In memoriam: Sister Loretta Picucci, SP

By Sister Rosemary Schmalz, SP

ST. MARY OF THE WOODS, Ind. – Sister Loretta Picucci, SP died on Nov. 9 in Providence Health Care. She was born on June 23, 1941 in Chicago to Joseph and Lucy Paoletti Picucci and was baptized Loretta Louise.

Sister Loretta entered the Congregation of the Sisters of Providence on Sept. 12, 1964 and received the name Sister Loretta Joseph. She professed final vows Apr. 24, 1976. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Loyola University, Chicago. Of her 59 years as a Sister of Providence, she ministered as a primary teacher for 14 years in schools in Indiana, Illinois and Washington DC. Committing herself to working with the poor, she served as an assistant director of a Congregation Day Nursery in Chicago for two years, an outreach minister at Sacred Heart Southern Missions in Mississippi for eight years, a family care professional in Chicago for five years and an ESL teacher in California for five years. Her last 15 years of active ministry were at Providence in the Desert in Coachella, California, a sponsored ministry of the Congregation serving a Hispanic community, many of whom were farm workers. There she continued to teach English. Retiring in 2018, she moved to the motherhouse where she committed herself totally to the ministry of prayer.

All of Sister Loretta’s ministries were rooted in compassion and love. She never rushed. No matter what needed to be done, she worked from a contemplative center, living in the present, giving her full attention to the task at hand and the person she was serving.

Sister Loretta is survived by a sister Josephine Mooney of Pittsburgh. She is preceded in death by a brother, Peter Picucci.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, Nov. 21 at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, with burial in the cemetery of the Sisters of Providence.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of Providence, 1 Sisters of Providence, St. Mary-of-the-Woods, IN 47876.

Happy Ordination Anniversary

December 16
Father Alexis Zuniga Velasquez, ST
St. Anne Carthage, Sacred Heart Camden & Holy Child Jesus Canton

December 18
Deacon Carlos Sola
St. James Tupelo

December 19
Father Thomas Mullally, SVD
Retired

December 27
Father Antony Chakkalakkal
St. Dominic Hospital & Cathedral of St. Peter

Father Augustine Palimattam Poulose
St. Patrick & St. Joseph Meridian

Advent Reconciliation/Penance Services

BATESVILLE – St. Mary, Advent Penance Service, Thursday, Dec. 14, after 5:30 Mass.

CLEVELAND – Our Lady of Victories, Confessions, Monday, Dec. 11 from 4:30-6 p.m.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Penance Service, Wednesday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m.

COLUMBUS – Annunciation, Advent Reconciliation Service, Wednesday, Dec. 13 at 6 p.m.

FLOWOOD – St. Paul, Reconciliation Service, Monday, Dec. 18 at 6 p.m.

HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, Advent Penance Service, Wednesday, Dec. 6 at 7 p.m.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, Confession, Wednesday, Dec. 6 from 4:30-6 p.m.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Advent Confessions, Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. until Christmas.

MADISON – St. Francis, Reconciliation Service, Thursday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m.

MERIDIAN – St. Patrick, Advent Penance Service, Monday, Dec. 11 at 5:30 p.m.

OLIVE BRANCH – Advent Penance Service, Wednesday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.

PEARL – St. Jude, Reconciliation Service, Monday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Advent Penance Service, Tuesday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.

VICKSBURG – St. Michael, Advent Penance Service, Tuesday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.

VICKSBURG – St. Paul, Penance Service, Thursday, Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m.

YAZOO CITY – St. Mary, Reconciliation Service, Monday, Dec. 4 at 6 p.m.

Calendar of Events

PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS
ABERDEEN – St. Francis, Christmas Party, Sunday, Dec. 10 with happy hour at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. Potluck, sign up to bring your dish in the parish hall. Dirty Santa with $15 gift after dinner. Details: church office (662) 813-2295.

ANGUILLA – Our Mother of Mercy, Celebrating 100 years of our Catholic faith, Saturday, Jan. 27. Mass at 10:30 a.m. with reception following. Please join us!

