JACKSON – Bishop Joseph Kopacz ordained seven men to the permanent diaconate for the Diocese of Jackson on July 18, 2026 at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson. In the following profiles, the new deacons share their vocation stories, the people and experiences that shaped their faith, and their hopes for serving the people of the diocese.
Click each photo to read about our new permanent deacons and their wives.
By Joanna Puddister King CANTON – Father Guy Wilson, ST, has been nominated by the Diocese of Jackson for Catholic Extension Society’s 2026-2027 Lumen Christi Award, the organization’s highest honor.
Since 1978, the annual award has recognized individuals, groups and institutions whose service radiates and reveals the light of Christ in the communities they serve. This year, bishops from 46 dioceses across the United States submitted nominations highlighting spiritual care, compassionate service and self-sacrifice.
“The Lumen Christi Award is a real-time window into the incredible impact of people of faith in America,” said Father Jack Wall, president of Catholic Extension Society. “Born out of their love for God, the dedication of these nominees to the good of the Church and the good of their neighbors should make us all proud to be Catholic.”
CANTON – Father Guy Wilson, S.T., sits beside a portrait of Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman during the annual Sister Thea Bowman Musical Celebration at Holy Child Jesus Church on March 26, 2023. Father Wilson, pastor of Holy Child Jesus in Canton and Sacred Heart parish in Camden, has been nominated by the Diocese of Jackson for Catholic Extension Society’s 2026-2027 Lumen Christi Award in recognition of his ministry of faith, unity and service. (Photo by Joanna King)
Father Wilson, 74, has served as a priest for 47 years in a variety of cultures and communities. He currently serves as pastor of two historically Black Catholic parishes in Camden and Canton – Sacred Heart and Holy Child Jesus – where his ministry brings together pastoral care, community development and outreach across racial, cultural and denominational lines.
Music remains a defining part of parish life at both churches, whose choirs carry forward a tradition shaped in part by Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, a Canton native whose cause for canonization is under consideration by the Vatican. Father Wilson is also collaborating with the Diocese of Jackson as it prepares for a future shrine honoring Sister Thea.
His ministry extends to Canton’s growing Latino population through bilingual programming and diocesan gatherings, including youth activities and three-day retreats for Spanish-speaking men and women.
Father Wilson has also developed ecumenical partnerships in a region where Catholics make up a small percentage of the population. His “Pray and Play” initiative brings together Catholic, Baptist and evangelical communities through a faith-based youth basketball program. Participants commit to attending Sunday worship, and tournaments begin and end with prayer.
Through the Sacred Heart Family Center in Camden, Father Wilson oversees food distribution programs, daily meals for seniors and adults with special needs, and summer nutrition assistance for children.
Other community efforts on parish property include a health clinic serving an aging population with limited access to care and the Theresa Day Care Center, the only childcare facility within 30 miles. Father Wilson is also working to address the area’s shortage of affordable housing, with a long-range vision of building 40 homes on church-owned land.
The nomination describes a ministry encompassing the liturgical, cultural, social and developmental needs of the community – work that strengthens faith while building relationships among historically divided communities.
“Please keep Father Guy in your prayers throughout this process,” said Rebecca Harris, director of Stewardship and Development for the Diocese of Jackson. “We are grateful for his faithful ministry and the many ways he serves the people of our diocese. We pray that God will continue to bless his work and guide him in the days ahead.”
Catholic Extension Society expects to announce the award finalists later this summer and select the national honoree in the fall. Each finalist will receive $15,000 to support and expand their ministry. The national recipient will receive $50,000, with an additional $50,000 awarded to the nominating diocese.
By Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – August is recognized as Make-A-Will Month, providing an opportunity to reflect on the values that matter most and the legacy we hope to leave behind. While creating a will is an important step in caring for loved ones, it is also an opportunity to continue supporting the Church and the ministries that have helped shape your faith.
The Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Jackson encourages Catholics to consider remembering their parish, Catholic school or a favorite diocesan ministry in their estate plans. A bequest is a simple yet meaningful way to ensure that your faith continues to make an impact for generations to come. Because these gifts are made through an estate, they generally do not affect a person’s current financial situation but can provide lasting support for cherished ministries.
