MS Catholic July 21, 2023

Christine Love receives the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice cross from Pope Francis

BY JOE LEE

JACKSON

– The reality of being presented with a medal awarded by Pope Francis is difficult for Christine Love to get her mind around.

Recently retired after more than five decades of serving as housekeeper, caretaker, and trusted friend to Jackson Diocese Bishops Gerow, Brunini, Houck, Latino and Kopacz, the soft-spoken member of Cathedral of St. Peter’s the Apostle Church was awarded the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice cross for her fifty-plus years of dedicated service to the Office of the Bishop.

“It makes me feel good. It makes me feel happy. It makes me feel like I’m going to heaven,” Love said of the medal, which was announced at the Vatican in February and presented to her by Bishop Joseph Kopacz at the Cathedral in late June. (Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, as translated, means “for the church and pope.” See accompanying story.)

A graduate of Jim Hill High School in Jackson, Love earned an undergraduate degree from Campbell College (now Jackson State University) six decades ago. When her husband, A.G., a building contractor, was temporarily ill early in their marriage, Love enrolled in nursing school at Hinds Community College.

“I was just about finished. Pharmacology was my last class,” Love recalled. “I was told, ‘You’re just like a nurse. Come on.’ I started with the Professional Nurses Registry and worked for them a year or so before going on out my own. That’s what led to my work with the diocese and the bishops.”

A major turning point in her life was an opportunity to serve as a private duty nurse for Bishop Gerow, to whom she grew close. Gerow retired in 1967 and was suc-

ceeded by Bishop Joseph Brunini, but Love continued to sit with him as his health worsened over the years.

“At the end, Bishop Gerow’s home was at St. Dominic Hospital. He passed away in my arms,” she said. “After he passed, I began working with Sister Claudia Murphy, taking care of the senior citizens of the diocese. When Bishop Houck came along, I started working for him at his home.”

There were lots of lighthearted moments over the years. Love recalls Bishop William Houck always being able to tell a good joke and remembers his Frank Sinatra records; she said Bishop Joseph Latino enjoyed discussing the news and television shows. Using the words “perfectionist” and “tidy” to describe all five men, Love said she built a rapport with each and earned a level of trust that brought her into their inner circles.

“I’ve known Christine more than 35 years,” said Diocesan Chancellor Mary Woodward. “I got to know her better when I started coordinating the dinners Bishop Houck would host at his townhouse. Christine would be getting the house in tip-top shape for guests while I would be chopping lemons and carrots.

“She is one of the kindest people I know. Traits of hers that I think endeared her to each bishop were her dedication to their well-being, availability at the drop of a hat, her knowledge of the household and of each bishop’s personality. She would know exactly how Bishop Houck would want something, compared to how Bishop Latino would like it. Each one she served was unique, and she was very good at

– Continued on page 6 –

Diocesan elementary schools move to MAIS

BY JOANNA KING AND STAFF REPORTS

JACKSON – The seven remaining Catholic elementary schools in the Diocese of Jackson have collectively decided to join diocesan Catholic high schools in the Midsouth Association of Independent Schools (MAIS). This summer, St. Anthony, Madison; St. Elizabeth, Clarksdale; St. Patrick, Meridian; St. Richard, Jackson; Sr. Thea Bowman, Jackson; Sacred Heart, Southaven; and Holy Family, Holly Springs became the newest members of MAIS.

“We are very excited about this move as it broadens our opportunities for student activities and educator professional development and widens the professional network among our nonpublic and independent school counterparts,” said Karla Luke, executive director of Catholic education for the diocese.

With this decision, all diocesan schools and early learning centers in the Diocese of Jackson will remain internationally accredited by Cognia, Inc. Additionally, the Office of Education will withdraw membership from state accreditation obtained through the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE).

“We are proud of our Cognia accreditation as it is based on a strict set of school improvement principles and is aligned with the National Catholic Education

Association’s adopted National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools (NSBECS),” said Luke.

The state accreditation obtained through MDE is a regional performance-based accreditation centered on adherence to and compliance with a set of requirements established by the Mississippi State Board of Education. Cognia, through its partnership with

MAIS, operates on the principle of continuous school improvement. This difference allows school administrators and their organizational leadership to render important education-related decisions based on the needs of their community. The NSBECS standards, incorporated in the Cognia accreditation process, advocate that a concentrated focus on continuous im-

– Continued on page 6 –

JACKSON – On June 25 at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Chancellor Mary Woodward prepares to pin the pro ecclesia et pontifice cross on Christine Love for fifty-plus years of dedicated service to the Office of the Bishop. (Photo by Joanna King)

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT

MADISON St. Francis, Diocesan Fall Faith Formation Day, Saturday, Aug. 19. Theme is “Renewing the church with families of faith.” Registration begins at 9 a.m. with first session beginning at 10 a.m. Event will conclude at 3 p.m. The featured speaker is Dr. Tim Hogan, co-author of “The Gift of Spiritual Hurricanes: Tools to Rebuild Authentic Spirituality.” Details: register at https://bit.ly/FFFDay2023 or questions to (601) 960-8473.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. “Come and See” weekends at Dominican Sisters of Springfield for single Catholic women ages 21-45. Eleven events scheduled in 20232024, first is Sept. 15-17. Events are in person or “Zoom and See” (virtual) and provide a brief immersion in the day-to-day lives of the sisters. Event is free, but responsible for your own transportation expenses. Housing and meals provided. Space is limited. Register at https://springfieldop.org/come-see-registration/. Details: call Sister Denise Glazik at (217) 652-5881 or visit https://springfieldop.org/come-see-dominican-sisters-vocation-event-schedule-for-2023-2024/ for more information.

WASHINGTON D.C. Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage, Sept. 30 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Join with Catholics from around the country to seek the intercession of Our Lady. Hear life-changing talks; celebrate Mass and

pray the rosary. Details: for more information visit rosarypilgrimage.org.

PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS

BATESVILLE St. Mary, Rummage Sale, Aug. 4-5 at the parish center. You are welcome to start bringing your gently used items to the center. Details: parish office (662) 563-2273.

GLUCKSTADT St. Joseph, German Fest, Save the date: Sunday, Sept. 24.

GREENWOOD MARC (Mississippi Association for Returning Citizens), Lunch and Learn, Saturday, July 29 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Locus Benedictus (1407 Levee Road #2134). Sign up and help build a brighter future for those a ected by the criminal justice system. Details: visit marcreentry.org or email dorothy@marcreentry.org.

NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, Thursday Night at the Movies, July 27 “The Scarlet and the Black” at 6:30 p.m. Suitable for adults and older teens. Soft drinks, snacks and popcorn available for small donation. No admission fee, donations to Miss-Lou Pregnancy Center accepted. Details: church o ce (601) 445-5616.

St. Mary Basilica, Blood Drive, Tuesday, Aug. 15 from 12:30-6 p.m. at the Family Life Center. Details: contact church o ce if you would like to reserve an appointment time now – (601) 445-5616.

FEATURED PHOTO ... Vocation ...

Assumption BVM, Assumption Feast Day Celebration, Saturday, Aug. 19 at 6 p.m. in Tuite Hall. Menu by Mascagni brothers – spaghetti and meatballs, tortollini, chicken salad, meat tray, desserts and more. No cost, donations welcome. Details: call (601) 445-5616.

OLIVE BRANCH Queen of Peace, Back Pack Blessing at Mass, Sunday, July 30.

SENATOBIA St. Gregory, Back Pack Blessing at Mass, Sunday, July 30.

TUPELO St. James, Knights of Columbus Charity Gala Concert, Saturday, Aug. 12 at 6 p.m. in Shelton hall. Tickets are $25 per person and includes heavy hor d’oeuvres. Details: David at (662) 213-3742.

REMINDERS/NOTICES/ OTHER EVENTS

JOB OPENINGS Catholic schools across the diocese have a variety of positions open. Please visit https://jacksondiocese.org/employment for an opportunity near you.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. EWTN Free Family Celebration, Saturday, Aug. 26 at the Birmingham Je erson Convention Complex. Enjoy talks by EWTN TV and radio hosts. Shop religious items, attend Holy Mass and be part of a televised show. Details: ewtn.com/familycelebration.

FLORENCE, Italy – Jeffery Walton, a life-long member of St. Paul Flowood, was consecrated to the vocation of Clerical Oblate with the Institute of Christ the King at its international seminary in the Archdiocese of Florence, Italy, on July 3, 2023. Abbé Jeffery received his vestments for ministry as a sign of offering his life to God in service to the Catholic Church. Oblates serve as assistants to priests, with various functions in liturgical celebrations and charitable work within the Institute. Jeffery completed his formation at St. Frances de Sales Oratory in St. Louis, Missouri, and will receive his new assignment on Aug. 1. (Photo by Monica Walton)

INDIANAPOLIS Eucharistic Congress, July 17-21, 2024. Registration is now open. See what Our Lord has in store for this next chapter for the Catholic Church in United States. Purchase tickets at https:// bit.ly/3ydav9Q. Details: EucharisticCongress.org.

JACKSON Catholic Charities Journey of Hope Luncheon, Friday, Aug. 11 at the Hilton Jackson at 12 p.m. Featured speaker is actress Robin Givens, sharing her experi-

JULY 21, 2023

ence of abuse and urging all to educated themselves on domestic violence. To order tickets for the Journey of Hope luncheon, the “Meet and Greet” reception, or to inquire about sponsoring tables, call (601) 326-3714 or visit https://bit.ly/CCJOH2023 to register for the luncheon.

NASHVILLE Billings Ovulation Method Teacher Training, Oct. 19-21. Learn the science of fertility in order to monitor reproductive health and wellness. Cost: $750. Details: events.boma-usa.org.

Occasion of the 100th anniversary of St. Augustine Seminary

Editor's note: Below is the homily, Bishop Joseph Kopacz gave on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of St. Augustine Seminary on Saturday, June 24 at Sacred Heart parish in Greenville.

Don’t miss Bishop’s column! To make sure you do not miss his column or other important Catholic news join our email list on Flocknote. Text MSCATHOLIC to 84576 or sign-up at jacksondiocese. flocknote.com today!

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BY BISHOP JOSEPH R. KOPACZ, D.D.

The Great Commission of the Lord Jesus to make disciples of all the nations, through teaching and baptizing, was embraced by St. Father Arnold Jansen the founder of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) established on Sept. 8, 1875.

We proclaimed the Great Commission in the Gospel this morning and throughout the past nearly 148 years the Society of the Divine Word has pitched their tent, (to apply the phrase from the Prologue of St. John’s Gospel about the Son of God) in approximately 70 countries, and now number 6,000 priests and brothers, the largest religious order in the Catholic Church.

The Great Commission of the Lord Jesus is the culmination of the four Gospels before he ascended into heaven. Today we heard from Matthew. We could easily have heard from Mark, Luke and John. “Go into the world and preach the Gospel to all creatures.” (Mark 16:15) “Go into the city of Jerusalem and wait to be clothed with power from on high.” (Luke 24:49) “As the Father has sent me so I send you. Then he breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven, whose sins you retain are retained.’” (John 20:20)

St. Father Jansen prophetically lived by the motto that “announcing the Gospel is the first and greatest act of charity.” He provided this vision for the Society of the Divine Word in the following excerpts from his writings.

“The ultimate purpose of our mission today is the same as it has been since the time of our founder, ‘to proclaim the Kingdom of God’s love’ as the common destiny of all humanity and the horizon toward which

we travel.”

“It is from the internal loving dialogue of the triune God that this mission emerges, a dialogue of love and forgiveness with all humanity. We do not invent our own mission – it is Missio Dei – we are called by the Father, sent by the Word, and led by the Spirit.”

I would be remiss to pass over the impact of Father Janssen’s family life on his faith formation, vocation and ultimate vision for the Society of the Divine Word. Gerhard and Anna Katharina Janssen, his parents were people of great faith and lived the domestic church at the highest level.

Father Arnold Janssen’s father was blessed with eyes that saw, and ears that heard God’s Word while putting it into practice. He had a great love for the Trinity, and for the sacred scriptures, and steadfastly built a house set on rock for his son Arnold, the second of 10 children.

From the writings of members of the Society of the Divine Word, we are given four charisms or characteristics for their world-wide religious community. “Many religious orders and congregations have certain characteristics or traits that make them known. We are recognized by the four characteristic dimensions: the Bible; Mission Animation; Justice and Peace; and Integrity of Creation.”

In part, the commitment to justice and peace led the Society of the Divine Word to the Deep South and to Mississippi at the turn of the 20th century. One of their singular accomplishments was to launch Sacred Heart seminary in 1920, the first school for African American candidates for the priesthood in the United States.

This was an intrepid accomplishment in the Delta of Mississippi in the environs of Jim Crow. In fact,

Volume 69 Number 14 (ISSN 1529-1693)

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

Production Manager Tereza Ma

Contributors ......................................................................................................... Berta Mexidor

MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC is an official publication of the Diocese of Jackson, 601-969-1880, 237 E. Amite St., Jackson, MS 39201. Published digitally twice per month January – April and September – December; once per month June, July and August. Mississippi Catholic mails 14 editions per year – twice per month in December and January; and once per month February – November. 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.

Website: www.mississippicatholic.com  www.jacksondiocese.org

after a few years it became obvious that the seminary would have a better chance of surviving and thriving if the SVDs relocated it to Bay Saint Louis, where there were far more Catholics and resources. Understand that at the time the Diocese of Jackson encompassed all of Mississippi. In 1923 the change occurred, and the seminary was renamed to St. Augustine.

We are here today to acknowledge that although the 100th anniversary celebration of the seminary will be celebrated later this year, its beginnings were at Sacred Heart on these grounds. At the time the Society of the Divine Word had not yet reached the half century mark since its founding which only adds to this remarkable endeavor to go to all the nations.

Blessings to all who are part of the Society of the Divine Word, and much gratitude for your continuing presence in the Diocese of Jackson, now for well over 100 years. I conclude with a heartfelt yearning and a personal prayer from the personal spirituality of St. Father Arnold Janssens.

“May the darkness of sin and the night of unbelief vanish before the Light of the Word and the Spirit of Grace and may the heart of Jesus live in the hearts of all.”

O God, eternal truth, I believe in you.

O God, our strength and salvation, I trust in you.

O God, infinite goodness, I love you with my whole heart.

BISHOP’S SCHEDULE

Monday, Aug. 7, 6 p.m. – Golden Jubilee Celebration and Mass of Thanksgiving for Msgr. Elvin Sunds, St. Francis of Assisi, Madison

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 7:30 a.m. – Mass, Carmelite Monastery, Jackson

Friday, Aug. 11, 12 p.m. – Catholic Charities Journey of Hope with Robin Givens, Hilton, Jackson

Sunday, Aug. 13, 11 a.m. – Confirmation, St. Francis of Assisi, New Albany

Sunday, Aug. 13, 3 p.m. – Bilingual Mass, St. Matthew, Ripley

Saturday, Aug. 19, 5 p.m. – Installation Mass of Father Cesar Sanchez, St. Jude, Pearl

Saturday, Sept. 9, 4:30 p.m. – Mass and Reception for Parish 40th Anniversary Celebration, Holy Family, Gloster

Sunday, Sept. 10, 10 a.m. – Mass and Reception for Parish 150th Anniversary Celebration, St. Joseph, Woodville

Thursday, Sept. 14 – Catholic Foundation’s Annual Bishop’s Cup Golf Tournament, Lake Caroline, Madison

All events are subject to change. Check with parishes and schools for further details.

GREENVILLE – Bishop Joseph Kopacz delievers his homily at Sacred Heart parish on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of St. Augustine Seminary. See accompanying story on page 17. (Photo by Sister Amelia Breton, SBS)

Our summer immersion trip is nearing its end and we are all working to continue to progress in our capacity for Spanish. The experiences here continue to be unique and rich.

For the Fourth of July, we were invited to cook traditional American cuisine and we all chipped in to buy fireworks and enjoy a great show in the evening. Deacon Tristan cooked the best gumbo I have ever had (maybe it’s because I haven’t been in my home country for six weeks, but it was amazing nonetheless) and we had a great evening.

One of the best aspects of this program is that our teachers stay at the monastery with us. They eat meals with us and we get to know them and their families. At the Fourth of July party, the families of all the teachers were invited. It was a great evening and a great witness to the teachers and their families of the joy of the priesthood and the joy of our seminarians. I was able to give an in depth lesson on how to play cornhole (I never knew how many rules their were to that game until I had to describe them all in Spanish!)

As the program nears its end I am very excited to get home. It’s been a lot of work and there are many challenges that come with living in a different country for a long period of time. The message that continues to come to me in prayer is that I need to embrace

the uncomfortable. It is good, sometimes, to be uncomfortable because it helps us to stretch ourselves and become who God wants us to be, not just who we are comfortable being. I believe this experience has helped me, and our seminarians, learn that lesson, and this will be a great gift for the rest of our lives.

Many times this summer we have been faced with a choice: we could either turn back to a place of comfort, or keep going. This happened in the classroom, during conversations at meal time, and on excursions. We went on a long hike a little while back that we weren’t expecting to be too arduous, but an hour in we realized that the terrain was going to be really tough. But we kept going, and the beautiful scenery made it all worth it.

