Por Dorothy Balser CARTHAGE – El padre Odel Medina y Edgar Morales, uno de los voluntarios de la parroquia, hablan con Dorothy Balser sobre cómo vive la Iglesia Católica de Santa Ana en Cartago el llamado de su fe en nombre de “estos hermanos míos más humildes.” (Mateo 25:40) P: ¿Qué significa para usted personalmente poner su fe en acción? Edgar: Primero, gracias a Dios por todo lo que he recibido de él. Estamos felices porque muchas personas nos están ayudando. Lo que tenemos es fe para ayudar a los demás. Gracias a Dios somos miembros de la iglesia y la iglesia nos está enseñando cómo podemos ayudar a los demás. Hasta hace cuatro años, no estaba muy cerca de la iglesia. Después que comencé a venir a la iglesia con más frecuencia, me invitaron a estar en un grupo. Tenemos algo así como un consejo parroquial en nuestra iglesia llamado Directiva. Todos los años tienen elecciones. Cuando llegaron las elecciones, la gente me eligió presidente. Estaba muy sorprendido y al principio tenía miedo. “¿Por qué me eligieron?” Pero doy gracias por esa experiencia. He crecido de una manera profundamente espiritual.
JACKSON – En foto de archivo, (i-d) Dorothy Balser y el padre Odel Medina, ST hablan con el representante Bennie Thompson, antes de audencia pública sobre las acciones de ICE en las redadas de Julio del año pasado, celebrada en el Tougaloo College en nov. 7, 2019 y donde el Padre Odel dió su testimonio. (Foto cortesía de Daisey Martínez)
P: En general, ¿cómo muestra Santa Ana la fe en acción? Padre Odel: Creo que estamos en un momento para estar conscientes de Dios. Piensas que crees, tienes que mostrar cómo vives tu vida. La gente ya sabe que tu fe debe estar en acción. Intentan ayudarse mutuamente. Si pueden hacerlo solos, lo harán. Pero si es algo más grande, la comunidad coordinará más Tenemos muchos casos diferentes y la mayor experiencia fue el año pasado con las redadas. No solo los hispanos sino también los feligreses de habla inglesa respondieron. Y ahora, durante esta pandemia, todos intentamos ayudar a las personas que contrajeron el virus, miembros de la parroquia o no, su fe los movió a ayudar a cualquier persona enferma al traer cosas a su puerta. Fui testigo, también sufrí el virus y fue sorprendente lo mucho que se preocuparon por mí. P: Describa uno o dos de los ministerios en Santa Ana donde se ve la fe en acción. Edgar: El Ministerio de Ayuda Hispana comenzó con las redadas. La ayuda llegó y el padre Odel me llamó para formar parte del equipo. No teníamos la experiencia para ser un comité o para distribuir la ayuda que recibíamos. Gracias al Padre Odel pudimos organizarnos para usar la ayuda que recibíamos para proporcionar esta ayuda. Al principio, pensamos que nadie de afuera quería ayudarnos. Pero me he dado cuenta, gracias a Dios, que hay muchas personas que se preocupan por lo que estamos haciendo. Aunque somos migrantes, las personas nos están ayudando y podemos ayudar a las personas con el alquiler, las facturas de servicios públicos y los alimentos para su mesa. Yo mismo soy migrante y no sé qué pasará mañana, así que pude ayudar de inmediato.
KOSCIUSKO – El padre Odel Medida, tomando medidas de precaución, ha continuado con su trabajo, despues de sufrir el virus, no solo en Carthage sino también en St Therese Kosciusko. Aqui, en Misa de agradecimiento, celebrada a los graduados, (i-d) Tyler VanCise, Patricia Orduna, Alfredo Marin and Jacqueline Vazquez (Foto cortesía del padre Odel)
P: ¿Qué impacto ha tenido, este ministerio de fe, en la acción de las personas servidas y en las personas involucradas en el ministerio? Padre Odel: Las personas que sirven se han vuelto más conscientes de cómo poner su fe en acción. Esta crisis los ha hecho más conscientes, más activos y generosos con sus vidas. La primera persona que respondió para ayudar a las personas afectadas por las redadas fue uno de los afectados por la incursión de ICE. Él vino a mí y me dijo que “…a pesar de que estábamos afectados, tenemos que hacer algo.” En lugar de sentir pena por ellos mismos, se acercaron para ayudar a los demás. Las personas que han sido atendidas se sienten menos aisladas. La iglesia ha sido como un oasis para ellos. Saben que la iglesia es solidaria. Ayudar a la gente ha hecho que la iglesia sea más creíble. P: ¿Qué desafíos ha enfrentado en el desarrollo de este ministerio y qué lo mantuvo a pesar de los desafíos? Padre Odel: El ministerio comenzó en medio de una crisis, una incursión migratoria, y esto trajo mucho miedo, dolor y tristeza, por lo que el desafío era responder en tiempos de crisis, para las personas, la iglesia era el único refugio donde podrían sentirse seguros. Gracias a la ayuda de muchas personas en todo el país, se pudo ayudar a las familias. Lo que nos ha mantenido a pesar de los desafíos es la palabra de Dios que nos dice que él siempre estará con nosotros. Además, el apoyo se podría decir a nivel nacional para este ministerio, en términos económicos. P: ¿Qué sugerencias tiene para las personas, o parroquias, que no están seguros de cómo poner su fe en acción?