To assist families begin the estate planning process, The Catholic Foundation offers several free resources, including access to an online will creation tool at mycatholicwill.com/jacksondiocese. The website guides individuals through the process of creating a will at no cost while also providing information about charitable giving and estate planning.
“Estate planning is one of the greatest gifts we can leave to our families and to the Church,” said Rebecca Harris, executive director of the Catholic Foundation. “Whether you are creating your first will or updating an existing one, we want to make the process as simple as possible. If the Church has played an important role in your life, I encourage you to prayerfully consider including your parish, Catholic school or a ministry that is close to your heart. These gifts become a lasting witness of faith and generosity.”
Harris is also available to help individuals and families understand the foundation’s estate-planning resources and discuss charitable giving options with their professional advisers. Through prayerful planning, Catholics can provide for those they love while extending their faithful stewardship beyond their lifetimes.
“By remembering the Church in your will, you create a legacy that will strengthen ministries, support future generations and continue Christ’s mission throughout the Diocese of Jackson,” Harris said.
By Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – An unwanted vehicle can now help Catholic Charities meet needs that fall outside traditional sources of funding through a new partnership with Paul Moak Automotive in Jackson.
The Catholic Charities Auto Donation Program accepts qualifying cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, recreational vehicles and other vehicles. Proceeds from their sale will support Catholic Charities programs serving individuals and families across Mississippi.
The program gives donors a simple way to turn a vehicle they no longer need into flexible support for services across the state.
The partnership offers a local alternative to national vehicle donation services, which often send donated vehicles directly to wholesale auctions. Through the new program, Paul Moak Automotive will evaluate each donated vehicle and, when appropriate, recondition, photograph and offer it for sale on the retail market.
“Wholesale auctions are built to move vehicles quickly, not necessarily to maximize their value,” said John Scarbrough of Paul Moak Automotive. “Taking the time to prepare and sell vehicles locally at retail – when appropriate – typically generates stronger returns for the charity.”
Scarbrough said Catholic Charities’ previous experience with vehicle donations and Paul Moak Automotive’s knowledge of the retail market made the partnership a natural fit.
“We are excited to work alongside Catholic Charities in this way,” he said.
The additional proceeds will give Catholic Charities greater flexibility to respond to everyday needs that may not qualify for support through grants or other restricted funding sources, according to Christina Bach, executive director of Catholic Charities. “There are always needs that arise that are not covered by grant funding,” Bach said. “A child may need a school uniform or even something as simple as a belt, for example. Having these additional funds allows us to better support our agency, our programs and the people we serve.”
Bach encouraged people not to assume that an older or unused vehicle has nothing to offer. Vehicles may qualify for the program even if their owners believe they have little value.
“Even if you think your car has no value, it can make a big difference in the life of someone working toward a better future,” Bach said. “Through this program, Paul Moak Automotive may be able to secure a better price for the vehicle than traditional auction-based donation programs. That benefits the donor while creating a local investment in the work of Catholic Charities.”
For Paul Moak Automotive, the partnership also provides an opportunity to support an organization responding to a wide range of needs throughout the community.
“From hunger relief and adoption and pregnancy services to counseling and shelter, Catholic Charities has a broad service footprint that addresses many levels of need in our community,” Scarbrough said. “It is a real honor for our organization to partner in that work.”
Vehicle donations may also qualify as charitable contributions for tax purposes. Donors should consult a tax professional regarding their individual circumstances.
Por Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – La Fundación Católica ha lanzado Unidos en la misión – Formando Pastores, Fortaleciendo Parroquias, una campaña de capital de 21.5 millones de dólares para la Diócesis de Jackson.
La campaña destinará 10 millones de dólares a las necesidades parroquiales, 10 millones a un fondo permanente para la educación de los seminaristas y 1.5 millones a la Campaña de Servicio Católico para el 2027.
“A través de reuniones parroquiales, sesiones de escucha y conversaciones basadas en la fe y la oración, un mensaje quedó claro: Debemos invertir en el futuro de nuestra Iglesia formando líderes espirituales fuertes y fortaleciendo nuestras comunidades parroquiales”, dijo el obispo Joseph R. Kopacz en una carta presentando la campaña.
