By Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – On Saturday, July 16, Bishop Joseph Kopacz ordained six men into the permanent diaconate at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle. The men spent the last five years in formation, studying spirituality, canon law, homiletics and learning how to administer sacraments.
To full pews and those standing behind at the entrance to the Cathedral, Bishop Kopacz acknowledged the evident joy and love for Mark Andrew Bowden of St. Jude Pearl, Dien L. Hoang of the Cathedral of St. Peter, Dixon Wesley Lindsay of the Cathedral of St. Peter, John Anh Pham of St. Michael Forest, David Preston Rouch of St. Michael Vicksburg and Anthony William Schmidt of St. Paul Flowood, being ordained to the diaconate.
JACKSON – Six men were ordained into the permanent diaconate at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle on Saturday, July 16. Pictured during the ordination are Tony Schmidt, David Rouch, John Pham, Wesley Lindsay, Dien Hoang and Mark Bowden. (Picture by Michael Barrett photography)
“The joy is so obvious this morning as we come together in the Lord … to celebrate so much of our tradition of faith … and in the ministries that are such a blessing for our church and our parish communities,” said Bishop Kopacz. “And this morning, we celebrate the great gift of the diaconate.” In his remarks about the readings, Bishop Kopacz pointed out the sacredness and gifts of the office of the diaconate.
“As we appreciate over a long tradition, nearly 2000 years, its service in Jesus Christ. Its His ministry and right at the beginning the Apostles realized we need to designate this and we need to select those who are going to be faithful to the Lord and to the needs of the communities with whom they are entrusted,” said Bishop Kopacz.
“So, we continue that many years later and the church has indeed worked with you over these past five years – give or take – to arrive at this moment,” Bishop Kopacz told the diaconate candidates. He also reminded the new deacons that their ministry is one of service through the word, sacrament and charity.
Drawing on their experience of marriage or family experience, Bishop Kopacz acknowledged that “all have learned how to sacrifice, serve and care up to this point their lives.”
“Now opens another door where they will serve in the midst of our parish communities, serving the Lord and serving those entrusted to them.”
Ordained deacons are assigned to parishes in the diocese and they may administer baptism, serve at the altar at Mass and distribute the Eucharist; bring the Eucharist to the dying; read the sacred Scriptures to the faithful and on occasion, to preach; to administer sacramentals; to assist at and bless marriages and to officiate at funeral and burial rites.
Another group of men have begun their formation process in hopes of being ordained to the diaconate in 2026. For more information on the permanent diaconate visit www.jacksondiocese.org/offices/diaconate.
JACKSON — El obispo Joseph Kopacz ordenó a seis hombres al Diaconado permanente en la Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol, el sábado 16 de julio.
Los hombres pasaron los últimos cinco años en formación, estudiando espiritualidad, derecho canónico, homilética y aprendiendo a administrar los sacramentos.
Con las bancas de la Catedral llenas, el obispo Kopacz reconoció la alegría y el amor evidentes por Mark Bowden de St. Jude Pearl, Dien Hoang y Wesley Lindsay de la Catedral de St. Pedro jackson, John Pham de St. Michael Forest, David Rouch de St. Michael Vicksburg y Tony Schmidt de St. Paul Flowood, siendo ordenados al diaconado.
JACKSON – Seis hombres fueron ordenados al diaconado permanente en la Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol el sábado 16 de julio. En la foto durante la ordenación están Tony Schmidt, David Rouch, John Pham, Wesley Lindsay, Dien Hoang y Mark Bowden. (Foto de Michael Barrett)
“La alegría es tan obvia esta mañana cuando nos reunimos en el Señor… para celebrar gran parte de nuestra tradición de fe… y en los ministerios que son una gran bendición para nuestra iglesia y nuestras comunidades parroquiales,” dijo el obispo Kopacz “… esta mañana celebramos el gran don del Diaconado.”
En sus comentarios sobre las lecturas, el obispo Kopacz señaló la santidad y los dones del oficio del Diaconado.
“Como apreciamos a lo largo de una larga tradición, de casi 2000 años, su servicio en Jesucristo. Es su ministerio y desde el principio los Apóstoles se dieron cuenta de que tenemos que designar esto y tenemos que seleccionar a aquellos que van a ser fieles al Señor y a las necesidades de las comunidades,” dijo el obispo Kopacz.
“Entonces, ustedes y la iglesia continuaremos muchos años después. De hecho, ya hemos trabajado durante los últimos cinco años, más o menos, para llegar a este momento,” dijo el obispo Kopacz a los candidatos al Diaconado.
También recordó a los nuevos Diáconos que su ministerio es de servicio a través de la palabra, el sacramento y la caridad, basándose en su experiencia matrimonial o familiar; el obispo Kopacz reconoció que “todos han aprendido a sacrificarse, servir y cuidar a su familia, hasta este momento de sus vidas; Ahora se abre otra puerta donde servirán en medio de nuestras comunidades parroquiales, sirviendo al Señor y sirviendo a los que les están encomendados”.
Los Diáconos ordenados se asignan a las parroquias de la diócesis y pueden administrar el bautismo, servir en el altar en la Misa y distribuir la Eucaristía; llevar la Eucaristía como viático a los moribundos; leer las Sagradas Escrituras a los fieles y, en ocasiones, predicar; administrar sacramentales; asistir y bendecir matrimonios y oficiar ritos funerarios y de entierro a difuntos.