CHATAWA – Our Lady of Hope and Camp Chatawa, Christmas in Chatawa, Saturday, Dec. 16 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enjoy a live Nativity, pancake breakfast, train rides, caroling hay ride, Santa and Mrs. Claus, reindeer games, crafts and hot chocolate bar. Cost: $20 per person. Details: RSVP at ourladyofhopems.com.

St. Richard School, Krewe de Cardinal, Save the date: Friday, Feb. 2 from 7-11 p.m. at The South Warehouse. Details: school office (601) 366-1157.

Catholic Charities, Born Free/New Beginnings program is seeking a sponsor(s) for Christmas 2023 gifts. Born Free offers substance abuse treatment for pregnant mothers and mothers with children ages 0-4 residing in Mississippi. Details: www.catholiccharitiesjackson.org or call (601) 326-3714.

CANTON – Diocesan Young Adult Advent Day of Reflection, Saturday, Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Camp Bratton Green. Join young adults from around the diocese for a day of fellowship, fun and prayer. Cost: $30 Details: register at https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/140596 or contact amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

GREENWOOD – St. Francis, Bingo, Monday, Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria. Details: church office (662) 453-0623.

HERNANDO – Holy Spirit, Cocktails and Catholicism, Friday, Dec. 8. Mass at 6 p.m. with talk and coctails after with Father Bruce Cinquegrani speaking on the Blessed Mother. Details: RSVP at https://bit.ly/CocktailsCatholicismDec2023.

Holy Spirit, Advent Day-by-Day “Slow Down and Just Breathe.” Three part program begins Thursday, Dec. 7 from 6:30-8 p.m.; then Thursday, Dec. 14 and 21 in Chapel Hall with facilitator Chris Greer. Don’t be overwhelmed by the demands of the season, we can wait for Jesus in joyful hope! Details: church office (662) 429-7851; sign up in the narthex.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Liturgical Living: Liturgy of the Word, Wednesday, Nov. 29 from 6-7 p.m. in Foley Hall. Series will focus on the order and structure of the Mass, beginning with the Liturgy of the Word. All adults welcome for refreshments, resources and fellowship. Nursery available. Details: RSVP to dre@saintrichard.com.

St. Richard, Christmas Candlelighting Celebration for Deceased Loved Ones, Thursday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. in Foley Hall. Sister Dorothea Sondgeroth, OP will share comments on her own experiences with lost loved ones. A brief ceremony of prayer and rememberance is included, followed by drinks and light refreshments. Details: please RSVP to Nancy at (601) 942-2078 or ncmcghee@bellsouth.net.

Carmelite Gift Shop, Meet Emanuele Fontanini, Friday, Dec. 1 from 1-4 p.m. Location: 2155 Terry Road. Details: call (601) 373-3412.

MADISON – St. Anthony School, Starry Night Gala, Saturday, Dec. 9 at the Sheraton Flowood. VIP preview party from 6-7 p.m. with general admission opening at 7 p.m. Cost: Event tickets $150 per couple. You do not need to be present to win the $5,000 raffle and tickets are only $10 per chance. Details: purchase tickets at https://bit.ly/StarryNight2023.

St. Francis, Ring in Your Faith 10k/5k, Monday, Jan. 1 at 8 a.m. You are guaranteed a delicious New Year’s Day meal and fellowship after the race. Cost is $30, with proceeds to assist Knights ongoing service projects. Register at https://bit.ly/ringinyourfaith2024. Details: Joe at leslieslee@hotmail.com.

St. Joseph School, Jeans, Jazz and Bruin Blues $10,000 Draw Down, Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024 at the Reunion Country Club. Sponsorships available. Details: www.stjoedrawdown.com.

MERIDIAN – St. Patrick, Candy Cane 5k Dash and Fun Run, Saturday, Dec. 2. Details: register at https://bit.ly/CandyCane2023.

St. Patrick, Memorial brick campaign. Cost of each brick is $125, with a maximum of three lines with up to 18 letters per line. Brick size is 4×8 inches. Net proceeds for recent parish repairs. Details: https://www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/catholicmeridian.

NATCHEZ – St. Mary Basilica, Advent Fair and Wreath Workshop, Sunday, Dec. 3 at 3 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Families can come to learn about the history and symbolism of the Creche, with craft activities for kids, snaks and the opportunity to make an advent wreath for your home. Details: church office (601) 445-5616.

OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Harmonies of Christmas Concert, Sunday, Dec. 3 at 4 p.m. All are welcome! Details: church office (662) 429-7851.

Queen of Peace, Breakfast with Santa, Sunday, Dec. 3 at 11 a.m. in the social hall. Details: church office (662) 429-7851.

PAULDING – St. Michael, 180th Celebration with Bishop Kopacz, Saturday, Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. Details: caevans745@gmail.com.

STARKVILLE – St. Joseph, CYO Garage Sale, Saturday, Dec. 2 from 8-11:30 a.m. in the parish hall. Details: church office (662) 323-2257.

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
NATCHEZ – 2nd annual Believe Conference, April 19-21, 2024. Featured speakers are Anne Trufant, Catholic speaker and founder of The Mission on the Mountain; Barbara Heil, Catholic speaker and founder of From His Heart Ministries; and Joanne Moody, minister author, and founder of Agape Freedom Fighters. Cost: $100 for the weekend; $50 for students. Lunch included on Saturday. Details: visit https://www.themissiononthemountain.com.

NEW ORLEANS – St. Augustine Church, Eucharistic Celebration of Servant of God, Venerable Henriette Delille, Saturday, Nov. 18 at 4 p.m. at the Sisters of the Holy Family Motherhouse (6901 Chef Menteur Hwy., New Orleans). Reception to follow. Details: https://www.sistersoftheholyfamily.com.

PINE MOUNTAINS, GA – The Girls Garden Retreat, April 4-7, 2024 at Callaway Resort and Gardens. Retreat is for any woman who seeks goodness of God through beauty, rest, prayer and small community. Featured speaker is Laura Huval, a Grammy-nominated recording artist, Catholic speaker, author and more. Details: for registration, information and pricing visit www.girlsgardenretreats.com.

Catholic Foundation celebrates 50 years of community service and vision for the future

By Joanna Puddister King

JACKSON – In 1973, Bishop Joseph Brunini called a group of community leaders together from across the diocese to form The Catholic Foundation. Fifty years later, on Tuesday, Oct. 24, the Foundation gathered for its golden anniversary celebration and annual membership meeting at the Country Club of Jackson. The event celebrated half a century of community service and included heartfelt tributes to key figures who played pivotal roles in the Catholic Foundation’s journey.

Among those acknowledged was Msgr. Thaddeus Harkins, who worked closely with Bishop Brunini in shaping the Foundation during its early years. Joe Rice, president of the Catholic Foundation, acknowledged Msgr. Harkins, stating, “Msgr. Harkins was the self-proclaimed historian of the Foundation. He understood and appreciated the mission from the outset.”

Another remarkable figure celebrated during the event was Jack Geary, the founding president of the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Jackson. Geary, who passed away in the week before the anniversary celebration, served as chairman of the investment committee and was a member of the executive committee. Rice made special mention of Geary’s significant contributions, saying, “he was a mentor to many of us. We learned so much from Jack. We learned not only a lot about the securities industry but more importantly, how it pertained to doing the Lord’s work.”

Unable to attend the event was Lewis Mallory, the last living member of the original group that created the Foundation with Bishop Brunini. Rice said that Mallory’s perspective on the growth of the Foundation is unique and inspiring; calling him one of the biggest influencers in his adult life.

“He’s just been a wonderful inspiration both professionally and spiritually; and I’m eternally greatful to know him,” said Rice.

JACKSON – Joe Rice, president of The Catholic Foundation, leads a toast in celebration of 50 years of service at the annual foundation membership meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at the Country Club of Jackson. (Photos by Joanna King)

As the anniversary event unfolded, Rice shared his vision for the Foundation’s future. Reflecting on the incredible growth and progress over the last 50 years, he stated, “I think the Foundation has evolved and, God willing, will continue to evolve in years to come. We have grown in ways that Bishop Brunni and Msgr. Harkins could never have imagined in the 1970s.”

Indeed, the Foundation’s transformation from its humble beginnings into a force for community support with over $56 million in assets and 400 trusts is a testament to the tireless efforts of its founders and over 600 dedicated members.

