years as formative” tax credit “will create opportunities for a bishop in Argentina and his 12-year pontificate. VATICAN CITY (OSV News) – Pope Leo XIV has families to access much-needed resources to expand opened a Vatican meeting of bishops from around their options for choosing the best tools and learning the world focused on the challenges facing marriage environment for their children,” said Bishop David M. O’Connell of Trenton, New Jersey, chairman of and family life today. Catholic bishops’ conference the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee presidents and heads of the Eastern Catholic on Catholic Education, in an Oct. 2 statement. The churches gathered Oct. 7 for the opening sesOct. 1 announcement “provides additional clarity sion of the closed-door summit, marking the The Diocese of Jackson has launched a for states, donors, and scholarship-granting organi- 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ “Amoris third-party reporting system that will enable zations,” said Steven F. Cheeseman, president and Laetitia” (“The Joy of Love”). Pope Leo told all diocesan employees, volunteers and paCEO of the National Catholic Educational Associa- participants that the “beauty and fragility of rishioners to anonymously (or named if pretion, in an Oct. 1 statement. Cheeseman highlighted families” would be at the heart of their disferred) make reports. Examples of this activity the announcement’s confirmation that married cou- cussions. He pointed to a growing distance include fraud, misconduct, safety violations, ples filing jointly will be able to claim up to $3,400 in between how sexuality and intimacy are lived harassment or substance abuse occurring at a and the Christian understanding of marriage. tax credit for eligible contributions, “rather than the Catholic parish, Catholic school or at the dioceThe pope said young people still desire love, previously understood $1,700 household limit.” With san level. The system is operated by Lighthouse fidelity and belonging, even as many struggle 30 states signed up, Cheeseman urged state goverServices. to see lifelong commitment as the path toward nors to opt in quickly, saying, “The tax credit doesn’t those hopes. He urged bishops to consider stop at state lines, but the scholarships do.” To make a report visit www.lighthouse-serWASHINGTON (OSV News) – The 2027 Nation- what kind of Church people encounter when vices.com/jacksondiocese or call 888-830-0004 their families experience wounds, loneliness al March for Life theme is “The Truth is Pro-Life,” (English) or 800-216-1288 (Spanish). the March for Life Education and Defense Fund an- or apparent failure, emphasizing the need for grace, forgiveness and new beginnings. The nounced Sept. 29. Hayden Sledge, chief of staff at The Association of Priests of the Dioceses of March for Life, told reporters that “the soil is prime Oct. 7-14 meeting will include testimony from families from five continents. Bishops will disJackson and Biloxi provide a small pension to for us to make the case for the truth, for life.” “Evcuss marriage, family challenges and pastoral our retired priests. As you consider your estate ery January, people of different ages, backgrounds, accompaniment before publishing a final synplans, please remember these faithful servants faiths, and life experiences come together in Washby making a donation or leaving a bequest to ington around one shared truth that every human thesis document Oct. 14.
NATION
life has worth,” she said. During the second Trump administration, President Trump has delivered video messages to the rally, while Vice President Vance has made in-person remarks. The 2027 event will take place while the pro-life movement faces several key challenges, such as preserving the Hyde Amendment, the recent approval of a new generic abortion drug, a policy permitting the distribution of that drug by mail and a rising abortion rate.
WORLD
ASSISI, Italy (OSV News) – Church bells rang across Assisi at midnight Oct. 4, marking 800 years since the death of St. Francis of Assisi. The feast day celebrations began on Oct. 3 with a night procession and a solemn commemoration of the “Transitus” (“passage”),
the Association of Priests. Our parish priests dedicate their lives to caring for us, their flocks. Let us now care for them in their retirement. Donations can be made payable to the Association of Priests and can be mailed to: Diocese of Jackson, P.O. Box 22723, Jackson, MS 39225-2723
14 WORLD
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
New name, same mission: The National Association of Catholic Church Musicians celebrates 50 years By Jay Sorgi
(OSV News) – For half a century, the National Association of Pastoral Musicians helped define much of the sound of Mass and other sacramental experiences throughout the United States, teaching and empowering musicians to make music a spiritual food for tens of millions every Sunday. They plan to do the same and further enrich the life of the church for another 50 years, but under a new name as of Oct. 6: The National Association of Catholic Church Musicians. “We want them to have an encounter with God. We are that instrument (which) hopefully the Holy Spirit is working through, so that the people that come to worship have an encounter through the music,” said Anna Betancourt, NACCM’s vice chair, who led cathedral choirs in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the Diocese of Anaheim, California, before a recent move to Texas. “It’s wonderful to have all the musical skills and to learn the notes. How are we going to make it beautiful? How are we going to pray these words? That to me is key,” she told OSV News. The group received a special blessing from an American Catholic whose faith life was fostered by Catholic music, Pope Leo XIV, through special greetings shared earlier for its national convention in July. “The Holy Father therefore hopes that your efforts will enable the Church to continue to offer reverent and dignified worship in the parishes, schools and other institutions where you serve. In this way, he is confident you will help American Catholics to sing of the steadfast love and mercies of God in a continuous hymn of praise,” said Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, in a letter to the NACCM. Jennifer Kluge, the organization’s executive director, told OSV News the Second Vatican Council planted NACCM’s roots by opening up the musical worship
experience to the congregation. “We had this huge role to play. There was this brand new opportunity for congregational singing. The congregation for the first time ever, not only had the opportunity to participate musically in the liturgy, but actually had a responsibility and an obligation to participate,” she said. “Our members came to us saying, ‘How do we enliven this?’” Amanda Bruce, NACCM’s senior associate director of marketing & communications, said that since 1976, NACCM answered that question by helping create frameworks for dioceses, archdioceses and parishes to find and nurture the life of pastoral musicians, and to incubate much of the music heard during Mass. “We talk very often in leadership about how we so often minister (to) those who are celebrating the highs and the lows of their lives, weddings and funerals,” Bruce told OSV News. “So many of the songs that so many Catholics bring to us in music ministry are often songs that premiered at our conferences,” she said. “Our association was a lot of the conduit for some of that music.” NACCM Board Chair Meyer Chambers, a 38-year member who has sung or led music ministries in cathedrals, Newman centers and Black Catholic parishes from Boston to New Orleans, told OSV News he sees how the name change can help attract Catholics who share music outside the choir lofts on Sunday, whether it’s through Gregorian chant, guitar-folk or Gospel sound. “We need to go out and proclaim this beautiful thing that God has given us,” he said, “this ability to make music to praise the Lord on the highways, the byways, the corners, the woods, everywhere, because that’s where you’ll find us.” (Jay Sorgi writes for OSV News from Philadelphia.)