Every time we kept speaking Spanish instead of retreating back into English was a moment of grace. Every time we kept trying to listen to the homily even when we didn’t think we’d understand any of it was a moment of growth. Every time we kept walking because that is what the

Lord wanted us to do was a moment to grow closer to him and to grow in humility and trust. I learned a lot of Spanish this summer, but I think my reliance and trust in Jesus Christ grew the most.

Sisters of St. Francis celebrate jubilees

DUBUQUE, Iowa – Sister Nona Meyerhofer, OSF, a member of the Sisters of St. Francis, celebrated her Double Diamond Jubilee (70 years) on Sunday, June 18, at Mount St. Francis Center in Dubuque.

Sister Nona served as a teacher and educator in Iowa and Illinois and served from 1999 – 2009 at Excel, Inc., Morton, Mississippi, as director and teacher. In June of 2009 Sister Nona retired to Mount Saint Francis Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Sister Rita Goedken, OSF, a member of the Sisters of St. Francis, of Dubuque, celebrated her Diamond Jubilee (60 years) on Saturday, June 17, at Mount St. Francis Center in Dubuque.

Sister Rita is the daughter of Alfred and Loretta (Koch) Goedken and is blessed to be one of their 12 children. She attended SS. Peter and Paul School in Petersburg, St. Boniface High School in New Vienna, and Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, Iowa. Later she did graduate work at Central Michigan University and at St. Bonaventure University in Olean, New York. Over the years, she taught at Aquin Elementary School, Cascade, Iowa; St. Joe, Bode, Iowa; St. Paul School, Eugene, Oregon; and Our Lady Help of Christians School, Saginaw, Michigan. She has served in parish ministry at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Chesaning, Michigan, St. Patrick Parish in Palms, Michigan and at St. Victor Parish in Monroe, Wisconsin. After serving on the Sisters of St. Francis’ leadership team, she traveled to Morton, Mississippi, and served as the program coordinator for the Learning Center. Now living at Mount St. Francis Center, Sister Rita continues to be immensely grateful for a life of rich blessings.

“God is good all the time. All the time, God is good!” said Sister Rita on the occasion of her Jubilee.

Cards can be sent to Sister Nona and Sister Rita at 3390 Windsor Ave., Dubuque, IA 52001.

– Father Nick Adam, vocation director

Father Nick Adam

CUERNAVACA, Mexico – Seminarians Will Foggo and Grayson Foley can be seen in the choir for Mass on the Feast Day of St. Benedict. (Photos courtesy of Father Nick Adam)

Sister Nona Meyerhofer, OSF

Sister Rita Goedken, OSF

CUERNAVACA, Mexico – Deacon Tristan Stovall cooks up some “traditional” American fair during a language immersion trip to Mexico. Father Nick Adam and seminarians celebrated the Fourth of July with gumbo and fireworks, along with their teachers.

No lasting city

IN EXILE

By Father ron rolheiser, oMi

Scripture tells us that in this life we have no lasting city. True enough. But, it seems, we also don’t have a lasting house, school, neighborhood, town, zip code address, or most anything else. Eventually nothing lasts.

Perhaps my case isn’t typical, but a lot of things in my life haven’t lasted. My grandparents were immigrants, Russian-Germans, moving to the Canadian prairies and being among the first farmers to break the soil there at the beginning of the 1900s. They were young, so too was life then on the prairies, and their generation planted new farms, schools, towns and cities across the great plains of Canada and the USA. I was born into the second generation of all that – but just as urbanization and other changes were already beginning to cause the disappearance of a lot of what they had built.

So, here’s my story of having no lasting city. The elementary school I went to closed after I’d finished the sixth grade. We were bused to a bigger centralized school and our old school building was carted away. Nothing remains today to indicate there once was a school there. The new school I attended closed several years after I’d graduated. The building itself was razed and today the entire former campus is part of a farmer’s field with only a small plaque to indicate there once was vibrant life there, with hundreds of young voices filling the air with energy. That school was a couple of miles out of a small town and that town itself has now completely disappeared, without a single building left.

I went from high school to an Oblate novitiate house situated in the heart of the Qu’Appelle valley, a beautiful stately building on a lake. Several years after I’d graduated from there, the building was sold and soon afterwards was destroyed in a fire. Only an empty stretch of prairie sits there now. From there, I moved to another seminary, a magnificent old building (formerly the Government House for the Northwest Territories) and spent six wonderful years there. Again, several years after I’d graduated, the building was abandoned, and it too was eventually destroyed by a fire.

From there I moved to Newman Theological College in Edmonton where I spent the next fifteen years. Newman College had a beautiful campus on the outskirts of the city, but several years after I’d left, the campus was expropriated by the city to build a ring road and all its buildings were razed. From there, I moved to a wonderfully homey building, the Oblate Provincial residence in Saskatoon. Several years later, after I’d moved out, that building too was razed and nothing remains where it once stood. And, while all this was happening, the little town to which our family was connected (for mail, for groceries, for services, for identity) became a ghost town with no inhabitants, all its buildings shuttered.

Eventually, I moved to Oblate School of Theology in Texas to live in a welcoming little house designated for the president of the school. However, after a few years, the land it was on was needed for a new seminary and that house too was razed. Finally, most painful of all, two years ago, our family house, our home for more than 70 years, was sold and the new

owners (sensitive enough to ask our family’s permission to do so) burned the old house to the ground.

That’s a lot of roots disappearing: my elementary school, my high school, the town our family was connected to, both seminaries from which I graduated, the college where I first taught, both Oblate houses I’d spent wonderful years within, and the family house – all gone, razed to the ground, nothing left to go back to.

What does that do to you? Well, there’s nostalgia, yes. How I would again love to walk into any of those buildings, feel what they once meant to me and bask in memories. None of that can happen. Each of these is a mini death, leaving a part of my soul rootless. On the other hand, more positively, all that unwanted letting go is helping prepare me for an ultimate letting go, when I will be facing my own death, and not just some haunting nostalgia.

As well, this has taught me something else of sub-

stance. Buildings and houses may disappear, but home is not contingent on them. Rene Fumoleau, a poet among the Dene tribes, shares how he once visited a family the day after their house had been destroyed by fire and had this conversation with a young girl:

The next day I visited the burned out family.

What could I say after such a tragedy?

I tried with the ten-year old daughter: ‘Joan, you must feel terrible without home.’

The young girl knew better: ‘Oh, we still have our home,

But we have no house to put on it.” (Home – Here I Sit)

Yes, we can still have a home even without our former house on it.

(Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser is a theologian, teacher and award-winning author. He can be contacted through his website www.ronrolheiser.com.)

The Pope’s Corner Look to God with childlike wonder, pope says

By Justin Mclellan

VATICAN CITY (CNS)

– Only by shedding feelings of personal greatness and regaining a sense of wonder in God’s love can people welcome Jesus into their hearts and lives, Pope Francis said.

With some 15,000 visitors gathered to pray the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square July 9, the pope reflected on the day’s Gospel reading from St. Matthew in which Jesus praises God the Father for hiding “things” from the wise and revealing them to the childlike.

Those things, Pope Francis explained, refer to Jesus’ miracles – restoring sight to the blind and healing lepers – which are “signs of God acting in the world” that are overlooked by the prideful.

God’s love, as reflected through Jesus’ miracles, “is not understood by those who presume to be great and manufacture a god in their own image: powerful, unyielding, vengeful,” he said.

“These presumptuous ones fail to accept God as Father; those who are full of themselves, proud, concerned only with their own interests: these are the presumptuous ones, convinced that they need no one,” Pope Francis said.

The childlike who are open to receiving God’s love, however, “have hearts free from conceit and self-love,” the pope explained.

“The childlike are those who, like children, feel needy and not self-sufficient; they are open to God and let themselves be astonished by his works,” he said. “They know how to read his signs, amazed by the miracles of his love.”

Pope Francis urged Christians to ask themselves whether they let themselves stop and be amazed by how the signs of God are working in their lives or if they notice them only in passing.

“Our lives, if we think about it, are full of

miracles, full of signs of love, of signs of God’s bounty,” he said. “Before these, however, our heart can also remain indifferent and become set in its ways, strangely unable to be amazed.”

Pope Francis suggested that Christians draw attention to the signs of God’s love in daily life in by “photographing” them in their minds and “printing” them onto their heart to then develop them in their lives through positive actions, so that the “photograph” of God’s love “becomes brighter in us and through us.”

After praying the Angelus the pope recalled “with pain” the recent bloodshed in the Holy Land, where on July 3 Israeli forces launched a two-day ground and aerial attack on the city of Jenin in the West Bank. The Palestinian government reported that 12 Palestinians were killed in the raid and at least 120 were wounded.

“I hope that the Israeli and Palestinian Authorities can resume a direct dialogue in order to end the spiral of violence and open paths of reconciliation and peace,” the pope said.

Pope Francis gives his blessing to visitors at the St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican after praying the Angelus July 9, 2023. (CNS photo/Vatican Media)

'... extremely valued and trusted person by each bishop ...'

adapting to each one’s modus operandi.”

While Love and A.G. raised five kids (all of whom graduated from St. Joseph Catholic School and went on to college), she juggled being a band mom, soccer mom and sports mom while being flexible when it came to her responsibilities for each bishop.

“With my arrival in the Diocese of Jackson, Christine extended her dedicated service to me at my home with weekly house cleaning,” Bishop Kopacz said. “I note ‘extended her service’ because at the time of my arrival she was also attending to Bishop Houck and Bishop Latino.

“She worked with others to prepare my house to receive guests for special events, and she always made sure my Labrador Retriever had some extra loving and treats. She’s rightly enjoying a well-deserved retirement surrounded by her children, grandchildren and friends. I and the Bishops who preceded me – Bishops Gerow, Brunini, Houck and Latino – are eternally grateful for her dedicated care, her strong faith in the Lord Jesus, and her love for the church.”

“I tried to bring honesty and work ethic to whatever I did,” Love said. “Bishop Houck always encouraged me. He said, ‘You can do it. You can make it. I want to see those kids graduate from St. Joe.’ He encouraged me to open my own business and was very proud when I created Love Janitorial Services 18 years ago.”

“Christine is a very circumspect person,” Woodward said. “She and I could discuss important matters about the household, but it would never go beyond us. She understood the life of a bishop and had an

immense amount of respect for the office and the man in it. Maintaining a bishop’s house is an awesome responsibility, and Christine was an extremely valued and trusted person by each bishop. I knew if I called her to come check on something she would be on her way before we even hung up the phone.”

Love says she’ll always get a bit emotional when talking about Bishops Gerow, Houck, Brunini, Latino and Kopacz and the impact all have had on her life.

“I can’t say I’ll miss the work,” she said, “but I’ll always miss my bishops.”

Pro ecclesia et pontifice decree

From the decree issued by Pope Francis on February 21 at the Vatican:

"Francis, supreme pontiff, has deigned and elected to bestow the august insignia cross “pro ecclesia et pontifice” upon Lady Christine Love, for her excellent works and outstanding diligence, thus making it possible for her to adorn herself with this medal, having earned it through great service to the church and in particular the office of the bishop."

While rare for a sitting pope to award a medal to anyone from the Catholic Diocese of Jackson, it has happened several times.

“At the request of Bishop Joseph Latino, Pope Benedict XVI awarded Sister Dorothea Sondgeroth, OP, the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Cross in 2012,” said Diocesan Chancellor Mary Woodward. “He also, at the same time, bestowed the Benemerenti Medal on Judy Cannon, former administrative assistant to Bishops Brunini, Houck and Latino, and Bill Dunning, former diocesan finance officer.

“The medals are requested by the local bishop and an extensive application is completed and reviewed by the papal office at the Vatican. Several individuals were awarded the Pro Ecclesia in the 1950s and 60s.”

JACKSON – The pro ecclesia et pontifice insignia cross was awarded to Christine Love on Saturday, June 25 at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. (Photo by Mary Woodward)

build a stronger Mississippi through education ...'

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provement will increase a school’s effectiveness and viability.

This recent decision results from months of research, consultation with Bishop Joseph Kopacz, pastors, advisory council members, teachers and administrators. “The decision is borne out of a desire to exercise more flexibility in intentionally aligning our Catholic identity and mission with instructional and managerial practices that set our schools apart,” said Luke.

The move to MAIS will increase offerings in professional development for teachers, educational leadership training for administrators, academic competitions for elementary students, and exciting extracurricular activities for both athletic and non-athletic students. Students can participate in activities like art, chess, creative writing, choir, quiz bowl, spelling bees, drone competitions, robotics and eighteen competitive sports programs offered through MAIS.

“I am very excited about the level of support our staff will receive in professional development and the increased opportunities for our students throughout the year. Activities like the Reading Fair and Science Olympiad will allow our students to participate in academic competitions with their peers. MAIS works with its member schools to create educational communities that share ideals, values and priorities with children, teachers, and families,” said Sarah Cauthen, principal of St. Elizabeth School in Clarksdale.

School administrators have attended several district meetings and have been warmly welcomed by the

members of MAIS.

“We are excited to welcome the Catholic elementary schools in the Diocese of Jackson as part of this great organization. We look forward to the collaboration with Catholic school leaders and current members of MAIS as we share resources and ideas to build a stronger Mississippi through education,” said executive director, Dr. Shane Blanton at a diocesan principal’s meeting last week.

Chris Payne, principal of Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School, says, he's excited about joining MAIS because of its dedication to supporting their schools.

"You feel a presence of community and fellowship which has made this transition worthwhile. The teacher and administrative development available to us as members is not only beneficial but cost effective. I’m excited for the collaboration of ideas and resources that we will take full advantage of,” said Payne.

PEARL – Newly hired diocesan coordinator of curriculum, professional development and standards review, Virginia Hollingsworth evaluates Terra Nova testing data with Caitlin Walker, an educator at St. Elizabeth Clarksdale and Anne Cowger, principal of St. Anthony Madison, at a principal and educator's meeting on Thursday, July 13 at St. Jude parish. (Photo by Rachel Patterson)

developed for the 2023-2024 school year. "We look forward to continuing our high expectations for our students in spiritual and intellectual formation through their education in Catholic Schools," said Luke.

This move is among the many exciting plans diocesan office, administrators, and advisory councils have

"Please keep our school communities in your prayers for a successful transition and a happy and productive school year."

'...

Annual Journey of Hope welcomes actress to speak on domestic violence

By Joe Lee

JACKSON

– Raised Catholic just minutes from The Bronx borough of New York City, actress Robin Givens can look back with pride on a television and film career which began with a successful audition for a guest role on “The Cosby Show.” A year later she landed the role of Darlene Merriman on the ABC smash “Head of the Class” and was a cast member for the show’s 1986-1991 duration.

Unfortunately, Givens might be just as well known for her brief and turbulent marriage to then-world heavyweight boxing champ Mike Tyson. In an explosive 1988 interview with ABC’s Barbara Walters shortly before she and Tyson separated, Givens leveled charges of domestic abuse against her husband.

Today, Givens speaks out about the abuse she suffered, urging men, women and the African American community to educate themselves about domestic violence. She’s the keynote speaker at this year’s Journey of Hope luncheon, the largest annual fundraiser put on by Catholic Charities and an event that will take place earlier this fall than usual.

“The luncheon was moved to Aug. 11 because we want to have the event on a Friday,” said Marsha Burton, Senior Engagement and Major Gifts Officer for Catholic Charities. “We Mississippians love football, and Fridays in September are prime football days. The Hilton Jackson was available for the date and offers us a larger space with amenities conducive for celebrity speakers.

“We feel that having the entire event at one location will reduce travel for our speaker, attract a large audience through being centrally located and parking should not be an issue.”

In addition to the luncheon, Givens will appear at a reception the evening before from 6-8 p.m., which will allow attendees to meet her in a relaxed environment. The reception will also take place at the Hilton, located at 1001 E. County Line Road in Jackson.

“Robin Givens is a women’s advocate and outspoken crusader against domestic violence,” said Wanda Thomas, executive director of Catholic Charities. “She also speaks on the reality of domestic violence occurring to men as well as women, and how socioeconomic status doesn’t play a role. She’s a woman that can move and inspire all walks of life.”

To order tickets for the Journey of Hope luncheon, the reception, or to inquire about sponsoring tables, call (601) 326-3714 or visit https://bit.ly/ CCJOH2023 to register for the luncheon.

In memoriam: Sister Elizabeth Ann Demirgian, OP

ADRIAN, Michigan – Sister Elizabeth Ann Demirgian, formerly known as Sister Marie Berge Demirgian, died on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at the Dominican Life Center in Adrian, Michigan. She was 91 years of age and in the 64th year of her religious profession in the Adrian Dominican Congregation.

Sister Elizabeth was born in Flushing, New York, to Edward and Ebrakce (Ekshian) Demirgian. She graduated from St. Patrick High School in Miami Beach, Florida, and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics and Chemistry from Barry College (University) in Miami Shores, Florida; a Master of Science degree in biology and chemistry from Siena Heights College (University) in Adrian; and an associate degree in science for her physician assistant license from Santa Fe Community College/University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida.

