Gulf Pine Catholic

Gulf Pine Catholic • March 6, 2020 17 D iocesan H appenings Pictured, front, l-r, are King John Jennings, and Queen Suzanne Jennings; Holy Spirit Court members Mitchell Rhea, Tracy Drzewiecki, George Meeks, Marie Peterson, Melanie Moe, and Allan Quinn Parishioners of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Vancleave were in the Mardi Gras spirit at their annual Mardi Gras Ball, which was held on Saturday, February 15, in the Parish Hall. The Mardi Gras celebrations all began 10 years ago when parishioner David Griffin made his wish known that a parish ball would be fun, exciting, and a wonderful way to promote parish family togetherness. When he received final approval, all hands were on board. The Knights of Columbus have worked diligently to make the balls a success. It is always well-attended and provides lots of community support and church camaraderie. Since this year marks the 10th anniversary of the ball, all of the past kings and queens were recognized. David passed away unexpectedly on October 10, 2019, just after plans for this year’s ball were announced. His presence was greatly missed as one of the past kings. The King for 2020 was Deacon John Jennings and the Queen was his beautiful wife, Suzanne. They were recognized for their countless contributions to the parish. Suzanne and Johnny have put in many hours with the parish and the youth as CCD director, Catholic youth leader, Spirit Movers, SEARCH weekends, trips to Saltillo and Notre Dame, Bible studies, plus numerous other endeavors. Their contributions to the parish are greatly appreciated. 2020 Krewe of Holy Spirit Mardi Gras St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Picayune The Pearl River County Special Olympics Bowling Tournament was held on February 18 at Park Ten Lanes in Diamondhead. There were 91 athletes participating from 9 schools/adult day services, bowling two games each. Lunch & T-Shirts were provided as well as first-fourth place ribbons (River Banks Engraving) to all. Sponsors included the Knights of Columbus Foundation of MS, K of C #4472, Kiwanis of Picayune, Exchange Club of Picayune, Arc of Pearl River County, and several families of Bridgeway Apts. Pictured is St. Charles Borromeo parishioner Brent Bordelon. St. Clare Parish, Waveland Mike Besida, John Harrison, and Pat Kesler, of St. Clare Catholic Church, pass out samples of their version of chili as part of the Rotary Club’s annual Chili/ Mac and Cheese Cook-off held at the Bay St. Louis community center located near the train depot on Feb. 6. Monies raised by the Rotary Club go toward charitable projects in the local area. Participation in community events like the Chili/ Mac and Cheese Cook-off gives St. Clare a chance to get to know people of the community and for the community to get to know members of St. Clare.