Gulf Pine CATHOLIC www.gulfpinecatholic.com VOLUME 43 / NUMBER 12 March 13, 2026 Archbishop Hughes urges priests to embrace evangelical virtues during Lenten talk in Wiggins BY TERRY DICKSON WIGGINS -- Priests of the Diocese of Biloxi gathered Thursday, March 5, at St. Francis Xavier Church for a Lenten day of reflection led by 93-year-old Archbishop Alfred C. Hughes, who urged clergy to renew their spiritual lives by embracing the evangelical virtues of simplicity, chastity and obedience. Archbishop Hughes, archbishop emeritus of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, delivered the first of three presentations to priests of the Diocese of Biloxi during the gathering. The day focused on spiritual well-being following a presentation earlier in the morning by a health care team addressing physical health. “Let’s focus now on spiritual well-being as we move through together,” Archbishop Hughes said as he opened his remarks. He began with a reading from the First Letter of John warning believers not to “love the world or the things in the world,” noting the passage’s references to “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life.” Those forces, Archbishop Hughes said, remain powerful temptations not only for society at large but also for clergy. Archbishop Hughes praised the diocesan emphasis on forming missionary disciples, a pastoral priority promoted by Bishop Louis F. Kihneman III since he became bishop of Biloxi in 2016 “I know that Bishop Kihneman from the very beginning of his service in your midst has been working with you … toward forming missionary disciples of the Lord,” Archbishop Hughes said. “I rejoice that this has been such a central focus of your life and ministry.” The archbishop framed his reflection around the witness of Francis of Assisi, whose life he said demonstrates how embracing the evangelical virtues can lead to spiritual renewal. Archbishop Hughes recounted how Francis was born into wealth as the son of a successful merchant but lived a carefree life marked by parties, romantic ideals and dreams of military glory. During a conflict between Assisi and neighboring Perugia, Francis was captured and imprisoned, an experience that left him seriously ill and spiritually desolate. In that moment of crisis, Archbishop Hughes said, Francis began turning to Scripture. After his release, the future saint encountered a leper on the road -- someone who represented everything society feared and avoided. Moved by the Gospel, Francis not only gave the man money but overcame his own revulsion to embrace him. “That was the first tangible step,” Archbishop Hughes said, describing the encounter as the beginning of Francis’ conversion. Later, while praying before a crucifix in the church of San Damiano, Francis heard the words, “Francis, go repair my house, which you see is falling down.” At first, Archbishop Hughes explained, Francis interpreted the message literally and began repairing a deteriorating church building, even selling cloth from his father’s business to fund the work. The story, Archbishop Hughes said, illustrates how radical Gospel living begins with concrete choices. From there, the archbishop turned to the three evangelical virtues that shaped Francis’ life and remain central to priestly identity: simplicity of life, chastity and obedience. “These virtues address the most powerful human drives of our fallen human nature,” Archbishop Hughes said, linking them again to the biblical warnings about the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life. Simplicity of life, he said, counters greed and attachment to material security by encouraging detachment and responsible stewardship. Chastity resists lust by moving a person away from self-gratification and toward authentic self-gift. Obedience confronts pride by redirecting the ego toward God’s will. Archbishop Hughes warned that neglecting those virtues can lead to clericalism, which he described as “narcissism practiced by priests and bishops.” “Narcissism is a way in which original sin inclines us to want the whole world to revolve around us,” Archbishop Hughes said. “That’s appropriate for a child. It’s not appropriate for an adult.” In priestly life, he said, that attitude can appear as entitlement to comfort or special treatment, manipulative relationships, or authoritarian leadership. Priests, Archbishop Hughes said, must remember that their authority exists not for domination but for service. “The authority entrusted to us always points to Christ,” Archbishop Hughes said. “It is expressed not in lording over others but in service.” Archbishop Hughes also emphasized that ordained ministry serves the wider church. “The ordained priesthood … is in service to the baptismal priesthood,” Archbishop Hughes said. The archbishop concluded by encouraging the priests to invoke the intercession of Francis of Assisi and rediscover the joy that flows from faithful Gospel living. “In a society showing many signs that the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life have run their course,” Archbishop Hughes said, “this is a special moment to give powerful witness to the Gospel.” The day of reflection continued with additional talks exploring specific aspects of the evangelical virtues. Father Everardo Mora-Torres, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Pascagoula, better known as “Father Lalo,” greets Archbishop Alfred Hughes, archbishop-emeritus of New Orleans, during a break at Lenten Day of Reflection for the priests of the Diocese of Biloxi, which was held March 5 at St. Francis Xavier Church in Wiggins. Archbishop Hughes, who gave three separate talks, taught several of the Diocese of Biloxi’s priests at Notre Dame Seminary, including Father Lalo. Photo/Terry Dickson