This forward-looking perspective underscores the Catholic Foundation’s commitment to adapt to the changing needs of the community and the evolving landscape of Catholic ministries. As the Foundation continues to serve the community and support the mission of the church, its ability to embrace change and innovate will be vital in ensuring its continued success.

Chuck Adams, who served on the executive committee of the Catholic Foundation in the early to mid-1980s and as president for over 20 years, provided a valuable insight into the Foundation’s early years and its remarkable journey.

Reflecting on his time in service, Adams shared his memories of the Foundation’s early days. He emphasized, “At first, there was no real staff. It was all about trying to come up with a vision for how a foundation would work in a mission diocese.”

In those formative years, the Catholic Foundation faced unique challenges, including limited resources and a mission-driven approach to serving the community. Adams highlighted the importance of laying the groundwork, stating, “The first 18 years laid the foundation. We didn’t have a lot of money, but it planted all the seeds that are bearing fruit today. At the end of those first 18 years, we had $2 million in assets.”

This period of growth and development set the stage for the Catholic Foundation’s remarkable journey over the last five decades. Adams expressed his sentiments about his long-lasting involvement, saying, “It’s been a pleasure to be associated with the Catholic Foundation as long as I have.”

His enduring commitment to the Foundation, along with the dedication of others like Lewis Mallory, has been instrumental in shaping the organization into what it is today – a pillar of community support benefiting numerous parishes, schools and Catholic ministries.

As the Catholic Foundation celebrates its 50th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the dedication and vision of individuals like Bishop Brunini, Msgr. Harkins and Jack Geary, who laid the foundation for the organization’s mission-driven success. The Catholic Foundation’s journey from vision to fruition is a remarkable testament to the power of perseverance, community support and a strong commitment to the values and mission of the Catholic Church.

Chancery staff members stand for recognition for their contributions to various ministries across the diocese at the Catholic Foundation’s 50th anniversary celebration and membership meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 24.

Bishop Joseph Kopacz offered his words of encouragement during the celebration. He emphasized, “It takes many people to make this work … Again, the promise of the future is there before us. … As long as we seek the Kingdom of God first, everything else will follow.” He expressed his gratitude by saying, “I’m grateful to be here for this milestone.”

Bishop Kopacz’s presence and inspirational words reaffirm the Catholic Foundation’s mission and its dedication to serving the community. As the Foundation celebrates 50 years of community service and looks ahead to the future it does so with the blessings and encouragement of the church’s leadership, including the chancery staff of the diocese, and especially, executive director of the Catholic Foundation and Stewardship and Development director of the diocese, Rebecca Harris, said Bishop Kopacz.

“The Catholic Foundation’s 50th anniversary celebration is not just a reflection on its remarkable history but also a promise of an even brighter future, built on the legacy of dedicated individuals, visionary leaders and a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those it serves,” said Harris.

(If you would like to learn more about the Catholic Foundation and become a member contact Rebecca Harris at rebecca.harris@jacksondiocese.org or call (601) 969-1880. Membership fees and fundraisers aid in covering administrative costs of the Catholic Foundation Office and allows 100% of the annual distributions to go directly to beneficiaries – schools, parishes and Catholic ministries.)

Unlocking philanthropy: Catholic Foundation offers Charitable Gift Annuities to support your faith and financial future

By Joanna Puddister King

JACKSON – So many of us have large philanthropic hearts, but our wallets and budgets don’t allow us to make that large gift that is in our heart. The Catholic Foundation offers donors an opportunity to give a gift and receive income back called a Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA).

Charitable Gift Annuities (CGA) are gaining popularity due to the rising payout rates. “Now is a great time to consider establishing a CGA,” said Rebecca Harris, executive director of the Catholic Foundation. “A CGA is a simple arrangement where assets are given and in return the donor will receive fixed lifetime payments.”

Harris can help walk anyone interested in CGAs through the process. This is a way for a donor to give a gift now, receive income, and help their parish, school, or favorite Catholic ministry. The Catholic Foundation and the Diocese of Jackson are partnering with Catholic Extension to work with donors on establishing a CGA.