Swiss Guard to mark 500th anniversary of the Sack of Rome By Vatican News
guards; Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica; the swearing-in to sacrifice and marks the loyalty of our predecesVATICAN CITY (Vatican News) – The Pontifical of the new guards in St. Peter’s Square; a light-art sors,” Graf said. “At the same time, we want to show Swiss Guard is preparing a commemorative year to projection by Swiss artist Gerry Hofstetter; and more that the values of that time are still present today and mark the 500th anniversary of the Sack of Rome, in events involving representatives of the Church, po- shape the mission of our guardsmen in the service to which 147 Swiss Guards lost their lives protecting the litical life, civil society and the wider Swiss Guard the pope.” family. pope. In September, former guard members will join in (A version of this story was originally published by On May 6, 1527, the guard fought bravely to defend Vatican News and distributed through a partnership St. Peter’s Basilica and Pope Clement VII, escorting a national pilgrimage to Einsiedeln, Switzerland. “The commemorative year recalls the willingness with OSV News.) him to safety in Castel Sant’Angelo, as the city of Rome was laid to waste. Col. Christoph Graf, commander of the Pontifical Swiss Guard, describes the 1527 Sack of Rome as “one of the most defining events” in the history of the military force. The Swiss Guard will be commemorating the 500th anniversary throughout 2027, beginning with a history conference in Brig, Switzerland, on Jan. 23. A publication will be released examining the political, military and religious circumstances surrounding the events of the period and their consequences. The commemorative year aims not only to remember a defining history event, but to honor the values that have shaped the Swiss Guard for centuries. It also aims to deepen understanding of the Swiss Guard’s mission today, encourage young Swiss men to serve at the Vatican, and highlight Switzerland’s enduring connection to the institution and its rich tradition. In April, the Pontifical Swiss Guard will participate in the Sechseläuten, Zurich’s Spring Festival, at the invitation of the Central Committee of Zurich’s guilds, who recognize that the guard commander who was killed during the Sack of Rome, Kaspar Röist, was from Zurich. The culmination will be the commemorations held at the Vatican May 5-7. The program will include vespers and the unveiling of a new Pope Leo XIV attends the swearing-in ceremony of 27 new Swiss Guards in the Vatican’s San Damaso commemorative plaque honoring the fallen Courtyard Oct. 4, 2025. (CNS photo/Vatican Media)
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
DIOCESE 15
St. John the Baptist marks 110 years of faith in Cranfield For John Grady Burns, a member of Holy Family Parish in Natchez who also attends the Cranfield mission, the anniversary was an opportunity to celebrate a community that holds a special place in his life. “It’s a very special place. It’s both religious and spiritual and it’s beautiful here,” Burns said. “It’s a great small community and it really means the world to us that the bishop was here for the 100th and again for the 110th anniversary.” The mission’s history reflects the determination of Catholics in rural southwest Mississippi to sustain their faith. Josephite Father Matthew Morrissey began serving Holy Family in 1901 and traveled into surrounding communities to reach Catholics who could not easily attend Mass in Natchez. His encounters with the CRANFIELD – Parishioners and friends celebrate the 110th anniversary Fleming family in Cranfield of St. John the Baptist Mission on Sept. 20 with Bishop Joseph Kopacz, led to plans for a church. Father Anthony Okwum, SSJ and Deacon Dien Hoang. (Photos by Tere- After years of fundraising, za Ma) More photos: https://jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com Father Morrissey and older African AmeriBy Joanna King and Tereza Ma can members of the Fleming family built it on CRANFIELD – For Ronnie Patterson, celebrating land donated by a local Catholic identified in the 110th anniversary of St. John the Baptist Mission the historical account as Mrs. Boggart. meant returning to a place that has been part of his Bishop John Gunn dedicated the church life for 68 years. Sept. 3, 1916. Cranfield was one of four missions “Being here brought back some good old feelings, associated with Holy Family under Father Moryou know, from when I was a kid,” Patterson said. rissey. St. John the Baptist is the last surviving Those memories were part of the celebration as mission of those four. Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz joined the community for During the anniversary homily, Bishop Koan anniversary Mass Sept. 20, honoring more than a pacz invited the congregation to consider how century of Catholic faith at the small mission church. faith continues to call Catholics to service today. Patterson grew up attending St. John the Baptist. Drawing on the lives of St. Francis of AsAlthough family responsibilities have taken him in sisi and St. Paul, he reflected on conversion, different directions and he does not get to the church peace and the ways an encounter with Christ as often, his affection for it remains strong. can transform a person’s life. He described St. “I love it with a passion,” he said. “I sure do.”
Francis’ embrace of people with leprosy as a turning point that redirected a life of privilege toward love and service. The bishop also reflected on the Gospel parable of the workers in the vineyard, emphasizing God’s continuing invitation to salvation and the responsibility of believers to respond. “He does not want to see us idle on his behalf,” Bishop Kopacz said. “He wants to see us really working on his behalf, and God does not cease to work.” That work, he explained, includes deepening love for the Lord, caring for the poor, helping people build lives of dignity and caring for creation. He encouraged those gathered to inspire and support one another along the path of salvation. Father Anthony Okwum, SSJ, pastor of Holy Family in Natchez and St. John the Baptist in Cranfield, expressed gratitude to everyone who helped make the anniversary celebration possible. “Your presence, prayers, love, and support made this special occasion truly meaningful and joyful,” he said. Father Okwum offered special thanks to Bishop Kopacz, priests who previously served the mission, visiting clergy, religious, parishioners and the many volunteers and supporters who contributed their time, talents and resources. “We thank God for His faithfulness throughout the years and for the beautiful community of faith He has blessed us with,” Father Okwum said. “May God continue to guide and strengthen our mission church as we move forward together in faith, hope, and love.”
John Grady Burns presents a gift to Father Anthony Okwum, SSJ, during the 110th anniversary celebration Sept. 20.
Valencia Hall and Ronnie Patterson visit be- Parishioners and friends enjoy food and fellowship during St. John’s fore Mass at St. John on Sept. 20. celebration, with jambalaya-style spaghetti prepared by Vic Merritt.
