Category Archives: Entertainment

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
ALEXANDRIA, La. – Genesis of Eve Catholic Women’s Conference, Sept. 18-20 at the Randolph Riverfront Center. Spend time with Jesus in an Adoration service, access priests for confession, shop amazing Catholic artists, authors and vendors; and hear faith-filled Catholic speakers, including Kendra Tierney Norton, Rachel Bullman, Katie Prejean McGrady and Father Brice Higgenbotham. All are welcome. Open to ages 18+. General admission cost: $295.29. Details: visit www.genesisofeve.org.
CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, “Woke in Christ” Mission Revival, Sunday, Aug. 23 at 9 a.m. and Aug. 24-25 at 7 p.m. Guest priest is Father Anthony Bozeman, SSJ. Come be renewed. Encounter Christ. Live the mission. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome. Details: church office (662) 468-2354.
GRAND COTEAU, La. – St. Charles College, The Chosen retreat experience, Dec. 10-13. Calling all women to relax, restore and reconnect, using the hit series – The Chosen. Details: www.gcretrets.org or text Betsy at (985) 517-1019.
OXFORD – St. John the Evangelist, Catechist Workshop, Saturday, Aug. 1, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m, with speaker, Dr. Tom Neal. Details: register at https://bit.ly/oxford-catechist-event-26.
MADISON – Millions of Monicas will be praying at St. Catherine’s Village chapel (200 Dominican Drive), the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. When you arrive at the gate, let the team know you are joining the Millions of Monicas ministry. Please, mark your calendars for the following meeting dates: Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10 and Dec. 8, 2026. Details: call (601) 613-8526.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Millions of Monicas, Thursdays from 6:15-7:15 pm. Join with other mothers as we pray to grow in holiness and for our children’s faithful return to the Church. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
RIPLEY – St. Matthew, Liturgical workshop in Spanish, Saturday, July 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. All are welcome. Details: church office (662) 993-8832 or stmatthewcatholicchurch@ripleycable.net.
YOUNG ADULTS – Young adults are invited to join the Archdiocese of New Orleans on a Pilgrimage to Seoul, South Korea, August 1-10, 2027. Details: contact James Behan at (504) 836-0551 ext. 3228 or email: yam@arch-no.org.

PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
BATESVILE – St. Mary, Rummage Sale, Aug. 7-8. Details: church office at (662) 563-2273.
GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, “Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God” Vacation Bible School, July 27-29. Details: church office (662) 335-5251.
JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, ABIDE High School Youth Group Kickoff Event, Saturday, Aug. 29 from 7-9 p.m. in Bolton. Bring a chair and join us for food, games and fellowship. Group for 9th-12th graders. Details: Jodi at (601) 383-4720.
MERIDIAN – Catholic Youth of Meridian, Summer Retreat at Pine Lake Camp, July 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from 5th through 12th graders. Cost: $15 Enjoy fun summer activities, build friendships and encounter Christ. Details: Kristen at (850) 305-1771.
OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Indoor Yard Sale, Save the Date – Saturday, Aug. 1. Details: church office (662) 895 5007.
Queen of Peace, Family Bowling, Sunday, July 26 at 2 p.m. at Strik Zone in Southaven. Cost: $15.50 per person (must prepay). Fee includes two hours of bowling and shoe rental. Invite your family and friends – we need a minimum of 30 participants. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
PONTOTOC – St. Christopher, Vacation Bible School, Saturday, July 25 for ages 14-17 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Details: Sister Raquel – raquelssnd@gmail.com.

DIOCESE EVENTS
ENGAGED ENCOUNTER 2026: Aug. 28-30; and Oct. 2-4. Details: couples may register at https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/230073 or email debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org.
FALL FAITH FORMATION DAY: Save the Date – Sept. 19 at St. Francis of Assisi in Madison. Come for a day of learning, prayer and community for catechists, faith formation leaders, and all those involved in forming disciples of all ages.
MIDDLE SCHOOL FALL RETREAT – Registration is now open for the annual Middle School Fall Retreat. This year’s theme is “Others First” at Lake Forest Ranch, Oct. 17-18 for 7th and 8th graders. The retreat will be presented by Cooper Ray – Catholic speaker and worship leader. Cost: $75 per person with a registration deadline of Sept. 11. Contact your parish youth leader to sign up.
YOUNG ADULT PILGRIMAGE – Young adults ages 21-35 are invited on an unforgettable pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion in Wisconsin, the site of the only Church-approved Marian apparition in the United States. This eight-day pilgrimage, taking place May 15-22, 2027, includes visits to the Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament, Ave Maria Grotto, Gethsemane Abbey, Saint Meinrad Seminary, the Basilica of Saint Louis King of France, Sister Thea Bowman’s gravesite and more. Daily Mass, prayer and fellowship will make this a journey to remember. Registration deadline: July 31. Cost: $925, includes admission to all pilgrimage stops, transportation, lodging and donations to shrines. Excludes cost of meals. Details: amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