“Como una sola familia diocesana, estamos llamados a progresar juntos”, dijo el obispo Kopacz. “Unidos por nuestra fe y guiados por el Espíritu Santo, tenemos una oportunidad única de fortalecer nuestra Iglesia hoy mientras nos preparamos para las necesidades del mañana.” Las parroquias llevarán a cabo sus campañas en una de dos fases. Las campañas del Bloque 1 continuarán hasta diciembre del 2026, mientras que las parroquias del Bloque 2 participarán de enero a junio del 2027. Los contratos pueden cumplirse durante cinco años.
La Fundación Católica supervisará el fondo de donaciones, el cumplimiento de compromisos, la gestión responsable de los donantes, la información de campañas y el manejo a largo plazo de los fondos de donación. Colaborará con Orientación en I Giving para proporcionar a los pastores, líderes parroquiales y voluntarios formación en campañas, materiales y apoyo individual.
“Unidos en la Misión ofrece a cada feligrés la oportunidad de ayudar a atender las necesidades de la Iglesia tanto ahora como en el futuro”, dijo Rebecca Harris, directora ejecutiva de la Fundación Católica. “A través de un esfuerzo unificado, podemos fortalecer las parroquias individuales, proporcionando un apoyo duradero para la formación de futuros sacerdotes y sostener los ministerios diocesanos que sirven a las personas de todo el estado. La Fundación Católica se siente honrada de ayudar a garantizar que cada donación se maneje de manera responsable y conforme a las intenciones de nuestros donantes.”
Los primeros fondos recaudados por cada parroquia cumplirán su objetivo de la Campaña de Servicio Católico para el 2027. Una vez alcanzado ese objetivo, la mitad de los fondos recaudados hasta el objetivo de Unidos en la misión de la parroquia volverán a la parroquia, mientras que la otra mitad apoyará el fondo de donación para la educación de seminaristas. Si una parroquia supera su objetivo de campaña, al 70% los fondos adicionales volverán a la parroquia.
Las parroquias pueden utilizar sus partes para necesidades identificadas localmente, como mejoras en edificios, mantenimiento diferido, reducción de deuda, expansión ministerial, publicidad o preparación para el crecimiento futuro. Se espera que las parroquias del Bloque 1 comiencen a recibir distribuciones trimestrales en enero del 2027, seguidas por las parroquias del Bloque 2 en junio del 2027.
La fundación católica Shepherds for Tomorrow Seminarian Education Endowment Proporcionara una Fuente permanente de finanzas para la formación spiritual, académica y pastoral de los hombres que se preparan para servir como sacerdotes en la Diócesis de Jackson.
La diócesis ha experimentado un interés creciente en las vocaciones sacerdotales, lo que aporta tanto esperanza como la necesidad de mayores recursos financieros para educar y formar a futuros sacerdotes.
“Dios sigue bendiciéndonos con jóvenes que responden al llamado a discernir el sacerdocio, y es nuestra responsabilidad asegurarnos de que los recursos estén disponibles para preparar a estos futuros pastores para servir al Pueblo de Dios en toda nuestra diócesis”, dijo el obispo Kopacz.
Los líderes de la campaña están animando a todos los hogares católicos a rezar por la campaña y a considerar un compromiso de sacrificio. Las donaciones se pueden hacer como contribuciones únicas o mediante promesas de cinco años cumplidas mensual, trimestral, semestral o anualmente.
“Juntos, podemos garantizar que la Diócesis de Jackson siga siendo fuerte, vibrante y fiel durante generaciones venideras”, dijo Harris.
By Joanna Puddister King FLOWOOD – Fifty years after a young Irish priest arrived in Mississippi and began learning that Southern English and Irish English were not always the same language. Father Gerry Hurley celebrated his golden jubilee surrounded by family, parishioners and brother priests who had accompanied him on the journey.
Newly ordained Father Gerry Hurley gives his first blessing to his father following his ordination to the priesthood June 12, 1976, in County Cork, Ireland. Fifty years later, Father Hurley celebrated his golden jubilee as the last active Irish-born priest serving in the Diocese of Jackson. (Photo by Father David O’Connor/Diocese of Jackson archives)
The church was full June 12 as more than two dozen priests concelebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving marking the 50th anniversary of Father Hurley’s ordination to the priesthood at St. Paul Catholic Church in Flowood.