Sister spent over 11 years ministering in education at Visitation School in Detroit, Michigan; Regina Dominican High School in Wilmette, Illinois, a

sponsored institution of the Congregation; St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; and Tampa Catholic High School in Tampa, Florida. She was a physician assistant for 22 years in Rosseville and Memphis, Tennessee; Marks, Mississippi, and West Palm Beach, Belle Glade, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orange Park, Clermont, Kissimmee, and Mount Dora, all in Florida. She also served in ministry to the elderly for eight years at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Community in Clermont, Florida. Sister became a resident of the Dominican Life Center in Adrian in 2012.

Sister Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Archie and Berge. She is survived by loving family and her Adrian Dominican Sisters.

A recording of Sister Elizabeth’s funeral Mass and other material can be found at https://adriandominicans.org/MeetDominicans/In-Memoriam.

Memorial gifts may be made to Adrian Dominican Sisters, 1257 East Siena Heights Drive, Adrian, Michigan, 49221.

of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Celebrating the Feast of the Sacred Heart and 100 years of service

BY LAURA GRISHAM

SOUTHAVEN – The Mississippi SCJs, Dehonian Associates and members of the six parishes celebrated the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and 100 years of ministry in the US with Mass and dinner at Christ the King Church in Southaven on Friday, June 16.

Bishop Joseph Kopacz of Jackson was the presider and heralded the work of the Priests of the Sacred Heart, commending them on their 100th anniversary in the United States and good works in Mississippi.

Speaking on Priests of the Sacred Heart’s commitment, Bishop Kopacz said, “Going in di erent directions from Europe to the United States and beyond ... this is really the impulse, the beating heart of Christ going out to all the nations, making disciples of all the nations. We celebrate 100 years of Dehonian commitment and charism. It has been in our midst for generations in this diocese, with ministries that respond ... to the broken of the world.”

“In that spirit, we give thanks this evening, using the words of Pope Francis. He speaks of encountering, accompanying others and showing them the face of Christ. We can certainly say in the reality of Southern Missions and the 100 years (of the Priests of the Sacred Heart) in our country, that so many in the Dehonian community ... have revealed the loving Sacred Heart of Christ,” said Bishop Kopacz.

100 Years of Dehonian Ministry in the United States

This year the Priests of the Sacred Heart (Dehonians) celebrate their 100th year of ministry in the United States. Beginning with a Palm Sunday Mass in 1923 at St. Mary’s Church in Lower Brule, South Dakota, the ministries of the US Province now extend from South Dakota to Wisconsin, Mississippi, Texas and Florida, reaching across ethnic, social and economic lines.

Dehonians, Priests of the Sacred Heart, SCJs – several names for a religious community of priests and brothers with a single mission: bringing the love of the Sacred Heart to those in the greatest of need.

SOUTHAVEN – Bishop Joseph Kopacz, the Mississippi SCJs and Dehonian associates paused after Mass for a group photo. The group recently celebrated 100 years of Dehnonian ministry in the US. The Priests of the Sacred Heart minister to several states – from South Dakota to Wisconsin, Mississippi, Texas and Florida. (Photo by Brother Andy Gancarczyk, SCJ)

Synod document asks how to increase unity, participation, mission outreach

By Cindy Wooden

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – In a church that “bears the signs of serious crises of mistrust and lack of credibility,” members of the assembly of the Synod of Bishops will be asked to find ways to build community, encourage the contribution of every baptized person and strengthen the church’s primary mission of sharing the Gospel, said the working document for the October gathering.

“A synodal church is founded on the recognition of a common dignity deriving from baptism, which makes all who receive it sons and daughters of God, members of the family of God, and therefore brothers and sisters in Christ, inhabited by the one Spirit and sent to fulfil a common mission,” said the document, which was released at the Vatican June 20.

However, it said, many Catholics around the world report that too many baptized persons – particularly LGBTQ+ Catholics, the divorced and civilly remarried, the poor, women and people with disabilities – are excluded from active participation in the life of the church and, particularly, from its decision-making structures.

Based on the input from listening sessions held around the world since October 2021 and, especially, from reports submitted from continental and regional synod sessions earlier this year, the working document asks members of the synod to focus their prayer, discussion and discernment on three priorities:

– Communion, asking: “How can we be more fully a sign and instrument of union with God and of the unity of all humanity?”

– “Co-responsibility in mission: How can we better share gifts and tasks in the service of the Gospel?”

– “Participation, governance and authority: What processes, structures and institutions are needed in a missionary synodal church?”

The first synod assembly, scheduled for Oct. 4-29, “will have the task of discerning the concrete steps which enable the continued growth of a synodal church, steps that it will then submit to the Holy Father,” the document said. Some questions, perhaps many of them, will require further discernment and study with the help of theologians and canon lawyers, which is why a second assembly of the synod will be held in October 2024.

Even then, resolving every issue raised in the synod listening sessions is unlikely, the document said. But “characteristic of a synodal church is the ability to manage tensions without being crushed by them.”

The working document includes worksheets with questions “for discernment” that synod members will be asked to read and pray with before arriving in Rome.

One of them asks, “What concrete steps can the

church take to renew and reform its procedures, institutional arrangements and structures to enable greater recognition and participation of women, including in governance, decision-making processes and in the taking of decisions, in a spirit of communion and with a view to mission?”

“Most of the continental assemblies and the syntheses of several episcopal conferences,” it said, “call for the question of women’s inclusion in the diaconate to be considered. Is it possible to envisage this, and in what way?”

As the synod process has taken place, questions have been raised about the relationship between participation in the life of the church and the call to conversion, the document said, which raises “the question of whether there are limits to our willingness to welcome people and groups, how to engage in dialogue with cultures and religions without compromising our identity, and our determination to be the voice of those on the margins and reaffirm that no one should be left behind.”

The people who presented the working document for the Synod of Bishops pose for a photo in the Vatican press office June 20, 2023. From the left are Helena Jeppesen-Spuhler, a synod participant from Switzerland; Sister Nadia Coppa, president of the women’s International Union of Superiors General; Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary-general of the synod; Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, relator general of the synod; and Jesuit Father Giacomo Costa, a consultant to the synod. (CNS photo/Cindy Wooden)

ecumenical exploration “to find a way of exercising the primacy which, while in no way renouncing what is essential to its mission, is nonetheless open to a new situation.”

Another tension highlighted in the process involves shared responsibility in a church that believes its hierarchical structure is willed by Christ and is a gift.

The working document reported a “strong awareness that all authority in the church proceeds from Christ and is guided by the Holy Spirit. A diversity of charisms without authority becomes anarchy, just as the rigor of authority without the richness of charisms, ministries and vocations becomes dictatorship.”

But the document asked members to discuss, think and pray about ways that authority can be exercised more as leadership that empowers shared responsibility and creativity.

“How can we renew and promote the bishop’s ministry from a missionary synodal perspective?” it asked.

“How should the role of the bishop of Rome (the pope) and the exercise of his primacy evolve in a synodal church?” the document said. The question echoed St. John Paul II’s invitation in his 1995 encyclical, “Ut Unum Sint,” (“That They May be One”), for an

The working document also asked synod members to consider ways more priests, religious and laypeople could be involved in the process of choosing bishops.

Throughout the listening sessions at every level, the document said, people recognized that Catholics cannot share fully in the spiritual discernment needed for true co-responsibility without further education in the Christian faith, Catholic social teaching and in the process of discernment itself and how it differs from simply discussing a problem and voting on possible solutions.

In particular, it said, “all those who exercise a ministry need formation to renew the ways of exercising authority and decision-making processes in a synodal key, and to learn how to accompany community discernment and conversation in the Spirit.”

“Candidates for ordained ministry must be trained in a synodal style and mentality,” it said, and the seminary curriculum must be revised “so that there is a clearer and more decisive orientation toward formation for a life of communion, mission and participation.”

A printed copy of the “Instrumentum Laboris,” or working document, for the world Synod of Bishops on synodality is seen in the Vatican press office June 20, 2023. (CNS photo/Lola Gomez)

Supreme Court expands protections for workers seeking to observe holy days, Sunday rest

By Kate Scanlon

WASHINGTON (OSV News) – The U.S. Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision June 29 in favor of a former postal worker who said he was denied a religious accommodation to observe Christian precepts on keeping holy the Lord’s Day by his former employer.

The case Groff v. DeJoy concerned Gerald Groff, an evangelical Christian and former U.S. Postal Service worker, who was denied an accommodation to observe his Sunday Sabbath by not taking Sunday shifts that resulted in the loss of his job.

The Supreme Court’s ruling found that federal law requires workplaces to make appropriate accommodations for their employees’ religious practices unless those practices cannot be “reasonably” accommodated without “undue hardship.”

The court threw out its prior “de minimis” standard from its 1977 decision, Trans World Airlines v. Hardison, which had found that the “undue hardship” standard is met even at a minimal cost.

In Groff v. DeJoy, the court ruled an employer denying religious accommodations must show the burden of granting an accommodation would actually result in substantial increased costs.

Justice Samuel Alito wrote in his majority opinion that “diverse religious groups tell the Court that the ‘de minimis’ standard has been used to deny even minor accommodations.”

“Faced with an accommodation request like Groff’s, an employer must do more than conclude that forcing other employees to work overtime would constitute an undue hardship. Consideration of other options would also be necessary,” Alito wrote.

First Liberty Institute, which represented Groff,

said the ruling strengthens legal protections for employees seeking religious accommodations, including schedule changes to observe holy days, is far-reaching and has an impact on employment rights at every workplace with at least 15 employees across the country.

“This is a landmark victory, not only for Gerald, but for every American. No American should be forced to choose between their faith and their job,” Kelly Shackelford, president, CEO, and chief counsel for First Liberty, said in a statement. “The Court’s decision today restores religious freedom to every American in the workplace. This decision will positively help millions and millions of Americans – those who work now and their children and grandchildren.”

Groff said in his own statement, “I am grateful to have had my case heard by the U.S. Supreme Court and that they have decided to uphold religious liberty. I hope this decision allows others to be able to maintain their convictions without living in fear of losing their jobs because of what they believe.”

Aaron Streett, partner at Baker Botts LLP, who argued Groff’s case before the high court, said,

“We are thrilled the Court today recognized that an America that values religious pluralism should respect the religious liberty rights of every employee.”

“Our nation has a long history of protecting its employees from being treated differently at work just because of their faith,” Streett said. “This decision is consistent with that history and is a tremendous win for all people of faith.”

Groff alleged in federal court that the U.S. Postal Service failed to provide him with reasonable accommodations for his religious practices. The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the Postal

Service, arguing it would face “undue hardship” by accommodating Groff’s request to excuse him from Sunday shifts.

The Supreme Court’s ruling vacates that finding and sends Groff’s case back to the lower court for reconsideration.

However, Rachel Laser, president and CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, cast the high court’s ruling for the lower court to reconsider Groff’s case as a victory, stating they “live to fight another day.”

“We’re facing an aggressive movement working to weaponize religious freedom, but religious freedom must never be a license to harm others, and that remains true in the workplace,” Laser said. She argued the court simply “clarified,” but did not overturn, its standard for granting religious accommodations.

Laser said “the court’s ‘clarified’ standard correctly allows employers to continue to consider the burdens an employee’s requested accommodation could impose on co-workers.”

The Supreme Court’s decision has religious liberty implications for working Catholics. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “On Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are to refrain from engaging in work or activities that hinder the worship owed to God, the joy proper to the Lord’s Day, the performance of the works of mercy, and the appropriate relaxation of mind and body.”

The Catholic Church also teaches this “requires a common effort” and both public authorities and employers are obliged to “ensure citizens a time intended for rest and divine worship.”

OSV News has reached out to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for comment on the decision.

NOTES: A link to the decision can be found here: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/22-174_ k536.pdf)

“Sirviendo a los Católicos Hispanos de la Diócesis de Jackson desde 1997”

Maria Tackett, Un Evangelio sin Palabras

PoR danna Johnson, LeM HOUSTON – La señora Maria Tackett recibió el Premio Chance al Servicio, en Misa especial y ceremonia efectuada en la Catedral de San Pedro, el pasado 4 de marzo.

La señora María es una defensora de todas las personas necesitadas, especialmente los Hispanos, conectándolos con diferentes recursos.

La nominación al Premio Chanche fue un homenaje y reconocimiento que toda la comunidad católica de Houston le debía a la dedicación diaria de ella.

Fue una alegría muy grande para la señora María recibir el Premio Chanche y guarda con mucho cariño y modesto orgullo el certificado, medalla y las fotos de ese día.

La señora María es la primera persona Hispana que llegó a la iglesia del Inmaculado Corazón de María en Houston, en 1976.

Desde entonces, ha sido un miembro activo de la comunidad parroquial. Ella ayudó al Padre

Apóstol. Uno de los adultos premiados fue la señora Maria Tackett, primera Hispana en la comunidad de Houston, desde 1976, y donde inició las Misas en español y hoy es tambien Ministra Extraordinaria de Eucaristía y voluntaria de caridades católicas en Vardaman. (Foto de Tereza Ma)

Gerald Peterson, Sacerdote de Glenmary, para celebrar la Primera Misa en español en esta área.

La señora María nunca espera nada a cambio. Desde hace 25 años se dedica a mantener limpios y planchados los purificadores, corporales y toallas de mano.

Ella es miembro del actual Consejo Parroquial de la Iglesia, es Ministra Extraordinaria de Eucaristía y voluntaria en la oficina de Caridades Católicas en Vardaman.

Su participación se destaca de otros feligreses por su constancia en el servicio a la parroquia y la comunidad desde 1976. Muchas familias, especialmente las recién llegadas a nuestra comunidad, se han beneficiado de su cuidado. Su espíritu acogedor inspira a otros a seguir su ejemplo.

Ella vive una de las famosas citas de San Francisco de Asís: "En todo tiempo, predica el Evangelio y si es necesario, usa palabras."

Seminaristas, Llamados por su Nombre, de Misión en Mexico

LLAMADOS POR SU NOMBRE

PoR PadRe nicK adaM

CUERNAVACA, México – Llevamos varias semanas de nuestra excursión a México mientras tres de nuestros seminaristas y yo aprendemos español y nos encontramos con las culturas de la parte central del país.

Nuestro día típico durante la semana laboral consiste en cuatro horas de clases que cubren gramática, conversación, cultura e historia. Cada día, dos horas son individuales con un maestro, mientras que las otras dos incluyen conferencias con un grupo y más conversación.

Nos hospedamos en una abadía benedictina llamada Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles en un pequeño pueblo dentro de los límites de la ciudad de Cuernavaca. Asistimos a Misa todos los días en el monasterio y nos unimos en oración con los monjes para la Liturgia de las Horas.

Nuestros maestros también viven en los terrenos, por lo que interactuamos con ellos a lo largo del día y los conocemos y aprendemos sobre sus familias y sus experiencias a un nivel

más personal.

Los fines de semana hemos ido de excursión para conocer las culturas de la región. Nuestro primer fin de semana fue un amplio recorrido por el área metropolitana de la Ciudad de México. El segundo lo pasamos en una pequeña comunidad indígena llamada Cuautla donde trabajamos en una parroquia y visitamos varias de sus 24 capillas misioneras.

Como sacerdote con una gran comunidad hispana en su parroquia, ya he visto muchos frutos de este viaje. Debido a que estamos en México, entiendo mucho más acerca de las personas a las que sirvo en casa. Ha sido divertido experimentar cosas aquí que ya experimenté en Mississippi. La comida, las celebraciones y las costumbres aquí me recuerdan a menudo cosas que nuestra comunidad hispana ya hace en la Catedral de San Pedro.

También es algo 'incómodo' para todos nosotros. Tenemos el desafío de buscar pacientemente las diferencias en la cultura, la comida y otras prácticas , por ejemplo, ¡todavía tengo que encontrar el uso del aire acondi-

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CUERNAVACA, México – Los seminaristas

JACKSON – En Misa especial, este año, el sábado 4 de marzo, el obispo Joseph Kopacz entregó el Premio Chanche al Servicio a 40 adultos en la Catedral de San Pedro

Will Foggo y Grayson Foley se pueden ver en el coro, de la abadía benedictina Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, durante la Misa en el Día de la Fiesta de San Benito. (Fotos cortesía del Padre Nick Adam)

21 de julio de 2023 MISSISSIPPI CATÓLICO

Padre Adam: "Quedan muchos más Desafíos por cumplir"

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cionado! Sin embargo, cada vez que se presenta un desafío, el Señor nos está ayudando a crecer en el amor y perseverar.

Estos desafíos fortalecen nuestra determinación de compartir el Evangelio y nos ayudan a comprender más sobre nosotros mismos y sobre el mundo en el que vivimos, y el mundo del que provienen y aprecian nuestros propios feligreses.

Estoy agradecido por aquellos que nos están ayudando a sentirnos como en casa en México. Muy especialmente estoy agradecido por el hermano Francisco, quien es el líder de nuestro grupo y un monje en el monasterio. Es originalmente de España, pero se mudó a la Ciudad de México para trabajar en el centro de la ciudad.