St. Francis of Assisi on Film

Posted on by

By John Mulderig

(OSV News) – To mark the 800th anniversary of the beloved saint’s death, Pope Leo XIV has proclaimed a special Jubilee Year in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. It began on Jan. 10.

Given the dramatic nature of his conversion and the long-lasting, widespread influence of the family of religious orders he founded, it’s no surprise that the life of St. Francis has often been portrayed on film. As early as 1918, a silent Italian production, “Frate Sole” (“Brother Sun”), directed by Ugo Falena, was devoted to the subject.

Following, in alphabetical order, are capsule reviews of four of these movies. All are currently available to viewers in various formats.

“Brother Sun, Sister Moon” (1972)

Director Franco Zeffirelli’s version of the oft-told story of Francis of Assisi (Graham Faulkner) treats him as secular saint and social heretic, emphasizing parallels between his age and our own. The strength of the movie lies in its rich visualization of the natural beauties of the Umbrian hills and the Romanesque architecture of medieval Assisi. While the lush and lavish production has nothing to do with the Franciscan spirit of poverty and simplicity, it is a pictorially beautiful movie which succeeds quite well in celebrating nature and the quest for finding more to life than accumulating material goods. Brief rear male nudity in a nonsexual context. The OSV News classification is A-II – adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG – parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

“The Flowers of St. Francis” (1950)

Remarkable Italian production about the beginnings of the Franciscan Order as its founder sets the example of humility, simplicity and obedience for his first followers at Portiuncula, a little chapel near Assisi, Italy, from which they depart into the world to preach peace. Directed by Roberto Rossellini from a script co-written with Federico Fellini, the movie’s form is as simple and sincere as the subject of the narrative. Its series of little incidents is related realistically, yet marvelously conveyed with an infectious sense of joy by an anonymous cast of monks from a Roman monastery. Subtitles. The OSV News classification is A-I – general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association.

“Francesco” (1989)

Overwrought Italian production portrays St. Francis of Assisi (Mickey Rourke) as a spiritual agitator challenging the accepted values of his 13th-century contemporaries by embracing a life of utter poverty and simplicity. Director Liliana Cavani builds an elaborate picture of the period’s social injustices but fails to evoke any convincing sense of religious conviction from Rourke’s embarrassingly vacuous performance. English-language version. Occasional scenes of violence, desperate poverty and brief nudity. The OSV News classification is A-III – adults. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

“Francis of Assisi” (1961)

Uneven dramatization of the life of the 13th-century saint (Bradford Dillman) who founds a religious community based on absolute poverty, seeks its approval by the pope (Finlay Currie), encourages longtime friend Clare (Dolores Hart) to head a similar women’s order, then journeys to the Holy Land, preaches to the Sultan (Pedro Armendariz) and returns to find his order spreading but changing. Directed by Michael Curtiz, the production is well-mounted and well-intended but the script is a muddle of historical fact and dramatic fiction, with results that barely scratch the surface of Franciscan spirituality. The OSV News classification is A-I – general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association.

(John Mulderig is media reviewer for OSV News. Follow him on Twitter @JohnMulderig1.)

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
DIOCESE/MADISON – Fall Faith Formation Day, Saturday, Nov. 15 at St. Francis, Madison from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Department of Faith Formation welcomes all formation leaders and volunteers for a keynote by Robert Feduccia and a variety of breakout sessions to with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope Journeying Together.” Cost: $10. Register at https://bit.ly/FFFDay2025. Deadline is Nov. 5. Details: email fran.lavelle@jacksondiocese.org.