Padre Odel: Primero, como dice Santiago, la fe sin obras es una fe muerta (Santiago 2:14-26). Tener fe, orar, hablar con Dios te llevará a la acción, el fruto de la oración. Entonces, escucha lo que Dios te está diciendo y pidiendo. Y no tengas miedo cuando te dé los regalos.
By Berta Mexidor and Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – Bishop Joseph Kopacz ordained César Sánchez Fermín and Andrew Nguyen to the priesthood at the Cathedral of St. Peter Jackson on Saturday, June 27. Though the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the celebration originally scheduled in May, it could not stop the celebration of the two men joining the priesthood, but the event looked slightly different due to safety regulations in place. Every other pew was blocked off to allow for social distancing and members of the diocese were encouraged to watch via Facebook live rather than attend in person. Diocesan priests, seminarians, and a few selected special guests of the men to be ordained wore masks throughout the service. “The Lord has blessed our diocese with holy men from every corner of the earth. Welcome Father Andrew and Father Cesar!” commented Mark Beyea of Clinton, on Facebook. The spirit of gratitude and happiness could not be stolen from the occasion by the pandemic. The ordination Mass also celebrated the cultural diversity of the diocese , the Vietnamese heritage of now Father Nguyen and the Spanish heritage of now Father Sanchez, who hails from Michoacán, Mexico. Beginning his homily, Bishop Kopacz mentioned the universal church and how that all “gathered around the Word of God as proclaimed so beautifully and profoundly in Spanish, Vietnamese and in English” for the ordination Mass. He also acknowledged the reach of livestreaming the event, which reached family and friends of now Father Sanchez in Michoacán, Mexico and now Father Nguyen in Ninh Thuân province and Ho Chi Minh city in Vietnam. The ordination Mass included many powerful moments, especially when the men lay prostrate in an act of humble prayer and surrender before the altar invoking the prayers of the saints sung in chant by Father Aaron Williams and seminarians Andrew Bowden and Tristan Stovall. After the laying on of hands and prayer of ordination, the ordination of the two new priests proceeded to their investiture of the stole and chasuble. Father Nguyen was vested by Father Peter Hoai Thanh and Father Sánchez was vested by Father Mike O’Brien of Sacred Heart Canton. Fathers Andrew and César are following the Good News of the scriptures, and with their ordination, both promised to Bishop Kopacz, to propagate it to continue saving souls. The happiness of the occasion was shared by all the emojis and comments from the viewers: Jim McCraw of Jackson wrote “Congratulations Father Andrew! Love your quiet and confident spirit. You will make a difference! Your affection for Meridian is hard to hide.” “Prayers of thanksgiving for these two young men for answering the call to the priesthood. May the Lord bless them in their service,” wrote Mary P. Robinson of Madison. After the celebration of the Eucharist, Bishop Kopacz invited Father Sánchez and Father Nguyen to speak to their families who were not able to be present at the joyous event due to the pandemic through the livestream broadcast. In his native language, Father Sánchez spoke to his family. He closed in English saying that he has had a wonderful support system from those in the Diocese of Jackson and that he has “always felt at home.” “And you know that home is where your heart is, so I really feel that. Now, Jackson diocese is my second home,” said Father Sánchez. Father Nguyen spoke to his family members present and afar in Vietnamese and then thanked all for their prayers and support. In his closing remarks, Bishop Kopacz asked all to “continue to pray for priests … and continue forward together as the Lord’s people.” Father Sánchez is appointed parochial vicar at St. James Tupelo and St. Christopher Pontotoc. Father Nguyen is appointed parochial vicar at St. Patrick and St. Joseph parishes in Meridian.
By Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – This year’s chrism Mass in the Diocese of Jackson did not take place during Holy Week as usual and instead was celebrated on June 17 with a crowd of socially distanced, masked priests from around the diocese. The special Mass at the Cathedral of St. Peter Jackson was rescheduled due to churches being closed to the public because of the COVID-19 pandemic, a restriction that continued up until Pentecost on May 31. “The chrism Mass is a ‘manifestation of the priests’ communion with their Bishop,’ so it is very important for clergy to participate in that Mass even if a congregation of any size may not be able to gather,” explained chancellor, Mary Woodward. “Though not technically close to Easter as we would have wanted, the Mass nonetheless had a great fraternal spirit with the clergy gathering albeit six feet apart in masks. Much care was given to keep the clergy safe and to maintain the integrity of the liturgy.” Bishop Joseph Kopacz welcomed all clergy present and those watching the live stream presentation on Facebook under the “unusual circumstances of worship.” The masked and socially distanced Diocesan priests, who joined Bishop Kopacz for the Mass renewed their priestly promises. Bishop Kopacz blessed them and blessed the holy oils to be used in the administration of the sacraments throughout the diocese for the year. The oil of the sick is blessed to bring the strengthening and healing power of Christ in the sacrament of the anointing of the sick. The oil of catechumens is used at Baptism to purify candidates before baptizing with water. The sacred chrism is used to anoint individuals after baptism, seal those who are to be confirmed with the Holy Spirit, and in holy orders for priests on the hands and bishops on the head. It is also used to anoint altars and churches during their dedication. During his homily, Bishop Kopacz reflected on the pandemic and how different congregations look now with “people looking back with masks on. Just seeing the eyes.” Even with masks, few congregants and being socially distanced, Bishop Kopacz said that, “it is our way of coming together in spite of all of the obstacles to say that we are the body of Christ.” The faithful throughout the diocese were invited to take part in the livestreamed Chrism Mass through Facebook Live. After the Mass, priests received their oils and brought back to their parishes.
In preparation for our Homegrown Harvest Gala in the fall, which will benefit the Diocese of Jackson Office of Vocations, over the next several weeks we will feature a Q&A with one of our seminarians. This week, meet Tristan Stovall who is entering his first year of formation.
Tristan Stovall
Home parish: Holy Cross Philadelphia
Background: I was born and raised in the red clay hills of Neshoba county.
What is your vocation story? I was raised a Baptist. My first memory of Catholicism is seeing the funeral of Pope St. John Paul II on television. At the time I was awestruck by all the proceedings. I had so many questions about what was happening and who this man was for whom the whole world was coming to a halt. I became more and more interested as I grew up. When I was 15, I went to Mass for the first time at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans. I knew then that I had to become a Catholic. At the Easter Vigil in 2014 I was received into full communion with the church. I have always had a deep desire to dedicate my life entirely to God. This desire was present for as long as I can remember. Entering into the sacramental life of the church changed my life. I began attending daily Mass and frequenting the sacrament of penance.
The example of the saints was very influential in my pursuing a vocation to the priesthood. St. Catherine of Siena has always exercised an influence over me. Seeing her example of total dedication has constantly inspired me to give myself entirely to the service of Jesus Christ and His Bride, the church. I hope one day to receive the call to Holy Orders and to be entirely dedicated to the service of the church.
What draws you to diocesan priesthood? The care of souls is what draws me to the diocesan priesthood. The care of souls means that the primary responsibility of the diocesan priest is to work for the salvation of those souls who are entrusted to his care. I believe that this is the specific ministry to which the Lord is calling me. This ministry is specific to the diocesan priest. I discerned the religious life for a while, but ultimately came to see that that was not what the Lord was asking me to do.
What are your hobbies/interests? I enjoy playing the piano. I also very much enjoy reading and traveling.
Who is your favorite saint and why? My favorite saint is Catherine of Siena. I love her because she has been a friend to me in my discernment. She is a “no-nonsense” sort of person. She was at once extremely joyful and serious. I think St. Catherine represents the divine humor which we so often miss in our faith. This 20-something-year-old, illiterate Italian girl was not afraid to confront the world’s most powerful people in order to carry out Christ’s work. Her life was profoundly ecclesial, she was focused on being faithful and ensuring the unity of the church, for which Christ prayed.
Do you have a favorite devotion? My favorite devotion is lectio divina, which is the prayerful reading of the Word of God. I am drawn to this devotion because it brings me to a deeper knowledge of Christ.
What is something people might be surprised to learn about you? I was once part of a Southern rock band.
Who is your favorite sports team? If my answer to this question was not “the LSU Tigers” my family would disown me.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a seminarian? And the most challenging? The most rewarding part of being a seminarian has been coming to a deeper knowledge of the faith. To know God is to love Him. I have experienced this concretely in my life throughout my years of seminary formation.
