SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Dominican Sister Mary Gianini, OP, died peacefully Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, at St. John’s Hospital in the 66th year of her religious profession. Known for a time as Sister M. Mystica, she was born in Greenville, Mississippi, in 1930, to Philip and Rosa (Aguzzi) Gianini. She joined the Dominicans in 1954 and professed her vows in 1955 at Sacred Heart Convent, Springfield, Illinois.
Sister Mary taught first and second grade children for 36 years, preparing them for the sacraments. In Illinois, she taught at parochial schools in Granite City, Evergreen Park, Odell, Bethalto, Chicago, Springfield and Jacksonville. Sister Mary also taught grades 1-2 in Brawley, California, and served a year each at the religious education centers in Hillsboro and Arcola, Illinois. For a dozen years after leaving classroom teaching, she provided hospitality for visitors to Benincasa Renewal Center, Riverton, and later at Siena Hall in Springfield.
Proud of her Italian heritage and her Mississippi roots, Sister Mary often spent summers assisting in the medical records department at St. Dominic Hospital in Jackson, allowing her time with her sister Ann (Jack) Mellott in Columbus, Mississippi and brother Gus Gianini, Cleveland, Mississippi, both survive her. She is also survived by three nieces; three nephews; and many great-nieces and nephews and cousins.
Sister Mary’s funeral Mass was held on Oct. 11, 2021, at Sacred Heart Convent Chapel with Dominican Father Michael DeTemple, as celebrant. She is buried at Calvary Cemetery.
Mass and graveside services can be viewed at https://springfieldop.org/sister-mary-gianini-op/.
Memorials to honor the memory of Sister Mary may be made to the Dominican Sisters Retirement Fund, 1237 W. Monroe St., Springfield, IL, 62704.
JACKSON – The Lay Carmelites of Jackson participated in their annual retreat at the Visitation Monastery in Mobile, Alabama from Oct. 1-3, 2021. The Mobile Community of Lay Carmelites (aka “Carmelite Seculars”) were the hosts of this silent retreat. They were well-represented along with Carmelite Seculars from the Gulf Coast area and Fort Walton Beach, Florida. They all belong to the Order of Discalced Carmelites Seculars (OCDS).
Father Stephen Sanchez, OCD, a Discalced Carmelite priest led spirited conferences on the theology of St. John of the Cross, with emphasis on his minor works. Particular attention was given to St. John’s practical admonitions that could be used to avoid the snares of the world, the flesh and the devil. Retreatants also attended daily Mass, received the Sacrament of Reconciliation, had Exposition/Benediction, participated daily in the Liturgy of the Hours and gathered for meals. There was also time for silent prayer and reflection.
MOBILE – Carmelite Secular Aspirants and their Formators with Father Stephen Sanchez, OCD after being clothed in ceremonial brown scapulars. Front, left to right: Billy Yost of Mobile, Jill Therese Hisaw of Jackson, and Tom and Deirdre Head of Jackson. Back, left to right: Robert Gareri (formation director, Mobile) and Anita DeRouen (formation director, Jackson). Blocked from view are Gena Middleton and Kathleen Williams both of Fort Walton Beach. (Photo by Dorothy Ashley, OCDS)
Three Jackson members, Jill Hisaw (St. Therese) and Deirdre and Tom Head (Christ the King) completed their Aspirancy period and were clothed in the large ceremonial Brown Scapular of the Order during evening prayer on Saturday of the retreat, thus advancing to a period of deeper commitment and formation. During Mass on Sunday, one Jackson member, Elmina Johnson, OCDS (Holy Ghost) made her Definitive Promise to the Superiors of the Order of the Teresian Carmel and the local community. Her Promise was entrusted to the Virgin Mary, Mother and Queen of Carmel.
Discalced Carmelite Seculars are members of the Carmelite family of the 16th-century reform of St. Teresa of Avila. These followers are present in the modern world as friars, enclosed nuns and seculars. These lay, third order, seculars come from all walks of life, from every level of education and from every type of work. They are Catholic lay men and women over the age of 18 (married or unmarried) or they can be ordained diocesan priests or deacons. They gather in canonically erected communities monthly for study, prayer, formation and community bonding under the guidance and leadership of the Order.
The local Jackson community, St. Joseph and St. Therese of Lisieux Discalced Carmelite Seculars was founded by Father Josiah Chatham in 1952. It became dormant in 1969 but was revived in 1997 and has met continuously ever since. They have a fraternal and supportive relationship with the Discalced Carmelite nuns of Jackson and often participate together in praying Novenas particularly leading up to the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
The two groups support each other in prayer and celebrate major Carmelite Feast Days together. The three Branches of Carmel, priests, nuns and seculars, are of the same Order with the same Holy Mother Foundress, St. Teresa of Avila. The monthly meetings for the remainder of the year will be held on Saturday, Nov. 13 and Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021, at St. Jude Parish Hall in Pearl at 10:15 a.m. The Jackson community has 20 members from various parishes throughout the diocese including one diocesan priest and one member who lives outside of our diocese.