DIOCESE/MOBILE, Ala. – Sister Thea Bowman Jubilee of Hope Bus Pilgrimage, Nov. 15-16 to Mobile and Montgomery, Ala., for a powerful journey of faith, history and fellowship. Highlights include visits to the Africatown Heritage Center, the Equal Justice Initiative and more. Details: Visit https://bit.ly/srtheapilgrimage2025 for more info and to register.

DIOCESE/NATCHEZ – Diocesan Young Adult Pilgrimage to St. Mary Basilica in Natchez, Nov. 8. Register by Nov. 1. Cost $25. Fee does not include transportation, meals or optional overnight stay. Details: https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/222556 or email amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

DIOCESE/CLINTON – Diocesan Youth Adult Day of Reflection “Prepare the Way,” Saturday, Dec. 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Camp Garaway, Clinton. Register at https://bit.ly/YAReflection25. Details: amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Parish Ladies Retreat, Saturday, Nov. 1, 8:30 a.m. to noon. Join us for a time of fellowship, reflection and prayer. Retreat includes Mass, presentations and lunch. Details: Register at https://bit.ly/HSLadiesRetreat112025.

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.

PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
BROOKHAVEN – St. Francis, Trunk or Treat, Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 6 p.m. on the parish playground. Details: church office (601) 833-1799.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Fall Festival/Trunk or Treat, Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 6-7:30 p.m. in the upper parking lot. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.

GREENVILLE – St. Joseph, Trunk or Treat, Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 5:30 p.m. in the Our Lady of Lourdes parking lot. Details: Katherine at (662) 836-6108.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Parish Gala, Saturday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. at the Capitol Club Rooftop. Join us for this no tie occassion to raise funds for the Cathedral kitchen and promote community in the parish. Details: church office (601) 969-3125.

MADISON – St. Francis, Parish Mission “Hope and Pilgrimage,” Oct. 26-27 from 5:30-7:45 p.m., with speaker and author Joan Watson. All are welcome. Please RSVP. Details: church office at (601) 856-5556.

St. Francis, Trunk or Treat, Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 6:30-8 p.m. Details: church office (601) 586-5556.

NATCHEZ – St. Mary Basilica, Trunk or Treat and Halloween Carnival, Thursday, Oct. 30 in the parking lot on Union Street across from Memorial Park. Details: church office at (601) 445-5616 or secretary@stmarybasilica.org.

PEARL – St. Jude, Remembrance Mass, Wednesday, Nov. 5 at 6 p.m. Come for a special celebration in memory of our loved ones that have gone before us. Details: office@stjudepearl.org.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Halloween Bash, Friday, Oct. 31 from 6-8 p.m. Games, concessions and more. Cost of entry: one bag of candy. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.

STARKVILLE – St. Joseph, CYO Garage Sale, Saturday, Nov. 15 from 8-11 a.m. in the parish hall. Details: church office (662) 323-2257.

EMPLOYMENT
JACKSON – Diocese of Jackson seeks a Facilities Manager to support parishes and schools. Oversees contract review, construction, and diocesan property/life-health-safety policies; manages maintenance and repairs for the Chancery and diocesan sites. Bachelor’s/associate degree in facilities or construction preferred; CFM preferred; 5+ years facilities/construction management required. Email résumé and cover letter to Cathy Pendleton at cathy.pendleton@jacksondiocese.org.

CATHOLIC SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR POSITIONS – The Diocese of Jackson seeks qualified, faith-filled leaders to serve as administrators in our Catholic schools. Positions available at St. Joseph School, Madison (Grades 7–12), St. Joseph School, Greenville (Grades PK3–12), and St. Elizabeth School, Clarksdale (Grades PK3–6). Applicants should be practicing Catholics with leadership experience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to Catholic education. For details and applications, visit jacksondiocese.org/administrator-employment.

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
DIOCESE/VIRTUAL – The Office of Catholic Education hosts a quarterly Zoom Rosary. Join them from across the diocese on Oct. 15 at 7 p.m. to pray the Glorious Mysteries. Details: Join the rosary via zoom at https://bit.ly/OCERosaryOct25.

DIOCESE/MADISON – Fall Faith Formation Day, Saturday, Nov. 15 at St. Francis, Madison from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Department of Faith Formation welcomes all formation leaders and volunteers for a keynote by Robert Feduccia and a variety of breakout sessions to with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope Journeying Together.” Cost: $10. Register at https://bit.ly/FFFDay2025. Deadline is Nov. 5. Details: email fran.lavelle@jacksondiocese.org.