What advice do you have for those discerning a vocation? Don’t be afraid to give it a try. You have nothing to lose. You can’t discover whether or not you have a vocation until you try it out.
Por Obispo Most Reverend Louis F. Kihneman and Most Reverend Joseph R. Kopacz, D.D. Unimos nuestras voces para denunciar vehementemente al racismo, una plaga que existe entre nosotros. Es un mal y una fuerza destructiva que devora el alma de nuestra nación. Es definitivamente, un problema moral que requiere un remedio moral, una transformación del corazón humano, y nos obliga a actuar.
Obispo Joseph R. Kopacz
“El mal del racismo se agrava en parte porque en nuestra nación ha habido un reconocimiento formal muy limitado del daño hecho a tantas personas, ningún momento de expiación, ningún proceso nacional de reconciliación y, con demasiada frecuencia, un descuido de nuestra historia”, tal como se expresa en “Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love” (Abramos nuestros corazones), una carta pastoral contra el racismo y que fue respaldada oficialmente en noviembre de 2018 en la Conferencia Anual de la Conferencia Católica de Obispos de los Estados Unidos en Baltimore. Tras este respaldo casi unánime, la Causa de Canonización de la Hermana Thea Bowman, nieta de esclavos, la única afroamericana de las Hermanas Franciscanas de la Adoración Perpetua, una mujer que trascendió el racismo para dejar una marca duradera en la vida católica a finales del siglo XX fue introducida y abrumadoramente aprobada por los Obispos. Este es un documento y una vida proféticos combinados para mostrarle a nuestra nación un mejor camino, el camino hacia una mayor justicia y paz, cuyo principio y fin es la dignidad de la persona humana. A medida que la Iglesia busca ser una levadura en la sociedad para la solidaridad, la libertad y la justicia para todos, debemos reconocer nuestra participación en las cadenas del racismo. “Por lo tanto, nosotros los obispos católicos de los Estados Unidos reconocemos las muchas veces que la Iglesia ha fallado en vivir como Cristo enseñó, en amar a nuestros hermanos y hermanas. Actos de racismo han sido cometidos por líderes y miembros de la Iglesia Católica, por obispos, clérigos, religiosos y laicos, y sus instituciones. Expresamos profundo pesar y arrepentimiento por ello. “ (Open Wide Our Hearts). Un número significativo de afroamericanos nace en la disparidad económica y social. Debemos reconocer que generaciones de afroamericanos se vieron en desventaja por la esclavitud, el robo de salarios, las leyes “Jim Crow” y la sistemática negación al acceso de numerosas oportunidades de creación de riqueza reservadas para otros. El racismo puede ser institucional cuando las prácticas o tradiciones, injustamente, han mantenido ese trato con ciertos grupos de personas. Los efectos acumulativos de los pecados personales del racismo han llevado a estructuras sociales de injusticia y violencia. (Open Wide Our Hearts). El despiadado asesinato de George Floyd desató una protesta nacional contra la tiranía del racismo. Las acciones e inacciones de los oficiales involucrados son sintomáticos de un patrón que ha alcanzado una masa crítica y ha explotado en toda nuestra nación y más allá. Este asalto brutal viola la verdad fundamental expresada en la carta Open Wide Our Hearts, que todas las personas son creadas a imagen y semejanza de Dios. Cuando esta verdad es ignorada, la consecuencia es el prejuicio y el miedo al otro, y con demasiada frecuencia, el odio. En el Evangelio de Juan 3:16 escuchamos el fundamento de la fe cristiana de que “Dios amó tanto al mundo que dio a su único Hijo”. No es sorpresa que en la primera carta de Juan 3:15 escuchemos que “todo el que odia a su hermano es un asesino.” A pesar de las grandes bendiciones de libertad que ofrece este país, especialmente nuestras libertades otorgadas por la Primera Enmienda, y que incluyen tanto la libertad de religión como la protesta pacífica, debemos admitir la clara verdad que para muchos de nuestros conciudadanos, las interacciones con la policía a menudo están llenas de miedo e incluso de peligro. Al mismo tiempo, rechazamos la severa retórica que menosprecia y deshumaniza en su conjunto a nuestro personal encargado de aplicar la ley, la mayoría de los cuales trabajan para mantener a nuestras comunidades seguras, condenamos los ataques contra la policía, los disturbios y la violencia que tienen lugar en nuestro país. La hermana Thea abordó la realidad