Otro grupo de hombres ha comenzado su proceso de formación con la esperanza de ser ordenados al Diaconado en 2026. Para obtener más información sobre el Diaconado permanente, visite:
(izquierda- derecha) Nuevos diáconos Mark Bowden, Wesley Lindsay, John Anh Pham, junto a John McGregor( también diacono permanente y encargado del programa diocesano de Diaconado Permanente), Dien Hoang, David Rouch y Tony Schmidt. (Foto de Michael Barrett)
En sus propias palabras.
¿Quiénes son los nuevos Diáconos?
Mark Bowden
60 años. Parroquia St. Jude, Pearl
“Soy un católico de cuna, y uno que durante mucho tiempo realmente dio por sentada mi fe.
Ningún pasaje de las Escrituras se destaca realmente sobre los demás, ya que muchos me tocan en diferentes puntos y etapas de mi vida. Pero Santiago 2:14-17, que discute que la fe sin obras es muerta, está entre mis favoritos perennes.
Tantas veces durante este viaje, estuve a punto de tirar la toalla y rendirme. Pero a través de MUCHA ORACION, discernimiento y apoyo de muchos, finalmente acepté este llamado.
Creo que mi corazón está en hacer trabajo pastoral, como visitar a los confinados en casa, a los que están en el hospital, a los que están en prisión, y hacer evangelización en pequeñas comunidades.
Mi esposa Rhonda y yo tenemos dos hijos. Andrew fue recientemente ordenado sacerdote y nuestra hija Laura enseña educación especial en Pearl.
David Rouch
50 años. Parroquia St. Michael, Vicksburg
“Soy católico nacido y criado. Producto de las Escuelas Católicas de Vicksburg.
Mi pasaje favorito de las Escrituras es Lucas 1:46-49, “Y María dijo: ‘Mi alma proclama la grandeza del Señor; mi espíritu se regocija en Dios mi salvador” ¡porque describe la forma en que Él ha obrado en mi vida!
Mi santo favorito es San Tomás de Aquino. Aprecio sus esfuerzos por reconciliar la razón con la fe de la iglesia. Esta reconciliación ha sido muy importante para mi propio viaje y es vital para el futuro de la iglesia.
Mi santa favorita es la Madre Teresa. Su fidelidad al llamado del Señor para ella y su dedicación a hacer la obra del Señor es una inspiración para mí y habla a personas de todas las naciones, religiones y estilos de vida.
Algunos son llamados al sacerdocio y otros son llamados al diaconado. Ya sea como una persona soltera o una pareja casada, todos somos llamados. Se trata de reconocer a qué estás llamado y decidir cómo responderás.
Quiero llegar a la iglesia de jóvenes adultos, involucrarlos y “reconstruir la marca.”
Ann y yo tenemos cuatro hijos adultos y tres nietos: Reece y su esposa Nicole y su hijo Jack, de siete meses. Viven en Olive Branch.
Destin y su esposo Jonathan y sus dos hijos, James (6) y Benjamin (2). Viven en Alemania.
Meredith, nuestra hija, que vive en Shreveport, Louisiana
Conner y su esposo Zach, que viven en Knoxville, Tennessee
Dien L Hoang
48 años. Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol. Oriundo de Saigon, Vietnam
“Soy “católico de cuna. Me gustaría agradecerles mucho a mis padres porque nos enseñaron sobre el amor de Dios por nosotros y Dios es un Padre misericordioso, no un Dios irascible y crítico. Por eso, mi padre nos educa para amar a todos, ante todo, amarnos unos a otros en la familia.
La parábola del hijo perdido porque Dios creó al hombre a su imagen y también le dio razón y libertad para vivir según su voluntad. La libertad es un regalo invaluable que Dios ha dado para que los humanos sean libres de ser fieles a Dios o de traicionarlo. Dios siempre respeta la libertad humana. Fue porque los humanos tenían derecho a la libertad que pecaron contra Dios. Pero Dios es rico en misericordia y aún ama a las personas cuando todavía están en pecado. Dios espera pacientemente, invita y crea todas las condiciones para que regresen a vivir en su gracia. Mi santo favorito es San Antonio Por su caridad. Tengo la necesidad de ir a buscar algo más elevado, más significativo, más sostenible. Esos valores sostenibles son dar sin calcular, encontrar el amor más que ser amado, y encontrar el consuelo más que ser consolado por los demás. Estoy deseando visitar a los enfermos, ayudar a los pobres y devolver al hombre a la dignidad humana.
Mi esposa, Honghuong T Nguyen, y yo no tenemos hijos.”
Tony Schmidt
53 años. Parroquia de St. Paul Flowood
Soy católico de cuna, de Gluckstadt y he vivido en Brandon, MS durante los últimos 30 años.
Mi pasaje bíblico favorito es Romanos 14:7-9. Me gusta este pasaje porque es un recordatorio de nuestro verdadero propósito en la vida, que es ser responsables ante el Señor.
Mi santo favorito es San Matías. Matías fue elegido para reemplazar a Judas y su proceso de selección se llevó a cabo echando suertes después de la oración de los Apóstoles. Matias fue elegido no porque fuera digno, sino porque llegaría a ser digno.
Matias era el nombre de mi abuelo paterno. Mi origen católico se lo debo a mis abuelos paternos. Fueron una de las cinco familias fundadoras de Gluckstadt y tienen una maravillosa historia con la Diócesis de Jackson.
