By Madelyn Johnson PEARL – On April 4, 2025, Bishop Joseph Kopcaz and Father Lincoln Dall blessed the gardens at Central Mississippi Correctional Facility (CMCF) in Pearl. The gardens are part of the Garden Project, a rehabilitation project at CMCF.
The goal of the Garden Project is to help the inmates increase their earnings after being released from prison. The project teaches men not only the basic aspects of gardening but also gives them the ability to better their family’s living conditions. Shaw hopes it will help incarcerated individuals with the ability to become safer members of society and commit fewer crimes.
There are two phases to the Garden Project – home gardening and farmers market management. Books and literature are donated by the Mississippi State University Agriculture Extension to assist with learning. The goal of these phases is to help men harvest and plant their own gardens, and to possibly create and manage their own booth at a local farmers market.
Michael Shaw is the recreational director at CMCF. The Garden Project was one of his ideas to create additional value to time served.
PEARL – Father Lincoln Dall is moved by the sign inmates at the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility (CMCF) had made for him at the Garden Project at the facility. More photos can be viewed at jacksondiocese.zenfoliosite.com. (Photo by Madelyn Johnson)
“What is needed is a way to supplement income for these guys here, says Shaw. “Getting out of prison, they will make on average $9 per hour. With the garden project, we can teach these guys how to grow their own gardens and bring that income up to $11 per hour.”
Shaw recalls his time at CMCF, stating that he kept to himself until he saw the need for more programs for rehabilitation for the inmates. Shaw worked on many different projects, like writing classes, until being promoted to recreational director. Wanting to produce a safer society and give the chance for incarcerated men to help their families once released from prison is Shaw’s main goal.
“These guys that come in have big families, some five or six kids,” says Shaw. “When they are released they have no work, no family resources and low income. They need a way to subsidize their income.”
The community can help with the Garden Project by shopping at local farmers markets. “We don’t need monetary or physical donations,” says Shaw. “We need people to shop at local farmers markets to support our guys.”
What Shaw really wants the community to know is this quote from Dorothy Day, “Why was so much done in remedying evil instead of avoiding it in the first place?”
Currently, the gardens at CMCF are flourishing, the inmates just harvested their first vegetables: cabbage and lettuce. Father Lincoln recently brought in homemade salad dressing so that the inmates could enjoy their harvests. The men are hopeful that a local farmers market will allow them to sell their crops soon. Shaw received a 2025 Bishop Chanche Award for his efforts on the Garden Project.
By Madelyn Johnson GLUCKSTADT – Many Catholic mothers carry deep concern about their children’s faith. Whether praying for strength as their children face life’s struggles or longing for them to return to the church, these mothers often turn to St. Monica – patron saint of mothers – for guidance and hope. Inspired by St. Monica’s unwavering devotion, Millions of Monicas is a growing movement of women who gather at a local parish to pray for the faith of their children and loved ones who have strayed from the church.
GLUCKSTADT – A portrait depicting St. Monica sits at the front of the sanctuary of St. Joseph parish in Gluckstadt. Women gather in prayer at 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the parish, asking for the intercession of St. Monica in the lives of their children. (Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Gluckstadt’s Millions of Monicas)
Meeting once a week, the group strives to encounter God through prayer for their children. Since its inception in June 2021 in Grand Rapids, Michigan by three mothers who were struggling with their children’s faith journey in this tumultuous world, Millions of Monicas has grown to over 2,000 members in over 100 parishes. Each group is affiliated with a local parish and follows a simple, consistent format rooted in quiet prayer versus personal sharing or discussion.
Jane VanHouten is one of the founding members of the movement. When asked about the impact she hopes Millions of Monicas will make she says, “We at Millions of Monicas do not seek anything but what God wills for our ministry. It started with just three women fervently praying for each other’s children and has been lovingly anointed by God’s grace to grow and move hearts toward Him.”
In the Diocese of Jackson, St. Joseph Church in Gluckstadt hosts a Millions of Monicas group every Tuesday. The group started much like the original group with a few women who wanted to pray for the faith of their struggling children and sought guidance from their priest.
Fran Patterson, another member of the group, began praying to St. Monica when her children were young, asking the saint to have her intercede and help her be a faithful model of the Catholic faith for her four children. Today, Millions of Monicas continues to nourish her spiritually.