DIOCESE/MOBILE, Ala. – Sister Thea Bowman Jubilee of Hope Bus Pilgrimage, Nov. 15-16 to Mobile and Montgomery, Ala., for a powerful journey of faith, history and fellowship. Highlights include visits to the Africatown Heritage Center, the Equal Justice Initiative and more. Details: Visit https://bit.ly/srtheapilgrimage2025 for more info and to register.

DIOCESE/NATCHEZ – Diocesan Young Adult Pilgrimage to St. Mary Basilica in Natchez, Nov. 8. Register by Nov. 1. Cost $25. Fee does not include transportation, meals or optional overnight stay. Details: https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/222556 or email amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, “Living our Best Life in Christ” Women’s Retreat, Saturday, Oct. 25, registration at 8 a.m. with retreat from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will engage in a series of enriching guest speakers, group discussions, prayer sessions, and interactive workshops designed to inspire and uplift. Cost: $25 before Oct. 20 or $30 at the door. Registration includes lunch. Details: call Dr. Kathy McMurty, Ph.D. at (601) 566-2769.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Parish Ladies Retreat, Saturday, Nov. 1, 8:30 a.m. to noon. Join us for a time of fellowship, reflection and prayer. Retreat includes Mass, presentations and lunch. Details: Register at https://bit.ly/HSLadiesRetreat112025.

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, “Gratitude Through All Life’s Mysteries” – a Reflection for Women on the Holy Rosary, Saturday Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Don’t miss this spiritual event with speaker Ann Cook. Details: to sign up email lnblaylock@me.com.

VIRTUAL – The North American Vocation Team (NAVT) of the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) invites young adults to a monthly prayer on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. CST via Zoom. Remaining dates in 2025 are Oct. 28, Nov. 25 and Dec. 16. Details: visit ssnd.org/events.

PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
CLINTON – Holy Savior, Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat, Wednesday, Oct. 29 in the upper parking lot. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.

COLUMBUS – Annunciation, Parish Fall Festival, Sunday, Oct. 26 from 4-6:30 p.m. Join us on College Street in downtown Columbus for fun for all with trunk or treat, cake walk, games, food and more. No pets please. Details: church office (662) 328-2927.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Parish Gala, Saturday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. at the Capitol Club Rooftop. Join us for this no tie occasion to raise funds for the Cathedral kitchen and promote community in the parish. Details: church office (601) 969-3125.

JACKSON – Sister Thea Bowman School, Adopt-A-Student Scholarship Program – Consider sponsoring a full or partial tuition for a child to experience the benefit of a Catholic education. Donations are tax deductible. Details: email Chris Payne at principal@theabowmanschool.com.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Cardinal Fest and Chili Cookoff, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the football field. Enjoy food, music, games, art and more! Details: purchase your tickets here https://bit.ly/StRCardinalFest2025.

MADISON – St. Francis, Parish Mission “Hope and Pilgrimage,” Oct. 26-27 from 5:30-7:45 p.m., with speaker and author Joan Watson. All are welcome. Please RSVP. Details: church office at (601) 856-5556.

NATCHEZ – St. Mary Basilica, Trunk or Treat and Halloween Carnival, Thursday, Oct. 30 in the parking lot on Union Street across from Memorial Park. Details: church office at (601) 445-5616 or secretary@stmarybasilica.org.

PEARL – St. Jude, Feast Day Potluck, Sunday, Oct. 26. Games for all ages from 2-4:30 p.m., procession and rosary at 4:30 p.m. and dinner at 5 p.m. Details: church office (601)-939-3181.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Fall Festival, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Don’t miss this fun day of fellowship filled with international foods, games, cake walk, live music, white elephant sale and more! Details: church office (662) 342-1073.