Estoy orgulloso de continuar la fe católica en mi vida y en mi servicio como diácono. El estar en una relación personal y auténtica con los demás es la mejor forma en que puedo dejar que brille el rostro de Dios. El diaconado se trata menos de mí y más de que no me interponga en el camino de Dios, mientras él me usa para continuar construyendo esta Iglesia. También espero visitar a los enfermos. El cuidado de hospicio ocupa un lugar especial en mi corazón y espero poder ayudar en el cuidado espiritual y pastoral de los moribundos y sus familias.
Mi esposa Karen y yo tenemos dos hijos Houston (26) y Parker (24) y tres perritas Terrier: Butterbean, Izzy y Stella.”
John Pham
60 años de St. Michael Forest, Vicksburg
“Soy un ‘católico de cuna’. Mi profunda experiencia de fe en Dios y la Iglesia sucedió durante 25 años de vida religiosa.
Mi pasaje favorito de las Escrituras es Mateo 6:33 “Buscad el Reino de Dios sobre todas las cosas, y vivid rectamente, y él os dará todo lo que necesitéis.”
Mis santos favoritos son san Juan Apóstol y santa Teresa, la florecita de Jesús. Amo a San Juan porque es verdaderamente un amigo de Jesús; y me gusta santa Teresita porque descubrió el camino sencillo y fácil hacia la santidad. Mi imagen favorita es el sagrado corazón de Jesús.
Sabiendo que “la mies es mucha, pero los obreros pocos,” quiero
contribuir con todo lo que pueda para aliviar la carga de mi pastor.
Tengo muchas ganas de crear un ambiente animado en la Iglesia, para que el servicio litúrgico sea más agradable.”
Wesley Lindsay
Catedral de San Pedro Apóstol Jackson. Ciudad natal: Jackson
“Nací, me crié y pasé 40 años en la iglesia bautista. En 2004, dejé la denominación bautista para convertirme en episcopal. Casi cuatro años después, “vi la luz” y me hice católico a través de RCIA.
Mi Escritura favorita es Juan 8:32 – ¡La propia libertad de Dios!
Entregué mi vida a Dios hace más de 40 años. ¡Él me ha llevado a esta maravillosa oportunidad de servicio, el diaconado!
Anhelo ayudar en hacer avanzar el Reino de Dios a través del servicio a Su pueblo.”
By Monica Walton CANTON – The final chapter as a full-time pastor came to a close where the first chapter began.
On June 20, 2022, on the occasion of his 50th Ordination Anniversary and retirement, Father Mike O’Brien came full circle, celebrating one of his last Masses as pastor in the very same parish where he had his first experience as pastor of any church. He was only 35 years old when he first moved to Sacred Heart in Canton in 1983. How fitting that this be the location of his final assignment in the Magnolia State.
Father Mike O’Brien pictured in Feb. 1976.
“I’ve had a wonderful life,” Father Mike reflected during his homily. “I love being a priest, and I’m very blessed to have these two worlds: Mississippi, I love ya’ll (he drawled)… and Ireland, I love my Ireland.” As he recaptured highlights of the many memories he lived during his childhood and priesthood, he noted that this was the longest sermon he’d given in all his 50 years. But he made certain to proclaim this truth, “I always knew God was with me, especially in the hard times of our Starkville church burning, Hurricane Katrina and the ICE raids.”
The beautiful, little church on Center Street was filled to the brim with the faithful from the many parishes and cities where Father Mike has served. Several who came to honor him had to watch the Mass on monitors in the Parish Center due to lack of seating, but they didn’t mind. They were simply happy to be there to bid farewell to this priest who had touched their lives in such a special way.
The evening was a beautiful blending of cultures — just as the church is meant to be — with the readings, songs, and food representing English, Spanish and, of course, Irish flair. Fifteen members of Father Mike’s family made the trip from Ireland to Mississippi for this incredibly special occasion. Four generations were represented with the youngest of the clan being present, his great niece, Aoivhinn, only 2 1/2 years old. “We just couldn’t miss it,” said Paul Hickey, nephew of Father Mike. “Michael always came for us. He came back to Ireland for holiday, and for our special celebrations.”
Local parishioners as well as members of Father Mike’s family took part in the Mass. The First Reading was proclaimed by the eldest in the family, Sister Margaret O’Brien, a Sister of Mercy and biological sister to Mike. Nieces Roisin O’Brien and Ciara Todd each read a prayer petition.
Father Mike’s younger brother, Tom, who bears strikingly close resemblance, spoke on behalf of the family at his big brother’s ordination reception although he was only a teenager when Father Mike was ordained. Tom once again delivered a reflection for the family at the end of Father Mike’s 50th Anniversary Mass. “When Bishop Brunini visited our home, we were proud, but a bit apprehensive,” Tom said. “Afterall, our brother was going to a place he couldn’t even spell! But our fears and reservations disappeared quickly. Mom and Dad visited Mike in Mississippi first, then all us siblings made trips. We brought our kids, and our kids brought their kids.” Tom closed with these final thoughts on his older brother, “First and foremost, he is a decent man. We are very, very proud of him.” When speaking of how thrilled the family is that he is going home to begin his retirement, Tom added, “But, we take note that he hasn’t sold his car!”
CANTON – Father Mike O’Brien is pictured at a Mass of Thanksgiving for his 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on Monday, June 20.
More than 40 priests from throughout the state of Mississippi were in attendance, along with Bishop Joseph Kopacz. They led a moving, prayerful, a capella singing of “Salve Regina” just before the whole place joined in the recessional hymn, “This Little Light of Mine,” in honor of the light of Christ evident in Father Mike.
It was a night filled with immense joy, a living testimony to the effect Father Mike has had on this community. “I was so humbled and inspired by the awesome celebration,” Father Mike said. “I enjoyed it and appreciated everything so much.”