tóxica del racismo en muchas ocasiones y habló en nombre de su pueblo. “Cuando iba creciendo, muchas de las ancianas que habían sufrido la ignominia de la esclavitud estaban todavía vivas y nos contaron sobre la esclavitud y porque teníamos que saber sobre la libertad. Nos contaron sobre la miseria. La mujer negra tiene una tarea cuando el mundo le dice a sus hijos, cuando el mundo le dice a su esposo, cuando el mundo le dice a su mamá y a ella: ‘hay algo mal contigo’; ‘Tu piel es muy negra’; ‘Tu nariz es demasiado plana’; ‘Tu cabello es demasiado enroscado y demasiado corto; ‘Y eres lento’; ‘eres ignorante’; ‘no puedes aprender como los blancos’; y ‘eres inmoral’. Eso es lo que la sociedad racista nos dijo y le contó a nuestros hijos sobre ellos mismos. El resultado fue uno de los grandes problemas de la comunidad negra, el problema de la baja autoestima, y que nos mata.” (Mercy College de Detroit, 1989). Un cartel en una de las protestas pacíficas en nuestra nación ilumina este lamento. “Decimos que las vidas negras importan. Nunca digas: solo las vidas negras importan. Lo sabemos: todas las vidas importan. Solo necesitamos su ayuda … las vidas de los negros están en peligro.” El llamado permanente al amor es el meollo del asunto y el antídoto para esta toxina. El amor es una fuerza extraordinaria que lleva a las personas a optar por un compromiso valiente y generoso en el campo de la justicia y la paz. Para muchos en Mississippi que nos esforzamos por vivir según la Palabra de Dios, no podemos ignorar a los profetas. “El Señor ya te ha dicho, oh hombre, en qué consiste lo bueno y qué es lo que él espera de ti: que hagas justicia, que seas fiel y leal y que obedezcas humildemente a tu Dios.” (Miqueas 6:8), y del profeta Amós, “Pero que fluya como agua la justicia y la honradez como un manantial inagotable.” (Amós 5:24) La vida de la hermana Thea es un legado vivo y un testimonio del sacrificio y el compromiso de muchos en la Iglesia Católica por generaciones en todo Mississippi en la búsqueda para superar el racismo. La hermana Thea nació en la ciudad de Yazoo, Mississippi, el 29 de diciembre de 1937, y creció en Canton. Su madre fue maestra y su padre era el único médico afroamericano en Canton. Sus padres la enviaron a la escuela Holy Child Jesus. Thea fue criada como protestante, hasta los nueve años, cuando le preguntó a sus padres si podía convertirse en Católica. “Me atrajo examinar y aceptar la fe católica debido al testimonio diario de los cristianos católicos que primero me amaron, luego compartieron conmigo su historia, sus valores, sus creencias; quienes primero me amaron y luego me invitaron a compartir con ellos en comunidad, oración y misión. Cuando era niña, no reconocí la evangelización en el trabajo en mi vida. Reconocí el amor, el servicio, la comunidad, la oración y la fe.” (The non-Catholic in the Catholic School — El no Católico en la escuela Católica) Dotada de una mente brillante, una voz hermosa y una dinámica personalidad, la hermana Thea compartió el mensaje del amor de Dios a través de su carrera docente. Después de 16 años de enseñanza en el nivel primario, secundario y universitario, el obispo de Jackson, Mississippi, la invitó a convertirse en consultora para la conciencia intercultural. En su rol de consultora, la hermana Thea hizo presentaciones en todo el país; reuniones animadas que las que combinaba canto, enseñanza del evangelio, oración y narración de historias. Sus programas estaban dirigidos a derribar las barreras raciales y culturales. Alentó a las personas a comunicarse entre sí para que pudieran entender otras culturas y razas. En 1984, la hermana Thea fue diagnosticada con cáncer de seno. Rezó “para vivir hasta que muera”. Su oración fue respondida y la hermana Thea continuó sus reuniones sentada, en una silla de ruedas. En 1989, los obispos de Estados Unidos la invitaron a ser una oradora clave en su conferencia sobre los negros católicos. Al final de la reunión, por invitación de la hermana Thea, los obispos se pusieron de pie y cantaron con entusiasmo “We Shall Overcome — Nosotros Venceremos”. La hermana Thea vivió una vida plena. Ella luchó contra el mal, especialmente los prejuicios, las sospechas, el odio y las cosas que separan a las personas. Ella luchó por Dios y el pueblo de Dios hasta su muerte en 1990. (Causa de canonización) Como obispos, en nuestro tiempo en Mississippi, nos comprometemos a continuar liberando a la Iglesia del mal del racismo que