Among the more than two dozen concelebrating priests were fellow Irish-born clergy who had shared in Mississippi’s long tradition of Irish missionary priests, including retired priests from the Diocese of Jackson and priests serving in the Diocese of Biloxi.
Their presence served as a reminder of the Irish missionary influence that shaped the Diocese of Jackson for decades.
Members of Father Hurley’s family traveled from Ireland for the celebration, joining parishioners and friends in marking the milestone.
The date carried special significance. Father Hurley was ordained June 12, 1976, at St. Patrick Church in Bandon, County Cork, Ireland, for the Diocese of Natchez-Jackson, making the anniversary celebration exactly 50 years to the day from his ordination.
Today, he is the last active Irish-born priest serving in the Diocese of Jackson.
“I remember going to a 50th anniversary 25 years ago and I thought to myself, those guys are old,” Father Hurley said during his homily, drawing laughter from the congregation. “And now I’m old.”
When Father Hurley arrived in Mississippi in 1976, Irish-born priests made up a significant portion of the clergy serving throughout the diocese.
“When I arrived in 1976, a majority of our priests were from Ireland,” he recalled. “And now we have new foreign-born Indian priests. They do such a great job and we are very happy … Being the last of the Irish that came in a time of transition for our Church, it is in great hands with you brothers.”
In many ways, the moment reflected the changing face of the Church Father Hurley has witnessed throughout his ministry: missionary priests from Ireland giving way to local vocations and missionaries from around the world continuing the work in Mississippi.
Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz reflected on that continuity in remarks following Mass.
“The Lord taught the disciples that a good scribe in the kingdom can reach into the storeroom and bring out the best of the old and the best of the new,” the bishop said. “I think that describes Father Gerry in a good way.”
The bishop also praised Father Hurley’s gift for community and his remarkable ability to remember names.
“I don’t know if there are priests with a better memory for names than Father Gerry does,” Bishop Kopacz said. “He’s learned ‘Who’s your momma?’ and all of that – very Southern.”
Father Hurley’s family offered their own glimpse into the priest they had known long before Mississippi did, sharing memories of a young boy in Ireland who announced early in life that he intended to become a priest.
“He did try his hand at surgery,” one sister joked during remarks after Mass. “But the patient – my doll – didn’t make it. The surgery was not a success.”
His own journey began in Cork City, Ireland, where he was born Jan. 25, 1952. He studied at Carlow College before being ordained for the Diocese of Natchez-Jackson and arriving in Mississippi later that year.
His first assignment was as associate pastor at St. Paul in Vicksburg, where he quickly discovered that adapting to life in Mississippi involved more than a change in geography.
“One Saturday evening a senior lady came up to me after Mass and said, ‘Father, I just love hearing you talk.’ She said, ‘I can’t understand you, but I love hearing you talk,’” he recalled, drawing laughter from those gathered. “It has taken most of 50 years to learn how to speak properly again.”
A program commemorating Father Gerry Hurley’s 50th anniversary of priesthood reflects the Irish roots and Mississippi ministry that have shaped his vocation. (Photo by Matt Torres)
Over the next five decades, Father Hurley’s ministry would take him across the Diocese of Jackson, serving at St. Joseph in Greenville, as diocesan youth director, at St. Richard in Jackson, St. Joseph in Starkville, Annunciation in Columbus, St. Jude in Pearl and finally St. Paul in Flowood, where he has served since 2010.
St. Paul has become his longest assignment – longer, he noted, than he lived anywhere growing up in Ireland. “What a great place to spend that time,” he said. “I’m grateful to you all for your welcome and support over the years.”
For Father Hurley, the readings chosen for the Mass reflected the heart of priestly ministry and discipleship. In the Gospel, Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” before instructing him to feed his sheep.
“Jesus does not ask Peter, ‘Are you sorry?’ nor does he ask him to never fail again,” Father Hurley said. “He asks, ‘Do you love me?’ Because for Jesus, the foundation of ministry is love of Christ and care for his people.”
After five decades of priesthood, Father Hurley remains grateful for the vocation that brought him across the Atlantic and for the people who have walked beside him.
“After 50 years, I’m grateful for all that God has given me and the abundant blessings he has bestowed on me through each of you and the many others who have gone before us,” he said.