“For me, it has been very powerful to pray with this group of women each week,” says Patterson. “Knowing that each week there are several women who are praying for me and my specific prayer intention – and that I get to do the same for them – has strengthened my faith. I love this ministry because it is simply a holy hour of prayer. We come knowing what to expect and do not need to share any details or are ever expected to, we are there to pray – with and for one another and ourselves.” Patterson brings words of welcome and encouragement to women who may be hesitant to join, as Millions of Monicas will always strive to help Catholic women pray for their children and others return to the faith.
“Prayer is powerful and prayer as a group is even more so,” says Patterson. “This is not a time of personal sharing of your story but a very intentional and structured time of prayer. The goal is to unite our hearts and prayers together each week as we pray for our loved ones and ourselves. The group is made up of mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, spiritual mothers, confirmation sponsors, etc.”
The Millions of Monicas group at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Gluckstadt meets every Tuesday from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. All women are welcome to join in this sacred hour of intercessory prayer.
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, Intercultural Competence Workshop for Parish Leaders, Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Presenter: Deacon Juan Pagan of the Diocese of Lafayette. Explore what is culture and more. Details: Sister Amelia at amelia.breton@jacksondiocese.org.
GLUCKSTADT – St. Joseph, Millions of Monicas – Praying with confidence for our children, each Tuesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the church. Join with other mothers and grandmothers as we pray for our children’s faithful return to the church. Details: email millionsofmonicas@stjosephgluckstadt.com.
OFFICE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION – The OCE hosts a Zoom Rosary the first Wednesday of each month during the school year at 7 p.m. The upcoming Rosary is on May 7. Details: Join the rosary via zoom at https://bit.ly/zoomrosary2024.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Divine Mercy Holy Hour, Sunday, April 27 from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
CLARKSDALE – St. Elizabeth, Vacation Bible School, June 9-13. Save the date. Details: church office (662) 624-4301.
CLINTON – Holy Savior, Vacation Bible School “True North: Trusting Jesus in a Wild World,” June 2-6 from 6-8 p.m. Register at https://bit.ly/440Z1HA. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.
COLUMBUS – Annunciation School, Mass and Parish Picnic, Sunday, May 4 at 10:30 a.m. in the gym, Burgers, hotdogs and drinks provided. Last names A-D bring salad; G-M dessert; M-Z side. Be sure to bring a lawn chair. Details: church office (662) 328-2927.
GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Central Grocery Muffuletta Sale, Thursday, May 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pickup location is in parish hall. Cost: $25 with proceeds going to St. Joseph School. Tickets available in church and school office. Details: church office (662) 335-5251.
JACKSON – Catholic Charities, Bishop’s Ball, Saturday, July 19 at the Two Mississippi Museums, with cocktail hour at 6 p.m. and auction beginning at 7 p.m. Early bird ticket sale ends May 15. Details: https://event.gives/bb25.
JACKSON – Holy Ghost, 50th Anniversary of the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, Saturday, June 21. More information to come.
JACKSON – Sister Thea Bowman School, Drawdown 2025, Saturday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m. Grand prize is $5,000. Tickets cost $120; with additional $15 for second chance. Join us for fellowship, food, entertainment, silent auction and more! Details: email stbdrawdown@gmail.com or visit https://bit.ly/STBSDD2025.
JACKSON – Catholic Charities, 20th annual Bishop’s Ball, Saturday, July 19 at the Two Mississippi Museums. Cocktail hour at 6 p.m. with an auction at 7 p.m. Live music by the Patrick Harkins Bank. Early bird ticket cost of $100 ends on May 15. Details: call (601) 355-8634.
MERIDIAN – St. Patrick School, Countdown 2025, Friday, May 2, doors open at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $100; tickets available at school and parish offices. Grand prize is $5,000. Theme is disco! Details: (601) 482-6044.
St. Patrick, Vacation Bible School, June 23-27. Save the date.
NATCHEZ – Cathedral School, Crawfish Countdown, Friday, May 2. Save the date.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Vacation Bible School “Passport to Peace,” June 16-20 from 5:30-8 p.m. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
PEARL – St. Jude, Family Fun Night Potluck, Wednesday, April 30 after 6:30 p.m. Rosary. Please bring a main dish to share. Desserts and beverages provided. Details: church office (601) 939-3181.
SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Vacation Bible School for grades K-8, Monday-Friday, June 16-20 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Registration forms in gathering area of the church. Join us for crafts, Bible stories, games and snacks. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.
Christ the King, “Mother Mary, Show Us the Way” for grades K through fifth, Sunday, May 18 at 2 p.m. Join us for activities, prayer, crafts and snacks. Register by Sunday, May 4. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.
PILGRIMAGES HOLY LAND – Pilgrimage to Holy Land: Join Father Mark Shoffner, pastor of St. John Oxford, July 21-31, 2025. Details: lpjp.org, then click on “All Pilgrimages” and “Holy Land.” Details: church office (662) 234-6073.
MARIAN SHRINES – Pilgrimage to Marian Shrines (Fatima, Spain and Lourdes) with Father Lincoln Dall and Deacon John McGregor, Sept, 15-24, 2025. Details: for more information visit www.206tours.com/frlincoln.
ROME/LISBON/FATIMA – Pilgrimage to Rome, Assisi, Lisbon and Fatima with Father Carlisle Beggerly, Oct. 4-15, 2025. Cost: $5,799 per person (includes airfare from anywhere in the U.S.) Details: contact Pat Nause at (601) 604-0412; Proximo Travel at (855) 842-8001 or proximotravel.com. Mention trip #1181.
JACKSON – When Bishop John Joseph Chanche arrived in the newly formed Diocese of Natchez in May of 1841, there were no Catholic Churches, only a couple of missionary priests, and his flock was far flung. He rose to the challenge and laid the foundation for the Diocese of Jackson. The diocese honors his legacy and thanks those who continue to build on his foundation with the Bishop Chanche medal for service. This year, Bishop Joseph Kopacz gave 48 adults their awards on Saturday, March 29, at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. The brief descriptions on these pages come from the Bishop Chanche Award nomination forms and offer a glimpse into the men and women who serve the church today.
John Alford – Christ the King, Jackson John is a dedicated leader and a gifted musician who has faithfully served his parish for over 25 years. His exceptional musical talents enrich the liturgy, and his commitment to mentoring children and adults fosters a deep love for the Mass. Through his guidance in music ministry – directing choirs, teaching, and encouraging student participation – he has strengthened both his parish and the broader faith community. His unwavering dedication, leadership, and ability to make each Mass a joyful and spiritually uplifting experience make him highly deserving of the Bishop Chanche Award.
Marie Antici – Our Lady of Victories, Cleveland Marie is a devoted servant of her faith, dedicating the past 14 years to ministering to the homebound, hospitalized, and nursing home residents. As a Eucharistic minister, she ensures that the most vulnerable members of her parish receive Holy Communion, companionship, and spiritual support. Her unwavering commitment extends beyond Catholic residents, as she also provides comfort and care to non-Catholics, acting as an extra set of eyes for families who cannot always be present. Her faith-filled leadership, involvement in study groups, funeral ministries, and parish missions exemplify her deep devotion to her church and community.
Hilda Bankston – St. Anne, Fayette Hilda has been a dedicated and selfless servant of her parish for over ten years, serving as sacristan, volunteer secretary and bookkeeper. At 83 years old, her unwavering faith drives her to be the first to arrive at church, open the doors, set up for parish activities and stay until everything is in order. She plays a vital role in organizing church programs, ensuring smooth operations even in the priest’s absence. Her commitment extends to keeping the parish’s financial and accounting records up to date and assisting parishioners with their yearly contributions. Through her tireless dedication, leadership and deep love for the church, Hilda has made a lasting impact on her parish community, making her truly deserving of the Bishop Chanche Award.
Donald Charles and Ann Janette Barrios – St. Alphonsus, McComb Donald and Ann are devoted and selfless servants of their parish, actively contributing to its spiritual and communal life. As members of the Liturgy and Pastoral Committees, they help shape the parish’s worship experience. They also serve as lectors, teach Confirmation classes, and are core team members for Life-Teen, “That Man is You,” and the Men’s Group. Their musical talents enrich weekend Masses, funerals, weddings, and adoration hours – all offered freely without charge.