compromete gravemente nuestra misión de hacer discípulos de todas las naciones en el nombre de Jesucristo. Con los sacerdotes y diáconos ordenados, religiosos y laicos en nuestra diócesis, nos comprometemos a fortalecer nuestra tradición católica para educar, servir y empoderar a todos los marginados de nuestras comunidades, especialmente aquellos que están oprimidos por el yugo del racismo. No somos impotentes y el testimonio de la vida de la Hermana Thea es un icono de esperanza que para los que aman a Dios, todas las cosas funcionan para bien, “Sabemos que Dios dispone todas las cosas para el bien de quienes lo aman, a los cuales él ha llamado de acuerdo con su propósito.” (Romanos 8:28)
By Carol Glatz VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Everyone lives a life that is often inconsistent or a “contradiction” because people can be both a sinner and a saint, a victim and a tormentor, Pope Francis said. No matter what one’s situation is, people can put themselves back in God’s hands through prayer, he said June 24 during his weekly general audience. “Prayer gives us nobility; it is able to protect one’s relationship with God, who is the true companion along humanity’s journey, amidst thousands of hardships in life, good or bad, but always with prayer,” he said. The audience, livestreamed from the library of the Apostolic Palace, was the pope’s last general audience talk until Aug. 5, according to Vatican News. His Sunday Angelus address was to continue throughout July, however. With the start of summer vacation for many, the pope said he hoped people could have a peaceful moment of rest despite the ongoing restrictions “connected to the threat of infection from the coronavirus.” May it be a time of “enjoyment of the beauty of creation and a strengthening of ties with mankind and with God,” he said in greetings to Polish-speaking viewers and listeners. In his main talk, the pope continued his series on prayer and reflected on the role prayer played in the life of David – a young shepherd whom God called to become king of Israel. David learned early in life that a shepherd takes care of his flock, protects them from danger and provides for them, the pope said. Jesus, too, is called “the good shepherd” because he offers his life for his flock, guiding them, knowing each one by name, he said. When David was later confronted for his terrible sins, he realized he had become a “bad shepherd,” someone who was “sick with power, a poacher who kills and loots,” the pope said.
Pope Francis speaks during his weekly general audience in the library of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican June 24, 2020. During the audience, the pope said people can put themselves back in God’s hands through prayer. (CNS photo/Vatican Media)
He no longer acted like a humble servant but had robbed another man of the only thing he loved when he took the man’s wife as his own. David wanted to be a good shepherd, but sometimes he failed and sometimes he succeeded, the pope said. “Saint and sinner, persecuted and persecutor, victim and even executioner,” David was full of contradictions – being all of these things in his life, he said. But the one thing that stayed constant was his prayerful dialogue with God. “David the saint, prays, David the sinner, prays,” always lifting his voice to God either in joy or deep despair, the pope said. This is what David can teach the faithful today, he said: to always speak with God, no matter the circumstances or one’s state of being, because everyone’s life is often marked by contradiction and inconsistencies. People should tell God about their joy, sins, sorrows and love – everything, the pope said, because God is always there, and he listens. Prayer returns people to God “because the nobility of prayer leaves us in God’s hands,” he said. The pope also noted the day’s feast of the birth of St. John the Baptist. He asked that people learn from this saint, how to be courageous witnesses of the Gospel, above and beyond any individual differences, “preserving harmony and friendship that are the basis for the credibility of any proclamation of faith.”
Reflections on Life By Melvin Arrington All throughout Scripture we read about the need for and the benefits of patience, the fourth Fruit of the Spirit. The frequent references extolling longsuffering and endurance suggest that these qualities were lacking as much in the ancient world as they are in our own time.
Melvin Arrington, Jr.