But how did this Irishman, born in Roscommon and ordained in Kilbegnet, wind up in Jackson, Mississippi? “It was the Holy Spirit,” he says. “I knew I wanted an adventure. I wanted to go away somewhere to be a priest, someplace like China or Sudan. My cousin was going to be a priest in Mississippi. I knew it was a river, but he said, ‘It’s also a state!’ So, I asked him, ‘Do they speak English there?’ He answered, ‘Well, sort of. …’” The church filled with laughter, as happened many times while Father Mike recounted stories of growing up with seven siblings, his deep love of family clearly shown.
His sister, Assumpta, said their Mom was worried about Mike going so far away because he was so young and didn’t even know not to wear white socks. “It was difficult in the beginning, but then as we heard about the wonderful local people, Mom knew he had a family here.” Assumpta recalled a few memories of her first visit to Mississippi. “We were thrilled with so many new things. I remember Mike had a waffle maker, and we had never seen one before!”
Sacred Heart parish was filled to the brim with the faithful from the many parishes and cities where Father Mike O’Brien served over his 50 years as a priest. (Photos by Berta Mexidor)
Father Mike credited Father Sam Messina with naming the reality that priests have three families – their birth family, their parish family and their family of brother priests. That is why the decision to return to Ireland upon retirement was not an easy one to make. Father Mike left his family and home at the young age of 24 to serve and has lived in Mississippi for 50 years. Father Mike said he has had mixed emotions about leaving, going back and forth over where to spend his retirement years. He had finally decided to stay in Mississippi when his sister, Marie, called with a creative proposition. “Marie said, ‘Why not come (back to Ireland) for just one year?’ and I thought that was a good idea.” said Father Mike.
Assumpta said their parents would be so thrilled that he is returning home to Ireland. “He will be a center for us all,” she said. That seems to be the effect he has on everyone in his midst. “Father Mike has been a great priests’ priest, as well as a great servant to the people,” said his close friend, Father Gerry Hurley, who also hails from Ireland. “Fellow priests could always look to Mike for encouragement, direction and assistance. He is a classic representation of all the good things of Ireland, and the hopes of the seminary that sent him.”
Ten days after the joyous 50th Anniversary celebration in the packed house of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Father Mike O’Brien celebrated his final Mass there as pastor. He bid a bittersweet “slán agat” (goodbye) to his Beloved Mississippi, but with the assurance that he will be back! “I am open,” he said. “I’m not saying that I’m going to Ireland forever.”
This faithful, humble priest with a most gentle heart and endearing smile will be greatly missed. Go with our sincere prayers, love, and blessings, Father Mike!
By Joanna Puddister King JACKSON – On the evening of July 6, the Jackson Women’s Health Organization closed its doors for the final time, making it the first time in 49 years that the state of Mississippi has no operating abortion clinic. This coming after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned its nearly five decades old decision in Roe v. Wade that legalized abortion.
The Court’s opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization handed down on Friday, June 24 held that the Constitution does not confer a right to abortion, with the authority to regulate abortion returned to the states.
JACKSON – Jackson Women’s Health Organization – the last abortion facility in the state – closed permanently on July 7 after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. (Photo by Joanna Puddister King)
The Dobbs case centered around Mississippi legislation that was passed in 2018 called the Gestational Age Act, that sought to prohibit abortions after 15 weeks gestation. The Jackson abortion clinic and one of its doctors sued Mississippi officials in federal court, saying that the law was unconstitutional.
The federal district court and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, both ruled in favor of the clinic, blocking enactment of the law.
In May 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court decided it would take up Dobbs, marking the first time since Roe that it would take up a pre-viability ban. More than 140 amici curiae briefs were filed with the Supreme Court on the Dobbs case, the very first being from the Dioceses of Jackson and Biloxi, stating that “the church has a vested interest in this matter – the dignity and sanctity of all human life.”
While originally asking the Court to hear arguments on a viability question – whether all pre-viability prohibitions on elective abortions are unconstitutional – Mississippi changed course and argued before the Supreme Court on Dec. 1, 2021 that Roe should be completely overturned and the authority to regulate abortions be returned to the states.
With Associate Justice Samuel Alito writing for a 5-4 majority he states that “we hold that Roe and Casey must be overruled. … The Constitution makes no reference to abortion, and no such right is implicitly protected by any constitutional provision.”
Alito’s opinion closely mirrored a leaked initial draft majority opinion, shared on May 2 by Politico.
Alito was joined by Justices Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett. Chief Justice John Roberts concurred with the majority but in a separate opinion wrote that he would have taken “a more measured course” by “rejecting the misguided viability line” by Roe and Casey, but not overturning Roe completely.
The Supreme Court has six Catholics on the bench – Justices Alito, Kavanaugh, Thomas, Coney Barrett, Roberts and Sonja Sotomayor, with the latter joining Justices Stephen Breyer and Elena Kagan in dissent of the majority.
“One result of today’s decision is certain,” wrote the dissenting justices,” the curtailment of women’s rights, and of their status as free and equal citizens.”
Of major concern of the dissenting justices was the discarding of the viability balance afforded by Roe and Casey.
“Today, the Court discards that balance. It says that from the very moment of fertilization, a woman has no rights to speak of,” the justices wrote, mentioning that some state’s already passed “trigger” laws contingent on the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.