Those who may be interested in learning more about the vocation of an OCDS are welcome to visit the monthly meetings as part of their discernment. For more information, please contact Dorothy Ashley, OCDS, President at (601) 259-0885 or carmelite57@yahoo.com.
RIPLEY – On Sunday, Oct. 10, at a 1:30 in the afternoon bilingual Mass, Sister Carol Ann Prenger, School Sister of Notre Dame, celebrated 50 years of vowed life with the parish community where she serves as Lay Ecclesial Minister in Ripley, Mississippi. Parishioners from the St. Matthew Parish community had prepared for the liturgy with special music and decorations.
Sister Jane Wand, who lives in community with Carol Ann, as well as Sisters, Roseanne Mock from Ellington, Missouri, and Kathryn Frank and Sandra Helton from Montgomery, Alabama joined in celebration.
Father Jesuraj Xavier, sacramental minister for the parish was the celebrant, joined by Father Tim Murphy, dean of the northeast deanery.
Father “Raja” had invited Sister Carol Ann to speak to the congregation, sharing a commentary on the Sunday readings and applying them to her own life and to that of School Sisters of Notre Dame.
After Carol Ann spoke, the four other Sisters shared briefly some of their story or meaning of religious life. Then all five Sisters renewed their vows and sung the familiar “Receive me as You have promised, that I may live. Disappoint me not in my hope.”
Following the celebratory Mass of thanksgiving, the congregation was invited to the parish hall to view a display of photos and articles of Carol Ann’s and SSND life and to take any of the SSND vocation resources that were displayed.
The St. Matthew parish community congratulated Sister Carol Ann and shared a delicious potluck meal, conversation and fellowship. Gratitude and praise was given that day for the gift of sharing in the parish of St. Matthew, in Tippah County and the Diocese of Jackson. Mutual support will continue between parishioners and their Lay Ecclesial Minister. The work has not ended for anyone, and the struggles of spirit, service and education will continue.
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT GREENWOOD Locus Benedictus Retreat Center is hosting a Healing Retreat, “Learning How to Thrive,” on Saturday, Nov. 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The presenter is Maria Vadia. Details: for more information, call (662) 299-1232.
PARISH, FAMILY AND SCHOOL EVENTS JACKSON St. Richard, Volunteers are needed for Stewpot lunch and Stewpot pantry. St. Richard Meals-On-Wheels delivers meals from an assigned menu to the Jackson area the second Tuesday of every month. They also send volunteers to Stewpot lunch to serve and Stewpot pantry to help one week per quarter. Details: call Tommy Lamas at the church office (601) 366-2335 or email lamas@saintrichard.com.
MAGEE St. Stephen, Parish Health Ministry members will be selling raffle tickets for a beautiful handmade bench with lap blanket and a lovely handmade quilt. You get two chances for one ticket. These items would make wonderful Christmas gifts. Cost: Tickets are $2 each or 3 for $5. Drawing will be Nov. 21 during their parish Thanksgiving dinner. Details: church office (601) 849 3237.
NATCHEZ Assumption of BVM, Bible Study on Fridays at 8:30 a.m. in Tuite Hall with Roseminette. Everyone is welcome. Details: (601) 442-7250.
YAZOO CITY St. Mary, Garage Sale, Saturday, Nov. 6 at the Parish Hall from 7-11 a.m. Money collected will be used to purchase a refrigerator for the office. Details: (662) 746-1680.
YOUTH BRIEFS JACKSON St. Richard School, Open House, Tuesday, Nov. 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Details: RSVP to tconrad@strichardschool.org.
MERIDIAN St. Patrick School, Save the Date, St. Patrick School Candy Cane 5K Dash, Saturday, Dec. 4 beginning at 8:30 a.m. To guarantee a t-shirt you need to register by Nov. 5. Details: Registration is now open at www.time2run.net.
TRUNK OR TREAT/FALL FESTIVALS BROOKHAVEN St. Francis of Assisi, Trunk or Treat, Wednesday, Oct. 27. Dinner will be from 5:30-7 p.m. Trunk or Treating starts at 5:45 p.m., with prize for best decorated trunk at 6:45 p.m. Details: church office (601) 833-1799.
CLARKSDALE St. Elizabeth, Trunk or Treat and Canned Food Drive, Sunday, Oct. 24, 5-6:30 p.m. Come dressed in your coolest costumes and enjoy a Toy and Cake Walk for the whole family. Details: church office (662) 624-4301.
CLEVELAND Our Lady of Victories, CYO Halloween Carnival, Sunday, Oct. 31 after 5 p.m. Mass. Come enjoy games, food and fellowship, and support our youth. If you would like to donate a bag of candy, please drop it off at the office or when you come to Mass by Thursday, Oct. 28. Details: church office (662) 846-6273.
CLINTON Holy Savior, Trunk or Treat and Halloween Carnival, Wednesday, Oct. 27 from 6-7:30 p.m. open to all parish youth. Details: church office (601) 924-6344.