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
16 NATION
Tennessee Catholic bishops join call for clemency for inmate who survived execution attempt By Kate Scanlon
After Tennessee officials failed in their Sept. 30 attempt to execute death row inmate Christa Gail Pike for a 1995 murder, a number of faith leaders, including Tennessee’s Catholic bishops, have called for her sentence to be commuted to life imprisonment. The state’s Gov. Bill Lee also halted the one remaining execution for the rest of the year pending an investigation, he said. Officials administered two doses of a lethal drug to Pike, but her attorneys told media outlets that she remained “alive and loudly snoring” after the attempted lethal injection and was later taken by ambulance from the prison to a hospital. Pike, now 50, the first woman Tennessee planned to execute in 200 years, was convicted of first-degree murder in 1996 for beating, torturing and killing Colleen Slemmer, who was 19 at the time. Pike admitted to the murder, which she carried out with her then-boyfriend, who received a life sentence without the possibility of parole. “Carrying out a lawfully imposed sentence is among the State’s most serious responsibilities, and the people of Tennessee expect it to be done in a manner that is not only legal and constitutional, but is effective,” Lee said to The Associated Press. But Richard Garnett, director of the Notre Dame Program on Church, State and Society, said in written comments, “The failed attempt to execute Christa Pike illustrates, yet again, the delusion that by making executions look more ‘medical,’ ‘technical’, or ‘scientific’ we are somehow changing what they are, namely, killings of helpless human beings – who have, to be sure, committed horrible crimes – by our governments, in our names.” In a letter to Lee dated Oct. 1, Tennessee faith leaders, including the state’s Catholic bishops, urged him to commute Pike’s sentence to life imprisonment in the wake of the incident. The letter said they “respectfully and urgently ask you to commute the death sentence of Christa Gail Pike and ensure that the State of Tennessee does not attempt to execute her again.” They said, “Such an act does not deny justice. It declares that justice need not become vengeance and that the State of Tennessee can choose restraint, human dignity, and mercy.” “We make this appeal mindful of the horrific murder of Colleen Slemmer and the immeasurable grief endured by her family and those who loved her,” the letter said. “Nothing in our request diminishes the gravity of that crime, the preciousness of Colleen’s life, or the legitimate responsibility of the state to hold those who commit violence accountable. Yet accountability need not require another death.” Krisanne Vaillancourt Murphy, executive director of Catholic Mobilizing Network, that advocates for the abolition of capital punishment in line with Catholic teaching, said in a statement, “We are stunned and bewildered by this unprecedented news.” “We pray for Ms. Pike’s current condition,
Christa Gail Pike is pictured in this 2007 Tennessee Department of Correction booking photograph obtained by Reuters March 22, 2012. (OSV News photo/Tennessee Department of Correction handout via Reuters)
and we pray for the victim Colleen Slemmer’s family as this situation must surely be retraumatizing,” she said. “For Tennessee to have two botched executions in a matter of months is beyond alarming. It is the epitome of ‘cruel and unusual punishment’ under the Eighth Amendment.” Noting Lee’s suspension of executions for the rest of the year pending an investigation, Vaillancourt Murphy said, “We pray this is the needed wake up call for Gov. Lee – in fact, for everyone – to recognize the barbarism of capital punishment.” “The Church teaches that the death penalty is ‘inadmissible’ because every human life is sacred, no matter the harm one has caused or suffered, and because we have more effective ways to protect society than to take another life,” Vaillancourt Murphy said. The Tennessee Department of Correction said in a statement that it “followed every step of the State’s lawful, established execution protocol approved by the Attorney General’s Office.” “The lethal injection chemical in the protocol has consistently been effective, and the protocol does not allow for additional procedures beyond what was carried out this evening,” the statement said. “Christa Pike has been transported to an off-site medical facility.” Shortly before the scheduled execution, Pike’s lawyers filed last-minute challenges, arguing the courts did not consider Pike’s history of trauma from sexual abuse in her sentencing; however, the Supreme Court allowed the execution to proceed.
But Valliancourt Murphy said, “It is sobering to know that were Ms. Pike sentenced today, she would not receive the death penalty because of how young she was when she murdered Ms. Slemmer.” “Ms. Pike’s case had already attracted particular attention for being the first woman to face execution in Tennessee for 200 years, for the almost three decades she has spent in solitary confinement and today remains alive, surviving a botched execution at 50 years old,” she continued. The Catholic Church’s official magisterium opposes the use of capital punishment as a violation of the inherent sanctity of human life, and advocates for the practice’s abolition worldwide. The late Pope Francis revised the Catechism of the Catholic Church in 2018 to clarify the church’s teaching that capital punishment is morally “inadmissible” in the modern world “because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person.” Earlier this year, Pope Leo XIV delivered a video message to Catholic death penalty abolitionists marking 15 years since the abolition of the death penalty in his home state of Illinois. “The Catholic Church has consistently taught that each human life, from the moment of conception until natural death, is sacred and deserves to be protected,” Pope Leo said in his April message. “Indeed, the right to life is the very foundation of every other human right.” (Kate Scanlon is a national reporter for OSV News covering Washington. Follow her on X @kgscanlon.)