Mississippi’s trigger law passed in 2007, only allowing abortion if the pregnant woman’s life is in danger or if the pregnancy is caused by a rape reported to law enforcement. Twelve other states also have trigger laws. On Monday, June 27, after Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch certified that Roe had been overturned, the clock began to tick on the trigger law which was set to take effect 10 days post determination on July 7.
After the Dobbs decision was released, many statements were released in celebration and some in outrage.
JACKSON – Officers were present to keep the peace and direct traffic in and out of the Jackson Women’s Health Organization on Saturday, July 2, days before the clinic closed. (Photo by Joanna King)
Bishops Joseph R. Kopacz and Louis F. Kihnemann released a joint statement commending the decision and recognizing much needs to be done to assist mothers and families.
“The church will continue to accompany women and couples who are facing difficult or unexpected pregnancies and during the early years of parenthood, through initiatives such as Walking with Moms in Need,” stated the bishops in their June 24 statement.
“Our respective dioceses will continue to collaborate with organizations such as Her Plan, Pro-Life Mississippi and many others to bring vital services to support mothers and the unborn.”
Catholic leader, Mississippi Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann stated that Mississippi is a leader on protecting the unborn with a law in place that prohibits abortion.
“I am pro-life,” stated Hosemann. “I am also pro-child. In addition to protecting the unborn, we must also focus on other ways to support women, children and families.”
Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch, who led efforts to overturn Roe, also released a statement after the decision stating, “Now, our work to empower women and promote life truly begins. The Court has let loose its hold on abortion policy making and given it back to the people.”
The USCCB also released a statement by Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities.
“Today’s decision is also the fruit of prayers, sacrifices, and advocacy of countless ordinary Americans from every walk of life. Over these long years, millions of our fellow citizens have worked together peacefully to educate and persuade their neighbors about the injustice of abortion, to offer care and counseling to women, and to work for alternatives to abortion.”
The environment outside of the Jackson Women’s Health Organization – also known as the “Pink House” due to the bright pink hue it was painted in January 2013 – was anything but peaceful in the aftermath of the Dobbs decision. Until the clinic closed for good on the evening of July 6, pro-life and pro-choice voices clashed amid national and local news reporters from near and far.
As an effort to keep providing services, the Jackson Women’s Health Organization requested a temporary restraining order to block the trigger law from taking effect but it was denied by chancery judge, Debbra K. Halford on Tuesday, July 5, reasoning that the state Supreme Court would reverse the 1998 Pro-Choice Mississippi v. Fordice ruling that relied on the Mississippi Constitution for a right to privacy.
Abortion demonstrators are seen near the Supreme Court in Washington June 24, 2022, as the court overruled the landmark Roe v. Wade abortion decision in its ruling in the Dobbs case on a Mississippi law banning most abortions after 15 weeks. (CNS photo/Tyler Orsburn)
The abortion clinic filed a petition to the Mississippi Supreme Court allow it to reopen, citing Fordice where the court stated it did not “interpret our Constitution as recognizing an explicit right to an abortion, we believe that autonomous bodily integrity is protected under the right to privacy as stated in In re Brown.” On July 11, the court rejected the clinic’s plea to stop the abortion ban. The court will wait for arguments from Attorney General Fitch to be submitted before ruling on the petition.
Nationally, President Joe Biden signed an executive order on Friday, July 8, aiming to protect access to abortion in the wake of the Supreme Court overturning Roe. The order attempts to protect access to medication abortion, access to contraception and to guarantee a patient’s right to emergency medical services.
Speaking from the White House on July 8, President Biden urged women to “head to the ballot box” to “reclaim the right taken from them by the court.” He stated that “the fastest way to restore Roe is to pass a national law, codifying Roe.”
In response, the USCCB released a statement from Archbishop Lori stating, “I implore the president to abandon this path that leads to death and destruction and to choose life. As always, the Catholic Church stands ready to work with this Administration and all elected officials to protect the right to life of every human being and to ensure that pregnant and parenting mothers are fully supported in the care of their children before and after birth.”
Bishops Kopacz and Kihnemann remain “grateful for the Supreme Court’s decision but are also mindful that the battle to uphold the sanctity of life is an ongoing effort.”
“Let us pray and continue to raise our voices both in our churches and in our communities in defense of human dignity and justice.”
Statement from Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz and Bishop Louis F. Kihneman on Supreme Court’s Ruling in Dobbs. v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization
Today, Lady Justice has turned her attention to the cry of the unborn child hidden in the refuge of his or her mother’s womb. Today, justice has not abandoned that unborn child and his or her capacity to feel pain, but there is still more work to be done.
Together with many throughout our country, we join in prayer that states are now able to protect women and children from the injustice of abortion. The Catholic Church has had a vested interest in this matter – the dignity and sanctity of all human life.
The church has a long history of service to those who are most vulnerable and remains the largest private provider of social services in the United States. Through its charity agencies, and the independent efforts of its members, the Catholic Church is supporting all women in addition to the child in the womb.
The church will continue to accompany women and couples who are facing difficult or unexpected pregnancies and during the early years of parenthood, through initiatives such as Walking with Moms in Need. With our brother bishops, we renew our commitment to preserving the dignity and sanctity of all human life by:
• Ensuring our Catholic parishes are places of welcome for women facing challenging pregnancies or who find it difficult to care for their children after birth, so that any mother needing assistance will receive life-affirming support and be connected to appropriate programs and resources where she can get help.
• Helping fellow Catholics recognize the needs of pregnant and parenting moms in their communities, enabling parishioners to know these mothers, to listen to them and to help them obtain the necessities of life for their families.