CUERNAVACA, México – Una foto y pintura de San Benito se ven en el altar del monasterio, para la Misa en el Día de la Fiesta de San Benito el 11 de julio. (Fotos cortesía del Padre Nick Adam)

Había sido ateo pero su tiempo con los pobres convirtió su corazón. Es una fuente constante de energía y alegría.

También estoy muy agradecido con nuestra maestra principal, Bibiana Arroyo. Ella y su equipo están muy dedicados a asegurarse de que nuestra educación sea lo mejor posible y hace un trabajo fabuloso e interactúa con todos los estudiantes y se asegura de que nos sintamos como en casa. He llegado a ser amigo de su marido Jesús, a los dos nos encanta el baloncesto.

Nuestro viaje de inmersión de verano está llegando a su fin y todos estamos trabajando para seguir progresando en nuestra capacidad para hablar español. Las experiencias aquí continúan siendo únicas y ricas.

Para el 4 de julio, nos invitaron a cocinar comida estadounidense tradicional y todos aportamos para comprar fuegos artificiales y disfrutar de un gran espectáculo por la noche. El diácono Tristan preparó el mejor gumbo que he probado, tal vez sea porque no he estado en mi país de origen durante seis semanas, pero de todos modos fue increíble y tuvimos una gran velada.

Uno de los mejores aspectos de este programa es que nuestros maestros se quedan en el monasterio con nosotros. Comen con nosotros y llegamos a conocerlos a ellos y a sus familias. A la fiesta del 4 de julio se invitó a las familias de todos los maestros. Fue una gran velada y un gran testimonio para los docentes y sus familias de la alegría del sacerdocio y la alegría de nuestros seminaristas. Pude dar una lección detallada sobre cómo jugar cornhole, ¡nunca supe cuántas reglas había en ese juego hasta que tuve que describirlas todas en español!

A medida que el programa se acerca a su fin, estoy muy emocionado de llegar a casa. Ha sido mucho trabajo y hay muchos desafíos que conlleva vivir en un país diferente durante un largo período de tiempo. El mensaje que me sigue llegando en oración es que necesito abrazar lo incómodo. Es bueno, a veces, sentirse incómodo porque nos ayuda a estirarnos y convertirnos en lo que Dios quiere que seamos, no solo en lo que nos sentimos cómodos siendo. Creo que esta experiencia me ha ayudado a mí ya nuestros seminaristas a aprender esa lección, y este será un gran regalo para el resto de nuestras vidas.

Muchas veces este verano nos hemos enfrentado a una elección: podemos regresar a un lugar cómodo o seguir adelante. Esto sucedió en el salón de clases, durante las conversaciones a la hora de comer y en las excursiones. Hicimos una larga caminata hace un tiempo que no esperábamos que fuera demasiado ardua, pero una hora después nos dimos cuenta de que el terreno iba a ser muy difícil. Pero seguimos adelante, y el hermoso paisaje hizo que todo valiera la pena.

Cada vez que seguimos hablando español en lugar de volver al inglés fue un momento de gracia. Cada vez que intentábamos escuchar la homilía, incluso cuando no pensábamos que entenderíamos nada, era un momento de crecimiento. Cada vez que seguíamos caminando, porque eso es lo que el Señor quería que hiciéramos, era un momento para acercarnos a él y crecer en humildad y confianza. Aprendí mucho español este verano, pero creo que mi dependencia y confianza en Jesucristo fue lo que más creció.

Todavía queda mucho trabajo por hacer y más desafíos por cumplir. Por favor, manténganme a mí y a nuestros otros tres peregrinos de Jackson en sus oraciones.

Religiosos Latinoamericanos sobre persecución, abuso y desafíos sinodales

By Rhina Guidos

(OSV News) – Religiosas y religiosos de muchos lados de América Latina y el Caribe se reunieron del 2 al 5 de junio para abordar algunos de los problemas más difíciles que enfrenta la región, a los que la hermana Liliana Franco, presidenta de la Confederación Latinoamericana de Religiosos (CLAR), llamó "la noche", refiriéndose a las condiciones sociales, eclesiales, y otras que afectan la vida consagrada.

Compartieron los nombres de sus amigos caídos: algunos de ellos eran sus predecesores y otros mártires; algunos habían vivido vidas largas mientras que otros, cortas; pero todas enraizadas en una cercanía radical al Evangelio.

Aun así, la Misa de clausura de la 48.ª reunión de la junta directiva de la CLAR en Lima, Perú, transcurrió con alegría y tranquilidad. Terminaron tarde el 5 de junio, con banderas de toda América Latina y el Caribe dispuestas sobre un altar,

recordando a sus amigos caídos y dando gracias por sus vidas. Los miembros de las CLAR de Nicaragua y Haití no asistieron a la reunión. Los nicaragüenses temían salir del país y luego no poder regresar. Los haitianos están lidiando con una violencia creciente. Aquellos que asistieron desde lugares como Cuba y Venezuela compartieron detalles sobre las condiciones deterioradas en sus países, como la falta de alimentos y medicinas.

Los miembros dijeron que este es un camino cada vez más doloroso, ya que América Latina y el Caribe sufren convulsiones políticas, migración a gran escala, violencia, y persecución – situaciones que han afectado cada vez más a la vida consagrada en la región. En medio de todo esto, ellos también hablaron con gran entusiasmo sobre el sínodo de la sinodalidad – un proceso de tres años de escucha y diálogo al que el Papa Francisco ha convocado a la Iglesia, y que se lleva a cabo desde 2021 hasta 2024 y lo que significa para la vida consagrada.

La hermana Isabel Ramírez contempla una cruz durante una reunión de la junta directiva de la Confederación Latinoamericana de Religiosos en Lima, Perú, el 3 de junio. La hermana Ramírez dijo que le preocupan las amenazas hacia religiosos y religiosas y otras personas que protegen el medio ambiente y los pueblos de la Amazonía. (Foto OSV News/Rhina Guidos, GSR)

CIUDAD DE MÉXICO – (i-d) Will Foggo, Grayson Foley, el diácono Tristan Stovall y el padre Nick Adam, director de vocaciones de la diócesis, en el exterior del Museo de Arte de la Ciudad de México a principios de junio.

2023 SACRAMENTS S PECIAL E DITION

CLEVELAND – Our Lady of Victories, Confirmation, Wednesday, April 26. Front row (l-r): Jazmin Rodríguez Ramirez, Vanessa Aguilar, Mia Luciano, Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Gracie Bishop, Mary Ella Chicorelli, Ayden Aguzzi and Deacon Dien Hoang. Back row (l-r): Father Raju Macherla, Chase Swartzfager, Jackson Byrd, Martin Moncada, Gregory Fore (St. Joseph Greenville), Bryant Lopez (St. Elizabeth Clarksdale) and Father Kent Bowlds. (Photo courtesy of parish)

CORINTH – St. James the Less, Confirmación, Friday, June 9. Pictured (l-r): Gael Rodriguez, Robert Valdez, Baker Hall, Giovanny Ayala, Brando Loredo, Alexis Solis, Obispo Joseph Kopacz, Amado Robles, Anthony Leon (Booneville), Liliana del Angel, Sandy Rosales, Ingrid Jaime and Faviola Leon (Booneville). (Photo courtesy of parish)

MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC JULY 21, 2023

McCOMB – St. Alphonsus, Confirmation. Pictured (l-r): Menelik Rozelle, Shelby Fortenberry, Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Mary Roberts (youth minister), Landee Lott Jr. and Jennifer Medina. (Photo by Amy Tisdale)

TUPELO – Lincoln Summers and 35 other students celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday, April 22 at St. James parish. (Photo by Michelle Harkins)

GLUCKSTADT – St. Joseph, Confirmation, Sunday, April 23. Front row (l-r): Deacon Denzil Lobo, Pate Gibbs, Hanna Steckler, Amanda Hair, Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Stella McCarty, Emerson Erwin, Caroline Champagne, Darbie Brewer and Abbi White. Middle row (l-r): Father Joe Tonos, Wade Estess, Cayton Edwards, Neo Valenciano, Amelia Rabalais, Elle Sandifer, Mary Yoste, Gabriella Zevallos, Dalan Fontenot and Chandler See. Back row (l-r): Reese Touchet, J.C. Crowson, Parker Dancer, Mabry Hirn, John Gibson Eatherly, Sarah Gibbs, Ella Duhon, Andrew Didion, Jobe Dearman and Father Matthew Simmons (Photo by Paula Bennett)

HOUSTON – Immaculate Heart of Mary, Confirmation. Pictured: Guadalupe Arriola, Jennifer Arriola, Ana Diaz, Anahi Gonzalez, Viridiana Gonzalez, Edgar Gutierrez, Mayabelyn Gutierrez, Rayly Gutierrez, Roger Hernandez, Adalberto Murillo, Francisco Murillo, Yoselyn Murillo, Edna Sanchez, Jose Eduardo Varela, Allison Vázquez, Azucena Vázquez, Dianna Vázquez, Jose G. Vázquez, Kaylin Vázquez, Luis Vázquez, Miriam Vázquez, Misael Vázquez, Valeria Vázquez and Vivian Vázquez. Young adults pictured: Alan Bejerano, Victor Bejerano, Michael Cruz, Angel Garcia, Jose Gonzalez, Eduardo Gonzalez, Martin Gonzalez, Andres Guerrero, Jose Francisco Guerrero, Miguel Guerrero, Leslie Hernandez, Leonel Lopez, Luis Angel Loredo, Brenda Medrano, Estrella Pachecano, Jonathan Pachecano and Tommy Lee Pina. (Photo by Jamie K. Morris photography)

MERIDIAN – St. Joseph, Confirmation, Wednesday, May 31. Front row (l-r): Iztel Gomez-Moreno, William Dickerson, Ellie Purdy and Marilyn Marin. Back row (l-r): Father Augustine Palimattam, Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Deacon Denzil Lobo and Guy Henry Dickerson. (Photo

NATCHEZ – Basilica of St. Mary, Confirmation, Saturday, May 6. Front row (l-r): Antonio Ortiz, Emanuel Reza, Father Aaron Williams, Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Father David O’Conner, Liza Gregg, Jasmin Ortiz and Lauren Lambuth. Back row (l-r): Braden Starr, Jack Whittington, Logan Little, Logan Foster, John Clayton Atkins, Maria Piazza, Anna Grace Britt, Marissa Starr, Sally Linton, Itzel Ortiz and Jasmine Perez. (Photo

SOUTHAVEN – Youth from Queen of Peace, Olive Branch; Christ the King, Southaven; St. Gregory, Senatobia; Holy Spirit, Hernando; and St. Joseph Holly Springs celebrated their Confirmation in Fall of 2022. (Photo by Laura Grisham)

courtesy of parish)

FOREST – Bishop Joseph Kopacz speaks to youth from Morton and Forest at their Confirmation on May 14. (Photo by Sister Maria Elena)

by John Harwell)

MISSISSIPPI CATHOLIC JULY 21, 2023

FLOWOOD – St. Paul, Confirmation, Wednesday, May 3. Front row (l-r): Deacon Tony Schmidt, Harmony Tran, Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Jolie Hays, Isabella Quintero and Deacon John McGregor. Middle row (l-r): Charlie Gordon, Ian Willoughby, Vince Immanuel, Jonathan Heintzelman, Patrick Torres and Father Gerry Hurley. Back row (l-r): Jacob LaFontaine, Jennings Kimbrell, Will Slay, Eli Ladner, Seth Sweeney and Nathan Nguyen. (Photo by Matt Torres Photography)

CAMDEN – (Below) Sacred Heart, Confirmation, Sunday, May 21. Pictured: Christina Robinson, Jarmarquez Davis, Kathy Wright, Marvin Moore, Bradford Evans, Zyia Eldridge, Michael Sherrill III and Brian McMurtry. (Photo by Martina B. Griffin)

TUPELO – St. James (with St. Helen Amory), Confirmation, Saturday, April 22. Front row (l-r): Teresita Amador, Lauren Lewis, Mary Grace Toole, Biridian Gonzalez-Mendez, Krystal Morales and Daniella Vazquez. Middle row (l-r): Alexandra Villanueva, Joanne Flores, Jennifer Mejia, Marcela Tiscareno, Fatima Lira and Mayte Lira. Back row (l-r): Lincoln Summers, David Perez, Nathan Eschete, Mitchel Davis, Anthony Mayfield, Brian Triano, Eric Garcia, Henry Loaeza, Dorian Snow, Juan Gonzalez, Sutton Scruggs, Steven Quiroz, Carlos Medina, Bryan Palafix, Jesus Avina, Emmanuel Villanuera, Jorge Avina, Arturo Acosta and Angel Hernandez. (Photo by Rhonda R. Swita)

JACKSON – St. Richard, Confirmation, Sunday, Feb. 5. Pictured: Fritz Barbour, Katie Grace Barbour, Becca Barbour, Susanna Blaylock, Lillian Boggan, Claudette Bronzi, Chris Brown, Turner Brown, Catherine Bryson, Lizzie Bryson, Brandon Burkes, Noah Chaplain, Anna Holladay Craft, Austin Craft, Parker Davis, George Decker, Leta Decker, Andrew Doherty, Grayson Engels, Sophie Engels, Caroline Flechas, Riley Flechas, Gray Holloway, Hayden Holloway, John Walt Holloway, Anna Impastato, Jack Impastato, Miller Jordan, Joe Koury, Sofia Liberto, Anna Kate Lucas, Cray Luckett, Levi Luckett, Lilly Luckett, Daniel Maloney, Will Manhein, Mary Margaret Martin, Charlee Mathews, Duncan Mathews, Livi Matthews, Connor Odom, Charlotte Park, Elizabeth Park, Aedan Ramos, James Rooks, Phoebe Rooks, Mamie Sandel, Ava Schuetzle, Lindsey Smith, Olivia Smith, Aden Spratlin, Liam Spratlin, Nick Spratlin, Annie Mac Steckler, David Steckler, Peggy Steckler, Susie Steckler, Cy Stephen, Henry Turner and Mary Pender Ward. (Photo by Chris Burkes)

MADISON – St. Francis of Assisi, Confirmation, Sunday, April 30. First row (l-r): Loria Williams, Victoria Coursey, Anna Veston Deer, Angelina Istiphan, Paige Loyacono, JJ Tice, Benjamin Watson, Ethan Young, Adam Williams, Spencer Pittman, Mia Penner, William Fugate and Christian Diaz. Second Row (lr): Katherine Farthing, Maddie-Claire Spence, Adriana Terrazas, Anna Williams, Deacon Denzil Lobo, Grace Crosby, Malick Yedjou and Gabriel Cardona. Back row (l-r): Father Lenny Carlino, Msgr. Elvin Sunds, Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Father Albeen Vatti, Father Craig Spence, Lockard Williams and Vincent Glorioso. (Photo by Melissa Smalley)

GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Confirmation. Front row (l-r): Father Jose Sanchez, Daniel Signa, Madolyn McGaugh, Abigail Duthu, Elese Serio, Kent Tonos and Melanie Julianne Camarena. Back row (l-r): Jacob Venuti, Harris Garcia, Cameron Wise, Mauricio Gonzalez, Leo Williams, Bishop Joseph Kopacz and catechist Clara Mandolini. (Photo courtesy of Lynn Powers)

JACKSON –(Right) Landyn Je’Relle Taylor was baptized by Father Nick Nguyen at Holy Ghost parish this Spring. (Photo by Dorothy Ashley)

JACKSON – (Left) Christ the King, Confirmation, Sunday, May 7. Pictured (l-r): Deacon Denzil Lobo, Derek Singleton, Darious Anderson, Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Braylon Poindexter, Bryson Poindexter, Charity Cannon, Dana Barnes and Father Joe Dyer. (Photo by Gina Lobo)

GLUCKSTADT – Youth at St. Joseph parish received First Holy Communion. (Photo by Paula Bennett)

MAGEE –St. Stephen, First Communion, Sunday, May 14. Pictured (lr): Dane Breaux, Dylan Gonzales, Father Kevin Slattery and Josemith Carballo Salas. (Photo courtesy Janie Wallace)

VICKSBURG – Six children join the catholic faith during the Easter Vigil by receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion. First row (l-r): Madison Barnette, Daphne Narvaiz, Amelia Guider. Back row (l-r): Yashira Narvaiz, Syal Gonzalez and Laura Narvaiz. (Photo by Amy Chaney-Wood)

GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, First Communion. Front row (l-r): Brantley Weeks and Michael Hunter. Second row (l-r): Baylor Barham, Jenna Kay Swafford, Scarlett Ruth, George Brown, Campbell New. Not pictured: Julia Hooker. (Photo by Mary Lynn Powers)

MADISON – St. Francis of Assisi, First Communion. First row (l-r): Emma Kassinger, Olivia Howell, Seth D’Mello, Alison Cardona, Connor Evans, Ellie Burns, Camden Killingsworth, Kennedy Colbert, Leo Kosek, Kaitlyn Rottman, Maddox Kivlan, Livi Jones and Josephine Klar. Second row (l-r): Landon Schulte, Luca Vaughan, J. Mac Carter, John Thomas Artman, Mae McDaniel, Alex Mielniczek, Ryann Wieland, Alden Ward, Charlie Reed, Lucy Sanders, Rob Stephens, James Wright and Patrick Harris. Third row (l-r): Alex Vanderloo, Roman Wilson, Grayson Therrell, Austin Conerly, Murphy Klein, Eli Tucker, Caroline Hammett, Liam Smith, William Vanderloo and Ross Coffelt. Fourth row (l-r): Kimberly Vega, Giselle Vargas, Yanela Yedjou, Carlos Vargas, Thanh Le and Emmy Purifoy. Back row (l-r): Deacon Denzil Lobo, Father Albeenreddy Vatti and Msgr. Michael Flannery. (Photo courtesy of Mary Catherine George)

McCOMB – (Right) St. Alphonsus, First Communion. Front row (l-r): Reina Bustillo, Marie Rozelle and Maggie Davis. Second row (l-r): Hadley Plaisance, Cyleigh Rubio, Alexza Medina and Henry McNeil. Third row (l-r): Jose David Garcia, Mateo Macias, Abby Hebert and Gunner Jace Howell. Back row (l-r): Father Bill Henry, JT Marino and Leonardo Angel. (Photo by Amy Tisdale)

FLOWOOD – (Left) St. Paul, First Communion, Sunday, April 30. Front row (l-r): Colton Nichols, Sebastian Patterson, Billie Duffy, Caroline Iles, Will Frier, Wilson Malone, Sawyer Gaspard, Gianluca Rodriguez and Colton Woodfield. Back row (l-r): Deacon Tony Schmidt, Aubrey White, Ashlynn Frier, Cassidy Herring, Jacob Nguyen, Lawrence Johnson, Tyler Wolfe, Parker Bierdeman, Dominic Giordano and Father Gerry Hurley.