During Respect Life Month, Catholics urged to pray, take action to stop use of abortion pill WASHINGTON (OSV News) – Bishop Daniel E. Thomas of Toledo, Ohio, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, urged the faithful to mark Respect Life Month with prayer, deeper reflection and action. Respect Life Month is observed every October by the U.S. Catholic Church. This year’s theme is Mary, Mother of Life. “Our Blessed Mother is our model for upholding the sanctity of all human life in every stage and circumstance. We entrust all our efforts to protect mothers and babies to her motherly care, which we greatly need at this time,” Bishop Thomas said in a Sept. 29 statement. “Today, with easier access to abortion pills, the abortion rate is tragically climbing, along with increased health risks,” he said. The Trump administration has sought to pause multiple state lawsuits seeking to roll back Biden administration-era eased restrictions on mifepristone, a drug commonly used for first trimester abortion, but which is also used in some mis-
carriage care protocols. Thus far the administration has left that regulation in effect while seeking to block those challenges, pending a promised FDA safety review, resulting in frustration from pro-life advocates. “The Food and Drug Administration has enabled a nationwide mail-order abortion industry by allowing the abortion pill to be prescribed in telehealth appointments, sold both at neighborhood pharmacies and online, and often shipped in the mail, circumventing state laws that protect life in the womb,” Bishop Thomas said. “This means that more women, many of whom have been misinformed about the nature and risks of the abortion pill, will have an abortion alone at home, without any medical supervision,” he continued. “It also sets up additional opportunities for exploitation by violent partners or human traffickers. These affronts to human dignity demand our response.” Bishop Thomas’ statement echoed joint remarks he and
Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, USCCB president, made in early August ahead of the Aug. 18 launch of a nationwide call to prayer and action to mobilize Catholics to address the rising abortion rate and the increased availability of an abortion-inducing drug. “Every abortion involves the death of a child and harm to the mother. Now with easier access to abortion pills, the abortion rate is tragically climbing, along with increased health risks,” the prelates said. In his Sept. 29 statement, Bishop Thomas thanked “the many thousands of Catholics across the country who have embraced the nationwide invitation to prayer and action on abortion pills.” He said he wanted to ask the faithful to “continue our prayers and advocacy throughout the month of October” and invited them to visit the Respect Life Prayer and Action website, https://www.respectlife.org/ abortion-pills.
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
DIOCESE 17
Papal trip showed miracle of rebirth out of tragedy is possible, pope says
ular leaders, he said, “high- receive the Eucharist,” he said, “This is the true relighting the fundamental construction, the restoration of the Church that only criterion upon which such God can bring about, through the intercession of the collaboration must be based: Virgin Mary.” the dignity of the human perTurning to his visit to Lourdes, he said the shrine son.” dedicated to Our Lady also represents “a message of According to France’s hope and rebirth,” especially for those who are sick National Institute of Demo- “in body and spirit.” graphic Studies, the percentThis was another message “that I wished to openage of 18 to 49-year-olds who ly reaffirm: every human life, in whatever condition, reported not belonging to any even in the most extreme frailty, retains its inviolareligion grew from 45% in 2009 ble dignity and deserves to be cared for, accompanied to 53% in 2020, and 29% of the and relieved of suffering with human compassion entire population reported be- and with the aid of the means offered by science,” he ing Catholic. said. However, the pope said, Because Lourdes “represents for the entire world there is also “a sign of re- a sanctuary of the civilization of love,” he said this newal within the Church in was context for his meeting with a group of peoFrance that has been evident ple who had experienced abuse by members of the for some years now, namely church. the remarkable and growing “I asked them to help me express to other victims number of young people and too my own wish, and that of the whole Church, to adults seeking baptism.” listen to them and walk alongside them as they seek A tangible and visible healing, acknowledging the pain inflicted upon their sign of rebirth “appeared lives and working to prevent abuse,” he said. in a surprising way” during Lastly, visiting the city of Metz, he said, helped Mass Sept. 26 in Place de la symbolize its role in the process of unifying Europe Concorde, which, he said, “as a project for peace in the wake of the destruction Pope Leo XIV greets the faithful from the popemobile at the Prairie of was a highpoint of his visit. wrought by war.” “Priests, the choir and a reAfter two devastating world wars, “Europe was the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Lourdes, France, Sept. 27, 2026, markable crowd extended all reborn, founded on those principles of democracy, before celebrating Mass. (CNS photo/Lola Gomez) the way along the Avenue des solidarity and fraternity amongst peoples, which owe Champs Élysées up to the Arc much to its Christian roots,” Pope Leo said. de Triomphe and beyond.” An “Dear brothers and sisters, may the public witness By Carol Glatz VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Pope Leo XIV’s journey estimated 800,000 people filled the streets, according of love for Jesus Christ that we have seen in France be an inspiration to the whole Church. Let us not hide to France aimed to show that a joyful or serene re- to the Vatican. Despite the vast crowds, “everyone was able to our faith!” he told Portuguese-speaking pilgrims. birth is always possible even after tremendous tragedy or terrible suffering, he said. By visiting the newly restored Notre Dame Cathedral, meeting with survivors of abuse and praying at Lourdes, and celebrating the Christian faith openly in the public square of a secular nation, the pope highlighted how the miracle of new life can happen when everyone comes together out of love for one’s (Editor’s note: This is an new and sustain spiritual and acquires its full communicative neighbor and the common good, he said during his abridged version of the Holy Fa- fraternal unity among its mem- power. weekly general audience Sept. 30. ther’s message for World Mission bers. The evangelising mission No baptised person is exempt As has been customary, Pope Leo used his first Sunday 2026. Read the full text at that Christ entrusted to his dis- from or indifferent to mission: general audience after his Sept. 25-28 trip to Paris, https://bit.ly/4zi5bPO) ciples requires, above all, hearts everyone ... participates in the Lourdes and Metz in France to tell people about the that are reconciled and eager for great work that Christ has enpurpose of his visit and to thank all those who made Dear brothers and sisters, communion. trusted to his Church. the journey possible. For World Mission Day 2026, Being ‘one in Christ’ calls I would like to thank Missio He also repeated an appeal he made in France: I have chosen the theme ‘One in us to keep our gaze fixed on the (the Pontifical Mission Societies) asking the faithful worldwide to pray the rosary Christ, united in mission.’ I wish Lord, so that he may truly be at for their service to missionary throughout October, “dedicating it in a special way to to encourage the whole Church the centre of our lives and com- cooperation, which I experienced ending wars and achieving peace.” to continue its missionary jour- munities, the centre of every with gratitude during my minisThe motto of the journey, “That the world may ney with joy and zeal in the Holy word, action and interpersonal try in Peru. Missio continues to have life,” the pope said in English, “characterized Spirit. relationship, leading us to say nurture and form missionary the Gospel-centered nature of my meetings throughOne in Christ – Missionary with amazement: ‘It is no longer awareness for the faithful of all out the visit. For God alone, through his grace, can disciples united in him and I who live, but it is Christ who ages, and to promote a network restore the Church and renew humanity, and it was with our brothers and sisters lives in me’ (Galatians 2:20). of prayer and charity that conevident to me that this is precisely what is occurring.” The mystery of union with Therefore, the more united nects communities throughout The Cathedral of Notre Dame of Paris, which was Christ lies at the heart of mis- we are in Christ, the better able the world. The annual offerings restored after a fire destroyed its wooden spire and sion. Before his Passion, Jesus we will be to carry out the mis- collected on this day are dismost of its roof in 2019, “can symbolically shed light prayed to the Father, ‘that they sion that he entrusts to us. tributed by Missio on behalf of on this entire apostolic journey, offering a perspecmay all be one. As you, Father, United in mission – That the Pope, to support the various tive that I would summarize in one word: rebirth,” he are in me and I am in you, may the world may believe in needs of the Church’s mission. said in his main catechesis in Italian to thousands of they also be in us’ (John 17:21). Christ the Lord The global Missio network people gathered in St. Peter’s Square. These words reveal Jesus’ deepThe unity of disciples is not plays a valuable role for the enRebuilt and “more splendid than ever, the catheest desire, as well as the identity an end in itself; it is directed totire Church. They are a living dral’s restoration “was a test of the possible collaboof the Church as a community of wards mission. Jesus states this sign of unity and ecclesial misration between the Church, the state, public instituhis disciples. That is, a commu- clearly: ‘So that the world may sionary communion. I invite evtions and civil society,” Pope Leo said. nion ... at the service of fraterni- believe that you have sent me’ eryone to work with them in a “The synergy for the common good should be the ty among all human beings and (John 17:21). It is through the spirit of gratitude. norm for institutions, political and social forces, and in harmony with all creation. witness of a reconciled, fraterLEO PP XIV all those with civil and economic responsibilities,” he The Church’s primary misnal and united community that Feast of the Conversion of said. sionary responsibility is to rethe proclamation of the Gospel Saint Paul “This is the message I wished to convey” to sec-
World Mission Day 2026: ‘One in in Christ, united in mission’
18 DIOCESE
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
Fall Faith Formation Day connects creativity, community and the call to serve
By Joanna Puddister King and Tereza Ma
terest in Sister Thea. “It just enhanced everything I already knew about her, and I want to learn more,” said Roberts, who teaches fourth-grade parish religious education with his wife, Mary. The day’s breakout sessions gave participants opportunities to connect that spirit of accompaniment with their own ministries. Topics included mental health, artificial intelligence, Confirmation preparation, engaging teaching methods, youth summer experiences, young adult discipleship, Catholic social teaching and immi- MADISON – Brother Mickey McGrath, OSFS, speaks to a room full of gration. Sessions on Cath- catechists during Fall Faith Formation Day at St. Francis of Assisi Parish. olic social teaching and More photos are available at jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com. (Photos by immigration were offered Tereza Ma) in English and Spanish. In “Created in His Imas an essential part of caring for others. Dr. Edgar age: Faith, Human Dignity & A.I.,” Joni House, execMeyer facilitated “Beyond Graduation: Accompanyutive director of Catholic education for the diocese, ing Young Adults into Lifelong Discipleship,” which invited participants to consider how technology can included a panel of young adults sharing their expeserve people while preserving human dignity and reriences. lationships. Deacon Bill Vautrot, ordained in July and asHer presentation offered six areas for discernsigned to St. Gregory the Great in Senatobia, attendment: dignity, truth, relationship, responsibility, the ed both sessions. common good and mission. Participants considered “I really learned how important it is to take care whether information is trustworthy, whether a huof yourself so you can take care of others,” he said. man person remains accountable for decisions and The young adult panel also helped him better unwhether technology helps people love God and serve derstand the challenges people face after college and their neighbors. how the church can support their continued growth Small-group exercises applied those questions to in faith. Attendees were also able to leave with resituations such as using AI to draft parish messages source guides on building a young adult ministry or formation materials and using AI-generated inforprogram and campus ministry programs for local mation in decisions affecting a person. colleges. Jeanne Setzer, who serves in a book group at St. For those teaching children and teenagers, workFrancis of Assisi in Madison, said the workshop adshops offered ideas to bring home to parish classdressed an increasingly important part of daily life. rooms and youth groups. “I think it’s very important for us to learn how Mary Roberts attended April Moore’s session to use AI responsibly,” Setzer said, emphasizing that on bringing joy and energy into faith formation. human connectedness should remain central. “AI She said the discussion offered ways to use visuals, should help enhance our relationships with each games and interaction to engage students while conother.” tinuing to teach the faith. Amy Chaney of St. Michael Lauren Cotting, youth minister and ConfirmaParish in Vicksburg also valtion catechist at St. Alphonsus in McComb, attended ued the discussion, along with Abbey Schuhmann’s session on Catholic camps, conthe chance to learn from other ferences and service experiences. catechists. Having taught First Schuhmann and the panel introduced opportuCommunion preparation for nities ranging from service-centered experiences to about three years, she came summer programs combining recreation and faith seeking ideas for educating formation, giving Cotting options to share with her children and sharing the faith. parish team. “I’m enjoying communicatAmy Le and Cindy Tran, youth ministry leaders ing with other people in the diat St. Michael Parish in Forest, said the day offered ocese and meeting people that encouragement for a growing ministry. Le recalled