• Being witnesses of love and life by expanding and improving the extensive network of comprehensive care including pregnancy help centers, and Catholic health care and social service agencies.
• Increasing our advocacy for laws that ensure the right to life for the unborn and that no mother or family lacks the basic resources needed to care for their children, regardless of race, age, immigration status or any other factor.
• Continuing to support and advocate for public policies and programs directed toward building up the common good and fostering integral human development, with a special concern for the needs of low-income families and immigrants.
In all of these ways and more, the Catholic Church witnesses to the sanctity of human life, from conception to natural death, and continues to work to build a culture of life in our nation.
Our respective dioceses continue to collaborate with organizations such as Her Plan, Pro-Life Mississippi and many others to bring vital services to support mothers and the unborn.
The community can immediately accompany women and couples who are facing difficult or unexpected pregnancies through the Walking with Moms in Need initiative in the Diocese of Jackson. For more information on how to get involved or offer support to women in need, please contact the Office of Family Ministry coordinator in the Diocese of Jackson at charlene.bearden@jacksondiocese.org. In the Diocese of Biloxi, contact Deacon Jim Gunkel, director of the Office of Family Ministry and Family Life at jgunkel@biloxidiocese.org or Margaret Miller, coordinator of Walking with Moms at mrmiller@biloxidiocese.org.
Additionally, there are Catholic Charities Community Outreach Centers located in the Diocese of Biloxi in Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Waveland and Pascagoula. These centers provide confidential pregnancy testing; Medicaid pregnancy confirmations; life-affirming options counseling; case management (including budgeting and goal setting); basic needs assistance; car seats and safe sleeping spaces for infants; diapers formula, clothing, blankets, socks, etc.; and representative payee services. The Diocese of Biloxi is also sharing the pro-life message through its Pro-Life Billboard initiative.
The Diocese of Biloxi will also be resuming adoptions and foster parenting services in the near future, complementing existing programs in the Diocese of Jackson that have provided those services through Catholic Charities, Inc. for over a half century.
Again, we are grateful for the Supreme Court’s decision but are also mindful that the battle to uphold the sanctity of life is an ongoing effort. Let us pray and continue to raise our voices both in our churches and in our communities in defense of human dignity and justice.
Today, Lady Justice has turned her attention to the cry of the unborn child hidden in the refuge of his or her mother’s womb. Today, justice has not abandoned that unborn child and his or her capacity to feel pain, but there is still more work to be done.
Together with many throughout our country, we join in prayer that states are now able to protect women and children from the injustice of abortion. The Catholic Church has had a vested interest in this matter – the dignity and sanctity of all human life.
The church has a long history of service to those who are most vulnerable and remains the largest private provider of social services in the United States. Through its charity agencies, and the independent efforts of its members, the Catholic Church is supporting all women in addition to the child in the womb. The church will continue to accompany women and couples who are facing difficult or unexpected pregnancies and during the early years of parenthood, through initiatives such as Walking with Moms in Need.
With our brother bishops, we renew our commitment to preserving the dignity and sanctity of all human life by:
• Ensuring our Catholic parishes are places of welcome for women facing challenging pregnancies or who find it difficult to care for their children after birth, so that any mother needing assistance will receive life-affirming support and be connected to appropriate programs and resources where she can get help.
• Helping fellow Catholics recognize the needs of pregnant and parenting moms in their communities, enabling parishioners to know these mothers, to listen to them and to help them obtain the necessities of life for their families.
• Being witnesses of love and life by expanding and improving the extensive network of comprehensive care including pregnancy help centers, and Catholic health care and social service agencies.
• Increasing our advocacy for laws that ensure the right to life for the unborn and that no mother or family lacks the basic resources needed to care for their children, regardless of race, age, immigration status or any other factor.
• Continuing to support and advocate for public policies and programs directed toward building up the common good and fostering integral human development, with a special concern for the needs of low-income families and immigrants.
In all of these ways and more, the Catholic Church witnesses to the sanctity of human life, from conception to natural death, and continues to work to build a culture of life in our nation. Our respective dioceses continue to collaborate with organizations such as Her Plan, Pro-Life Mississippi and many others to bring vital services to support mothers and the unborn.
The community can immediately accompany women and couples who are facing difficult or unexpected pregnancies through the Walking with Moms in Need initiative in the Diocese of Jackson. For more information on how to get involved or offer support to women in need, please contact the Office of Family Ministry coordinator in the Diocese of Jackson at charlene.bearden@jacksondiocese.org. In the Diocese of Biloxi, contact Deacon Jim Gunkel, director of the Office of Family Ministry and Family Life at jgunkel@biloxidiocese.org or Margaret Miller, coordinator of Walking with Moms at mrmiller@biloxidiocese.org.
Additionally, there are Catholic Charities Community Outreach Centers located in the Diocese of Biloxi in Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Waveland and Pascagoula. These centers provide confidential pregnancy testing; Medicaid pregnancy confirmations; life-affirming options counseling; case management (including budgeting and goal setting); basic needs assistance; car seats and safe sleeping spaces for infants; diapers formula, clothing, blankets, socks, etc.; and representative payee services. The Diocese of Biloxi is also sharing the pro-life message through its Pro-Life Billboard initiative.
The Diocese of Biloxi will also be resuming adoptions and foster parenting services in the near future, complementing existing programs in the Diocese of Jackson that have provided those services through Catholic Charities, Inc. for over a half century.
Again, we are grateful for the Supreme Court’s decision but are also mindful that the battle to uphold the sanctity of life is an ongoing effort. Let us pray and continue to raise our voices both in our churches and in our communities in defense of human dignity and justice.