Donnie and Linda Sherwood Dick – Our Mother of Mercy Mission, Anguilla Donnie and Linda have been devoted to their Catholic faith and parish community since the 1970s. As catechism teachers, they have prepared children for First Communion and Confirmation, served as godparents and sponsors, and actively engaged in parish life. Linda is a parish council member, while Donnie dedicates himself to church upkeep and community involvement. Their generosity, joy, and welcoming spirit have inspired and strengthened the faith of manyin the community.
Michael and Marsha Domino – All Saints, Belzoni Mike and Marsha are a devoted Catholic couple deeply involved in parish life for nine years. Mike serves as a lector and parish council member, while Marsha is active in the All Saints Altar Society. Their dedication to Mass, parish activities, and community service, including organizing cemetery blessings and supporting the Delta Farmers Association, inspires fellow parishioners, especially children.
Cathy Edwards – Sacred Heart, Winona Cathy has dedicated over 20 years of faithful service, living her Catholic faith through her roles as church secretary, bookkeeper, and active participant in ecumenical services, prison ministries, and community projects. Her husband Marvin, who was awarded the Bishop Chanche Medal in 2015, has been a supportive partner in her ministry, and together, they have made a significant impact on both the parish and community.
Kay Farrell – St. Michael, Vicksburg Kay has dedicated over 50 years to St. Michael Parish, serving as an RCIA team member, lector, Eucharistic minister, and community advocate. Her theological expertise, leadership in the Synodal process, and commitment to Catholic education make her an exemplary witness of faith and service.
Charles Hunter – Holy Cross, Philadelphia Charles has dedicated over 40 years to Holy Cross Parish as an extraordinary minister, lector, usher, sacristan and altar server. His leadership as Grand Knight, active involvement in the Finance Council, and unwavering service make him a model of faith and commitment.
Roosevelt and Linda Johnson – Immaculate Conception, Clarksdale Linda and Roosevelt have served their parish for over 15 years with unwavering dedication. Linda sings in the choir, teaches RCIA, and organizes events, while Roosevelt oversees church maintenance and assists with food distribution. Their commitment, service and faith make them invaluable members of our community.
Valeria Johnson – Holy Family, Natchez Valeria has dedicated eight years to serving as Director of Religious Education, preparing candidates for First Communion and Confirmation, organizing parish activities and mentoring future leaders. Her unwavering faith, leadership and selfless service have made a lasting impact on the parish and community.
Erica Jones – St. Mary, Batesville Erica has selflessly served St. Mary’s for seven years, leading music at Mass, lectoring and supporting religious ed. Despite a busy schedule, she sacrifices her time to practice and inspire the congregation, exemplifying dedication, faith and service, while mentoring her daughter.
Scott and Mary Leary – St. John the Evangelist, Oxford Scott and Mary have dedicated over 15 years to youth ministry and marriage preparation at St. John’s, guiding countless generations through retreats, counseling, and education. Their unwavering faith, leadership, and exemplary family life have made them pillars of the community, deeply influencing both parishioners and the wider Oxford area.
David Madere and Melissa Madere – St. Joseph, Gluckstadt David and Missy have selflessly served St. Joseph Parish for 16 years, leading adult education, OCIA, and providing music for Masses and funerals. They also contribute to charitable works through the KC Council and are known for their deep faith and community involvement.
Fagin and Mary Ann Mauney – St. Matthew, Ripley Fagin and Mary Ann have dedicated over 25 years to St. Matthew Parish, serving in pro-life, liturgical ministries and community building. Though retired from active service, their faithful attendance, support of parish activities, and spirit of inclusivity continue to inspire and strengthen the parish and broader community.
Rose Mcgraw – St. Joseph, Greenville Rose has dedicated over 30 years to St. Joseph Parish, leading ministries like bereavement, hospitality, and St. Vincent de Paul. Her selfless service, warm presence and commitment to community building make her a vital spiritual and practical leader.
Diane Melton – St. Mary, Yazoo City Diane has dedicated 41 years to serving her parish, teaching catechism, leading the Altar Society, and volunteering as lector and Eucharistic minister. Her leadership as Parish Council president and commitment to charity make her an exemplary Catholic role model.