(Photo by Hugo Cordova)

CRYSTAL SPRINGS – St. John, First Communion, Sunday, May 21. Pictured (l-r): Ian Whitwell, Dani Vargas, Piper Whitwell, Maddie Benton, Eli Franklin, Mia Joseph and Daina Joseph, with Father Mano Thanugundla.

BROOKHAVEN – St. Francis of Assisi, First Communion, Sunday, May 7. Pictured with Father Manohar Thanugundla. (l-r): Bentley Britt, Madeline Postma, Ellie Brooke Ybarra, Preslee Womack, Rosaleigh Pigott, Maci Ferguson and Sawyer Bartholomew. (Photo

courtesy of parish)

MERIDIAN – (Right) St. Patrick, First Communion. Pictured (l-r): Luke Bailey, Mia Gabrelcik, Jaylene Mendez, Willow Franklin, Fernanda Garcia, Liliana Rangel, Julianna Espino, Christopher Caballero-Scott and William Lindholm, with Father Augustine Palimattam and Father Justin Joseph standing behind. (Photo by John Harwell)

JACKSON – Catelyn Hope Jones was baptized at Holy Ghost parish this Spring. (Photo by Dorothy Ashley)

(Photo by Yvette Howard)

HOUSTON – (Right) Youth gathered for a photo with Father Tim Murphy at Immaculate Heart of Mary parish after celebrating their First Communion. Pictured: Juan Azua, Gregory Cornwell, Alex Garcia, Alexa Garcia, Anabel Gutierrez, April Gonzalez, Gael Gonzalez, Iker Gonzalez, Alan Gutierrez, Melany Juarez, Daleyza Hernandez, Emma Martinez, Aleyda Murillo, Jarely Rodriguez, Yaretzy Rodriguez, Omar Rojas, Allison Servin, Jose Servin, Perla Vazquez, Reyna Vazquez and Valeria Zarate.

HOUSTON – Youth from Vardaman gathered for a photo with Father Cesar Sanchez at Immaculate Heart of Mary after celebrating their First Communion. Pictured: Milagros Rodriguez, Estevan Sanchez, Ivan Duran, Jorge Duran, Jan Misael Mendoza, Manuel Guerrero, Jonathan Ponce, Brianna Espiricueta, Cesar Pachecano, Jose Isael Pachecano, Adelin Pachecano, Arlette Pachecano, Brandon Hernandez, Yoselin Ramirez, Jose Ramirez, Tiffany Ramos, Patrick Gonzalez, Joe Villanueva and Jose Villanueva. (Photos courtesy of parish)

HOLLY

–

SPRINGS

(Left) Rebekka Renee Ruiz Curtis received her First Communion at St. Joseph Church. (Photo by Sister Julene Stromberg, SSSF)

NATCHEZ – Basilica of St. Mary, First Communion, Sunday, May 7. Front row (l-r): Rosalie Tate Tosspon, Ella Freeman, Suzannah Branton, Mary-Thomas Edwards, Harper Johnson. Brylee Cromie, Elizabeth O’Brien, Piper Britt, Della Book and Olivia Guida. Back row (l-r): Ben Krueger, Lucas Wingfield, Gabriel Heinzen, Benton Ater, Tucker Blaney, Brighton Cromie, Jackson Doré, William Killen, Miller Burkley, Robert Martin and Father Aaron Williams. Not pictured: John Ruffin Daniel and Aaron Hunter. (Photo courtesy of parish)

JACKSON – (Right) Earnestine Powell received the Sacrament of Baptism at Holy Ghost parish. She is pictured with Fater Nick Nguyen, SVD and godparent, Sondra Powell. (Photo by Dorothy Ashley)

HAZLEHURST – St. Martin, First Communion, June 4. Pictured (l-r): Maritza Francisco, Anahi Marroquin, Rocio Agustin, Father Mano Thanugundla, Gustavo Zarate and Allison I. Sales. (Photo by Yvette Howard)

CLINTON – Holy Savior, First Communion, Sunday, May 7. First row (l-r): Juliette Boyt, Uriah Alford and Alex Mazy. Second row (l-r): Alex Presley, Natalee Carrubba, Leah Threadgill, Cain Mazy, Joseph Kieffer and Jaden Oudu. Third row (l-r): Luna Mazy, Chikosibia Agbahiwe, Father Lincoln Dall, Nichole Carrena and Matilde Magaña. (Photo by Trish Ballard)

BELZONI – Sarah Morgan Sandifer celebrated her First Communion with Father Panneer Selvam Arockiam at All Saints parish on Saturday, May 6. (Photo by Jessica Sandifer)

MERIDIAN – Dominic Meachum and Aubre Laws celebrated their First Communion with Father Augustine Palimattam and Father Justin Joseph at St. Joseph parish. (Photo by by John Harwell )

KOSCIUSKO – (Right) Young people get ready to celebrate their First Communion at St. Therese parish on Sunday, May 7. (Photo courtesy of parish)

NEW ALBANY – St. Francis, First Communion, June 24. Front row (l-r): Osiel Lopez Guerrero, Kimberly Luna Herrera, Eiza Favela, Ahtziry Favela, Yamileth Corpus and Sebastian Romero. Back row (l-r): James Samaniego, Fredy Chelius Garcia, Father Jesuraj Xavier, Alexander Guerrero and Christopher Medina. (Photo by Joanna Manning)

CLARKSDALE – Liza Stonestreet and Bianca Martinez received their First Holy Communion at St. Elizabeth parish on Sunday, April 2. Also pictured are Catelin Britt and Father Raju Macherla. (Photo by Austin Britt Photography)

TUPELO – Youth at St. James celebrated First Communion this spring. (Photos courtesy of parish)

PEARL – St. Jude, First Communion. Pictured (l-r): Ruben Castillo, Jr., Luis Angel Lopez-Castro, Andres Espino, Lucy America Torres, Leonardo Gaspar-Mateo, Juan Carlos Lopez-Castro and Adelaide Rodriguez, with Father Jofin George. (Photo by Rhonda Bowden)

RIPLEY – St. Matthew, First Communion, Saturday, June 10. Communicants: Damian Chairez, Valeria Chairez, Angel Chavez, Jose Mendez Cruz, Giovanna Delgado, Yosgart Delgado, Jayden Gonzalez, Luis Santos, Martin Santos, Valeria Santos, Ximena Santos, Aryana Sosa, Jessuri Yanez, Arely Zepeda and Maximiliano Zepeda. Also pictured: Sylvia Santos, Eduardo Padilla, Father Jesuraj Xavier, Sister Rose Mock,SSND, Sister Carol Ann Prenger, SSND and Father Mario Solorzano. (Photo by Madeleine Hale)

VICKSBURG – (Left) St. Michael, First Communion, Sunday, April 16. Pictured (l-r): Adeline Waring Stewart, Howard Charles Reeder, Mary Thompson Ratliff, Benjamin Joseph Ponder and Lincoln Michael Streif, with Father Robert Dore. (Photo by Amy Chaney-Wood)

COLUMBUS – Father Jeffrey Waldrep celebrated First Communion with Annunciation School second graders from various parishes. From Annunciation Church: Amelia Alexander, Keelynn Clapper, Miller Graham, Mitchell Lasseigne, Collins Robertson and James Thomas. From St. Joseph Starkville: Cambell Dimino, Olivia Dimino and Sophia Nguyen. From Corpus Christi Macon: Anna Katherine More. (Photo courtesy of Gina Phillips)

VICKSBURG – Joseph Robert and Collins Farmer celebrated their First Communion with Father Rusty Vincent at St. Paul parish. (Photo courtesy of Wilson Locke)

JACKSON - Christ the King, First Communion, Sunday, May 14. Pictured (l-r): Gina Lobo, Deacon Denzil Lobo, Harry Kini, Zachary Gordon, Derion Bronson and Father Joe Dyer. (Photo by Maggie Spence)

TUPELO – (Below) Lincoln Coleman receives his First Holy Communion from Father Tim Murphy at St. James Parish.

(Photo by Michelle Harkins)

HOLLY SPRINGS – Eight children celebrated their First Communion on May 7 at St. Joseph Church. (Photo by Gerry Tomlin)

(Right) Mia McKenzie Gonzales and Amy Mariel Sandoval pose for photos after their celebration at St. Joseph Holly Springs. (Photo by Sister Julene Stromberg, SSSF)

Front row (l-r): Janey Grace Joiner, Jovanni Tejeda, Rita Bañales, Isabel Pike, Sophia Pike, Rafita Gallegos, Katie Clark and Evie Jones. Back row (lr): Catechist Kerri McKnatt, Brayan Casillas, Father Pradeep Thirumalareddy, Raymond Flores and April Flores. (Photo courtesy of parish)

by Babs McMaster)

MISSISSIPPI

15

PEARL – RCIA candidates Mary Farra, Johene Smith look on as Ronnie Aguilar is anointed by Father Jofin George on Easter vigil at St. Jude parish. (Photo by Tereza Ma)

in

communion

church

PEARL – At Easter Vigil, St. Jude parish welcomed new member of the parish Mary Farrar, Priscilla Rangel, Nelson Rangel, Omar Gonzales, Santigo Gonzales, Ariana Gonzales, America Leuvano and Eduardo Leuvano. (Photo by Tereza Ma)

CLARKSDALE – St. Elizabeth Catholic Church welcomed new members Katherine Willis and Shane Griffin who joined the church and St. Elizabeth parish at the Easter Vigil Saturday, April 8, 2023. (pictured with Father Raju Macherla) (Photo courtesy of parish)

JACKSON – Jackson Nikoli James Barney was baptised at Holy Ghost parish by Father Nick Nguyen, SVD, as his godmother Betty Longino, looks on. (Photo by Dorothy Ashley)

RIPLEY – Easter Vigil Celebration of Leigh Ann Giaroli and Donovan Grant were welcomed

full

with the

at the Easter Vigil celebration at St. Matthew parish. Also pictured are Skip Betts, Eduardo Padilla, Father Xavier Jesuraj, Sister Carol Ann Prenger, SSND, Sister Rose Mock, SSND and Anne Stroupe. (Photo courtesy of Madeleine Hale)

En ocasión del Centenario del Seminario San Agustín

Nota del editor: A continuación se encuentra la homilía que el obispo Joseph Kopacz pronunció con motivo del centenario del Seminario de San Agustín el sábado 24 de junio en la parroquia del Sagrado Corazón en Greenville.

Para no perderse la columna del obispo Kopacz y otras noticias católicas importantes, únase a nuestra lista de correo electrónico en Flocknote. ¡Envíe un mensaje de texto con MSCATHOLIC al 84576 o regístrese en jacksondiocese.flocknote.com!

PoR oBisPo JosePh R. KoPacz, d.d.

La Gran Comisión del Señor Jesús de hacer discípulos a todas las naciones, a través de la enseñanza y el bautismo, fue adoptada por el Santo Padre Arnoldo Jansen, fundador de la Sociedad del Verbo Divino (SVD) establecida el 8 de septiembre de 1875. Nosotros proclamamos la Gran Comisión en el Evangelio esta mañana y durante los últimos casi 148 años, la Sociedad del Verbo Divino ha levantado su tienda en aproximadamente 70 países, para aplicar la frase del Prólogo del Evangelio de San Juan sobre el Hijo de Dios, y ahora con un número de 6.000 sacerdotes y hermanos, es la orden religiosa más grande de la Iglesia Católica.

La Gran Comisión del Señor Jesús es la culminación de los cuatro Evangelios antes de ascender al cielo. Hoy la escuchamos de Mateo. Fácilmente podríamos haberla escuchado de Marcos, Lucas y Juan. “Id por todo el mundo y predicad el evangelio a toda

criaturas.” (Marcos 16:15) “Y he aquí, yo enviaré sobre vosotros la promesa de mi Padre…” (Lucas 24:49) “… como el Padre me ha enviado, así también yo os envío. Después de decir esto, sopló sobre ellos y les dijo*: Recibid el Espíritu Santo. A quienes perdonéis los pecados, estos les son[f] perdonados; a quienes retengáis los pecados, estos les son[g] retenidos.” (Juan 20:23)

San Padre Jansen vivió proféticamente bajo el lema de que “anunciar el Evangelio es el primer y más grande acto de caridad”. Proporcionó esta visión para la Sociedad del Verbo Divino en los siguientes extractos de sus escritos.

“El fin último de nuestra misión hoy es el mismo que ha sido desde los tiempos de nuestro fundador, ‘anunciar el Reino del amor de Dios’ como destino común de toda la humanidad y horizonte hacia el cual caminamos”.

“Es del diálogo interior amoroso del Dios uno y trino que surge esta misión, diálogo de amor y de perdón con toda la humanidad. No inventamos nuestra propia misión, es Missio Dei, somos llamados por el Padre, enviados por la Palabra y guiados por el Espíritu”.

Sería negligente pasar por alto el impacto de la vida familiar del Padre Janssen en su formación en la fe, vocación y visión final para la Sociedad del Verbo Divino. Gerhard y Anna Katharina Janssen, sus padres eran personas de gran fe y vivían la iglesia doméstica al más alto nivel.

El padre del Padre Arnold Janssen fue bendecido con ojos que veían y oídos que escuchaban la Palabra de Dios mientras la ponían en práctica. Tenía un gran amor por la Trinidad y por las Sagradas Escrituras, y con firmeza construyó una casa sobre roca para su hijo Arnold, el segundo de 10 hijos.

De los escritos de los miembros de la Sociedad del Verbo Divino, se nos dan cuatro carismas o características para su comunidad religiosa mundial. “Muchas órdenes y congregaciones religiosas tienen ciertas características o rasgos que las hacen conocidas. Somos reconocidos por las cuatro dimensiones carac-

terísticas: la Biblia; Animación Misionera; Justicia y Paz; e integridad de la creación”.

En parte, el compromiso con la justicia y la paz llevó a la Sociedad del Verbo Divino al Sur Profundo y a Mississippi a principios del siglo XX. Uno de sus logros singulares fue lanzar el seminario Sacred Heart en 1920, la primera escuela para candidatos afroamericanos al sacerdocio en los Estados Unidos.

Este fue un logro intrépido en el Delta de Mississippi en los alrededores de Jim Crow. De hecho, después de unos años se hizo evidente que el seminario tendría más posibilidades de sobrevivir y prosperar si los SVD lo trasladaban a Bay Saint Louis, donde había muchos más católicos y recursos. Comprenda que en ese momento la Diócesis de Jackson abarcaba todo Mississippi. En 1923 se produjo el cambio y el seminario pasó a llamarse San Agustín.

Estamos aquí hoy para reconocer que, aunque la celebración del 100 aniversario del seminario se celebrará a finales de este año, sus comienzos fueron en el Sagrado Corazón en estos terrenos. En ese momento, la Sociedad del Verbo Divino aún no había alcanzado la marca de medio siglo desde su fundación, lo que solo se suma a este notable esfuerzo por ir a todas las naciones.

Bendiciones a todos los que son parte de la Sociedad del Verbo Divino, y mucha gratitud por su continua presencia en la Diócesis de Jackson, ahora por más de 100 años. Concluyo con un sentido anhelo y una oración personal desde la espiritualidad personal de San Padre Arnoldo Janssens.