I’ve talked to on the phone and beginning with only two or three students; the group being able to connect with them now consistently draws at least 15. in person,” Chaney said. They came away with ideas for developing leaderOther workshops explored ship, involving young people in service and strengthhow ministers can care for ening relationships within the parish. themselves and accompany “It’s just nice to have another perspective on how people through important tranto do things,” Tran said. sitions. For Le, the gathering reinforced the possibilities Dr. Kayla Acklin led “You ahead as their young people continue to grow togethCan’t Pour from an Empty Cup: Participants discuss artificial intelligence during a workshop led by Mental Health and Ministry,” er in faith. “I think it’s beautiful to be here today,” she said. Joni House at Fall Faith Formation Day. addressing personal well-being MADISON – A kind word, a listening ear or an invitation to share a gift can become a powerful expression of faith. That message connected art, storytelling and practical ministry workshops during the Diocese of Jackson’s Fall Faith Formation Day Sept. 19 at St. Francis of Assisi Parish. Centered on the theme “Formed to Serve, Sent to Lead,” the gathering brought together catechists, youth ministers and other parish leaders for prayer, fellowship, two keynote presentations and breakout sessions addressing the opportunities and challenges of sharing the faith today. Keynote speaker Brother Mickey McGrath, OSFS, used his colorful artwork and personal stories to encourage participants to recognize God’s presence in everyday encounters. An artist, author and retreat leader based in Camden, New Jersey, Brother Mickey belongs to the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales and has worked in full-time art ministry since 1994. Throughout his presentations, he returned to the influence of Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, whose life and witness helped him discover a new purpose for his artistic gifts. Brother Mickey recalled first encountering Sister Thea through a magazine interview while his father was seriously ill. Later, watching a video about her life inspired a series of paintings and set him on a path of sharing her story through art. Over more than three decades, that inspiration has continued to grow. Forty-seven of his paintings inspired by Sister Thea are now part of the materials gathered for her canonization cause. For Brother Mickey, Sister Thea’s example offers a lesson in transforming grief into hope and using personal gifts to build others up. He encouraged those working in faith formation to see their ministry as an opportunity to accompany people and help them recognize their own worth. “It’s just saying to somebody, ‘I’m here. You’re not alone,’” he said. His afternoon presentation expanded that message through stories of community mural projects and friendships formed through art. He described people finding moments of peace, connection and renewed confidence while painting together, including those experiencing grief or hardship. Creativity, he suggested, can open a door to relationships that might otherwise never develop. For Timothy Roberts of St. Alphonsus Parish in McComb, the presentation deepened an existing in-
20 COLUMNs
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
My journey with Blessed Fulton J. Sheen
REFLECTIONS ON LIFE By Melvin Arrington
“Is this heaven?” I asked myself this question repeatedly throughout the day. Everyone around me declared that this was almost like being in heaven. They all affirmed that heaven must be something like this place. But no, this was not heaven; it was Missouri, to be specific, the Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis, where, on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026, our busload of pilgrims from Oxford, Mississippi, joined with 50,000 other souls gathered there for the three-hour-long beatification mass for Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. It was a celebratory event I had been looking forward to for a long time. It did not disappoint. The breathtakingly beautiful opening procession, which lasted almost as long as a typical Sunday Mass, included 1,000 priests, 850 seminarians, 850 men and women religious, 260 deacons, 89 bishops, and four cardinals. This visual spectacle combined with the celestial sounds of the choir and orchestra transformed what was once a pro football arena into what seemed like a little corner of heaven. An overwhelming sensation of joy came upon me as I realized I was being granted the privilege of participating in this very special moment in the life of the Church! The high point of any Mass is always when we receive Our Lord’s precious Body and Blood in the Eucharist. But there were so many other spectacular moments as well, such as when the now sixteen-yearold James Fulton Engstrom, the so-called “miracle baby,” processed in carrying Archbishop Sheen’s relic, his lower jawbone. James was born with no heartbeat, no pulse, nothing. His parents immediately began praying, asking for Sheen’s intercession. Then, after 61 minutes had passed, when the doctors were about to call the time of death, the child began to breathe. He not only survived but grew into a normal little boy with no signs of organ damage. In 2019 Pope Francis of-
ficially recognized the baby’s healing as a miracle, which cleared the way for the beatification to take place. How appropriate that Sheen’s mandible serves as his primary relic! For over three decades his majestic voice was heard regularly on NBC radio’s Catholic Hour. In the 1950s, his television program “Life Is Worth Living” reached an estimated audience of 30 million weekly at the height of its popularity. Paying homage to Sheen’s finely-honed speaking skills, Billy Graham called him “the greatest communicator of the twentieth century.” While many people consider Fulton J. Sheen to be the first great Catholic televangelist, young people are now calling him the first Catholic influencer and content creator. I’m not at all sure what that means. It has been said that the archbishop has more converts to his credit than anyone else in history, including St. Paul and St. Francis Xavier. When Pope Pius XII asked him how many conversions he was responsible for, Sheen responded: “Your Holiness, I have never counted them. I am always afraid if I did count them, I might think I made them, instead of the Lord.” Whatever the total may be, I include myself in that number because I owe my conversion to the Catholic faith to Blessed Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen is pictured from the 1950s, when he Fulton J. Sheen. In my view, hosted his Sunday evening program geared toward family life, the Sheen must be a saint because seven capital sins and other religious themes. (CNS file photo) he continues to lead souls to Christ today, almost and newspaper pieces, which explains why part of half a century after his death. the archbishop’s hand was chosen as one of his relAt a time in my life when I was searching ics. In addition to all those books, I also ran across for something more than my Protestantism many of his old “Life Is Worth Living” TV shows. could provide, trying to go deeper into my Slowly, I began to work my way through all this Christian faith, as C. S. Lewis would say, “furprint and video material. Sheen’s sharp insights, the ther up and further in,” I re-discovered Fulclarity and compelling nature of his arguments, and ton