In his classic Way to Inner Peace, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen offers penetrating insights into this elusive but essential virtue. He notes that patience is not an absence of action; rather it’s timing, waiting on “the right time to act, for the right principles and in the right way.” He calls it “submissive waiting: a frame of mind which is willing to wait because it knows it thus serves God and his holy purposes.” And he adds “a person who believes in nothing beyond this world is very impatient, because he has only a limited time in which to satisfy his wants.” In conclusion Sheen believes “the more materialistic a civilization is, the more it is in a hurry.” Some people seem to be in a hurry all the time, and they don’t want to slow down for anything or anybody. In fact, they would probably view waiting as a waste of time. When I was young and immature that was more or less my perspective. Back then, I didn’t realize that, paradoxically, it’s possible to accomplish a lot by not doing anything. For example, when we find ourselves in a holding pattern – standing in line, sitting in a doctor’s office, or on the phone “on hold” hoping to be able to speak to a “real person” – we’ve actually been granted extra time for prayer and reflection. In these situations we should be still and listen because God is probably trying to tell us something. After all, being busy, in a hurry, rushing here and there can lead to serious consequences, such as anxiety. Perhaps those things are outward signs of an inner turmoil that’s already present. Either way, we all know how harmful anxiety can be physically, psychologically and spiritually. Anyone suffering from this malady should obviously seek medical help, but also invoke divine assistance. We should never underestimate the power of prayer. The Psalmist must have had prayer in mind when he wrote, “Wait for the Lord, take courage; be stouthearted!” (27:14) When we pray, we want an answer immediately; we don’t want any delays. But as the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18) shows, our petitions should not be of the one-and-done variety. Rather, we must “pray without ceasing” (I Thessalonians 5:17), and pray confidently, knowing that the Lord hears and answers every prayer – yes, every single prayer! Sometimes the answer is “yes,” and other times it’s “no.” And more often than we realize the answer is “Hold on. It’s not time yet.” According to the old saying, “the early bird gets the worm,” but for those who are impatient the pertinent adage is “good things come to those who wait.” If we do this, one of the things we’ll discover is that God’s clock keeps perfect time. When something is supposed to happen right away, and it doesn’t, some of us may become irritable; others may begin to worry; a few may even succumb to anxiety. But God’s schedule is not necessarily the same as ours. His timetable always overrides our own. He’s in charge and He has a plan for us, so we need to trust His timing and allow His will to unfold. Those guided by patience have a view to the big picture. They know they’re in for the long haul. And they know that good things do indeed come to those who wait. And so, we see that patience has connections to each of the theological virtues, faith, hope and love. It takes faith to yield to the workings of the Holy Spirit in our lives rather than attempt to accomplish all things on our own. It takes hope to anticipate the good things God has in store for us without becoming restless. And, of course, there’s love. I Corinthians 13 tells us that love is patient; love bears all things. Patience is forbearance; it enables us to endure suffering. Bearing wrongs patiently is one of the spiritual works of mercy (CCC 2447). My whole life I’ve heard people refer to “the patience of Job,” but after reading his story in the Old Testament I came away with the impression that in some ways he didn’t seem patient at all. Job complained and he questioned God about his predicament; however, he did remain faithful and he persevered. And it’s important to note that in the end he was rewarded. So that has to be the lesson for us as we continue to go about our daily lives as best we can, given the restrictions of the corona pandemic. How long can God’s people endure being away from the Mass and the Eucharist? How long? As long as it takes. Because we know there’s a prize reserved for the stouthearted, those who persevere, those who wait for the Lord.
(Melvin Arrington is a Professor Emeritus of Modern Languages for the University of Mississippi and a member of St. John Oxford.)
JACKSON – Daniel and Mary McNamara celebrated 60 years of marriage on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at St. Richard Jackson. Father Nick Adam said Mass, blessed the McNamara’s marriage and prayed for them on their special day. The McNamara’s give thanks and praise to God for blessing them with their long happy and wonderful lives together to share with family loved ones and many dear caring friends who have made their lives blessed and more meaningful throughout the entire 60 years. They were orignally married at the Cathedral of St. Peter Jackson. (Photo by Maggie Mayer)
MADISON St. Francis of Assisi, Assisi prayer chain is available to all those in need. Details: Call (601) 850-3432 or (601) 291-4373 between 5-7 p.m.
PARISH, SCHOOL AND FAMILY EVENTS
CLARKSDALE Catholic community of St. Elizabeth, Charismatic prayer group meets Tuesdays at 2 p.m. via Zoom meetings. All parishioners are invited to pray with us from your phone, tablet or computer. Contact the church office to sign up and/or to add your prayer requests. Details: church office (662) 624-4301. GREENVILLE St. Joseph, Study of the beatitudes, Join Tristan Stovall for study of the beatitudes on Wednesdays in July at 6 p.m. right after 5:30 p.m. Mass. Bring your Bible and a friend, but don’t forget your mask! Details: church office (662) 335-5251. MAGNOLIA St. James Mission, you are invited to embark on a journey towards faith and racial healing sometime in the first week of Sept. via Zoom meetings. It is an opportunity to further and deepen our desire to follow the way of Jesus. This program is not specifically Catholic. It is universal. All are welcome. The program is not about religion; it is about human dignity and respect. If you are interested, please call or email. Details: Chris Ingrassia (301) 266-0433, gracie_eddie@yahoo.com. Website is: https://justfaith.org/faith-and-racial-healing/. NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, Blood drive, Thursday, July 28 from 1-6 p.m. at the O’Connor Family Life Center. Details: Regina at the church office (601)-445-5616 or schedule your appointment at www.vitalant.org.