“Que las tinieblas del pecado y la noche de la incredulidad se desvanezcan ante la Luz de la Palabra y el Espíritu de la Gracia, y que el corazón de Jesús viva en el corazón de todos”.

Oh Dios, verdad eterna, creo en ti.

Oh Dios, fortaleza y salvación nuestra, en ti confío.

Oh Dios, bondad infinita, te amo con todo mi corazón.

Papa Francisco: declara 'venerable' a la madre Lange y a sor Lúcia, vidente de Fátima

CIUDAD DEL VATICANO (CNS) – Reconociendo que vivieron las virtudes cristianas de manera heroica, el Papa Francisco ha declarado venerables a la madre Mary Elizabeth Lange, fundadora de la primera orden católica de monjas afroamericanas, y a la hermana Lucía dos Santos, quien, con sus primos, dijo haber visto a María cuando era niña en Fátima, Portugal.

El Papa firmó los decretos de reconocimiento de sus virtudes heroicas el 22 de junio. Aún se necesita un milagro atribuido a su intercesión para que puedan ser beatificadas.

Venerable Madre Lange

Nacida en Cuba de padres haitianos, llegó a Estados Unidos hacia 1813, estableciéndose cerca de Baltimore, y vio cómo los hijos de otros inmigrantes necesitaban educación.

Una pintura representa a la Madre Mary Elizabeth Lange, quien fundó las Hermanas Oblatas de la Providencia en Baltimore, El Papa Francisco firmó un decreto el 22 de junio de 2023, declarándola "venerable". (Foto OSV News/cortesía de Catholic Review)

"Estaba decidida a responder a esa necesidad a pesar de ser una mujer negra en un estado esclavista mucho antes de la Proclamación de la Emancipación", según el sitio web oficial de su causa de santidad. "Utilizó su propio dinero y su casa para educar a niños de color". Con

el aliento y el apoyo de un sacerdote y del arzobispo James Whitfield de Baltimore, ella y otras tres mujeres hicieron promesas de pobreza, castidad y obediencia en 1829, fundando las Hermanas Oblatas de la Providencia, una orden que continúa en la actualidad.

La Venerable madre Lange murió en 1882.

Venerable Lucía dos Santos

La niña tenía solo 10 años cuando ella y sus dos primos más jóvenes les dijeron a sus amigos y familiares que habían visto a la Santísima Virgen María en Fátima en 1917.

María se apareció por primera vez a Lucía, a Francisco Marto, de 9 años, y a Jacinta Marto de 7 años, el 13 de mayo y las apariciones continuaron una vez al mes hasta octubre de 1917. La Iglesia Católica ha dictaminado que las apariciones y los mensajes de Nuestra Señora de Fátima eran dignos de fe. El 22 de junio, el Papa Francisco declaró "venerable" a Sor Lucía, con un decreto que reconoce las virtudes heroicas de la vidente de Fátima. El Papa Benedicto XVI canonizó a Francisco y Jacinta.

La Venerable Sor Lucía murió el 13 de febrero de 2005 a la edad de 97 años y difundió el mensaje de Fátima a lo largo de su larga vida.

La hermana carmelita Lucía dos Santos se ve en esta foto de archivo del 16 de mayo de 2000. La hermana Lucía, fue declarada "venerable" el 22 de junio por el Papa Francisco. (Foto OSV News/cortesía del Santuario de Fátima)

Alrededor de la Diócesis

CORINTH – Con el tema "Cristo Vive" se celebró el pasado abril la Pascua Juvenil en la parroquia de St. James the Less. Las fotos están compartidas en nuestra página de Facebook @Diócesis Católica de Jackson. (Foto de Luis Rosales)

TOME NOTA

Vírgenes y Santos

La Transfiguración del Señor. Agosto 6

Asunción de la Virgen María. Agosto 15

Santa Rosa de Lima, Virgen. Agosto 30

Envíenos sus fotos a editor@jacksondiocese.org

Síganos en Facebook

@Diócesis Católica de Jackson

Visite Nuestra página web www.mississippicatholic.com Español

CARTHAGE – (arriba) Madres con sus hijos bautizados posan para la cámara de familiares y amigos, despues de Misa de Bautismo celebrada por el Padre Marco Antonio Sánchez, ST (al centro de la foto) en la iglesia de Santa Ana. (izq.) Niños que atienden a las clases de catequesis de la parroqui de Santa Ana, dedican un momento para rezar frente a la imagen de la patrona del lugar. (Fotos cortesía del Padre Marco Antonio Sánchez, ST)

KOSCIUSKO – Primera reunión del proceso de Reimaginación Pastoral en la parroquia Santa Teresa donde los feligreses debatieron diferentes ideas y opiniones después de ver un video introductorio del obispo Joseph Kopacz. (Foto cortesía del Padre Marco Antonio Sánchez, ST)

CORINTH – Los Confirmantes se reunen con el obispo Joseph Kopacz para compartir un pastel , despues de la Misa de Confirmación el 9 de junio. En la foto (i-d) Gael Rodriguez, Robert Valdez, Baker Hall, Giovanny Ayala, Brando Loredo, Alexis Solis, Father Mario Solórzano, Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Amado Robles, Anthony León (Booneville), Liliana del Ángel, Sandy Rosales, Ingrid Jaime y Faviola Leon (Booneville). (Foto de Luis Rosales)

Abuse allegations down, but challenges remain, say US bishops in report

BY GINA CHRISTIAN

(OSV News) – Abuse allegations against Catholic clergy and religious in the U.S. declined last year, but challenges remain regarding protecting vulnerable adults and ensuring online safety, according to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

On July 14, the USCCB’s Secretariat of Child and Youth Protection released the “2022 Annual Report –Findings and Recommendations on the Implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.”

USCCB President Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of Military Services said in his preface the report was “a milestone accounting of the continued e orts in the ministry of protection, healing, and accompaniment.”

The document – covering the period July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022 – consists of a progress report from the secretariat; an audit report conducted by the Rochester, New York-based consultants StoneBridge Business Partners; and a survey of abuse allegations and costs by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) at Georgetown University.

Now in its 12th year of performing the audit, StoneBridge visited 62 dioceses and eparchies, 48 in person and 14 virtually.

The report itself is the 20th of its kind since 2002, when the U.S. bishops established the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” as a number of clerical abuse scandals emerged.

Commonly called the “Dallas Charter” for the city in which the bishops met at the time of its ratification, the document lays out a comprehensive set of procedures for addressing allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy. The charter also includes guidelines for reconciliation, healing, accountability and prevention of abuse.

During the 2022 report period, 1,998 individuals came forward with 2,704 allegations of abuse, with claims down 399 from 2021 and 1,548 from 2020. The decrease was largely due to resolutions of allegations received through lawsuits, compensation programs and bankruptcies. Most allegations (83%) were initially brought to diocesan o cials by an attorney.

Sixteen reports during the period involved current minors, with all other allegations made by adults citing abuse as minors.

The CARA portion of the report said that 194 responding dioceses and eparchies had judged 245 allegations of sexual abuse of a minor by a priest or deacon to be credible. Of those, 20 allegations involved children who were under the age of 18.

CARA also calculated that total costs incurred by dioceses and eparchies due to allegations were down 19% from the previous year, totaling over $157 million. (Costs for men’s religious communities, by contrast, rose 53%, approaching $45 million.)

The secretariat said in its assessment “the yearover-year trends are encouraging as the number of current minor allegations in the U.S. remains low.”

Many dioceses and eparchies “have taken certain measures that go beyond the specific requirements of the charter,” StoneBridge noted in its report.

Among the measures cited were recurring adult training, parish audits and background check renewals (which are not currently required by the charter).

However, StoneBridge found that more than 30% of diocese and eparchies it had visited during the report period struggled with “some dysfunction” in their review boards, including “lack of meetings, inadequate composition or membership, not following the by-laws of the board, members not confident in their duties (and) lack of rotation of members.”

Auditors pointed out an unevenness in the charter’s overall application, with “196 di erent implementations” of the document resulting from the various policies of dioceses and eparchies.

Another concern centers on the protection of “vulnerable adults,” a definition for which is not contained in the charter, said auditors.

A year after the charter’s most recent revision in 2018, Pope Francis issued the motu proprio “Vox Estis Lux Mundi” (“You are the light of the world”), outlining global legal procedures for how the church should deal with clergy sexual abuse, including procedures for investigating bishops.

The document, implemented for a three-year experimental period beginning June 1, 2019, included the term “vulnerable person,” defined as “any person in a state of infirmity, physical or mental deficiency, or deprivation of personal liberty which, in fact, even occasionally, limits their ability to understand or to want or otherwise resist the o ense.”

On March 25, Pope Francis published an updated version with the specific term “vulnerable adults,” without altering the previous definition. The revised text also was broadened to include investigations of leaders of Vatican-recognized international Catholic lay associations and movements.

Yet Suzanne Healy, chairwomen of the lay-led USCCB National Review Board, highlighted findings by StoneBridge in her remarks in this report, saying that while the charter addresses clerical abuse of children, “there is confusion in reporting matters pertaining to “Vos Estis Lux Mundi” and canon law regarding penal sanctions.

The board “recommends the pursuit of a separate auditable resource with specific guidelines for these adult and lay matters of abuse,” she wrote.

The audit results represent 194 of the 196 dioceses and eparchies in the U.S., with the report listing the Chaldean Eparchy of St. Peter the Apostle and St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy as not participating.

Father Richard Janowicz, vicar general and safe environment coordinator for the Chicago-based St. Nicholas Eparchy, said in an email to OSV News he was “quite surprised” to learn the eparchy had been listed as such, since it had been audited by StoneBridge on April 17 of this year, and confirmed in a June 21 letter that the eparchy had remediated its initial lack of a children’s safe environment training program. It remains unclear as to why the eparchy was listed in the report as “not participating,” and OSV News has reached out to the USCCB for clarification.

Father Simon Esshaki, secretary to Bishop Emanuel Shaleta of the St. Peter Eparchy in El Cajon, California, said in an email to OSV News that the

eparchy “did in fact have a full ‘Protecting God’s Children’ program for 2022,” but “unfortunately for some reason the statistics were not shared with the USCCB.”

The dioceses of Birmingham, Alabama, Lubbock, Texas, and St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands were each found noncompliant regarding Article 2 of the Dallas Charter, which in part specifies a required review board, comprised of mostly laypeople not employed by the diocese, that meets regularly and serves as a consultative body to the bishop. Each diocese subsequently corrected the deficiency.

For the Birmingham Diocese, the problem was one of timing, Donald Carson, director of communications and public relations, told OSV News.

Two resignations due to health concerns and the transfer of a religious sister left three vacancies on that review board during the audit period. The seats “have since all been filled, bringing the number of representatives not employed by the diocese back in compliance with the requirements of the charter,” he said in an email to OSV News.

In the Lubbock Diocese, COVID was at its height during the reporting period and had “stopped many areas of our work,” Lucas Flores, communications director, told OSV News in an email, adding that the diocese had resumed review board meetings.

OSV News was awaiting a response from the Diocese of St. Thomas.

(Gina Christian is a national reporter for OSV News. Follow her on Twitter at @GinaJesseReina.)

Protection of CHILDREN

The Diocese of Jackson is committed to ensuring that no one being served by the church be (is) at risk of sexual abuse or exploitation by clergy, religious or lay church personnel. The spiritual well-being of all the victims, their families and others in the community is of particular concern to the church. In accordance with our policy, all victims are o ered counseling and pastoral care.

Anyone who has been a victim of abuse or exploitation by clergy, religious or lay church personnel and has not yet reported it is encouraged to do so. Our victim assistance coordinator, Erika Rojas, a licensed social worker, is available to assist in making a report. Please contact her at (601) 326-3736.

For more information about diocesan policies and procedures and to learn what the diocese is doing to create a safe environment for everyone, please visit the diocesan website at www.jacksondiocese.org and click on “Protection of Children.”

To report an allegation of abuse or mishandling of allegations of sexual abuse by a bishop, please visit https://reportbishopabuse.org.

+Joseph R. Kopacz D.D., Ph.D. Bishop of Jackson

Please, give generously! august 5 & 6, 2023

Bishop Van de Velde transfers from Chicago to warmer climate

FROM THE ARCHIVES

By Mary WoodWard

JACKSON – In our last column, we ended with James Oliver Van de Velde, SJ, having been appointed the second bishop of Chicago in December 1848 and being ordained on Feb. 11, 1849.

According to “Cradle Days” (Bishop Gerow’s book), Bishop Van de Velde went about his ministry “with the utmost zeal.” He committed himself to the spiritual growth of his diocese and flock by visiting all the regions of his territory, expending great amounts of energy to the care of souls.

His health, however, was not cooperating. Bishop Van de Velde, suffered from rheumatism and the Chicago climate did not lend comfort to such an ailment. Soon he petitioned Rome to be allowed to resign and return to his brother Jesuits in Missouri. The Holy See’s answer was “carry on with patience…”

An opportunity for relief arose for Bishop Van de Velde when in 1852 at the First Plenary Council of Baltimore, he was elected to carry all the decrees from the council to the Vatican. While there in Rome, he again petitioned Pius IX to be relieved of Chicago. In the midst of this Bishop John Joseph Chanche, SS, of Natchez died during a post plenary council visit with his family outside Baltimore. This left a more temperate climate vacant and in need of a bishop.

On July 29, 1853, Pius issued a decree transferring Van de Velde to Natchez and its warmth to be its second bishop. Van de Velde spent several more months in Chicago arranging various matters in order before leaving for his new flock. He documents his circuitous journey to Natchez in a letter dated Nov. 7, 1853, to

Monsignor Mathurin Grignon, who had served as Vicar General under Bishop Chanche. The original is in French and was mailed from St. Louis where Van de Velde had arrived to visit his Jesuit confreres. Here is Bishop Gerow’s translation:

“Mons. Grignon, My very dear “Abbé”:

Although I have not the pleasure of knowing you personally, I hasten to announce to you that I have arrived here [St. Louis] on my way to Natchez. Before I leave this town, I will visit St. Charles, St. Stanislaus & Florissant in Missouri and Quincy, the new See, where I have many things to arrange.

“I have promised to give the veil Sunday, feast of the amiable St. Stanislaus of our Company, to a young convert, one of my parishioners who is now a postulant of the Sacred Heart Convent in that town.

“I will start then Monday or Tuesday of next week for New Orleans; maybe ‘en passant’ will stop in Natchez. I will have with me a French priest who was one of my clergy for three years in the Diocese of Chicago, and a very good and pious old maid of Chicago who according to the advice of doctors is going to a warmer climate on account of her health. Maybe she could be our housekeeper.

“It is probable that when I will pass by Natchez I will leave them there, and in that case, I will recommend them particularly – the priest could assist you at the Cathedral and the old maid could stay with the Sisters of Charity until I come back.

“I will write again from this boat. In the meantime, I recommend myself to your good prayers…Yours very sincerely, My dear ‘Abbé’, Yours very devoted in Christ, Jacques Oliver, Bishop of Natchez.”

Initially, the bishop arrived in Natchez on Nov. 23,

where he was received with a great welcome by the clergy and people of the diocese. He dropped off his traveling companions and proceeded to New Orleans to assist at the consecration of the new Bishop of Natchitoches, Auguste Marie Martin.

After this celebration, Bishop Van de Velde journeyed to Mobile to make a retreat at Spring Hill College. Finally, on Dec. 18, 1853, he took possession of his new diocese.

In August, we will look at Bishop Van de Velde’s short tenure as bishop and the tasks he accomplished as the Second Bishop of the Diocese.

(Mary Woodward is Chancellor and Archivist for the Diocese of Jackson.)

NATCHEZ – Photo of the rectory at the (now) Basilica of St. Mary in June of 1941. (Photos courtesy of archives)

Pictured is a 1845 Roman Pontifical belonging to Bishop Van de Velde, the second bishop of the diocese.

Envelope corner and stamp from Bishop Van de Velde’s letter to Msgr. Grignon from Nov. 7. 1853.

Eugene Boonie, a member of the Navajo Nation, fills up his water tank at the livestock water spigot in the Bodaway Chapter of the Navajo Nation, in Blue Gap, Ariz., Sept. 17, 2020. After a 5-4 Supreme Court decision struck a blow to the Navajo Nation’s request for federal assistance in securing water for the reservation June 22, 2023, Catholics who minister among Native Americans shared their thoughts on the historic water crisis facing the Southwest U.S. and the Indigenous populations who live there. (OSV News photo/Stephanie Keith, Reuters)

NATION

MELVILLE, La. (OSV News) – Father Stephen Ugwu, the pastor of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Melville, Louisiana, is stable and recovering following a July 13 attack with a machete. The priest is at a hospital being treated for lacerations to his head and body. According to local media reports, a man wielding a machete attacked the priest at the church’s campus after Father Ugwu declined the man’s request, leaving Father Ugwu with cuts on his head and body. Melville police arrested the attacker and assisted Father Ugwu, a priest from Nigeria serving the Diocese of Lafayette. The suspect, identified as Johnny Dwayne Neely, 58, of Palmetto, is in custody, according to St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office. He faces charges of attempted second-degree murder, hate crimes and home invasion and a bench warrant. Based on words used by the suspect, Melville Police Chief Phillip Lucas told local media that he believed the attack was racially motivated. Blue Rolfes, diocesan director of communications, told OSV News July 15 that Father Ugwu’s condition was improving. He has some “serious wounds,” she said, but he is receiving the care he needs, and doctors are optimistic about his recovery. “He feels blessed to be alive and that his God protected him during his time of need,” Rolfes said.