“Many donors shy away from these types of donations because they feel they are too complicated for them. Our goal is to walk you through the process to determine if this is the right type of gift for you,” says Harris.

A CGA is a simple contract guaranteeing it will pay the donor a fixed lifetime income based on a donor’s age and gift size that can be for one or two annuitants, and the payouts can be deferred. This is often a preferred strategy for retirees who want to put their charitable dollars to work and not have to worry about giving away a large sum of your retirement at once. “Simply, it is a way to support your Catholic faith and retain your cash flow,” says Harris.

The primary benefit of a CGA is that the donor receives a fixed payment for life, no matter how long he or she may live. A portion of the payments are tax-free for a specified time. Further, because the donor is making a gift, a portion of the amount paid for the annuity is an immediate deductible charitable gift for income tax purposes, as allowable by IRS rules.

Harris says, funding a CGA can be done with cash, IRA required minimum distribution, and stocks and securities.

“If you are looking for a way to decrease your income tax obligation after retirement and support your Catholic faith, a CGA may be what you are looking for,” says Harris.

To receive a free illustration of your gift contact Rebecca Harris at (601) 960-8477. With a few details her office can provide you with a gift illustration. Included in the illustration is your potential charitable income tax deduction and your yearly payments for life as well as an estimated amount that will go to your beneficiary.

In memoriam: Sister Sherry Barrett, DC

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Sister Sherry (Dorothy Sharon) Barrett died at Seton Residence on Oct. 26, 2023. Sister was born on March 12, 1938, in Grosse Point, Detroit, Michigan and was one of five children of John Joseph and Analie Caroline (Maurer) Barrett. She graduated from St. Mary High School in Mount Clemens, Michigan and entered the Daughters of Charity in St. Louis, Missouri in 1957.

Sister Sherry received a BA in elementary education from St. Joseph College in Emmitsburg, Maryland; an MPS in pastoral studies from Loyola University in Chicago; and a certificate in Titular por Antiguedad Columbia from Teachers of Bolivia, South America and Institute of Special Education, Panama, Central America.

Sister was an elementary and secondary teacher at St. Mary’s School in Troy, New York; Hogar San Jose in in LaPaz, Bolivia; Collegio Madre Seton in Trinidad, Bolivia; and Casa de Caridad in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. She served in Hispanic ministry at St. Mary’s Hospital in Saginaw, Michigan; Catholic Charities in Fort Wayne, Indiana, St. Thomas Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee and the Diocese of Jackson, Mississippi. She was a Missionary in Maya Tecun, Mexico; Ixcan, Guatemala; Cochabamba, Bolivia; and the Fiji Islands.

Sister was also a volunteer at St. Joseph Mission in Keams Canyon, Arizona and in parish outreach at St. Cyprian Parish in Georgetown, South Carolina. She then came to Seton Residence in Evansville to serve as a driver and later in the ministry of prayer.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, Oct. 31, at 11 a.m. in the Seton Residence Chapel, with burial following in St. Joseph Cemetery.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents and she is survived by her sisters, Mary Sheila Barrett and Sister Joan Ann Barrett, D.C.; her brothers, John and Patrick; loving family members; her Sisters in Community and many friends.

Donations may be made to the Daughters of Charity, 4330 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO 63108.

Calendar of Events

PARISH, FAMILY & SCHOOL EVENTS
CHATAWA – Our Lady of Hope and Camp Chatawa, Christmas in Chatawa, Saturday, Dec. 16 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enjoy a live Nativity, pancake breakfast, train rides, caroling hay ride, Santa and Mrs. Claus, reindeer games, crafts and hot chocolate bar. Cost: $20 per person. Details: RSVP at ourladyofhopems.com.

FLOWOOD – St. Paul, Women’s Ministry Bingo Night, Saturday Nov. 11 after 4:30 p.m. Mass. All veterans will receive a free card to play. All adults 18 and up are welcome to play. Details: church office (601) 992-9547.

St. Anthony School, Starry Night Gala, Saturday, Dec. 9 at the Sheraton Flowood. VIP preview party from 6-7 p.m. with general admission opening at 7 p.m. Cost: Event tickets $150 per couple. You do not need to be present to win the $5,000 raffle and tickets are only $10 per chance. Details: purchase tickets at https://bit.ly/StarryNight2023.