Juana Mollinedo and Edy Meza – St. Anne, Carthage Juana and Edy have dedicated over 15 years of service to the parish, actively participating as extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, readers and youth ministry leaders. They inspire others through their consistent Christian witness and commitment to both faith and community.
Melanie Norwood – Holy Ghost, Jackson Melanie has dedicated over five years to various parish ministries at Holy Ghost, including religious education, RCIA and youth ministry. She actively helps with sacrament preparation and supports the parish through service, demonstrating strong faith and commitment to community.
Patricia Potter – St. Therese, Kosciusko At 85, Pat has faithfully served St. Therese for over 40 years. She is active in multiple ministries, including altar preparation, Eucharistic ministry, and Helping Hands, always showing generosity, leadership and dedication to both the parish and community.
Michael and Sharron Scheel – St. James, Magnolia Michael and Sharron have faithfully served St. James for 50 years in numerous ministries, including finance, liturgy and outreach. Their devotion, leadership and commitment to parish life and service make them exemplary models of Catholic faith.
Richard and Aileen Semmes – St. Patrick, Meridian Richard and Aileen have served their parish for over 20 years, with Richard leading the music ministry and Aileen as chair of the Liturgy Committee. Their leadership, service and commitment to charity have profoundly enriched our parish and community, inspiring others to live their faith.
Barbara and Daniel Setaro – St. Joseph, Starkville Danny and Barbara have dedicated themselves to the parish through the food pantry, Knights of Columbus and Ladies Auxiliary. Their unwavering service, even through health struggles, has made a lasting impact on the community since 2005.
Joe Michael Shaw – Holy Savior, Clinton Michael has been the inmate leader of our Catholic ministry at the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility since our ministry restarted after the pandemic, back in March 2022. He kept Catholic ministry going when outside volunteers were unable to enter the facilities during the pandemic. He has helped grow the ministry tremendously as we are now the largest Christian presence at the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility. He is very worthy of recognition in the Bishop Chanche award.
Joan Shell – Christ the King, Fulton Joan’s unwavering dedication to service, leadership in Sunday school, Mass preparation, food ministry and Bible study, along with her humility and tireless commitment, make her a true embodiment of Catholic faith and an inspiration to all.
Bernardo Sorcia – St. James the Less, Corinth Bernardo’s unwavering commitment to service through leadership in the Pastoral Council, Hospitality Ministry, and retreats, alongside his dependable, solution-oriented attitude, has made him an invaluable asset to the parish for over 11 years.
Edith Wilson Spells – St. Francis of Assisi, Greenwood Edith exemplifies faithful Catholic leadership through her roles as Parish Council president, lector, Secular Franciscan, educator and musician, inspiring others with her dedication, positivity and unwavering commitment to service for over 60 years.
Ann Summers – Holy Family, Jackson Ann deserves the Bishop Chanche Award for over 40 years of quiet, selfless service as sacristan, lector, commentator and behind-the-scenes helper, ensuring a meaningful worship experience and supporting various parish ministries with compassion and dedication.
Julia Criss Tartt – St. Peter, Grenada Julia deserves the award for her 10 years of dedicated service in pastoral ministry, leading music, supporting social outreach and inspiring the community through her devotion to faith and service.
Robert and Lydia Trotter – St. Joseph, Meridian Robert and Lydia are devoted church leaders, serving through finance, hospitality and community outreach. As Finance Council chair, Robert ensures stewardship while actively volunteering. His work with the Knights of Peter Claver and the cooking crew fosters fellowship; while Lydia’s contributions through various ministries highlight her compassion and commitment to supporting parishioners in times of both joy and grief.
Tunney and Debra Vandevender – St. Francis, Madison Debra and Tunney deserve the award for their selfless, behind-the-scenes service, including leadership in scouting, Eucharistic ministry, parish communications, and community events, all while fostering faith, humility, and dedication since 2008.
Frank and Marcia Weaver – St. Paul, Vicksburg Marcia and Frank’s lifelong dedication to St. Paul shines through their leadership in parish council, Bible studies, choir and Mass ministries. Their willingness to serve whenever needed has strengthened the parish community for decades.
Eileen Weisenberger – Holy Savior, Clinton Eileen’s lifelong devotion to faith and service is evident in her outreach to the elderly, the poor and her parish community. Through quiet acts of love, she exemplifies selfless Catholic living, inspiring generations to follow.