FLOWOOD St. Paul, Trunk or Treat hosted by St. Paul Knights of Columbus. All are invited to participate. Details: philcranston@cranstonemail.com or the church office (601) 992- 9547.
FOREST St. Michael, All Saints Party, Sunday, Oct. 31 at 5:30 p.m. Dress as your favorite saint and prepare for a trivia quiz. Prizes, food and fun for all. Sign-up sheets for the contests are in the Chapel and the Hall. Details: church office (601) 469-1916.
JACKSON St. Richard, Halloween Carnival, Sunday, Oct. 31 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the gym sponsored by Faith Life, St. Richard’s Senior High Youth Group. Come and enjoy a morning of carnival games, such as zombie bowling, ghost darts, pin the skull on the skeleton, monster bean bag toss and more. There will also be a haunted house. All St. Richard children ages 1 year old to fourth grade are welcome. Details: church office (601) 366-2335.
MADISON St. Anthony School, Fall Fest and Open House, Sunday, Oct. 31 from 1-4 p.m. with tours at 2 p.m. Children are welcome to wear their Halloween costumes. There will be children’s games, hayrides and lots of fun to be had! Details: To RSVP or for more information, please call Michele Warnock at (601) 607-7054 or email mwarnock@stanthonyeagles.org.
MADISON St. Joseph Trunk or Treat, St. Joseph School campus, Tuesday, Oct. 26 from 5-6:30 p.m. for kids under 12. Details: school office (601) 898-4800.
NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, Trunk or Treat, Thursday, Oct. 28 from 6-8 p.m. at the parking lot across South Union from the church. Open to families and children through 4th grade. Come out and experience a screamingly good time. Details: church office (601) 445-5616.
Faith Fest Fall, Save the Date, Saturday, Nov. 13, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Verucchi’s. It is for 7-12 grades followed by Mass at the Cathedral gym. Cost: $20 includes a t-shirt, lunch, snacks and drinks. There will be a large tent outside as well as four tailgate tents around the property. There will also be games and a fire pit. Details: email Carrie Lambert at youth@stmarybasilica.org or the church office (601) 445-5616.
PEARL St. Jude, Halloween Fest hosted by the Young Apostles on Saturday, Oct. 30 from 3-5:30 p.m. Details: contact Laura at lmbowden11@gmail.com if you would like to donate candy, prizes, or a game, or if you would like to run a table.
SOUTHAVEN Christ the King, Pumpkin Patch through Sunday, Oct. 31, open from 12-7 p.m. Details: (662) 342-1073
TUPELO St. James, Trunk or Treat, Sunday, Oct. 31 at Shelton Hall on the lower level parking lot. Hot dogs and hamburgers will be served 5-6:30 p.m. Trunk or Treat is 6:30-7:30 p.m. Candy donations are needed. Wear your favorite costume and enjoy a night of fun and fellowship. Details: to host a spot, text Erin Bristow at (662) 610-1151 by Oct. 27.
VICKSBURG Spooky Sprint, Saturday, Oct. 30 downtown. 5k run/walk, 1 mile fun run and carnival. Details: register https://bit.ly/spookysprint2021.
YAZOO CITY St. Mary, Harvest Carnival Sunday, Oct. 31 immediately following 10:30 a.m. Mass at the Parish Hall. There will be a sign-up sheet in the back of the church for volunteers to assist with games and trunk-or-treat. Candy donations are greatly appreciated. Details: If you would like to help in any way, please contact Babs McMaster at (662) 571-3119.
By Berta Mexidor JACKSON – Two mothers’ experiences and teachings were at the center of the National Migration Week celebration at St. James Tupelo, on Thursday, Sept. 24. Mrs. Oyafemi taught her little child that when someone asks where you are from? you must answer: ”I am a citizen from heaven.” And 6,375 miles and 25 years away from Nigeria, a mother in Mexico, escaped to the United States from an abusive husband in Mexico with a little girl, hidden from her, for years, her true citizenship situation.
With the moderation of Fran Lavelle, diocesan director of Faith Formation, a panel of different speakers exposed their interactions and experiences as migrants and refugees that included Father Clem Oya, coordinator of Intercultural Ministry, child of the Nigerian mother who made him fall in love with the teachings of the Bible; and Guadalupe Meyer, the little girl who came to the US without a visa, standing today as a DACA recipient, only because her mother’s intuition, and in her desperation, told her “you are a citizen of heaven.”
For at least fifty years the Catholic Church in the United States has been celebrating and recognizing the increasing population of immigrants, victims and survivors of human trafficking and refugees, not only in the country but worldwide to educate Catholics about the reality of people forced by circumstances to abandon their natal countries to start a new life in a new land and culture.