GREENWOOD – St. Francis, Bingo night, Monday, Nov. 6 at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria. Refreshments available for purchase. Prizes include home items, gift cards and more. Details: church office (662) 453-0623.

JACKSON – Christ the King, Mass and Feast of Christ the King potluck, Sunday, Nov. 26. Join Bishop Kopacz for the celebration and meal. Details: church office (601) 948-8867.

St. Richard School, Krewe de Cardinal, Save the date: Friday, Feb. 2 from 7-11 p.m. at The South Warehouse. Details: school office (601) 366-1157.

MADISON – St. Joseph School, Jeans, Jazz and Bruin Blues $10,000 Draw Down, Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024 at the Reunion Country Club. Sponsorships available. Details: www.stjoedrawdown.com.

St. Joseph School, Christmas Art Camp, Saturday Dec. 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the St. Joe Fine Arts Building. Grades K thorugh sixth welcome. Cost: $75 includes art supplies and snacks. Limited to 22 artists. Details: contact Vicki at vrunnels@stjoebruins.com.

St. Joseph School, Thursday in Tuscany, Nov. 16 in the St. Joe Cafeteria. Cost is $10 per plate and includes spaghetti, salad, bread, cookie and water. Proceeds support the cheer program. Details: contact sjcheer@stjoebruins.com.

MAGNOLIA – St. James, Garage Sale, Saturday Dec. 2, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (125 E Bay Street) Details: call (985) 665-0868.

MERIDIAN – St. Patrick, Candy Cane 5k Dash and Fun Run, Saturday, Dec. 2. Details: register at https://bit.ly/CandyCane2023.

St. Patrick, Fall Musical Variety, Dinner and Fashion Show, Saturday, Nov. 4 at 6 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Proceeds for church repairs. Seats are limited. Details: Reserve your tickets by contacting Rory at (601) 917-7343 or purchase at the parish office.

NATCHEZ – St. Mary Basilica, Thanksgiving Parish Potluck Dinner, Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 6 p.m. in the Family Life Center. No charge. The church will provide turkey and dressing and you are invited to bring your favorite Thanksgiving side dishes. Details: church office (601) 445-5616.

PEARL – St. Jude, Smokin’ fundraiser for Young Apostles group, holiday meat sale after each Mass through Nov. 5. Details: Lauren at roberts0677@bellsouth.net.

TUPELO – St. James, Rummage Sale, Saturday, Nov. 4 from 7:30-11 a.m. in Shelton hall. Details: Bobbie at (662) 372-1087.

VICKSBURG – Knights of Columbus 898, Holiday smoked meat sale. Butts, turkey and loins $50; Half Chicken 2 for $8; Turkey breast $35; and Half ham $40. Order by Nov. 15 at https://kc898.square.site. Pick up Sunday, Nov. 19 from 12-4 p.m. at KC Hall, 310 Fisher Ferry Road. Details: Paul at (601) 529-1710.

WINONA – Sacred Heart, Communi-tea Festivi-tea event, Saturday, Nov. 11 from 12-3 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Cost: adults $15 and children (under 12) $12. Tickets available at Crossroads Jewelers or call Marlene at (662) 307-0831. Details: Barbara at (256) 506-5007.

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
NATCHEZ – 2nd annual Believe Conference, April 19-21, 2024. Featured speakers are Anne Trufant, Catholic speaker and founder of The Mission on the Mountain; Barbara Heil, Catholic speaker and founder of From His Heart Ministries; and Joanne Moody, minister author, and founder of Agape Freedom Fighters. Cost: $100 for the weekend; $50 for students. Lunch included on Saturday. Details: visit https://www.themissiononthemountain.com.

PINE MOUNTAINS, GA – The Girls Garden Retreat , April 4-7, 2024 at Callaway Resort and Gardens. Retreat is for any woman who seeks goodness of God through beauty, rest, prayer and small community. Featured speaker is Laura Huval, a Grammy-nominated recording artist, Catholic speaker, author and more. Details: for registration, information and pricing visit www.girlsgardenretreats.com.