YOUTH BRIEFS
GREENVILLE St. Joseph, Limited time online Vacation Bible School for ages 4-12, “The Incredible – Discover How Jesus Saves the World.” Let us help your child and family grow in faith and discover the Incredible Savior, Jesus, through prayer, video and song. You will need to register your family at www.catholicbrain.com using the following information: School name: St. Joseph Catholic Church, Greenville, MS; School code: STJ51097. Please note: the last date of availability is July 25. Details: Mary Ann Barker at (662) 335-5251. NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, The CYO still plans to hold a Garage Sale (date to be determined by COVID). Details: call Carrie Lambert at the church office (601) 445-5616. Please hold onto your donations for the time being and let her know if you have nowhere to store donations. St. Mary Basilica, St. Mary’s Vanguard (newly formed Young Adult Ministry) will resume its Trivia Night on Tuesday, July 21 at 7 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Cost: $5 to play and $5 for a boxed meal. Babysitting provided. Prizes for the winner(s). Details: church office (601)-445-5616.
SAVE THE DATE
JACKSON St. Richard School, Save the date Friday, Feb. 12, 2021, Krewe de Cardinal. Details: church office (662) 256-8392. NATIONAL Virtual 2020 Catholic Immigrant Integration Initiative, Oct. 1-2. The CIII seeks to understand, expand and strengthen the work of Catholic institutions with immigrant communities. Registration will open soon. To receive updates about registration, please fill out this form: https://forms.gle/4gX2XS3enWoP9vAp9. Details: For details about the virtual conference visit https://cmsny.org/event/2020-catholic-immigrant-integration-initiative/
LIVE STREAMING
In person Masses are now open at many parishes within the Diocese of Jackson. Check with your local parish for details and follow guidelines in place for attendance. Some parishes are still offering live streaming options via Facebook live and YouTube to be present to their faith communities and bring Mass to the faithful. The obligation to attend Mass continues to be dispensed, so if you do not feel safe attending, or have an underlying health condition, or feel sick, please stay hope. Be safe and stay vigilant!
By Daisey Martinez CHOCTAW – “The Choctaw people believe that when you have a skill or a gift, you give it to another person in the family, and I believe [my grandmother] gave that [gift of sewing] to me, Kaylee and Michelle.” Tina Routh, her daughter Kaylee Routh, cousin Michelle Hickman, and friend Gwendolyn Hickman have, so far, made over 4,536 face masks. They average about 100 masks per day. This project began around mid-March when these kind-hearted women noticed a need for masks around their community. At first, they were only distributing to family and friends, but then their little project grew. They have been providing masks to different departments throughout the Reservation and the Choctaw Health Center which has had the most need for masks. They also send masks to other people who live on different Reservations and to tribal members who live out-of-state.
CHOCTAW – A stunning display of masks made by a group of ladies for the Choctaw Reservation. (Photo by Tina Routh)
These incredible women do what they do as they have had many of their loved ones pass away during this pandemic. As tribe members, they know it is important to stand up and to give back when there is a need. They thank God for the gifts and opportunities they have been given to help other members of the Body of Christ. They are also thankful for Father Bob Goodyear who has always shown his love and support for the Choctaw people. “We don’t need to think of ourselves; we need to think of others,” Gwendolyn shared and continued, “when Tina and Michelle asked me to help, I thought of my own mom and how I would want her protected and how I want other tribal members to be protected as well.” Gwendolyn credits her grandparents, who were deacons, for her way of thinking. Kaylee, an upcoming senior at the University of Southern Mississippi, shared her reason for being a part of this project, “I saw the need for masks in my community, especially for our elders, and rather than just sit around all day, which is what I was doing once school was out, I chose to do something productive that could benefit my people. I view our elders as teachers to my people; therefore, anything I could do to protect their health, I was more than willing to do.” Tina, Michelle, and Kaylee are Catholic, and Gwendolyn is Baptist. They joke about how they do not hold that against her. It is a beautiful thing when people can come together for a great cause. They focus on their common goal of wanting to serve others around them. During these divisive times, it is wonderful to see unity at work. These women are truly living out 1 Peter 4:10: “As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” Michelle, Gwendolyn, and Tina purchased much of the material using their own funds, but have also received donations from others, even from people out of state. This positive feedback really amazed and further motivated these ladies. They are always accepting donations to help in continuing the effort to keep others safe, so if you would like to donate material such as fabric, thread, and elastic, please email daisey.martinez@jacksondiocese.org.