TUPELO – DACA is a program that aids children and young adults to establish legal status in the only country they know – the US. (Left to right) Guadalupe Meyer, a Ph.D. candidate at Tulane University and DACA holder, answered questions about her family ordeal, as Fran Lavalle, director of Faith Formation Department for the diocese, moderated the questions from the audience at St. James parish on Sept. 24 for National Migration Week. (Photos by Berta Mexidor)
The celebration of National Migration Week (NMW) was the venue for community lectures, parish encounters and national speakers to highlight the struggles and accomplishments of migrants and refugees; as well as, the Catholic programs assisting them during their transition and establishment in the different communities receiving them. This year, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) celebrated NMW from Sept. 20-26 to coincide with the Vatican’s World Day of Migrants and Refugees, celebrated each year on the last Sunday of September. This year’s theme for NMW was “Towards an Ever Wider ‘We.’”
In his letter to announce this year’s theme, Pope Francis emphasizes that “this approach calls on us to ensure that “after all this, we no longer think in terms of ‘them’ and ‘those,’ but only of ‘us.’ (Fratelli Tutti, no. 35) And this universal ‘we’ must become a reality, first of all within the church that is called to cultivate communion in diversity.”
During NMW, every year, each diocese creates a different activity that includes prayers, education and actions of solidarity toward immigrants and refugees. The Diocese of Jackson is among them, celebrating the diversity that migrants bring to the Catholic Church in a state where Catholics are a minority religious group; and where Catholic Charities assists not only to Catholics but also, the state’s underserved population, including migrants and refugees, without looking to their religious affiliation.
TUPELO – A light of hope in the north For the high percentage of Hispanics settled in deanery five, the passionate leadership of Father Tim Murphy at St. James and Danna Johnson, of Catholic Charities in the area, makes a huge difference. For a number of years, they have hosted national and local speakers, and exponents of the hard work of migrants, while promoting a welcoming culture to the foreigners.
This year at St. James, the audience of mainly English speakers had the opportunity to exchange conversation with Father Clem; Guadalupe Meyer, activist for migrants; Josh Blackmon, a young businessman; and attorney Brad Prewitt, vice president of Circadence, a cybersecurity company.
Before the session, Father Tim directed a reading of the prayer to Sister Thea Bowman, Servant of God, and promoter of intercultural understanding, who “in times of intolerance and ignorance, I bring wisdom, conscience, unity and charity.”
At the end of the meeting, two folk dances highlighted Hispanic heritage, which the parish celebrated on Sunday, Sept. 19.
VARDAMAN – (Above right) Rev. Nida Pittman prayed for a small but ecumenical audience, after a conversation with Father Clem Oya, diocesan director of Intercultural Ministry and Guadalupe Meyer, a DACA dreamer. (Above left to right) Peggy Skinner, Sheila Freely, Glenda Donogh, and Rev. Annie Douglas, along with Margaret Beckely (not pictured) welcomed the visitors into the Catholic Charities community center on Sept. 25 for National Migration Week.
VARDAMAN – Sweet potatoes, from their field to your heart Proud of their land, traditions and hospitality, religious and community leaders gathered on the morning of Sept. 25 at the Vardaman Catholic Charities Center for NMW.
Father Clem spoke to the audience in Vardaman about the Pope’s ideas and declarations about migrants and refugees, and about the struggles of children brought to the country by their parents, without documents. The dreamers, represented by Guadalupe Meyer, explained the dilemma of young people like herself who feel that the US is their own country because they have never known another one, and how it feels like a national-foreigner contradiction. The board of Catholic Charities Vardaman with the leadership of Danna Johnson has worked to highlight the silent and tenacious work of the migrants, who are responsible for putting sweet potatoes on the table of Mississippians and those nationwide.
Vardaman is attracting migrants in search of jobs and survival. The locals see migrants come and go and make an effort to understand the phenomenon and how some foreigners feel. They both share the same love for the fields and people in Vardaman.
Migration Week – Partnership and Education The Catholic Charities’ Migrant Support Center in Mississippi has been the main coordinator each year during NMW, offering conferences, free legal clinics, and a space for prayer and understanding. The Support Center, as well as priests, sisters, brothers, parish staff, and community leaders in the diocese work with the mission to receive Jesus in the face of every foreigner they assist in the new land of hope and freedom.
For more information about the USCCB migrants’ programs, visit https://justiceforimmigrants.org/take-action/national-migration-week/.
(Berta Mexidor, originally of Cuba, is a photo-reporter contributor of Mississippi Catholic, and editor of Mississippi Católico for the Diocese of Jackson.)
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT PEARL St. Jude, MARIAN SERVANTS® of Jesus the Lamb of God, Preparation for Consecration to Jesus through Mary by St. Louis De Montfort. Tuesdays from 1-3 pm in the parish hall. Oct 26 through Dec 7 with consecration on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Join us as we strengthen our love for Jesus Christ with the aid of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Details: For information contact Maureen Roberts at 601-278-0423 or msofjlog@gmail.com.