ST. MICHAELS, Ariz. (OSV News) – After a 5-4 Supreme Court decision struck a blow to the Navajo Nation’s request for federal assistance in securing water for the reservation June 22, Catholics who minister among Native Americans shared their thoughts on the historic water crisis facing the Southwest U.S. and the Indigenous populations who live there. “People line up at a community well and fill up their water containers to take out to their homesteads to be able to have water for their families for the week, sometimes for days. If it’s an older couple, it might last a little longer,” said Dot Teso, president of St. Michael Indian School in St. Michaels, Arizona – which was founded by St. Katharine Drexel in 1902. “You can imagine if you were going on a camping trip and you’re thinking about water for the trip – these people have to think of this every day.”

Arizona v. Navajo Nation came before the Supreme Court when the Navajo Nation asked for the courts to require the federal government to identify the former’s water rights and needs and provide a way to meet those needs. Seeking to protect their own interest in access to the Colorado River, the states of Arizona, Colorado and Nevada intervened in the suit. While the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona dismissed the

Navajos’ complaint, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the decision in their favor. Navajo Nation Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley in a statement the ruling “will not deter the Navajo Nation from securing the water that our ancestors sacrificed and fought for – our right to life and the livelihood of future generations.”

ST. PAUL, Minn. (OSV News) – An annual procession to Father Augustus Tolton’s gravesite in Illinois will be joined next year by pilgrims walking the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage en route to Indianapolis, the Diocese of Springfield’s worship director announced July 9. Father Daren Zehnle shared the news with more than 200 pilgrims who participated in this year’s procession from a parish in Quincy, Illinois, with ties to Father Tolton, to his gravesite almost a mile away. Father Tolton (1854-1897) is the first identifiable Black priest in the United States, and he was renowned not only for his holiness and preaching, but also for the considerable adversity he faced as a Black priest in the late 1800s. Pope Francis declared him “venerable” in 2019. Will Peterson, founder and president of Modern Catholic Pilgrim, the Minnesota-based nonprofit organizing the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, said Father Tolton is the first of six Black American Catholics on the path to canonization officially to be linked geographically to the national pilgrimage. He hopes others will be as well, as the national pilgrimage’s four routes will pass through cities where several of these “Saintly Six” lived and ministered, as pilgrims make their way to Indianapolis for the National Eucharistic Congress in July 2024.

VATICAN

ROME (OSV News) – Venerable Lucia was only 10 years old when she and her two cousins told their friends and family that they had seen the Blessed Virgin Mary at Fatima in 1917. Mary first appeared to Lucia, 9-year-old Francisco Marto and 7-year-old Jacinta Marto May 13, and the apparitions continued once a month until October 1917. The church has ruled that the apparitions and the messages from Our Lady of Fatima were worthy of belief. On June 22, Pope Francis declared Sister Lucia “venerable,” with a decree recognizing the Fatima visionary’s heroic virtues.

Pope Benedict XVI waived the standard waiting period for Sister Lucia’s cause, opening it in 2008. The Diocese of Coimbra, Portugal, completed its investigation and forwarded documentation to the Holy See’s Congregation (since renamed Dicastery) for the Causes of

Saints in 2017, the apparitions’ centennial year.

WORLD

KYIV, Ukraine (OSV News) – With Russia’s war on Ukraine now approaching its 10th year – and the fullscale invasion surpassing the 500-day mark – OSV News traveled to Kyiv to meet with Bishop Vitalii Kryvytskyi of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kyiv-Zhytomyr, who shared his reflections on the war’s spiritual impact. Air raid sirens, soldiers’ funerals and endless work hours have become routine as Ukraine carries on with daily life while fighting a war for global values and security, said the bishop. Grief and confusion can break “even people really close to God,” he admitted. At the same time, “war takes off all the masks” and ultimately, the persecution inflicted by Russia against Ukrainian faithful mysteriously “crystallizes faith and faithfulness to the Gospel,” said Bishop Kryvytskyi, adding that he has learned to simply be present to those in the depths of wartime suffering. “People sometimes expect priests to have answers to all the questions,” he said. “And now we understand that our greater task is to be with our flock, even if we do not have answers for the questions, even in our hearts.”

MANAGUA, Nicaragua (OSV News) – A group of Brazilian missionaries announced July 3 they have left their post in Nicaragua, becoming the latest community of women religious to leave the country, where some Catholics are facing increasing persecution by the government of President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo. The Sisters Poor of Jesus Christ posted their statement on Facebook, announcing the community’s departure from Nicaragua and its arrival in El Salvador, along with photos showing sisters getting off a bus carrying a crucifix. “We want through this statement to express our gratitude for the seven years of mission in the lands of Nicaragua, we appreciate the welcome of the church and its people during that time in which our charism remained in the country serving the poor in their multiple facets,” said the statement posted in Spanish and Portuguese on the Fraternidade O Caminho page. The sisters’ announcement, reported by Global Sisters Report, came just ahead of Reuters reporting July 5 that Bishop Rolando Álvarez of Matagalpa, Nicaragua – sentenced in February to 26 years after being accused of treason – had been released from prison late July 4. But Auxiliary Bishop Silvio José Baez of Managua, Nicaragua, who has been living in exile in Miami for some time, tweeted July 5 that he has received no information about Bishop Álvarez’s reported release. In news reports, Cardinal Leopoldo José Brenes of Managua denied July 5 that the bishop had been freed.

The Diocese of Jackson has launched a third-party reporting system that will enable all diocesan employees, volunteers and parishioners to anonymously (or named if preferred) make reports. Examples of this activity include fraud, misconduct, safety violations, harassment or substance abuse occurring at a Catholic parish, Catholic school or at the diocesan level. The system is operated by Lighthouse Services. Based in Deerfield, Illinois, Lighthouse Services maintains ethics, safety and fraud hotlines for over 4,100 organizations between the U.S. and abroad.

To make a report visit www.lighthouse-services.com/ jacksondiocese or call 888-830-0004 (English) or 800-2161288 (Spanish).

The Association of Priests of the Dioceses of Jackson and Biloxi provide a small pension to our retired priests. As you consider your estate plans, please remember these faithful servants by making a donation or leaving a bequest to 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

Mother Lange, who is now ‘venerable,’ is nation’s ‘greatest model for evangelization,’ says deacon

By Gerry Jackson

BALTIMORE (OSV News) – When Deacon B. Curtis Turner received word that Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange had moved a step closer to sainthood June 22, he hoped to be the first to celebrate the good news with a visit to her room at St. Frances Academy.

He was delighted to see several of his students at the East Baltimore school had beaten him to it. A handful had already gathered to pray and celebrate at the site where the nun whom Pope Francis declared “venerable” resided, prayed and died.

“We couldn’t be more excited,” said Deacon Turner, the head of school at the academy Mother Lange co-founded in 1828. “Everything we do here is guided by her. It was heartwarming to see kids in her room talking about her cause.”

Sister Marcia Hall, vocations director for the Oblate Sisters of Providence, said it was somewhere between a celebration and business as usual at the motherhouse in Halethorpe, near Baltimore, since the sisters didn’t get official word until the afternoon of June 22.

“We’re very grateful and very excited,” Sister Marcia said. “We’re just going to continue to pray until she reaches sainthood, and we encourage everyone else to pray with us.”

Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Baltimore rejoiced at the prospects of one of their own moving closer to sainthood. Mother Lange, also the founder of the Baltimore-based Oblate Sisters of Providence, was declared venerable when Pope France signed a decree recognizing her as having “lived the Christian virtues in a heroic way.”

A miracle attributed to her intercession is still necessary before she can be beatified. Another miracle would be needed for her canonization.

The Archdiocese of Baltimore and the Oblate Sisters have championed the cause for the sainthood of the founder of the first Catholic order of African American nuns.

Archbishop William E. Lori said he was overjoyed by the news and noted that Baltimore still draws on Mother Lange’s grace.

“I am delighted that the Holy See has officially recognized the heroic virtues of Mother Mary Lange, for her virtues and example still enliven and grace this local Church,” Archbishop Lori said in a June 22 statement. “I am especially happy for the Oblates of Providence who have been praying and working fervently for the canonization of their beloved founder. Today’s news marks an important step forward in the path towards her beatification. Let us continue to pray for her cause and ask her intercession for our needs.”

In February, when the Vatican accepted the theological and historical record of Mother Lange, Archbishop Lori noted: “With each step forward, more people learn about the life and legacy of our beloved Mother Lange. She unlocked educational opportunities for children in Baltimore and beyond during her lifetime – and that impact continues today. The Oblate Sisters have worked very hard to help bring about this key development. Along with so many others, we are delighted.”

St. Frances Academy’s Deacon Turner, a deacon of the Archdiocese of Washington, called Mother Lange the greatest model for evangelization the nation has.

“She teaches us to love the church even when the church doesn’t seem like it loves us back,” Deacon Turner told the Catholic Review, Baltimore’s archdiocesan news outlet. “She is the ultimate model for us to learn about forgiveness.”

Adrienne Curry, director of the Archdiocese of Baltimore Office of Black Catholic Ministries, said it’s “an exciting time” for Baltimore.

“I am absolutely thrilled,” said Curry. “We are very excited that she is one step closer. It’s very moving. We

A painting depicts Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange, who founded the Oblate Sisters of Providence in Baltimore, the world’s first sustained women’s religious community for Black women. Pope Francis signed a decree June 22, 2023, recognizing the heroic virtues of Mother Lange and declaring her “venerable.” (OSV News photo/courtesy Catholic Review)

need people to pray for her cause,”

She noted that four African Americans up for sainthood now have been declared venerable – Mother Lange, Mother Henrietta Delille, Father August Tolton and Pierre Toussaint. (Two other African Americans with canonization causes are Sister Thea Bowman and Julia Greeley.)

Auxiliary Bishop Bruce A. Lewandowski, urban vicar, is glad to see the Lange cause advancing as well.

“Patience in God’s providence pays off,” Bishop Lewandowski said. “This is wonderful news for so many who are praying and working for Mother Lange’s canonization. God is so good!”

Mother Lange helped establish in 1829 the Baltimore-based Oblate Sisters of Providence, the first religious order for women of color. Mother Lange, who also established the first Catholic school for children of color in the United States, was born in Cuba in 1784 and lived in Haiti before coming to Baltimore as a French-speaking immigrant in 1813.

She died Feb. 3, 1882, in Baltimore at St. Frances Academy.

The late Cardinal William H. Keeler began the canonization process for Mother Lange nearly three decades ago while he was archbishop of Baltimore when he submitted a report to the Vatican. Dr. Camille Brown Privette, president of the Mother Mary Lange Guild, wrote a six-page historical document about the history of African Americans from slavery through Reconstruction, Civil Rights Act and other changes that Cardinal Keeler submitted, along with other materials, to what was then called the the Congregation for Saints Causes at the Vatican.

“She was determined to respond to that need in spite of being a Black woman in a slave state long before the Emancipation Proclamation,” according to the official website of her sainthood cause. “She used her own money and home to educate children of color.”

With the encouragement and support of a priest and Archbishop James Whitfield of Baltimore, she and

three other women made promises of poverty, chastity and obedience in 1829, founding the Oblate Sisters of Providence, an order that continues today.

The pope also recognized Sister Lucia dos Santos, who as a child reported seeing Mary with her cousins in Fatima, Portugal.

At the same meeting with Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, Pope Francis also recognized the martyrdom of Father Manuel González-Serna Rodríguez and 19 other diocesan priests, laymen and laywomen killed in 1939 during the Spanish Civil War. The recognition of martyrdom clears the way for their beatification without a miracle.

The other notable decree of heroic virtues involved a religious sister who died much more recently. Sister Lucia dos Santos died in Coimbra, Portugal, in 2005 at the age of 97. Pope Francis canonized her cousins, Francisco Marto and Jacinta Marto, in 2017.

(Gerry Jackson is on the staff of the Catholic Review, news outlet of the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Catholic News Service Rome contributed to this story.

NOTES: To read more about Mother Mary Lange’s cause for sainthood, visit https://catholicreview.org/ mother-lange-cause-for-canonization-seeks-prayers and https://catholicreview.org/oblate-sisters-celebrate-10th-anniversary-of-transfer-of-mother-langes-remains. More about Mother Lange, her life and ministry, and her sainthood cause can be found at the website of the Mother Lange Guild, visit https://www.motherlange.org)

Happy Ordination Anniversary

July 16

Deacon Mark Bowden

St. Jude, Pearl

Deacon Dien Hoang

Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Jackson

Deacon Wesley Lindsay

Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Jackson

Deacon John Pham

St. Michael, Forest

Deacon David Rouch

St. Michael, Vicksburg

Deacon Tony Schmidt

St. Paul, Flowood

August 5

Msgr. Elvin Sunds

Retired

August 14

Fr. Anthony Claret Chukwuma Onyeocha

St. Joseph, Woodville & Holy Family Mission, Gloster

August 16

Fr. Joe Dyer

Retired

Thank you for answering the call!

The call of home

REFLECTIONS ON LIFE

By Melvin Arrington

This time of year families travel to vacation destinations, hoping to occupy their days away from work and school with plenty of fun-filled activities and relaxation. While away, they seek distraction in various forms of entertainment, especially novelty, something unavailable in the locale where they reside. At vacation’s end, many of them, if they are honest with themselves, are actually eager to return to the familiar surroundings of that special place they call home. Whenever I’ve been away for an extended period, I too have been happy and excited when the time came to leave and go back to my family.

Home holds precious memories and evokes a powerful sense of place and of belonging. Everyone sooner or later hears and responds to its irresistible call. Every year at homecoming alumni return to college campuses to renew old friendships and show support for their alma mater. And during the holidays, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, family members inevitably converge on their parents’ or grandparents’ house, as if drawn there by a magnet.

We all have a location of one sort or another we can go back to. It may be our birthplace or where we were raised. It may be where we have lived the longest or even where we currently reside. In any case, it’s that specific spot to which we feel deeply connected, the place we love that grounds us and sustains us. It’s where we feel at ease – comfortable, safe and loved. It’s our center, a geographical area we might even refer to as God’s country. As the saying goes, home is where the heart is. Perhaps this is why so many people desire to return to the land of their birth to be buried.

Born and raised in Jackson, I called the Capitol City home for most of my early life. After graduating

FOR THE JOURNEY

By effie CAldArolA

from college, I moved away and lived for about ten years in several other states before returning to Mississippi and settling in Oxford, where I have resided for the last 40 years. Mississippi is where I’ve spent most of my life and career. It’s where my wife, children and grandchildren live. It’s home, a term that surely must be on the short list of the most beautiful words in our language.

When I fill out forms that ask for my permanent address, I write the location of the house my wife and I live in. But my domicile is not really permanent in the strict sense of the word because this world and everything in it is transitory; it’s slowly but surely passing away. However, one thing will not pass away, and that’s the church.

As members of the Mystical Body of Christ we can all say that our real home in this world is the church. When we’re in God’s house praying along with our brothers and sisters in Christ, uniting our worship with that of the saints in heaven, and receiving communion – the Precious Body and Blood of Our Lord –it’s heaven on earth!

But we can take it a step further because our ultimate dwelling place is the one our Blessed Lord has prepared for us. We believe this because of His promise: “In my Father’s house there are many mansions ... I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I am coming again, and I will take you to myself; that where I am, there you also may be.” (John 14:2-3) No one knows what it will be like, but it will surely be more beautiful and wonderful than anything we can imagine: “Eye has not seen nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man, what things God has prepared for those who love him.” (I Corinthians 2:9)

So, what does this strong impulse to return to one’s

point of origin mean? Is it part of a ritual of self-discovery and a search for the meaning of life? Does it signify an archetypal journey back to the source – to God, our Creator and the source of our being? Is it a longing for heaven? Whatever the case may be, in the meantime we remain here in a world dominated by the philosophies of materialism, hedonism, relativism and all the other “isms” that run counter to the Kingdom of Heaven. As C. S. Lewis noted in Mere Christianity, “we are living in ... enemy-occupied territory – that is what this world is.” But then he goes on to say “I must keep alive in myself the desire for my true country, which I shall not find till after death ... I must make it the main object of life to press on to that other country and to help others to do the same.”

As I get older, I find myself thinking more and more about my ultimate destination. Maybe it will be like Lewis’ beautiful description of Aslan’s country at the conclusion of The Last Battle, the seventh and final volume of The Chronicles of Narnia. Near the end of the book, one of the characters, upon arriving there, remarks: “I have come home at last! This is my real country! I belong here. This is the land I have been looking for all my life, though I never knew it till now.”