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
NATCHEZ – Diocesan Young Adult Pilgrimage to St. Mary Basilica in Natchez, Nov. 8. Register by Nov. 1. Cost $25. Fee does not include transportation, meals or optional overnight stay. Details: https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/222556 or email amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

CAMDEN – Sacred Heart, “Living our Best Life in Christ” Women’s Retreat, Saturday, Oct. 25, registration at 8 a.m. with retreat from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will engage in a series of enriching guest speakers, group discussions, prayer sessions, and interactive workshops designed to inspire and uplift. Cost: $25 before Oct. 20 or $30 at the door. Registration includes lunch. Details: call Dr. Kathy McMurty, Ph.D. (601) 566-2769.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter, “Gratitude Through All Life’s Mysteries” – a Reflection for Women on the Holy Rosary, Saturday Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Don’t miss this spiritual event with speaker Ann Cook. Details: to sign up email lnblaylock@me.com.

JACKSON – St. Richard, An Evening with Mary, Thursday, Oct. 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Foley Hall. All ladies are invited for a special evening with speaker Kimberly Harkins on “My Year with Mary.” Details: RSVP by Oct, 10 to bulletin@saintrichard.com.

VIRTUAL – The North American Vocation Team (NAVT) of the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) invites young adults ages 18 and older to a monthly online evening prayer on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. CST via Zoom. Remaining dates for evening prayer in 2025 are Oct. 28, Nov. 25 and Dec. 16. Details: ssnd.org/events.

PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
BROOKHAVEN – St. Francis, Parish Picnic, Sunday, Oct. 5 after 10 a.m. Mass. Meat, beans, potato sald, drinks and desserts will be provided. Details: (601) 833-1799.

CLINTON – Holy Savior, Blessing of the Pets, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 9 a.m. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.

COLUMBUS – Annunciation, Parish Fall Festival, Sunday, Oct. 26 from 4-6:30 p.m. Join us on College Street in downtown Columbus for fun for all with trunk or treat, cake walk, games, food and more. No pets please. Details: church office (662) 328-2927.

HOLLY SPRINGS – St. Joseph, Blessing of the Pets, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. All pets must be on a leash or in a cage. Details: church office (662) 985-3209.

JACKSON – Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Parish Gala, Saturday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. at the Capitol Club Rooftop. Join us for this no tie occasion to raise funds for the Cathedral kitchen and promote community across all of our Masses and events. Details: church office (601) 969-3125.

JACKSON – Sister Thea Bowman School, Adopt-A-Student Scholarship Program – Consider sponsoring a full or partial tuition for a child to experience the benefit of a Catholic education. Donations are tax deductible. Details: email Chris Payne at principal@theabowmanschool.com.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Special Kids Golf Tournament, Thursday, Oct. 9 at Deerfield Golf Club in Canton. Details: visit https://saintrichard.com/specialkids for more information or email golf@saintrichard.com.

St. Richard, Cardinal Fest and Chili Cookoff, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the football field. Enjoy food, music, games, art and more! Details: purchase your tickets here https://bit.ly/StRCardinalFest2025.

JACKSON AREA – Theology on Tap, Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 7 p.m. at Blaylock Photography in Ridgeland. Catholic comedian Jason Price will speak on the topic – Blessed are the Laughmakers. Details: email amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

MADISON – St. Francis, Parish Mission “Hope and Pilgrimage,” Oct. 26-27 from 5:30-7:45 p.m., with speaker and author Joan Watson. All are welcome. Please RSVP. Details: church office at (601) 856-5556.

MERIDIAN – St. Joseph, Jubilee Year October Festival and Health Fair: Sunday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy a day of fellowship, family and faith. Details: church office (601) 693-1321.

St. Patrick, Second Annual St. Ann/St. Catherine Brunch, Saturday, Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Father Vally Room. Join this special support group gathering for all who have experienced infertility, miscarriage, or the loss of a child at any age. Details: church office (601) 693-1321.

OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Knights of Columbus Silver Rose Prayer Service, Thursday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. All are invited to this service honoring Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe and reaffirming our dedication to human life.

Queen of Peace, Blessing of the Pets, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 9 a.m. All pets must be on a leash or in a cage.

SENATOBIA – St. Gregory, Blessing of the Pets, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Blessing of the Animals, Saturday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. All pets should be on a leash or in a cage for their safety.

Christ the King, Fall Festival, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Don’t miss this fun day of fellowship filled with international foods, games, cake walk, live music, white elephant sale and more! Details: church office (662) 342-1073.

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT
DIOCESE – Cathedral of St. Peter, Prayer Service in Solidarity with Dreamers and Migrants, Thursday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. Details: Sister Amelia Breton at amelia.breton@jacksondiocese.org.