PARISH, FAMILY AND SCHOOL EVENTS CLARKSDALE Catholic Community of St. Elizabeth, Adult faith formation program “The Bible and the Sacraments, Journey Through Scripture,” Wednesdays at 6:10 p.m. in McKenna Hall. Less than eight videos remain of the 11 video series of this amazing set composed of a 30-minute video and 30-minute group discussion based upon the work of renowned Catholic theologian Dr. Scott Hahn. Details: church office (662) 624-4301.
CORINTH St. James the Less, Fall Hot Dog Roast, Sunday, Oct. 17 after 10:30 a.m. Mass. They will have chili dogs, slaw dogs, chips, drinks and dessert. Donations are appreciated. Details: church office (662) 331-5184.
GREENVILLE St. Joseph, Save the date, Parish Fair update: spaghetti dinner is planned for Tuesday, Nov. 16. They are mailing $1 raffle and spaghetti tickets. They are also selling $100 tickets in the church and school office. Details: church office (662) 335-5251.
JACKSON St. Richard School, CardinalFest 2021, Sunday, Oct. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. They will feature live music, food, games and fun for all. There will also be activities and games for toddlers and up. Event wristbands are $15 each and include a meal (pulled pork sandwich for adults or hot dog meals for children), unlimited games, prizes, inflatables, arts and crafts, live music and one cake walk ticket. They will be selling grab and go plates of jambalaya in Foley Hall during the event. You can preorder your event wristbands or to-go plates. Details: contact Emily Blain at (601) 497-2558 or emilyrblain@gmail.com or go to their website www.strichardschool.org.
Bereavement Support Group: Winnie and Job, Thursday, Oct. 14 at 6:30 p.m. in Foley Hall. Gerry Gray-Lewis, bereaved mother and friend to this group will facilitate sharing from the Old Testament from the Book of Job, date BC; and a “New Testament” story by author E.P. Dutton, date 1926, titled “Winnie the Pooh.” What could they possibly have in common? Come and see, share if you are so led, and let us each offer kindness and love to one another in our time of loss. This group is for those who are hurting from losing a loved one or for those who are trying to comfort and understand the grief of a family member or friend. Please wear a mask and be conscious of Covid safety. Drinks and packaged snacks will be available. Details: Suzie Cranston (601) 573-3347 or Nancy McGhee at (601) 942-2078 or email ncmcghee@bellsouth.net.
OLIVE BRANCH Queen of Peace, Women’s Club Bonfire, Tuesday, Oct. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the Father John Young Center. Father Ardi will be bringing his guitar to sing. Bring a folding chair and join in for a fall night. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
SOUTHAVEN Christ the King, Trivia Night, Friday, Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Cost: $15/person or $25/couple – limit ten to a table. Door prizes and trophies for the winning table and the best decorated table. Decorating and costumes are optional but add some fun to the night. Doors open at 3 p.m. for those wishing to decorate or socialize. Details: For more information or to reserve a spot, call or text Karin Ingram at (901) 289-0311. Pumpkin Patch, the Knights of Columbus will be selling pumpkins again this year at the entrance of the church through Sunday, Oct. 31 from 12-7 p.m. The funds raised from this event go directly to the Knights of Columbus to support programs in their parishes. Details: church office (662) 342-1073.
STARKVILLE St. Joseph, Grief Support Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 5:30 pm in the Parish Center lounge. Details: church office (662) 323-2257.
Adult Education discussing the book “Theology for Beginners” meets Sundays at 10:15 a.m. in the parish hall. Details: (662) 323-2257.
YOUTH BRIEFS MADISON St. Francis of Assisi, Senior Bible Break meets each Wednesday at 6 p.m. at M7 Coffee House (111 North Wheatley Street, Ridgeland). Bring a Bible and a friend! Details: church office (601) 856-5556.
NATCHEZ St. Mary Basilica, “BE STILL,” Wednesday, Oct. 13 from 6-7 p.m. in the Youth Wing. There will be burritos, tacos and waters. Join us for a faith hour that includes dinner and relaxation. They watch an 3-8-minute video (sometimes shorter) and then engage in discussion. Details: church office (601) 445-5616.
Trunk or Treat, Friday, Oct. 29 from 6-8 p.m. for all little ghouls and goblins at Union Street parking lot. Details: (601) 445-5616.
OLIVE BRANCH Queen of Peace, Youth dinners will be on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Details: church office (662) 895-5007.
VICKSBURG – A Raceland, La., Catholic School will be the beneficiary of fundraising efforts by Vicksburg Catholic School.
The school, with the assistance of the senior class’s September of Service Committee, is collecting money to repair the playground at St. Mary’s Nativity in Raceland. The goal is $5,000 for the project.
St. Mary’s is in Lafourche Parish in South Louisiana. It is one of 11 schools in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, which covers Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes, part of St. Mary Parish including Morgan City, and part of Jefferson Parish that includes Grand Isle.
St. Mary’s Nativity has grades pre-K3 to eighth grade and “is a little school; a small school,” said Kimberly Cyr Domangue, a St. Aloysius alumnus who lives in Raceland and whose two children attend St. Mary’s. When Hurricane Ida hit South Louisiana, St. Mary’s was one of the victims.