J. Sheen. Re-discover is the proper word his good cheer and humor gradually won me over. because I can recall seeing him on television At some point it dawned upon me – I was no longer when I was very young and completely captiProtestant. vated by his theatrical gestures, his visually Continuing to plow ahead, I eventually made my stunning vestments (especially that cape!), way to the Catholic faith, thanks to Sheen’s teachand his soul-piercing eyes. But as I got older ings. What began as a brief nostalgic reflection and he became less visible to the public eye, he ended with a life-changing conversion. Thanks be totally fell off my radar screen. to God! Although Sheen died in 1979, I’m absoluteThen, in 2001, by chance, I came across ly convinced that during all those years when I was a book titled “America’s Bishop: The Life seeking the truth, he was praying for me. and Times of Fulton J. Sheen” by Thomas C. The beatification Mass in St. Louis was the expeReeves, and from that moment on, everything rience of a lifetime for me and my traveling companchanged. I saw Sheen’s picture on the cover ions. So, what’s the next step? What do we do for an and recognized him immediately. To say that encore? Maybe there will be another opportunity for I stumbled upon that book by chance is not aca pilgrimage, this time to Sheen’s tomb in the Cathecurate; surely, it was God guiding me all along dral of St. Mary’s of the Immaculate Conception in the way. Peoria, Illinois. If so, I’m ready! Curious to find out more about this enigBlessed Fulton J. Sheen, pray for us! matic figure from my past, I began to do a little research and found out that he had been a uni(Melvin Arrington is a Professor Emeritus of Modversity professor, which meant that he must ern Languages for the University of Mississippi and a have written something. A quick check remember of St. John Oxford.) vealed that he had authored dozens of books, numerous pamphlets, and countless magazine
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen declared ‘Blessed’ at beatification Mass in St. Louis By Gina Christian
NATION 21
mously used – along with a blackboard – during his of Jesus. “I never tire of telling it; I never tire of improving ST. LOUIS (OSV News) – Archbishop Fulton Emmy-winning television show, “Life Is Worth Livmy telling of it. I love my calling,” Archbishop Sheen J. Sheen – the 20th-century theologian, evangeliz- ing.” The image was also simultaneously unveiled in said, as Cardinal Tagle recounted. er, Catholic communications pioneer, teacher and the Diocese of Peoria at the Cathedral of St. Mary of In remarks after Communion, Bishop Tylka preacher – is now Blessed Fulton J. Sheen. urged all attendees to pray for Archbishop Sheen’s Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, a pro-prefect for the Immaculate Conception. The first reading from the beatification Mass, Isa- canonization, leading them together in a prayer for the Holy See’s Dicastery for Evangelization and papal delegate, pronounced the Church’s declaration iah 52:7-10, was delivered in Spanish, with the second that intention. “It is God who has given the Church the extraoron Archbishop Sheen’s holiness of life and witness reading, 2 Corinthians 4:1-2, 5-7, proclaimed in Porto Jesus Christ at a Sept. 24 Mass celebrated in The tuguese, while the Gospel taken from Mark 16:15-20 dinary witness of the man we may now call Blessed was proclaimed in English. The prayers of the faith- Fulton J. Sheen,” he said. Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis. Thanking the many prelates involved in the Mass, To the applause of pilgrims, Cardinal Tagle de- ful were offered in a variety of other languages, ilscribed Archbishop Sheen as a “son of Illinois, son lustrating both the universal character of the Church including Archbishop Mitchell T. Rozanski, whose of the United States of America” and “indeed, son of and also the missionary mindset of Blessed Fulton J. archdiocese hosted the beatification, and representaSheen, who served as the U.S. director for the Society tives from the Archdiocese of New York, Diocese of the world.” Rochester and the Pontifical Mission Societies, BishHundreds of clergy, including dozens of bishops for the Propagation of the Faith. In his homily, Cardinal Tagle praised Archbishop op Tylka noted, “Your presence today is a beautiful and cardinals, had processed into the arena for the Mass as choirs, accompanied by an orchestra, per- Sheen as a “storyteller of Jesus” and “a “missionary reminder that while Peoria is incredibly proud to call formed a succession of hymns. The priests’ vestments who digs deep into the heart of the poor to meet Jesus Fulton Sheen one of our own, he is a gift to the whole Church.” were embroidered with “JMJ,” Archbishop Sheen’s there.” The cardinal noted then-Bishop Sheen’s passionBishop Tylka also expressed his gratitude to Archsignature dedication to Jesus, Mary and Joseph. The location had been selected by Archbishop ate advocacy for the poor during the Second Vatican bishop Sheen’s family, individuals and benefactors Sheen’s home Diocese of Peoria, Illinois, to accommo- Council. During the 1964 discussions on the docu- involved in preparations and liturgy, and the faithful date the number of pilgrims who arrived for the be- ment “Ad Gentes,” on the missionary activity of the who made the pilgrimage to attend the beatification. “Fulton Sheen has left us a great legacy,” he said. atification and its surrounding events. Around 50,000 Church, then-Bishop Sheen asked his brother bishops to “affirm” the notion of poverty and the bish- “He fearlessly proclaimed the Gospel in challenging people were in attendance, according to organizers. During a press conference a few hours prior to the ops who came from poor and suffering parts of the cultural times. He supported the Church’s missions throughout the world. He won tens of thousands of Mass, Bishop Louis Tylka of Peoria said that almost Church. “As only a wounded Christ could convert a doubt- converts and preached to millions. His time of prayer every U.S. state and several additional nations were represented by pilgrims. A number of the faithful ing Thomas, so only a Church wounded by poverty before the Blessed Sacrament was the source of his can convert a doubting world,” he said. insight into the Son of God. He used every gift God hailed from Italy, Poland and Brazil, he said. Cardinal Tagle commended Archbishop Sheen for gave him for one purpose: to bring people to Christ. Close to 90 bishops, some 1,000 priests, an estimated 1,600 men and women religious, and almost making genuine connections with the people he met And his legacy is now ours.” Following the Mass, attendees were invited to re250 deacons were present, added Bishop Tylka, who and to whom he preached and ministered. “The missionary evangelizer is blessed by the main in prayer to venerate Archbishop Sheen’s relwore Archbishop Sheen’s pectoral cross. Among the concelebrating prelates was Archbishop Gabriele G. communion with persons and peoples, especially the ics. poor and vulnerable, and this is communion in the Caccia, apostolic nuncio to the United States. (Gina Christian is a multimedia reporter for OSV The beatification – a papal act affirming an indi- name of Jesus Christ,” he said. Cardinal Tagle shared how Archbishop Sheen News. Follow her on X @GinaJesseReina. Maria Wiervidual’s presence in heaven is worthy of belief – officially occurred between the liturgy’s Penitential Rite told a friend, who asked why he became a priest, that