Cathedral of St. Peter, Remembrance Mass, Saturday, Sept. 20 at 10:30 a.m. Join us for a special Mass for those who have experienced the loss of a child from pregnancy through adulthood. Details: Debbie at debbie.tubertini@jacksondiocese.org.

Diocesan Young Adult Pilgrimage to St. Mary Basilica in Natchez, Nov. 8. Register by Nov. 1. Cost $25. Fee does not include transportation, meals or optional overnight stay. Details: https://jacksondiocese.flocknote.com/signup/222556 or email amelia.rizor@jacksondiocese.org.

FLOWOOD – St. Paul, “Mold and Make Me” Women’s Retreat, Oct. 17-19 at Our Lady of Hope Retreat Center. Join Father Anthony Quyet and discover how to see the finger of God in our everyday lives. Register by Sept. 21. Details: finance@spaulcc.org.

GREENWOOD – Locus Benedictus, “Healing From Abortion” 12 week program (begins Sept. 2), each Tuesday at 6 p.m. Details: to register call (662) 561-6018-1232 or email t.lambert0814@gmail.com.

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 – St. Richard, An Evening with Mary, Thursday, Oct. 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Foley Hall. All ladies are invited for a special evening with speaker Kimberly Harkins on “My Year with Mary.” Details: RSVP by Oct, 10 to bulletin@saintrichard.com.

PARISH & YOUTH EVENTS
CLARKSDALE – St. Elizabeth, Parish Fair, Tuesday, Sept. 23 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Fun for all with spaghetti dinner and more! Details: church office (662) 624-4301.

FLOWOOD – St. Paul Early Learning Center, Annual Golf Tournament, Friday, Sept. 19, tee off at 1 p.m. at Bay Pointe Golf Club. Registration opens at 11 a.m. Details: register at https://bit.ly/3Jn4XlS or stpaullearningcenter@gmail.com.

JACKSON – St. Richard, Special Kids Golf Tournament, Thursday, Oct. 9 at Deerfield Golf Club in Canton. Details: visit https://saintrichard.com/specialkids for more information.

St. Richard, Cardinal Fest and Chili Cookoff, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the football field. Enjoy food, music, games, art and more! Details: purchase your tickets here https://bit.ly/StRCardinalFest2025.

MADISON – St. Francis, Parish Mission “Hope and Pilgrimage,” Oct. 26-27 from 5:30-7:45 p.m., with speaker and author Joan Watson. All are welcome. Please RSVP. Details: church office at (601) 856-5556.

OLIVE BRANCH – Queen of Peace, Golf Tournament, Sunday Sept. 28 at 1 p.m. at the Wedgewood Golf Club. Cost: $125/player. Details: Tim at (901) 515-8598.

Queen of Peace, Wild West Six Parish Roundup, Sunday, Sept. 28, begins will Mass at 3 p.m. followed by games, activities and wraps up with dinner at 6 p.m. Bring the whole posse! Details: church office (662) 895-5007.

Queen of Peace, Blood Drive, Sunday, Sept. 28 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Appointments encouraged. Walk-ins welcome. Visit www.donors.vitalant.org and use the code queenop or call Nina at (901) 518-6426.

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Yard Sale, Sunday, Sept. 21 after 11 a.m. Mass. Stop by for a bargain!

SOUTHAVEN – Christ the King, Fall Festival, Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Join us for food, games, music and more! Details: church office (662) 342-1073.

Calendar of Events

Posted on by

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 – St. Richard School, Flight to the Finish 5k and Fun Run, Saturday, May 10 at 9 a.m. Details: Register at https://runsignup.com/Race/MS/Jackson/FlighttotheFinish.

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.

New Netflix film presents the life of the Virgin Mary

Posted on by

By Kurt Jensen
(OSV News) – For those attempting to bring any part of the Gospel story to the screen, whether big or small, the four canonical accounts, as books of faith, prove to be of limited help. They’re not motion-picture treatments, and their descriptions of historical details and dialogue tend to be brief.

That’s why, ever since the first filmed versions of Scripture were produced more than a century ago, their makers have introduced non-Biblical characters, dialogue and subplots, using their own research and judgment about what will appeal to audiences. The aim is to make such narratives three-dimensional and relatable.