As the celebration concluded, the congregation joined in singing “Irish Blessing,” sending the priest who came from County Cork to Mississippi 50 years ago into the next chapter of ministry with the words that have long connected both places he now calls home:
“May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back.”
Catholic Charities of Jackson hosted a special baby shower event on May 8 for their adoption services program. Pictured are employees preparing shower gifts. (Photo courtesy of Catholic Charities)
By Tereza Ma and Joanna King JACKSON – Catholic Charities of Jackson is working to raise awareness that its adoption, maternity support and post-adoption services remain available to families throughout Mississippi.
The agency’s Adoption and Post-Adoption Program has been intentionally reconnecting with community partners, hospitals and other organizations to remind the public that these services continue to be offered and that support is available for those considering adoption, seeking maternity assistance or needing resources after an adoption is finalized.
“The biggest thing we want the community to know is adoption is here,” said Shaniqua Forrest, program director for Adoption and Post-Adoption Services at Catholic Charities. “We are maintaining the program. We are here to support in any way that anyone may need.”
Catholic Charities offers maternity support, domestic and international adoption services, Safe Home Studies, foster-to-adopt opportunities and post-placement visits. The agency’s goal is to place children in loving, stable and permanent homes while providing guidance and support throughout the adoption process.
As part of its outreach efforts, the program recently hosted a community baby shower that provided essential baby items to expectant and new mothers. Participants received diapers, wipes, bottles, pacifiers and clothing, while donated items such as a stroller and breast pump were also distributed. Program staff noted that two mothers delivered their babies before the event and received their donated items at the hospital.
The agency also provides extensive post-adoption support designed to help families navigate challenges that may arise after an adoption is finalized. Services include counseling, mental health treatment, crisis intervention, family preservation and stabilization services, peer support and respite care.
For Cornella Slaughter, post-adoption specialist with Catholic Charities, ongoing support is essential to helping families thrive.
“The main goal is to make sure that that placement stays permanent,” Slaughter said.
Catholic Charities staff emphasized that adoptive families do not have to face challenges alone and that resources are available to support both parents and children as they adjust and grow together.
The agency will host an event highlighting its Post-Adoption Services on Tuesday, June 30 – “Taco-bout a Great Support System.” Those interested in learning more about adoption, maternity support or post-adoption resources can contact Catholic Charities for additional information at (601) 326-3796.
By Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – For Father Will Foggo, the path to priesthood has always been marked by the people and communities that helped shape his faith.
On Saturday, May 16, those communities came together at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle as Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz ordained the lifelong Diocese of Jackson Catholic to the priesthood.
JACKSON – Surrounded by the prayers of the church, ordinand Will Foggo lies prostrate before the altar during the Litany of Supplication, one of the most solemn moments of the Rite of Ordination to the Priesthood on Saturday, May 16 at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. (Photo by Joanna King)
Family members, friends, priests, deacons, seminarians and parishioners filled the cathedral to witness a moment years in the making for the St. Paul Flowood parishioner who attended St. Richard School in Jackson, graduated from St. Joseph School in Madison and later discerned his vocation while active in Catholic Campus Ministry at Mississippi State University.
In his homily, Bishop Kopacz reflected on the gift of faith and the work of the Holy Spirit in calling men to serve the church. He noted that a vocation is never formed in isolation, but through families, parish communities and seminary communities that help discern and affirm God’s call.
“We continue the work of the Lord,” Bishop Kopacz said, pointing to Christ’s mission of teaching, proclaiming the Gospel, healing, blessing and gathering people into communities of faith.
Addressing the newly ordained priest, the bishop referenced St. Paul’s encouragement to Timothy: “Let no one have contempt for your youth.”
“Today is not contempt,” the bishop said. “There’s great joy.”
That joy became especially evident near the end of Mass when Bishop Kopacz announced Father Foggo’s first assignments.
Newly ordained Father Will Foggo assists Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz in distributing Holy Communion during the ordination Mass at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson. (Photo by Tereza Ma)
As is customary, the bishop explained that newly ordained priests enter a period of “vocational synthesis,” integrating priestly ministry into daily life after years of seminary formation.
For the next few months, Father Foggo will serve as parochial vicar pro tempore at St. Joseph Parish in Starkville, the same parish community where he served as a transitional deacon following his ordination to the diaconate in November.