PEARL – Father Andrew Bowden threw out the first pitch at the 15th annual Catholic Night with the Knights of Columbus at the Mississippi Braves stadium on Thursday, June 16. (Photo by Michael Barrett Photography)
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT HOMEWOOD, Ala. Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference, July 29-30 in the Family Life Center at Our Lady of Sorrows Church at 1728 Oxmoor Road held by the Diocese of Birmingham. Conference theme is “Thy Will Be Done” and will feature Andi Oney, an international Catholic evangelist. Registration fee is $25 for individuals and $65 for a family of three or more. All are welcome! Details: Sally Smith at (205) 983-4150 or mustardsally14@gmail.com. CHATAWA Our Lady of Hope Retreat Center, Quo Vadis? Young Men’s Discernment Retreat, July 26-29. Age range for retreat is 15-25. Come pray, eat, have fun and build fraternity. To register visit: https://bit.ly/QuoVadis2022 Details: email Father Nick at nick.adam@jacksondiocese.org. CLARKSDALE St. Elizabeth, “Life in the Spirit” retreat, Saturday, Aug. 27 at 9 a.m. and ends with closing Mass at 4 p.m. Details: church office (662) 624-4301. CLEVELAND Our Lady of Victories, Men’s weekly devotional group. Will start on Wednesday, Aug. 3 from 6-6:30 a.m. with coffee and donuts and a brief time for reflecting on scripture, faith and how it applies to our lives. Details: call Darrin at (662) 588-2596. MADISON St. Francis, Diocese Fall Faith Formation Day, Saturday, Aug. 20, 10 a.m to 3 p.m. for formation leaders and volunteers. Theme is “Behold, I make all things new.” Keynote presenter is Stephanie Clouatre Davis, with breakout session topics including Total Youth Ministry: the Lifeteen experience; Cultivating vocations; Tips and tricks on facilitating small groups; Fruits of the Synod and more! Registration deadline is Aug. 15. Cost is $10 per person. Details: register at https://bit.ly/FFDay2022 – email fran.lavelle@jacksondiocese.org with questions. PEARL St. Jude, The Marian Servants of Jesus the Lamb of God invite all to join them for fellowship, healing prayer, charismatic praise and worship, teaching faith sharing and the Rosary on Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m. in the Mary room. Details: call (601) 278-0423 or email msofjlog@gmail.com.
PARISH, FAMILY AND SCHOOL EVENTS BATESVILLE St. Mary, Parish Rummage Sale, Friday, Aug. 5 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 6 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Parish Center. Details: church office (662) 563-2273. CLARKSDALE St. Elizabeth, Save the Date: St. Elizabeth Feast Day on Sunday, Nov. 27 at 10:30 a.m. Mass. Details: church office (662) 624-4301. DIOCESE Catholic schools in Clarksdale, Columbus, Greenville, Holly Springs, Jackson, Madison, Meridian, Natchez, Southaven and Vicksburg are now enrolling. Contact your local school for a tour today! Visit https://bit.ly/catholicschoolssummerhours for contact information. FLOWOOD St. Paul Early Learning Center Golf Tournament, Friday, Sept. 16 at Bay Pointe Golf Club.Details: contact stpaullearningcenter@gmail.com. GLUCKSTADT St. Joseph, Save the date: Germanfest 2022, Sunday, Sept. 25 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers needed for kraut packing on Wednesday, July 20 at 4 p.m. No experience needed. Will be working outside to dress accordingly. Details: church office (601) 856-2054. GREENVILLE St. Joseph, Catholic Inquiry Series begins Sept. 7 at 5:30 p.m. Do you want to learn about what Catholics believe? Are you searching for a church home? Were you baptized Catholic but rarely attend church? Want to learn about our 2000 year history? If you answered yes, this series is for you! Details: call (662) 335-5251 to register. HERNANDO Holy Spirit, Save the Date: Annual Bazaar, Saturday Sept. 10. Lots of help and items needed: prizes for kids games, silent auction items, vendors for craft booths, homemade goods for the Country Kitchen. Details: contact Julie Stefanik at julieastefanik@gmail.com or call the church office at (662) 429-7851. NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, Inaugural Choral Festival, July 29-31. Details: church office: (601) 445-5616. JACKSON Catholic Charities School Supply Giveaway, Friday, Aug. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. COVID vaccines will be available. Giveaway located at Charities offices at 850 E. River Place, Jackson. Details: call (601 326-3703. PEARL St. Jude, Trip to Yazoo City to tour historic Glenwood cemetery for parishioners on Saturday, July 30. Visit the final resting place for the Witch of Yazoo city, Mississippi author Willie Morris and Catholic priests and nuns who served in Yazoo City. Tour led by Charlie Carlyle, historian and official cemetery guide. Tour concludes with Mass at St. Mary Yazoo City, a tour of downtown and lunch. Group will leave from St. Jude at 8 a.m. and travel in cars. Details: church office (601) 939-3181. St. Jude, Back to School Pancake Breakfast and Blessing of Backpacks on Sunday July 31. Breakfast served from 9:15-10:30 a.m. Backpack blessing at 10 a.m. Donations for breakfast accepted to benefit parish school of religion. Details: church office (601) 939-3181. SOUTHAVEN Christ the King, Knights of Columbus Spaghetti Dinner, Saturday, July 23 from 5-7 p.m. Sit down or take out in the PRE building. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.