Now, that approach has been applied to Mariology – the theological study of the Blessed Mother – in “Mary,” an earnest drama that will be available for streaming on Netflix Dec. 6. Specifically, director D.J. Caruso and screenwriter Timothy Michael Hayes rely heavily on the “Protoevangelium of James,” a text generally dated to the middle of the second century.

Noa Cohen stars as Mary in the Netflix movie “Mary.” (OSV News photo/Christopher Raphael, Netflix)

While not recognized by the church as inspired, the Protoevangelium is both Mary-centric and rich in particulars. It deals with the Virgin’s life even before her conception – which it describes as miraculous – introducing its readers to her elderly parents, Sts. Joachim (Ori Pfeffer) and Anne (Hilla Vidor).
They consecrate their daughter to God and, as a child (Mila Harris), she leaves home to live in the Temple in Jerusalem. As Mary grows up (Noa Cohen), her dedication to God steadily increases and matures. However, Caruso and Hayes have taken liberties with this source material as well.
The Protoevangelium has a nameless angel telling Anne that her prayers to become a mother have been answered. Now he’s identified as the Archangel Gabriel (Dudley O’Shaughnessy). Gabriel becomes a continuous presence in Mary’s life, both before and after the Annunciation, and at one point he directly confronts Satan (Eamon Farren) to protect her.

In the movie, moreover, Gabriel – who is usually shown as a winged figure in white – appears in a blue robe, sans wings. Caruso, a lifelong Catholic from Norwalk, Connecticut, told OSV News that the change in apparel was his idea.

“A few famous icon paintings done throughout history depicted Gabriel in blue. ‘The Archangel Michael Defeating Satan’ was created in 1635 by Guido Reni, and that was an image I used for inspiration. I felt Gabriel would visually pop in blue – in contrast to some of the chaos around the Virgin Mary.”

In another visual motif, as a youth, Mary finds herself attracted to, and surrounded by, butterflies. They represent the new life conferred in baptism.

The Protoevangelium presents St. Joseph (Ido Tako) as much older than his bride. But Caruso decided they should both be about 20 when they first meet – in an encounter stage-managed by Gabriel.
In contemporary terms, the story is about Mary growing into her power and accepting her unique destiny, albeit not without occasional fears. She receives much encouragement along the way, especially from the prophetess Anna (Susan Brown) who becomes her mentor.

At one point, Anna – a familiar figure from Luke’s account of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple – exclaims to Mary, “You are more powerful than words, child!” And Mary herself resolutely tells high priest Bava Ben Buta (Mehmet Kurtulus), “I am here to fulfill a promise.”

“I always felt that Mary’s story was a little underappreciated,” Caruso said. “The discovery for me was (that) in all these movies, no one ever put the emphasis on (Mary saying) ‘Let it be me!’”

He added, “Like Mary, we all have choices to make.”

After filming wrapped in Morocco, Caruso unexpectedly found himself caught up in an avalanche of toxic online sniping about the casting of the two principals. Tako and Cohen are both Israeli.

The leading topic of criticism on social media, where hate festers worldwide, was the charge that Joseph and Mary were actually Palestinians. That’s an absurd canard, the staying power of which can be attributed to centuries of anti-Semitism. It’s been given new life, however, by anguish over Israel’s war in Gaza.

The idea, nonetheless, is easily disproved. Two of the Gospels trace Jesus’ genealogy back to Abraham, through Isaac and Jacob, while the Gospel of Luke adds that Joseph was “of the house of David.”
The same evangelist tells us, moreover, that both Jesus’ parents “went to Jerusalem for the feast of Passover” every year. In fact, no reliable ancient document so much as insinuates that Joseph and Mary were not Jews.

“You can’t control what other people think or believe,” Caruso told OSV News with some resignation.
His intent was authenticity. He cast Cohen, a 22-year-old former model, “because we thought it was important that Noa was from the region (in central Israel) where Mary was born.”

The online noise became so ugly, Cohen’s management would not make her available for what was expected to be a joint interview with Caruso.

Instead, OSV News had to settle for an email: “I decided to take on the role of Mary because it offered a unique opportunity to explore a side of her that hadn’t been fully portrayed before,” Cohen wrote.
“This film,” she continued, “allows audiences to see Mary not just as a vessel for something greater but as a young woman navigating the complexities of life, balancing her divine role with her humanity.”

