Gulf Pine Catholic

4 Gulf Pine Catholic • December 27, 2019 Bishop Kihneman ’ s Christmas Message My Brothers and Sisters in Christ, The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone. (Isaiah 9:1) The year 2019 has been a difficult one for all of us in the Diocese of Biloxi, as we said goodbye to two of our beloved former shepherds, Bishop Joseph Lawson Howze and Bishop Roger Morin. While we are sad they are no longer with us, we thank God for their ministry and friendship. As we celebrate the Christmas season, we feel their losses but in a special way we also rejoice in knowing that both bishops have a special place of honor at Jesus’s birthday celebration in heaven. I am also remembering Bishop Howze, Bishop Morin and all of our deceased family and loved ones, including our deceased priests, deacons, religious brothers and sisters, in my prayers and Masses, especially at Christmas. Bishop Morin loved to break out into song, singing “This Little Light of Mine, I’m Going to Let it Shine.” In my 2018 Christmas message, I recounted how the Magi were led by the light of a star to the Christ Child, and I encouraged you to be stars who, through the example of your lives, lead others to Jesus (i.e. Forming Intentional Disciples). Bishop Howze’s light shined for 95 years, and Bishop Morin’s shined for 78 years. May perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. May their example inspire us to be a source of light for others, so that when people look at us, they will see the face of Christ. May the joy of Christ live in your hearts now and forever. God Bless You, ? Louis F. Kihneman III Bishop of Biloxi