The announcement drew enthusiastic applause from the congregation.
Then came a second announcement from Bishop Kopacz.
Beginning Sept. 1, Father Foggo will become parochial vicar at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Madison. The cathedral erupted in even louder cheers.
“We’re very happy about the support that you’ve had in the presbyterate and among the people of God,” Bishop Kopacz said.
The following morning, Father Foggo celebrated his first Mass as a priest at his home parish, St. Paul Catholic Church in Flowood.
The homilist for the Mass was Deacon Scott Beslin, a seminary classmate and friend who was later ordained a priest for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux on June 6. Reflecting on the Feast of the Ascension, Beslin reminded the congregation that Christ’s ascension was not the end of His work, but the beginning of the church’s mission.
Turning to the newly ordained priest, Beslin reflected on the responsibilities that now lay before him. “Through your hands, heaven touches earth,” he said before pausing and adding, “No pressure.”
The church erupted in laughter, including Father Foggo himself.
Beslin continued by speaking of the responsibilities of priestly ministry, including preaching the Gospel, shepherding souls, celebrating the sacraments and being available to God’s people. Despite the humor, he emphasized that priestly ministry does not depend on a priest’s own strength alone.
“None of this depends on you alone,” Beslin said. “It is Christ who lifts you. Christ who works through you. Christ who will be faithful through you.”
Yet some of the most memorable moments came after Communion.
Thanking those gathered for their prayers and support, Father Foggo explained the tradition of the maniturgium, the cloth used to wipe the sacred chrism from a priest’s hands after ordination.
Tradition holds that the cloth is presented to the priest’s mother and buried with her as a symbol of her offering her son to God.
Father Will Foggo elevates the Eucharistic during his First Mass at St. Paul Catholic Church in Flowood on May 17, one day after being ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Jackson. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)
Turning unexpectedly to his parents, Sheila and John Foggo, Father Foggo revealed that he had not told them what was about to happen.
“I’d like to give that to my parents right now,” he said. The congregation responded with sustained applause as he presented the maniturgium to his mother. He then presented his father with the stole that will be used when he hears his first confession, another tradition symbolizing the gift of a son offered in service to the church.
The emotional moment served as a fitting conclusion to a weekend that celebrated not only the ordination of a new priest, but also the many people, parishes and communities that helped nurture his vocation.
Por Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – Para el padre Will Foggo, el camino hacia el sacerdocio siempre ha estado marcado por las personas y comunidades que ayudaron a moldear su fe.
El sábado 16 de mayo, esas comunidades se reunieron en la Catedral de San Pedro el Apóstol cuando el obispo Joseph R. Kopacz ordenó a un católico natal de la diócesis de Jackson.
Familiares, amigos, sacerdotes, diáconos, seminaristas y feligreses llenaron la catedral para presenciar un momento que años se gestó para el feligrés de St. Paul Flowood que asistió a la escuela de St. Richard en Jackson, se graduó de St. Joseph en Madison y más tarde discernió su vocación mientras estaba activo en el Ministerio Católico en el Campus de la Universidad Estatal de Mississippi.
En su homilía, el obispo Kopacz reflexionó sobre el don de la fe y la obra del Espíritu Santo al llamar a los hombres a servir a la iglesia. Señaló que una vocación nunca se forma de forma aislada, sino a través de familias, comunidades parroquiales y comunidades de seminarios que ayudan a discernir y afirmar el llamado de Dios.
Will Foggo yace postrado ante el altar durante la Letanía de Súplica en su ordenación sacerdotal, el 16 de mayo, en la Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol, en Jackson. (Foto por Tereza Ma) Vea más fotografías en jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com.
“Continuamos la obra del Señor”, dijo el obispo Kopacz, señalando la misión de Cristo de enseñar, proclamar el Evangelio, sanar, bendecir y reunir a las personas en comunidades de fe. Dirigiéndose al sacerdote recién ordenado, el obispo hizo referencia al ánimo de San Pablo a Timoteo: “Que nadie desprecie vuestra juventud.”
“Hoy no es desprecio”, dijo el obispo. “Eso es una gran alegría.”
Esa alegría se hizo especialmente evidente cerca del final de la misa, cuando el obispo Kopacz anunció las primeras asignaciones del padre Foggo.