The role, Cohen added, “was an incredible experience that felt both humbling and a tremendous responsibility. Embodying her vulnerability and resilience as she faced both divine and very human challenges was deeply fulfilling. It was a special opportunity to bring her story to life in a way that will hopefully allow the audience to connect with her on a deeply human level.”

Two-time Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins plays King Herod, who, in the Gospels, seeks to kill the new Messiah. But Caruso thinks Herod was a victim of his own bitterness. “Yes, he’s looking for the Messiah. Maybe not necessarily to destroy him, but because he has a hole in his life.”

Making Mary relatable, Caruso says, was his principal goal. “Wouldn’t it be great,” he thought, “for a younger person to see this movie and think, ‘These are people I understand?’ They can be role models for a younger generation. (Young women might think) ‘Mary could be my friend. Someone I could reach out to; someone I could talk to.’”

(Kurt Jensen is a guest reviewer for OSV News.)

Movie review: “Wicked”

Posted on by

By John Mulderig
NEW YORK (OSV News) – Considered purely from an artistic viewpoint, the lavish musical “Wicked” (Universal) represents a confluence of the best both Broadway and Hollywood have to offer. On a moral level, however, the film’s content, while largely free of overtly problematic material, nonetheless demands careful assessment.

Directed by Jon M. Chu, the opulent production has a long lineage. It provides an origin story for the Wicked Witch of the West (Cynthia Erivo) – here dubbed Elphaba – who features in L. Frank Baum’s 1900 children’s book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” its classic 1939 film adaptation and the 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire on which the show was based.

Born with green skin, which those around her find repellent, Elphaba grows up an unloved daughter and social outcast. But a turning point comes when Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), a revered professor of sorcery, discovers Elphaba’s magical powers and insists on enrolling her in the university her wheelchair-bound sister Nessarose (Marissa Bode) is attending.

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande star in the movie “Wicked.” The OSV News classification is A-II – adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG – parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (OSV News photo/Universal)

There Elphaba meets – and initially clashes with – her unwillingly assigned roommate, Galinda Upland (Ariana Grande), the future Good Witch of the North. Though the two eventually become best friends, their bond is repeatedly tested.

First, both Elphaba and Galinda fall for their dashing and fun-loving fellow student, Prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey). While Fiyero becomes Galinda’s boyfriend, plot developments reveal that he may have more in common with Elphaba, who masks her attraction to him by an outward attitude of disdain for his apparent frivolousness.
A further strain on the pals’ relationship is eventually introduced by their encounter with Baum’s title character (Jeff Goldblum). Although Elphaba has long idolized the Wizard, on closer scrutiny, he may not prove to be what she was expecting.

Winnie Holzman’s script for this first installment in a two-part adaptation incorporates the stage tunes and lyrics of Stephen Schwartz. Moviegoers will not be left wondering at the outstanding success of the source material since excellent, hard-driving performances and soaring musical numbers fully sustain the ambitious two-and-a-half-hour plus running time.

Additionally, Holzman’s screenplay evokes sympathy for the pathos of Elphaba’s plight as she finds herself continually misunderstood and shunned while it garners laughs from Galinda’s vain ditziness. Mercurial Galinda turns out to be an ideal foil for the resolutely upright Elphaba since she is capable of maliciousness but is also often goodhearted.

“Wicked’s” basic message about the need to stand up against prejudice and persecution is obviously congruent with Gospel values. But a scene of marital infidelity as well as the subtle but clear gay sensibility by which the proceedings are occasionally tinged both suggest parental caution.

Sharp-eyed viewers will note, for instance, that the uniforms male extras playing college students wear have trousers but also half of what looks like a skirt. And at least one such background figure is in full-blown drag.

More substantially, a secondary character in Galinda’s entourage, Pfannee (Bowen Yang), is shown to be as susceptible to Fiyero’s appeal as any of the ladies. During a brief conversation with the prince, in fact, he does everything but fan himself to cool down.

The moment passes and we’re back on track. But, along with some bloodless but possibly scary scenes of action, these details point to an appropriate audience of older teens and their elders.

The film contains some stylized mayhem, an adulterous incident and momentary same-sex flirting. The OSV News classification is A-II – adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG – parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.