“There was damage to the back part of the school,” Domangue said. “One of the classrooms had water damage and some broken windows.”
The school’s metal awnings and the metal roof were crumpled and will have to be replaced, she said. Two oak trees fell on the playground, she said, adding that the school is connected to the church and the church had significant damage.
Soon after the storm, she said, Joan Thornton, a theology teacher at St. Aloysius and senior class sponsor called looking for a project for the seniors’ September of Service committee.
VICKSBURG – Members of the St. Aloysius senior class September of Service committee discuss fundraising proposals for a project. The committee is assisting Vicksburg Catholic School raise $5,000 for new playground equipment for St. Mary’s Nativity Catholic School in Raceland, Louisiana. The school was damaged in Hurricane Ida. (Photo by John Surratt/The Vicksburg Post)
“She knew I lived in Raceland and called to check to see if there were any schools damaged in the area from the storm,” Domangue said. “I put her in touch with Ms. (Marissa) Bagala, St. Mary’s principal.”
When she called Bagala, Thornton said, “I asked her what they needed, and she said the storm destroyed the school’s playground and she asked us to do that.”
The fundraising began when money for St. Mary’s was collected at the St. Aloysius-Brookhaven Academy football game. Thornton said money will also be collected during the St. Aloysius-Cathedral football game.
“We will have a blue jean day … in which the elementary school will participate, and other suggestions have been made for fundraising,” she said. “Hopefully between blue jean day and collecting we will get the $5,000 we need.” Domangue has also made an effort to help raise funds.
“I reached out to our alumni group on Facebook about the drive to get the word out. We may not need it all for the playground itself; there’s a few other Catholic schools and churches that received significant damage,” she said. She said conditions in her area remain serious south of Raceland and many people in the town remain without power and water.
“Half of Raceland is without power and some places without water, too; it’s places where the trees just ripped up the lines; they’re having to replace the waterlines. There is still a significant amount of people without power down here.”
Domangue said the water damage from the storm was from wind-driven rain.
“We did not get any water (storm surge) down here; it was from the hurricane (wind) damaging the roof and the rain coming in,” she said.
She said some unofficial wind readings for the area put gusts at 180 mph.
“This is a storm of the magnitude we have not seen before here, and it has devastated a large part of our several parishes,” said Suzanne Troxclair, Diocesan superintendent of schools. “With the challenges we have had with the COVID epidemic, we know our children’s normal at school has been very different since March of 2020, and this is a challenge on top of what we are already dealing with in our schools in terms of an outbreak of COVID.
“All of our schools have been impacted and we are just blessed for St. Aloysius to be able to support St. Mary’s Nativity in this way. The children, the faculty and the staff and the principal and the diocese are incredibly grateful for their support.”
(John Surratt is a graduate of Louisiana State University. He has worked as an editor, reporter and photographer for newspapers in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. He and his wife attend St. Paul Catholic Church in Vicksburg.)
Las experiencias y enseñanzas de dos madres estuvieron en el centro de la celebración de la Semana Nacional de la Migración en St James Tupelo, el jueves 24 de septiembre. La Sra. Oyafemi le enseñó a su pequeño niño que cuando alguien le pregunta ¿de dónde eres? debes responder “Soy un ciudadano del cielo”; A 6.375 millas y 25 años de Nigeria, una madre en México, escapó a los Estados Unidos de un esposo abusivo en México con una niña, ocultándole, durante años, la verdadera situación de ciudadanía de ella.
Con la moderación de Fran Lavelle, director diocesano de la Oficina de Formación en la Fe, un panel de diferentes ponentes expuso su interacción, experiencias a la exposición de migrantes y refugiados que incluyó al Padre Clem Oya, director del Ministerio Intercultural, hijo de la madre nigeriana que lo hizo. enamorarse de las enseñanzas de la Biblia, y Guadalupe Meyer, la niña que vino sin visa, hoy beneficiaria de DACA, solo porque la intuición de su madre, en su desesperación, le dijo “eres ciudadana del cielo”.
Durante al menos cincuenta años, la Iglesia Católica en los Estados Unidos ha estado celebrando y reconociendo la creciente población de inmigrantes, víctimas y sobrevivientes de la trata de personas y refugiados, no solo en el país sino en todo el mundo.
El Vaticano también ha aumentado su campaña para educar a los católicos sobre la realidad de las personas obligadas por las circunstancias a abandonar sus países natales para comenzar una nueva vida en una nueva tierra y cultura.
La celebración de la Semana Nacional de la Migración (NMW) ha sido el lugar para conferencias comunitarias, encuentros parroquiales y oradores nacionales que destacan las luchas y logros de los migrantes y refugiados, así como los programas católicos que los ayudaron durante la transición y el establecimiento en el diferentes comunidades que los recibieron.