Como es costumbre, el obispo explicó que los sacerdotes recién ordenados entran en un periodo de “síntesis vocacional”, integrando el ministerio sacerdotal en la vida diaria tras años de formación en el seminario.
Durante los próximos meses, el padre Foggo servirá como vicario parroquial pro tempore en la parroquia de San José en Starkville, la misma comunidad parroquial donde sirvió como diácono transitorio tras su ordenación al diaconado en noviembre.
El anuncio provocó entusiasmo y aplausos de la congregación.
Luego llegó un segundo anuncio del obispo Kopacz.
A partir del 1 de septiembre, el padre Foggo se convertirá en vicario parroquial en la parroquia de San Francisco de Asís en Madison.
La catedral estalló en aplausos aún más fuertes.
“Estamos muy contentos del apoyo que habéis recibido en el presbiterado y entre el pueblo de Dios”, dijo el obispo Kopacz.
A la mañana siguiente, el padre Foggo celebró su primera misa como sacerdote en su parroquia natal, la iglesia católica de San Pablo en Flowood.
El homilista de la misa fue el diácono Scott Beslin, compañero de clase y amigo del seminario que en poco tiempo después fue ordenado sacerdote para la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux el 6 de junio. Reflexionando sobre la Fiesta de la Ascensión, Beslin recordó a la congregación que la ascensión de Cristo no fue el fin de Su obra, sino el comienzo de la misión de la iglesia.
Viendo hacia el sacerdote recién ordenado, Beslin reflexionó sobre las responsabilidades que ahora se le presentaban.
“A través de tus manos, el cielo toca la tierra”, dijo antes de hacer una pausa y añadir, “Sin presión.” La iglesia estalló en carcajadas, incluido el propio padre Foggo.
Beslin continuó hablando de las responsabilidades del ministerio sacerdotal, incluyendo predicar el Evangelio, pastorear almas, celebrar los sacramentos y estar disponible para el pueblo de Dios. A pesar del humor, enfatizó que el ministerio sacerdotal no depende únicamente de la fuerza del sacerdote.
“Nada de esto depende solo de ti”, dijo Beslin. “Es Cristo quien os eleva. Cristo que obra a través de ti. Cristo que será fiel a través de ti.”
El padre Will Foggo entrega el maniturgium a su madre, Sheila Foggo, y la estola que utilizará para escuchar su primera confesión a su padre, John Foggo, durante su primera misa en la Iglesia Católica San Pablo de Flowood el 17 de mayo. Estas tradiciones simbolizan la entrega de un hijo a Dios y el apoyo que sus padres le han brindado a lo largo de su camino vocacional. (Foto por Joanna King)
Sin embargo, algunos de los momentos más memorables llegaron después de la Comunión.
Agradeciendo a los presentes por sus oraciones y apoyo, el padre Foggo explicó la tradición del maniturgium, el paño que se utiliza para limpiar el sacro crisma de las manos de un sacerdote tras la ordenación. La tradición sostiene que la tela se presenta a la madre del sacerdote y se entierra con ella como símbolo de que ella ofrece a su hijo a Dios.
Volviéndose inesperadamente hacia sus padres, Sheila y John Foggo, el padre Foggo reveló que no les había contado lo que estaba a punto de suceder.
“Me gustaría dárselo a mis padres ahora mismo”, dijo.
La congregación respondió con aplausos sostenidos mientras él entregaba el maniturgium a su madre. Luego le entregó a su padre la estola que se usará cuando escuche su primera confesión, otra tradición que simboliza el regalo de un hijo ofrecido al servicio de la iglesia.
El momento emotivo sirvió como una conclusión apropiada para un fin de semana que celebró no solo la ordenación de un nuevo sacerdote, sino también a las muchas personas, parroquias y comunidades que ayudaron a nutrir su vocación.
By Joanna King JACKSON – A new diocesan initiative focused on strengthening lay leadership and faith formation across the Diocese of Jackson is taking shape through the newly established Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation, an effort church leaders say grew directly out of listening sessions held during the diocesan Pastoral Reimagining process.
Led by the diocesan Office of Faith Formation under the direction of Fran Lavelle, the center is designed to provide accessible formation and ministry training opportunities for parish and school leaders, catechists, youth ministers and other lay leaders throughout the diocese.
The Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation webpage serves as a new diocesan resource for faith formation, leadership training and ministry support for lay leaders across the Diocese of Jackson. The online hub includes formation opportunities, ministry resources and training programs offered in both English and Spanish. (Photo illustration by Joanna King)
“The absolute best part of my ministry is working with people,” Lavelle said. “The second-best part of my job is looking at ways to better serve our parishes and schools, especially concerning faith formation.” Lavelle said the idea for the center emerged after parish and deanery listening sessions identified the need for stronger lay leadership formation.
“Better formation for lay leaders was one of the clarion calls from both individual parishes and the deaneries,” she said. “When you ask people how the Church can better serve them, it is important to act on what you hear.”
An advisory committee formed in late 2024 began reimagining how the diocese could support lay ministry and leadership development. That process ultimately led to the creation of the Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation.
The center is named in honor of former Bishop William R. Houck, who served the Diocese of Jackson from 1984 to 2003 and was widely recognized for his commitment to Catholic education, evangelization and lay ministry. During his tenure, Houck served as chairman of the U.S. Bishops’ Committee on Evangelization, which published the landmark 1992 document, Go and Make Disciples: A National Plan and Strategy for Catholic Evangelization in the United States. The document, still used today, continues to encourage Catholics to embrace the mission of discipleship.
“Bishop Houck was an esteemed educator and a devoted advocate for lay ministry,” Lavelle said. “His vision and voice laid the foundation for lay leadership training in the Diocese. It is our hope to expand his vision to provide high-quality formation and training at every parish, mission and school.”
According to the center’s website, its mission is “to provide lay leaders in the Diocese of Jackson training and formation with emphasis in catechetical, pastoral and ecclesial applications.”
The initiative is built around three foundational pillars: education, evangelization and the development of well-formed lay leaders. The website notes that ongoing formation in Scripture and Catholic teaching helps disciples live out their call, while strong parish communities depend on prepared leaders who can serve with “knowledge, confidence and compassion.”
Unlike a traditional diocesan institute, the Houck Center is not housed in a physical building. Instead, it operates as an online resource hub hosted through the diocesan website. Participants can access diocesan workshops, online courses, ministry resources and leadership development opportunities in a variety of ministry areas.
“We really wanted something accessible to people no matter where they live in the diocese,” Lavelle said. “This is about meeting parish leaders where they are and helping them continue to grow in confidence and faith.”
Current areas of formation include campus ministry, catechist training, family ministry, intercultural ministry, liturgy, OCIA, prison ministry, youth ministry and young adult ministry, along with leadership training opportunities for pastoral councils and parish ministry teams.
One of the center’s first major initiatives is a redesigned Pastoral Ministries Workshop, a longtime diocesan leadership program that has now been restructured to better accommodate busy parish volunteers and ministry leaders. Previously offered as a four-year program requiring participants to attend a weeklong summer session each year, the workshop has been reformatted into a more flexible intensive weekend model.
“The length of time to complete the old program, along with the difficulty many volunteers had getting away for an entire week, made us realize we needed a more accessible format,” Lavelle said. “We wanted to preserve the richness of the formation while making it realistic for people serving in parish ministry.” The new two-year program consists of six four-hour sessions focused on prayer, theology, pastoral leadership and practical ministry skills. Courses will be offered concurrently in English and Spanish, reflecting the diversity of the diocese and the center’s emphasis on broad accessibility.
This year’s workshop topics include the foundations of Catholic pastoral ministry, pastoral identity and spirituality, and communication and relationship-building in ministry. Participants will explore themes such as servant leadership, intercultural communication, conflict transformation and spiritual practices that sustain ministry.
Lavelle said the workshop is intended not only for new ministers and catechists, but also for experienced parish leaders seeking renewed formation and support.
“Our primary goal is to provide a foundation in Catholic pastoral ministry through prayer, theology, practical skills and reflection,” she said.
This year’s workshop will be held July 31-Aug. 2 at Eagle Ridge Conference Center in Raymond. Registration is open through July 10. More information about the Bishop William R. Houck Center for Lay Formation can be found at jacksondiocese.org/bishop-houck-center-for-lay-formation.