I love these lines because they perfectly summarize the way I felt when I was received into the Catholic Church. That day, after many years of searching and seeking, I finally reached the end of my journey to the one, holy, catholic and apostolic church established by Jesus Christ. I found the fulfillment of my deepest longings and rest for my restless heart. It was like coming home. And as Dorothy says in The Wizard of Oz, “There’s no place like home.”

(Melvin Arrington is a Professor Emeritus of Modern Languages for the University of Mississippi and a member of St. John Oxford.)

As my mom grew older, she became less mobile. When we’d visit the mall she wouldn’t walk to the parking lot; we’d find a secure bench outside a store, and she would wait there for us to bring the car around.

Often, when we’d drive up, Mom would be engaged in conversation with someone, sometimes another elderly person sharing the bench. Mom would tell us what she’d learned of that person’s life, and we’d chuckle about her uncanny ability to extract information from strangers – and cringe a little to imagine what she might have shared about us.

Most of us have seen that television commercial where an insurance company, tongue in cheek, explains how new homeowners shouldn’t become their parents. Funny, yes, but I detect a whiff of ageism as the millennials need help not becoming the kind of people – like their boomer parents – who chat up someone in an elevator or attempt to help some stranger find a product on the store shelf.

Admittedly, the ad is a little exaggerated, but is friendliness such a bad thing?

When I visited my daughter on the East Coast, I would often travel along a busy river walk near her home. It was striking to me how no one spoke. Everyone looked determinedly straight ahead. I thought perhaps I’d been a native Midwestern and an Alaskan for too long.

Then, I moved to a small eastern town. Everyone walks here and, almost to a person, everyone says hello. I’ve had 15-minute conversations with strangers who stop to chat. A person I’d never met introduced herself and gave me a treat to feed her little dog. A nanny stopped with her stroller and pointed to a house where she noticed Amazon packages had sat for several days. Should we call in a wellness check? A young man stopped to converse about a house for sale on my block.

What was going on here? In this town, an historic town with lots of big old houses, the population seems racially homogeneous, fairly prosperous and similar in many ways. Does this make people feel safer and more open? The river walk, on the other hand, was a much more diverse mix, from different neighborhoods. And in all fairness, those on the river walk were perhaps more focused on exercise than the neighborhood walkers.

Still, what are the barriers to our friendliness?

I thought about this at Sunday’s greeting of peace at Mass. Still in no-touch COVID mode, people turn, give a little wave and mouth the word “peace.” I smile, but despite our split-second attention to each other, I know that when I leave Mass I won’t know those folks any better.

Coffee and donuts, anyone?

I assure you, I’m not the person who starts a conversation on an airplane. I say hello and pull out my book. I do not chat people up on elevators.

But neither do I want to create a shield to protect me from others. I want to be aware of the person who needs help, who appears ill, or who just needs a friendly smile. I don’t want to fear diversity, or become that person who mutters, “I don’t want to get involved.”

Despite the fact that in our country, people have been shot for turning up the wrong driveway, or for being a Black person shopping for groceries, I want to be with those who notice and care about each other, and act with friendliness. I think this is part of our faith commitment, our seeing Christ in each person we encounter.

Perhaps I am becoming my mother, after all. And you know what? That’s a good thing.

(Effie Caldarola is a wife, mom and grandmother who received her master’s degree in pastoral ministry from Seattle University.)

‘Becoming our parents’ isn’t necessarily a bad thing

St. Augustine Seminary celebrates 100th anniversary, honoring legacy of justice and mission

By Joanna PuddistEr king

GREENVILLE – The Catholic community of Sacred Heart in Greenville, came together on Saturday, June 24 to celebrate the momentous occasion of the 100th anniversary of St. Augustine Seminary. The special Mass, presided over by Bishop Joseph Kopacz, was attended by Society of the Divine Word (SVD) priests from around the diocese and beyond, who joined in commemorating the seminary’s rich history and remarkable contributions.

The origins of St. Augustine Seminary can be traced back to the early 20th century when the Society of the Divine Word, known for their commitment to justice and peace, ventured into the Deep South. Despite the challenging backdrop of the Jim Crow era, the SVD priests saw an opportunity to promote equality and progress by establishing Sacred Heart seminary in 1920. This groundbreaking initiative marked the creation of the first school for African American candidates for the priesthood in the United States.

Recognizing the need for greater resources and a more conducive environment, the SVD made the decision to relocate the seminary to Bay St. Louis in 1923, within the boundaries of the Diocese of Jackson (nee Natchez), where a larger Catholic community and increased support were available. With this move, the seminary was renamed St. Augustine, an homage to the great theologian and philosopher.

During the commemorative Mass, Bishop Kopacz acknowledged the significance of the SVD’s mission and the impact of their work, remarking on their steadfast commitment to the Great Commission of the Lord Jesus – to make disciples of all the nations.

Bishop Kopacz also shed light on the profound influence of Father Arnold Jansen, the founder of the Society of the Divine Word, and his unwavering dedication to the Gospel. Father Jansen’s vision for the SVD was rooted in the belief that announcing the Gospel was the “greatest act of charity,” said Bishop Kopacz.

“Blessings to all who are part of the Society of the Divine Word, and much gratitude for your continuing presence in the Diocese of Jackson, now for well over 100 years.”

The 100th anniversary celebration of St. Augustine Seminary, scheduled for later this year, promises to be a significant milestone in the history of the seminary and a testament to the ongoing legacy of justice and mission embraced by the Society of the Divine Word.

Pregnancy center receives support from Council #8848 Knights for new ultrasound machine

FAITH IN ACTION

By JacoB Eftink

TUPELO – For many years Knights of Columbus council #8848 has supported the local crisis pregnancy center, Parkgate Pregnancy Center. Parkgate offers high quality, confidential services. The center has an outstanding, dedicated staff including supportive counselors and a sonographer to guide their clients along the way. All services are free of charge made possible by generous community members, including the

Knights of Columbus.

Services include pregnancy tests, ultrasound sonography, and counseling. Parkgate also provides the Empower program, a relevant, real-life class for students in grades 7-12 teaching healthy decision making, sexual risk avoidance and more. Other services include parenting for first time parents; mentor programs to support new parents. Parkgate also connects clients with other resources in the community.

The unique location of the pregnancy center provides visibility to potential clients in an underserved community. The nearest abortion clinic is in Memphis about 100 miles away. There are two major universities and a U.S. Air Force base within 60 miles of the center.

Parkgate’s needed to replace their aging, leased ultrasound machine and the Supreme Knights of Columbus Ultrasound Program was a natural fit. The program has well defined parameters and criteria. With the support of Knights of Columbus supreme and state officers, the local council was able to successfully navigate through the process. Ultimately, Parkgate Pregnancy Center formally qualified for the ultrasound

program after a thorough survey on Dec. 6, 2021 by the Diocese of Jackson.

The Tupelo Knights of Columbus council’s major fundraiser event, the 6th Annual Charity Concert Gala, took place on Aug. 13, 2022, at St. James Catholic Church in Tupelo. The concert featured extremely talented musicians from the region. There were over 200 concert goers from the parish and community. Ultimately, about $11,000 was raised at the event. The Mississippi council generously contributed $7,000 for a total of $18,000 raised. Supreme Knights of Columbus ultrasound program added the other 50% of funds for a grand total of $36,000 for the final purchase of the GE ultrasound machine. Collaboration among the Pregnancy Center, the Diocese of Jackson, then local, state, and supreme Knights of Columbus council was been inspiring. This was truly a blessed project.

The local ultrasound program officially concluded with a dedication ceremony on May 23, 2023 at Parkgate Pregnancy Center. Parkgate staff, board members, parishioners from St. James Catholic Church, and Knights of Columbus members were in attendance to enjoy the celebration.

One of the highlights was when the sonographer, Stacy Armstrong, demonstrated the new machine and the images of unborn babies it produces. She commented the new machine’s quality is a marked improvement over the old one. We agreed the ultrasound room is sacred space where decisions for life are made every day as a direct result of mothers seeing the images of their unborn children.

(Jackob Eftink served as chairman for the ultrasound program for the Father Reitmeier Knight of Columbus Council #8848 in Tupelo)

GREENVILLE – Various SVD priests and others gathered for a photo after a special Mass commemorating the 100th anniversary of St. Augustine Seminary was held at Sacred Heart Church, the site of the original seminary, on Saturday, June 24. (Photo by Sister Amelia Breton, SBS)

TUPELO – Staff at Parkgate Pregnancy Clinic, various Knights of Columbus and St. James parishioners gather for a photo after dedicating new ultrasound machine on May 23. (Photo courtesy of Jacob Eftink)

Sacred Heart School students visit Dehonian school in Brazil

By Laura Grisham

SOUTHAVEN – As Sacred Heart School and Holy Family School students returned from the Summer Institute in Houston, the “Schools in Collaboration” journey continued for two other Sacred Heart students, Kade Whisenhunt and Doryan Didier Pierre-Noel and teacher Ann Lovelace. The three embarked on a 14-day excursion to Colégio São Luiz (St. Louis School), in Brazil. São Luis is one of about 50 schools worldwide that is sponsored by the Priests of the Sacred Heart. This was the first time the Brazilian school has hosted Dehonian exchange students.

In January, Sacred Heart School (SHS) welcomed four São Luiz students and their teacher for a monthlong stay. SHS students have been pen-pals with students from São Luiz for several years. As part of the Dehonian educational community, students are also able to connect with other Priests of the Sacred Heart schools throughout the United States and around the world via zoom at various times throughout the year.

Father Silvano João da Costa, the São Luiz principal, expressed his delight in hosting the Mississippi visitors.

“Just before the 120th anniversary of the foundation of our institution, we are happy to welcome exchange students from a Dehonian school. It is an opportunity of immeasurable knowledge to everyone and the interchange of experiences is spectacular,” said Father Silvano.

He also shared his hope that this first experience in Brazil would reinforce the importance of the internationalization trend and stimulate other institutions that are part of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart (SCJs) around the world to also be open to the project. “I hope that new opportunities will take place. We are ready to receive students and willing to provide our students with the expansion of knowledge, which occurs when we discover new horizons,” Father Silvano explained.

Teacher Mariane Werner Zen, the São Luiz’s bilingual methodology coordinator who visited Sacred Heart School with her students in January, was equally excited to welcome the international visitors. “Our exchange program is very significant because it promotes educational fulfillment and experiences that go beyond the classroom,” said Werner Zen. “It may seem like there is a big difference at first, but then you realize that, despite the geographical and language differences, teenagers face the same challenges. They have very similar moments of happiness, fear and insecurity. The more knowledge they acquire, the more respect and the fewer judgments they express.”

In addition to connecting with the former exchange students, Kade and Doryan attended regular eighth-grade classes and activities daily and learned much about Brazilian culture. They also shared presentations about the Dehonian spirit at Sacred Heart School with their São Luiz counterparts. Teacher Ann Lovelace was able to work with several grades in their English studies.

During their two-week stay, the SHS crew was able to experience a great deal of the Brazilian Dehonian community. Visits to the seminaries in Corupá and Rio Negrinho, and to the novitiate in Jaraguá do Sul, served to deepen their knowledge of the principles and spirituality that guide the Dehonian schools in Brazil and throughout the world.

Their time in Brazil was also filled with all kinds of special activities, such as exploring Navegantes Beach, riding a ferry to Itajaí (Santa Catarina) to see the Bico do Papagaio (Parrot’s Beak) rock formation and tour Santíssimo Sacramento (Blessed Sacrament) Church with its amazing architecture and stained glass.

When asked about his time as an exchange student, Doryan shared, “Before I came here, I thought people

didn’t speak English all that much and that they would be more shy. But, I was well accepted and I have been talking normally with the students. They are all very attentive and kind.”

He also said that he was impressed with the structure of the school and the topics covered in the classroom. “The teachers are really nice and the lessons are very meaningful. In Mississippi we are learning the same things in the math classes.”

“What I liked most was getting to know a new culture and discovering new places,” Doryan continued. “I will definitely be saying how wonderful Brazil is.”

Lovelace expressed her delight with the results achieved by the bilingual methodology. While visiting the kindergarten classes, she noticed that even the youngest students were already familiar with the language. “Even the students in the early grades were able to talk to me without trouble. This surprised me because I thought that since English is not their first language, it would be more difficult to communicate. I was wrong.”

The Brazilians’ fluency in English also caught Kade’s attention, as he could count on the help of his classmates to understand the subjects better. “It is amazing how well everyone speaks English,” shared the student. “I thought they would only master the basics, but they all talk to me about different topics easily. They also helped me in class when I didn’t understand something.”

Kade’s enthusiasm about the adventure abroad was easy to see. “I was so lucky to be here; it was amazing! I encourage students to go on an exchange if they have the opportunity. It’s worth it!”

Sacred Heart School teacher Ann Lovelace and students Kade Whisenhunt and Doryan Didier Pierre-Noel recently spent two weeks as exchange students at Colégio São Luiz (Saint Louis School) in Brusque, Brazil, a school sponsored by the Priests of the Sacred Heart. (Photos courtesy of Laura Grisham)

Ann Lovelace aided Brazilian students with their English lessons while in São Luiz. (Photos courtesy of Laura Grisham)

Around the diocese

MCCOMB – (Above) Menelik Rozelle was awarded the Igor Santos Character Award and scholarship. The award was established by Dr. and Mrs. Michael Artigues in honor of a foreign exchange student that was tragically killed in an automobile accident. The award goes to a confirmation student that shows good character. Rozelle is pictured with Father Suresh and Dr. Artigues. (Right) Shelby and Dana Fortenberry were awarded the St. Pope John Paul II Leadership Award that goes to a senior in high school that helps lead their group in different ways. Both Shelby and Danana started the youth choir at St. Alphonsus and have been dedicated to make it succeed. (Photo by Mary L. Roberts)

SOUTHAVEN – Lucas and Camilla line up for the "Parade of Nations" at the beginning of Olympic Day at Sacred Heart School on May 24. (Photo by Sister Margaret Sue Broker)

JACKSON – St. Richard principal, Jennifer David, assists Penelope Starrett with some patriotic flair. (Photo by Chelsea Dillon)

YAZOO CITY – St. Mary’s Church held Vacation Bible School from June 9-11, with the theme “Jesus is the Ticket.” (Photo by Babs McMaster)

How one woman inspires an entire community to follow Christ’s call to serve others

Editor's note: This year, Julice Curry of St. Joseph parish in Greenville has been nominated for Catholic Extension's 2023-2024 Lumen Christi award for her volunteer work with the Sacred Heart/St. Joseph St. Vincent de Paul Society. The award, established in 1978, is given to people who radiate and reveal the light of Christ present in the communities where they serve. To read about the group of 40 other Lumen Christi award nominees, visit https://bit.ly/CELumenChristi2324

By CatholiC ExtEnsion

GREENVILLE – Every moment in Julice Curry’s life has been guided by her never-ending faith and belief in living life for others. Always raised to be humble, Julice’s volunteerism and her quiet philanthropy have made a true mark on her home community of Greenville.

Julice has volunteered in her current ministry at Sacred Heart/St. Joseph St. Vincent de Paul Society (SVDP) for over 30 years as former treasurer and now president. The mission helps in the form of a food pantry and donation center for clothing and other items. These activities take place in a parish that Catholic Extension helped build many years ago.

Working with over 30 volunteers to serve an average of 200 clients per week, Julice touches the lives of over 12,500 residents annually from Greenville and the surrounding Washington County area. This also comes with the help of other faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations Julice has established partnerships with. Everyone who interacts with Julice sees the “light” in her eyes and feels the love in her heart when helping these local communities, whose needs have only increased through the years.

Through her enormous vision and leadership, Julice has been able to magnify the impact of SVDP. This past year Julice led her organization and volunteers to the completion of a newly renovated space to house the necessary food storage and donation items from the community.

Her outreach has also inspired youth to learn the value of helping others and the true importance of charity and ministry to others. Students from private, public and parochial schools have joined the regular volunteers of SVDP, committing their time during school vacations, holidays and summer breaks.

GREENVILLE – Julice Curry speaks to students at St. Joseph School on her work with St. Vincent de Paul and renovations completed with thanks to a gift from the Salvador Sarullo estate in the fall of 2022. Curry is nominated for a Lumen Christi award for radiating the light of Christ in her community. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Julice continued to serve her friends by making home visits to ensure they had the basic necessities of life. Julice also regularly prays with residents. She makes sure the ministry is also about elevating peoples’ sense of dignity, bringing them joy and sharing the gift of faith when possible.

Julice’s dedication to her faith makes her work so meaningful: “My goal on earth is to love as Christ loves, to bring joy and comfort as He does, to be His disciple by being His eyes, His hands, and His feet.”

Leading a life with purpose and a focus on serving Christ and others in need moves Julice every day. She has never turned down anyone, “no matter how the odds are stacked against her or how stressful a project,” noted Martha Allen, executive director of SVDP’s partner organization, Extra Table. Her example touches the residents, volunteers and greater Greenville community, inspiring them to be beacons of hope to tackle the needs in their communities.