Myra Woodward – St. Jude, Pearl Myra’s unwavering dedication, joyful spirit and willingness to serve make her an invaluable part of St. Jude. From liturgy to teaching, decorating to hospitality, she selflessly gives her time.
JACKSON – Parishioners from across the Diocese of Jackson were honored for their service to the church on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at the annual Bishop Chanche Awards Mass at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson with Bishop Joseph Kopacz. (Photo by Tereza Ma)
Youth across the Diocese of Jackson were honored at the the Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference (DCYC) at the Vicksburg Convention Center on Sunday, March 23 for their service to their respective parishes and to the diocese.
Elizabeth Bednar – St. Michael, Vicksburg
Vanessa Espino – St. Joseph, Meridian
Joselin Flores – St. James, Tupelo
Ann Elise Gatlin – St. Alphonsus, McComb
Hannah Kate Hooker – St. Joseph, Greenville
Avery Hornback – St. Francis of Assisi, Madison
Austin SEALS Love – St. Joseph, Gluckstadt
Anna Kay Martin – Holy Cross, Philadelphia
Jamichael Owens – Holy Family, Natchez
Peyton Rainer– St. Paul, Vicksburg
Valeria Rangel – St. Patrick, Meridian
Abbygale Roberts – St. Jude, Pearl
Charles Jonathan Vasquez Sebastin – Holy Family, Jackson
Rev. Augustine Palimattam Poulose appointed Administrator Pro Tempore of St. Michael Parish Forest and its mission, St. Anne in Newton; St. Michael Parish Paulding and Centro Católico in Morton, effective April 1, 2025.
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, Intercultural Competence Workshop for Parish Leaders, Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Presenter: Deacon Juan Pagan of the Diocese of Lafayette. Explore what is culture and more. Details: Sister Amelia at amelia.breton@jacksondiocese.org.
GLUCKSTADT – St. Joseph, Millions of Monicas – Praying with confidence for our children, each Tuesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the church. Join with other mothers and grandmothers as we pray for our children’s faithful return to the church. Details: email millionsofmonicas@stjosephgluckstadt.com.
JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, Chrism Mass, Tuesday, April 15 at 11:30 a.m. and Tenebrae Music Service on Wednesday, April 16 at 5:30 p.m.
OFFICE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION – The OCE hosts a Zoom Rosary the first Wednesday of each month during the school year at 7 p.m. The upcoming Rosary is on May 7. Details: Join the rosary via zoom at https://bit.ly/zoomrosary2024.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Divine Mercy Holy Hour, Sunday, April 27 from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS BATESVILLE – St. Mary, Live Stations of the Cross, Friday, April 18 at 2 p.m. Details: church office (662) 563-2273.
CANTON – Catholic Charities, Birdies for Born Free Golf Tournament, Tuesday, June 10, registration and lunch at 11:30 a.m. and tournament begins at 12:30 p.m. Details: register at https://www.catholiccharitiesjackson.org/event-details/birdies-for-born-free. For more information contact deja.errington@ccjackson.org or (601) 355-8634.
COLUMBUS – Annunciation School, Easter Festival, Sunday, April 13 from 2-4 p.m. Enjoy games, prizes, crafts, snacks and egg hunts by grade for ages infant through fifth grade. Be sure to bring your Easter basket. Details: school office (662) 328-4479.
CORINTH – St. James the Less, Easter Egg Hunt, Sunday, April 20 between Masses. Details: church office (662) 331-5184.
GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Central Grocery Muffuletta Sale, Thursday, May 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pickup location is in parish hall. Cost: $25 with proceeds going to St. Joseph School. Tickets available in church and school office. Details: church office (662) 335-5251.
HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, Easter Egg Hunt, Sunday, April 13 at 11:30 a.m. Details: church office (662) 429-7851.
JACKSON – Catholic Charities, Bishop’s Ball, Saturday, July 19 at the Two Mississippi Museums, with cocktail hour at 6 p.m. and auction beginning at 7 p.m. Early bird ticket sale ends May 15. Details: https://event.gives/bb25.
JACKSON – Holy Ghost, 50th Anniversary of the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, Saturday, June 21. More information to come.