Este año, la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos (USCCB) celebró la semana del 20 al 26 de septiembre para que coincidiera con el Día Mundial del Migrante y Refugiado del Vaticano, el Día Mundial del Migrante, que se celebra cada año el último domingo de septiembre. Cada NMW tiene un tema, este año fue “Hacia un” NOSOTROS “cada vez más amplio”. En su carta para anunciar el tema de este año, el Papa Francisco enfatiza que “este enfoque nos llama a asegurarnos de que“ después de todo esto, ya no pensemos en términos de ‘ellos’ y ‘esos’, sino solo de ‘nosotros’. ( Fratelli Tutti, n. 35). Y este NOSOTROS universal debe hacerse realidad, ante todo dentro de la Iglesia que está llamada a cultivar la comunión en la diversidad “.
Durante el NMW, cada año, la Diócesis crea una actividad diferente que incluye oraciones, educación y acciones de solidaridad hacia inmigrantes y refugiados. La Diócesis de Jackson se encuentra entre ellos, celebrando la diversidad que los migrantes aportan a la Iglesia Católica a un estado donde los católicos son un grupo religioso minoritario, y donde Catholic Charities llama la atención no solo a la población católica sino también a la población desatendida, incluidos los migrantes y refugiados, sin mirar a su afiliación religiosa.
TUPELO – Parroquianos de todas las edades y orígenes se reunieron para intercambiar en persona con varios oradores en St James Tupelo el jueves 24 de septiembre a instancia de los coordinadores de la Semana Nacional de la Migración, de la cual Tupelo se ha convertido en la sede diocesana y que ha atraído por ya varios años a personalidades locales y nacionales. (Fotos de Berta Mexidor)
TUPELO. Una luz de esperanza en el norte
Para el alto porcentaje de hispanos que asintieron en el Decanato cinco, el liderazgo apasionado del Padre Murphy en St. James y Danna Johnson, para Catholic Charities en el área, St. James es el centro durante años del NMW en la diócesis. Han acogido a varios visitantes, conferencistas nacionales y locales, exponentes del arduo trabajo con los migrantes promoviendo una cultura cálida de acogida a los extranjeros.
Este año, como de costumbre, por invitación del Padre Tim Murphy, el ministerio hispano de la parroquia, representado por Raquel Thompson y Danna Johnson, Coordinadora de Caridades Católicas de Vardaman, y Coordinador del Ministerio Hispano de San Cristóbal Pontotoc, la Semana Nacional de la Migración se celebró nuevamente en St James. . En esta ocasión el público, principalmente angloparlantes, tuvo la oportunidad de intercambiar con el padre Clem Oya, Guadalupe Meyer, activista por los migrantes, y Josh Blackmon, joven empresario, y el abogado Brad Prewitt, vicepresidente de Circadence, una empresa de ciberseguridad, ambos reconocidos. en la comunidad de Tupelo y miembros activos de la parroquia de St James.
Antes de la sesión, el padre Tim dirigió la lectura de la oración a la hermana Thea Bowman, sierva de Dios y promotora del entendimiento intercultural, quien “en tiempos de intolerancia e ignorancia, traigo sabiduría, conciencia, unidad y caridad”. Al finalizar el encuentro, dos presentaciones de danzas folclóricas destacaron la Herencia Hispana, que la parroquia celebró el pasado domingo 19 de septiembre.
TUPELO – Cada comunidad está basada en fuertes lideres. Antes de la reunión comunitaria para hablar sobre migración, (i-d) Raquel Thompson, quien lleva el ministerio hispano de la parroquia de St. James Tupelo conversa con Danna Johnson, coordinadora de Caridades Católicas de Vardaman, y coordinadora del Ministerio Hispano de San Cristóbal Pontotoc, líderes ambas de la comunidad Hispana del Decanato cinco de la diócesis. Ellas y muchos más son liderados a su vez por el Padre Tim Murphy, quien exulta contagiosa pasión de pastor por cada oveja de su comunidad, extendida en el norte del estado.
VARDAMAN. Batatas de su campo a tu corazón
Orgullosos de su tierra, tradiciones y hospitalidad, los líderes religiosos y comunitarios se reunieron la mañana del 25 de septiembre en el Vardaman Catholic Charities Center para conversar con el padre Clem Oya, director de la oficina del Ministerio Intercultural de la Diócesis.
La audiencia conoció las ideas y declaraciones del Papa sobre los migrantes y refugiados, bien explicadas por el padre Clem Oya, y sobre las luchas de los niños traídos al país por sus padres, sin documentos. Los soñadores, representados por Guadalupe Meyer, quien explicó el dilema de los jóvenes como ella siente que Estados Unidos es su propio país porque no conocen otro, y cómo se siente una contradicción nacional-extranjero.
A última hora de la tarde el padre, Clem Oya y Lupe se reunieron con un grupo de mujeres que se reúne regularmente para crear actividades que las unan y en las que puedan ayudarse mutuamente.