JOB OPENINGS CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Catholic schools across the diocese have a variety of positions open. Please visit https://schools.jacksondiocese.org/education-overview/employment/ for an opportunity near you. DIOCESE The Department of Faith Formation in the Diocese of Jackson is looking for a full-time Coordinator of the Office of Young Adults and Campus Ministry. The coordinator supervises and participates in the diocesan efforts for ministry to and with young adults, college students, youth and the various staff and volunteers who assist with these ministries from the parishes. Please send a cover letter and resume to fran.lavelle@jacksondiocese.org to apply.
Artwork: Saint Dominic Adoring the Crucifixion; Fra Angelico; c. 1437-1446; (Public Domain).
Stewardship paths By Julia Williams JACKSON – I once read in a parish bulletin a reminder that we should not use irreverent phrases such as “we’re serving wine at Mass,” because after the consecration during Mass, the wine is no longer wine — it is the Precious Blood of Jesus!
The Precious Blood of Jesus is Power! The power of the blood is enough to overcome everything coming against you. This is how you live a life of victory in Christ. It’s the life Jesus died to give you. The life of a Christian steward models the life of Jesus. It is challenging and even difficult in many respects; yet intense joy comes to those who take the risk to live as Christian stewards. Women and men who seek to live as stewards learn that “all things work for good for those who love God.” (Romans 8:28)
The month of July is dedicated to the Precious Blood of Jesus, spilled on the Cross for us. It is your opportunity to focus directly on this topic … Read about it … Pray about it … Frequent the sacraments, (including confession), so you can receive Him with a clean soul!
Be Blessed, and Remember … “Jesus is Lord!”
Excerpts: catholic-link.org; and Stewardship, A Disciple’s Response, USCCB.
(To subscribe to the monthly Stewardship PATHS newsletter, scan the QR code or email julia.williams@jacksondiocese.org.)
By Sabrina Simms The Natchez Democrat NATCHEZ — The Knights of Columbus recently presented an approximately $20,000 donation to a new pregnancy center slated to open this month at 4951 U.S. 84 in Vidalia.
The new Miss-Lou Pregnancy Center will be a satellite center of the non-profit Cenla Pregnancy Center, which has other locations in Alexandria and Marksville.
The donation, made possible by the Knights of Columbus organization’s fundraising efforts with area churches, will be used to buy the center’s first ultrasound machine. Both Vidalia and Natchez members helped raise the funds and another $13,000 donation will be given by the national organization, said Steve Neilson, Faithful Navigator of the Natchez post.
VIDALIA, La. – Pictured is the Miss-Lou Pregnancy Center on July 7, awaiting the installment of their permanent sign. On Wednesday, June 15, local members of the Knights of Columbus present a donation to an ultrasound machine at the soon-to-be Miss-Lou Pregnancy Center, located at 4951 U.S. 84 in Vidalia, Louisiana. The Center is set to fully open this month. (Photo courtesy of Miss-Lou Pregnancy Center)
“It was great because we saw how two communities could help each other,” Neilson said. “A lot of people from Louisiana contributed and a lot of people from Mississippi contributed.”
“That’s why it’s called Miss-Lou Pregnancy Center,” added Kevin Friloux, a Vidalia member of the Knights of Columbus.
Neilson said the organization has plans to continue supporting the new center, which is much-needed for both communities.
“We have the Caring Hearts Pregnancy Center in Natchez, which is very limited,” Neilson said. “There is no medical staff. It’s more or less just a resource and referral point.” The next closest pregnancy centers are an hour or two hours away.
Claire Lemoine, executive director of Cenla Pregnancy Center, said their focus is providing confidential services to women who find themselves with an unplanned pregnancy in a judgment-free environment.
There, they will have access to pregnancy tests, an initial ultrasound, post-abortion support, consultations with trained professionals, educational classes, baby items and referrals to other care facilities — all at no charge.
“It’s a place where anyone in an unplanned pregnancy can go if they need support. If they’re considering abortion, if they’re considering parenting or whatever state of life they found themselves in with their pregnancy, they can come to us to talk about their options. We talk about life-affirming options for them. We do talk about abortions but we don’t refer them for abortions or provide abortions. We talk about what that decision may mean for their life if that is what they choose,” Lemoine said.
She added the ultrasound machine that area churches and individuals helped pay for with their donations would be used for most of their initial screenings for mothers who haven’t seen any other physicians yet. “We give them verification of pregnancy and have prenatal vitamins for them and we also do an ultrasound … which serves to make sure that the pregnancy is in the uterus and verifies how far along they are in their pregnancy. It also helps to make that connection. … They say the ultrasound is the window to the womb. It’s a good way to connect their mind and heart to this new reality.”
Kimberly Butler will be the director of the Miss-Lou Pregnancy Center, which will initially be open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until it is fully staffed. The new center will also need volunteers to help receive clients, file records and teach classes, Lemoine said.
Inside the facility will be a boutique-like area where participants of educational programs can spend vouchers on baby items such as car seats, baby bottles, clothing, formula and diapers.
The pregnancy center is sustained entirely by donations and fundraising efforts, she said.
The annual Gift of Life Fundraising Banquet, one of the largest fundraisers for the organization, takes place Sept. 13 at the Randolph Riverfront Center on 707 2nd Street in Alexandria, Louisiana, and features actor and evangelist Kirk Cameron as a keynote speaker.
To find out more or make a donation, visit cenlapc.com.
For more information on the Miss-Lou Pregnancy Center, or to volunteer, call (318) 314-3061.
(Reprinted with permission of The Natchez Democrat)