JACKSON – St. Richard, Men’s Prayer Breakfast with Bishop Kopacz, Monday, April 14, beginning with Mass at 6:30 a.m. and breakfast provided by the Knights of Columbus at 7 a.m. in Foley Hall. Details: church office (601) 366-2335.
JACKSON – Sister Thea Bowman School, Drawdown 2025, Saturday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m. Grand prize is $5,000. Tickets cost $120; with additional $15 for second chance. Join us for fellowship, food, entertainment, silent auction and more! Details: email stbdrawdown@gmail.com or visit https://bit.ly/STBSDD2025.
MADISON – St. Francis, Live Stations of the Cross, Friday, April 18 at 2 p.m. Details: church office (601) 856-5556.
NATCHEZ – Cathedral School, Crawfish Countdown, Friday, May 2. Save the date.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Easter Egg Hunt, Saturday, April 12 at 10 a.m. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
PEARL – St. Jude, Easter Egg Hunt, Sunday, April 13 at 11:45 a.m. (after Sunday School class). Details: church office (601) 939-3181.
PILGRIMAGES HOLY LAND – Pilgrimage to Holy Land: Join Father Mark Shoffner, pastor of St. John Oxford, July 21-31, 2025. Details: lpjp.org, then click on “All Pilgrimages” and “Holy Land.” Details: church office (662) 234-6073.
MARIAN SHRINES – Pilgrimage to Marian Shrines (Fatima, Spain and Lourdes) with Father Lincoln Dall and Deacon John McGregor, Sept, 15-24, 2025. Details: for more information visit www.206tours.com/frlincoln.
ROME/LISBON/FATIMA – Pilgrimage to Rome, Assisi, Lisbon and Fatima with Father Carlisle Beggerly, Oct. 4-15, 2025. Cost: $5,799 per person (includes airfare from anywhere in the U.S.) Details: contact Pat Nause at (601) 604-0412; Proximo Travel at (855) 842-8001 or proximotravel.com. Mention trip #1181.
JACKSON – Father Leon Ngandu, SVD is installed as pastor of Holy Family Church on Sunday, March 9. Pictured with Father Leon are Bishop Joseph Kopacz and Mary Woodward, Chancellor. (Photo by Madelyn Johnson)
For Griffin Mahoney, ministry at Mississippi State University’s Cowbell Catholic was a natural step. Involved from the beginning of his time at Mississippi State, he immediately felt at home. The friendships, faith formation and strong community made a lasting impact on him. When the opportunity arose to serve as interim campus minister, he gladly stepped in, seeing it as a way to give back to the ministry that had shaped him so deeply.
“I had a gap semester, and Father Jason (Johnston) asked if I would be interested in the role while they searched for a full-time minister,” Mahoney shared. “It allows me to serve the parish and the students and contribute to it being a haven for Catholic students.”
Pictured is Griffin Mahoney, interim campus minster at Cowbell Catholic through St. Joseph Parish in Starkville. The Cowbell Catholic ministry is designed to promote and support the spiritual growth of Catholic college students in the Golden Triangle area (including Mississippi State University in Starkville, East Mississippi Community College in Mayhew, and the Mississippi University for Women in Columbus) and inspire all college students to live in accord with Gospel values.
For Mahoney, the role is about serving the Lord and contributing to the church. He sees ministry as a daily call to trust in God’s plan and remain open to His will. “I must always ask for the Holy Spirit to grant me wisdom and help me surrender all things to His greater glory,” he explained. “I feel the Lord answering that prayer when the students love our events, or they appreciate my advice.” Mahoney credits his first campus minister, Joe Terbrack, as an inspiration.
“Joe was a role model for me, always offering guidance. When he left, we gave him a St. Joseph Challenge Coin, a tradition for Men’s Campus Ministry leaders. Seeing his joy in that moment was incredibly moving.”
Encouragement also comes from students he has mentored. “One student told me that reaching out to him and inviting him to coffee meant so much that he now does the same for other new students. His affirmation reminds me of the incredible power an invitation can be, and being present to others.”
Mahoney is grateful for those who support the Catholic Service Appeal.
“Your sacrifices help us build our Campus Ministry program and deepen our relationship with God. Being a part of Campus Ministry has formed me into a man of Christ, a man of the church – a man for others. Even the smallest sacrifice will do – the Lord will do the rest.”