La Junta de Caridades Católicas con el liderazgo de Danna Johnson ha puesto a Vardaman en el punto culminante diocesano y nacional con el trabajo silencioso y tenaz con los migrantes, encargados de poner las batatas en la mesa de los misisipianos y a nivel nacional. Vardaman está atrayendo a inmigrantes en busca de trabajo y superveniencia. Los lugareños ven a los migrantes ir y venir y también están tratando de comprender el fenómeno y cómo algunos extranjeros sienten y comparten el mismo amor por los campos y la gente en Vardaman.
Semana de la migración en Mississippi
El Centro de Apoyo al Migrante de Catholic Charities en Mississippi ha sido el coordinador principal todos los años durante esta semana, ofreciendo conferencias, una clínica legal gratuita y un espacio para la oración y la comprensión.
En ediciones pasadas, católicos y comunidades habían recibido los mensajes de líderes religiosos y comunitarios profundamente involucrados con la asistencia al migrante, en enero de 2020 fue la Hermana Pimentel, directora ejecutiva de Caridades Católicas del Río Grande en Brownsville, Texas, quien fundó el Centro de Respiro Humanitario. en McAllen, en enero de 2019, los oradores invitados incluyeron a Carlos Horacio Toro, profesor asistente del Southeastern Pastoral Institute (SEPI), los sacerdotes jesuitas Padre Sean Carroll de la Kino Border Initiative y el Padre Fred Kammer del Instituto Jesuita de Investigaciones Sociales de la Universidad de Loyola en Nueva Orleans, en enero de 2018 la comunidad recibió al Dr. Hossfman Ospino, profesor asociado de ministerio hispano y educación religiosa en Boston College.
En enero de 2017, el evento fue organizado por Amelia McGowan, que ahora trabaja en el Centro de Justicia de Mississippi, quien en ese momento era la directora del programa y una abogada de inmigración.
El Centro de Apoyo al Migrante de Catholic Charities, entre sacerdotes, monjas, personal de parroquias y líderes comunitarios de toda la diócesis, trabajan en la misión de recibir a Jesús en los rostros de cada extranjero que ayudan a establecerse en la nueva tierra de esperanza y libertad.
NATCHEZ – Coinciding with the 16th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Ida made landfall on Aug. 29 impacting thousands of people from Louisiana to New York. Just after landfall Carrie Lambert, youth director at St. Mary Basilica Natchez and JoAnn Waycaster, religion teacher at Cathedral High School were already talking about relief efforts for the victims of the hurricane.
That night, Lambert prayed hard, as she lost contact with her daughter living in Luling, Louisiana during the storm, as power outages affected millions living in or near the New Orleans area. She also prayed hard about how she could help with relief efforts.
“The next day I woke up with many ideas of what we could do. I believe the Lord provided me with the ideas. I don’t think I could have thought of some of these things on my own,” said Lambert.
So was born the “Takin’ a Bite Outta Ida” campaign, a concerted relief effort of storm victims by St. Mary Basilica, Cathedral School and the Knights of Columbus Bishop R. O. Gerow Council 1034. The campaign is aimed to help river parishes in the Archdiocese of New Orleans, areas in the Diocese of Baton Rouge. One of those special parishes is St. Anthony of Padua in Luling, just outside of New Orleans and two and a half hours from Natchez.
LULING, La. – Carrie Lambert of St. Mary Basilica Natchez has ties to the Luling community and St. Anthony of Padua parish. She helped organized the “Takin’ a Bite Outta Ida” campaign at the parish. (Photo by Carrie Lambert)
In addition to Lambert’s daughter being a member of the parish, Garry Boudreaux, grand knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 2409 at the parish, is the nephew of another parishioner at St. Mary Basilica.
St. Anthony in Luling has an extensive relief center set up at the parish, even though almost $200,000 in water damage was incurred at the parish. Even before power was fully restored to the area, the parish was serving hot meals, including jambalaya, sausage sandwiches and other Louisiana staples to those in need. On the parishes Facebook page, Boudreaux welcomes all affected in the area to “come get what you need.”
St. Mary Basilica Natchez is supporting the community with food and supplies, even including tarps, shovels, gas cans and more. And Lambert and the team at the parish are traveling down every 2-3 weeks with more supplies, such as cleaning supplies, food, personal hygiene items, first aid items and other necessities like mosquito repellent and pet supplies.
The Confirmation class at St. Mary has even jumped in to help by assisting with sorting and packing supplies and traveling down with the team.
Father Anthony Odiong of St. Anthony Luling wrote, “On behalf of St. Anthony of Padua, I would like to thank each one of you for all of your prayers, manpower and donations to our church and Luling Community. We are planning to continue to provide meals and much needed supplies furnished by your donations.”
“May God continue to bless us all through our random acts of kindness amid these challenging times. We will keep you in our prayers.”
(If you would like to help with relief efforts, items may be dropped off at the St. Mary Family Life Center (613 Main Street in Natchez) Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.; Fridays 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. If you would like to volunteer or have questions, contact Carrie Golden Lambert at (601) 920-9538.
Additionally, special collections around the diocese are taking place to help in many affected areas as well. Please check with your local parish for details.)