ing, senior managing editor of OSV News, contributed and the Gloria. Bishop Tylka made a formal request he was called to share the Gospel and tell the story to this article.) for Archbishop Sheen’s beatification to Cardinal Tagle. A short biography of Archbishop Sheen, who was born in El Paso, Illinois, in 1895 and died in New York in 1979, was read by Archbishop Sheen’s great-nephew, Paul Cunningham, after which Cardinal Tagle proclaimed the apostolic letter from Pope Leo XIV declaring the beatification in Latin. Bishop Tylka then read the letter in English, as applause followed both. With the papal decree’s public proclamation, Archbishop Sheen became formally counted among the Church’s “beati,” from the Latin word for “blessed.” James Fulton Engstrom – whose revival from stillbirth in 2010, attributed to Archbishop Sheen’s intercession, was formally declared the miracle that moved Archbishop Sheen to beatification – processed with his parents and siblings to present a major relic of Archbishop Sheen during the liturgy. Enclosed in a special case called a reliquary, the relic is Archbishop Sheen’s mandible, or jawbone, chosen because it represents the archbishop’s tremendous gifts as an orator, teacher and evangelist. As part of the beatification, a portrait of a haloed Blessed Fulton Sheen was Around 50,000 attended the beatification Mass for Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Sept. 24, 2026, at The Dome also unveiled. In the image, he is notably at America’s Center in St. Louis. Blessed Sheen is remembered as one of the most influential and innovative holding a piece of chalk, which he fa- evangelists in American history. (OSV News photo/Bob Roller)
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
22 YOUTH
Youth happenings around the diocese
VICKSBURG – St. Aloysius High School seniors pack and personalize boxes of snacks and other food for families served by Jacob’s Ladder and Micah’s Mission. (Photo by Anna Griffing)
COLUMBUS – Father Jeffrey Waldrep joins first grader Adeline Dye and her sixth-grade buddy, Keelynn Clapper, during Annunciation Catholic School’s 14th annual Pinwheels for Peace ceremony following Mass Sept. 24. (Photo by Kacy Haffner)
YAZOO CITY – (Below) Manchester Academy football players and cheerleaders gather at St. Mary Parish for “Meal and a Message,” featuring food, fellowship and an encouraging reflection from Father Joseph Reddy Golamari. (Photo by Babs McMaster)
MERIDIAN – St. Patrick Catholic School fifth grader Mason Wilson explains his “Creative Contraption” to Knights of Columbus member Frank Polizzi as fellow members Larry Birzer, left, and John Harwell look on. The Knights sponsor the annual event for students in third through eighth grades. (Photo by Helen Reynolds)
MERIDIAN – St. Patrick Catholic School seventh and eighth graders walk to the Meridian Animal Shelter to deliver $156, several bags of pet food and cleaning supplies collected through the school’s monthly Jeans for Green Day. (Photo by Helen Reynolds)
MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC OCTOBER 16, 2026
YOUTH 23 TUPELO – Children celebrate their first Communion at St. James Parish. Pictured are Armando Acosta, Iker Arana, Carolina Aviña, Sophia Bernal Ocampo, Reegan Burnley, Andrea Diaz, Alexandria Dixon, Saul Escobedo, Teagan Hathorn, Alan Hernandez, Jorge Juarez Yanez, Edgar Leon Becerra, Julian Lira, Alicia Lopez Herrera, Sebastian Maldonado, Jesus Mauricio, Anthony Mejia, Frannie Nelson, Leanne Pannell, Luz Victoria Romero, Link Russell, Jacob Salgado, Sara Sanchez, Leo Silver, Sage Silver, Emma Lynn Thompson, Danny Vigil, Patton Weatherford, David Alatorre, John Austin Gonzalez, Romina Hernandez, Elizabeth Lopez, An Tran, Jonathan Corona, Jennifer Hernandez, Emilio Maldonado, Eric Santos Loaeza, Mark Gonzalez, Elizabeth Hunter, David Maldonado, Alexia Ortiz Villa, Manuel Torres and Vanessa Torres. (Photo courtesy of Michelle Harkins)
JACKSON – Father Andrew Bowden celebrates the Guardian Angel Mass at St. Richard Catholic School, a tradition that pairs each second grader with a sixthgrade “Guardian Angel.” Throughout the school year, the older students pray for and support their younger partners while serving as positive Catholic role models. The Guardian Angels spend time together and build friendships rooted in faith, prayer and care for one another. Pictured are Arya Loggins, Stella McArthur, Charleigh Luzardo, Addie Hamm, Nadia Jackson, Penelope Starrett, Hadley Metzger, Anna Kate Yentzen, Olivia Miller, Anna Nguyen, Dorothy White, Doe Marie Torrey, Gray Brown, Josie Ball, Margaret Rutherford, Lula McArthur, Marleigh Nance, Garrin Walker, Louise Simmons, Presley Creel, Townes Crews, Mary Ryan Nunley, Asher Jones, Juan Munoz, Aiden Moremen, Christian Jones, Thomas Smith, Micah Garner, Edmund Stanton and Jude Shannon, along with Father Andrew Bowden.
MADISON – St. Anthony Catholic School sixth graders load donations for Hope Lodge. Pictured from left are Ada Allen, Maddox Kivlan, Seth D’Mello, Livi Jones, Leo Kosek, Mae McDaniel and Emma Kassinger. (Photo by Kati Loyacono)
OCTOBER 16, 2026 MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC
24 DIOCESE
Blessing of the pets JACKSON – Across the Diocese of Jackson, parishioners gathered with their pets for blessing ceremonies, giving thanks for the animals that bring companionship and joy to their lives. The photos on this page capture these celebrations of faith and the special bond between people and their pets. The blessing of animals is traditionally held near the Oct. 4 feast of St. Francis of Assisi, whose love for God’s creation continues to inspire the faithful. Known as the patron saint of animals, St. Francis reminds us to recognize the goodness of all God has made and to treat living creatures with care and compassion. These gatherings offer an opportunity to thank God for the comfort, laughter and love our pets bring into our homes. They also remind us of our responsibility to care for the animals entrusted to us and to be good stewards of the world we share.
TUPELO – Father Henry Shelton blesses family pets at St. James Parish on Oct. 2 in honor of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi. (Photo by Michelle Harkins)
SOUTHAVEN – Father David Szatkowski, SCJ, blesses Kiwi, a lizard held by Sacred Heart School student Layla Cook. (Photo by Laura Grisham) CLINTON – Father Lincoln Dall blesses pets at Holy Savior Parish on Sunday, Oct. 4. (Photo by Robert Gatewood)
SOUTHAVEN – Father David Szatkowski, SCJ, blesses Baby Girl, a puppy held by Sacred Heart School student Ben Lowery. (Photo by Laura Grisham)
MADISON – Father Will Foggo blesses pets at St. Francis of Assisi Parish. Joining him are Edna Scapinello with her dog Maggie and Mary Jane Lemon and her daughter Murphy with their dogs Poppy and Daisy. (Photo by Sallie Ann Inman)
GRENADA – Father Joseph Ashok Thumma joins Hans Campbell with Autumn, Kathy Everhart with Greta and Myra Liberto with Brady during the blessing of pets at St. Peter Parish in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. (Photo by Raymond Liberto)
CLEVELAND – Father Kent Bowlds with Frank, his 9½-year-old English springer spaniel whose formal name is “Pup Francis,” after Pope Francis. Father Andrew Bowden suggested the name while serving in the parish as a seminarian. Father Bowlds says Frank makes him laugh every day, fetches papers from his printer — sometimes when he would rather he didn’t — and can hear a food wrapper opening from 100 yards away. (Photo courtesy of Father Kent Bowlds)