2 Gulf Pine Catholic • March 13, 2026 Diocese of Biloxi Bulletin Board DIOCESAN EVENTS Catholic Diocese of Biloxi Relic Collection: The Diocese of Biloxi has been given the tremendous blessing of over 1,600 relics of saints, one of the largest collections in the country. At present over 450 relics are on display in the Marian Chapel at Nativity BVM Cathedral. Another 250 will be switched out & displayed in May/June. Viewing hours are 45 min. after the 7 a.m. & 9 a.m. Sun. Masses, during the 6:30 a.m. & 8 a.m. daily Masses Mon.-Fri. & the 8 a.m. Mass Sat. morning. (Refer to NativityBVM-Cathedral.org for updated viewing hours.) Group pilgrimages/ tours can be arranged by contacting C o l l e e n K a v a n a g h , ColleenKavanagh64@gmail.com or by calling Nativity BVM Cathedral’s office at (228) 374-1717. Is God calling you to more?: If you feel a nudge to grow deeper in your faith or lead more intentionally, the New Wine Program may be for you. This renewed diocesan formation experience invites both new participants & past graduates to be equipped as missionary disciples who walk with others toward Christ. The next cohort begins August 2026; applications are open through May 31. Learn more and apply at: www.biloxidiocese.org/new-wine. For more info, see page 9. Lepoma/Landry/Sacred Heart St. Joseph Altar: Lepoma/Landry/Sacred Heart St. Joseph Altar March 19, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Father Dominic Pham will bless the altar at 9:30 a.m. The home of Lee & Jackie Landry. Address: 11318 Magnolia St., D’Iberville. For more information, call Jackie Landry (228) 918-3820. PARISH EVENTS Catholic in Recovery growing at Most Holy Trinity: Catholic in Recovery is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to serving those suffering from addictions & unhealthy attachments, including alcoholism, drug addiction, pornography addiction, sex & relationship addiction, compulsive overeating & food addictions, gambling addiction, codependency & its impact on family life, as well as struggles with fear, control, & anxiety. Catholic in Recovery has been meeting every Tues. evening at Most Holy Trinity in Pass Christian since July 2025. These confidential gatherings offer a safe, supportive environment for individuals seeking freedom & lasting healing through mutual care, prayer, & the Sacraments in a twelvestep format. Catholic in Recovery leaves no doubt concerning our Higher Power, Jesus Christ, in an unabashedly Catholic program. We incorporate the Mass readings, the Saints, Mary, & liturgical Calendar into the meetings. Anyone in need of healing & support is invited to attend. Through God’s grace, participants at Most Holy Trinity have begun achieving long-term sobriety discovering renewed faith, restored relationships, & a new path forward. Please contact Ryan Done at (901) 5157650 or ryan.done@mhtcatholic.org for more info. Our Lady of Fatima Parish Mission Series -- From Ashes to Renewal: Encountering Christ & His Church: Join us on Wed.y evenings, March 4-April 1, for a parish mission focused on spiritual renewal & a deeper encounter with Christ & His Church. Each evening Mass 6 p.m., followed by a special presentation given by different priest or deacon each week. St. Joseph Day Altar: Collection of food for Hancock County Food Bank & Kings Kitchen, lunch 12 noon, March 19, 8 a.m.- 1 p.m.. Our Lady of Gulf Community Center, 228 So. Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis. St. Joseph Altar: Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church will be hosting a St. Joseph Altar in honor of St. Joseph’s Day on March 19, 9062 Kiln-Delisle Rd. Pass Christian. This beautiful tradition, deeply rooted in faith & community is a meaningful way for us to celebrate the life & example of St. Joseph, the patron saint of workers & families. The altar will be on March 19, 10 a.m.- 7 p.m. The altar will be blessed at 10:30 a.m. & lunch will be served 11 a.m.-1 p.m. For info & donations please email toniandjoe@hotmail.com. Nativity BVM St. Joseph’s Altar & Lunch: The St. Joseph’s Altar Society is hosting its tenth annual St. Joseph’s Altar & dpaghetti lunch. Please join us as we celebrate the Feast of St. Joseph on Thurs., March 19, at Nativity BVM Cathedral, Sacred Heart Center. Doors will open to view the altar at 10 a.m. The altar will be blessed at 11:30 & a spaghetti lunch will be served at noon. The altar will remain open for viewing until 3 p.m. This event is free & open to the public. Donations are welcome. Healing Mass: Our Mother of Mercy will host a Healing Mass on Fri., March 20, 5 p.m. The church is located at 216 Saucier Ave. Pass Christian. For more info, see website gulfpinecatholic. com’s calendar of events. Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Cathedral Lenten Concert Service: The Music & Fine Arts Ministry of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Cathedral will present a special liturgical concert service -- under the direction of TerryMaddox -- entitled “Lenten Lessons & Reflections” on Sun., March 22, 4 p.m. This deeply spiritual program will feature a performance reflecting on the depth & meaning of the journey of the events of Holy Week. This program will be offered by the combined community choirs of Mobile Vocal Arts of Mobile, AL, and the Cathedral’s Choral Society “Gloria in Excelsis,” along with the Honor Children’s Choir of the Cathedral Elem. & accompanied by a chamber orchestra The program is free & the public is cordially invited to attend. For further info, contact Terry D. Maddox, Artistic Director at (251) 406-1454 &/or terrydalemaddox@gmail.com. Cancellation of First Saturday Devotion in April: We will NOT have First Saturday Devotion at St. Mary Church in Woolmarket on April 4 since Holy Saturday, a day of waiting & anticipation of the Resurrection, falls on First Saturday this year. The Church does not permit morning Mass on Holy Saturday. We will resume First Saturday Devotion on May 2. You may fulfill the requirements of First Saturday Devotion as requested by Our Lady of Fatima by attending the Saturday Vigil Mass or Mass on Easter Sunday. You may go to Confession eight days before or eight days after First Saturday Devotion. All the other requirements may be done privately. We look forward to seeing you at our First Saturday Devotion on May 2! Grace & Grits: Step into a space of renewal, strength, & sisterhood. You are invited to experience Grace & Grits: Reclaiming Your Power Through Faith women’s day event April 11, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at Our Mother of Mercy Catholic Church, 216 Saucier Ave., Pass Christian. Breakfast & lunch will be served. Attendance is open to ladies ages 14 & up, participants under 18 must be accompanied by adult. To register, contact Bea Mitchell (901) 8575851 or email Chantelnormand@gmail. com. Registration is free but donation will be appreciated. Proceeds go to St. Catherines Catholic Church in Indonesia. SCHOOL EVENTS New applications & re-enrollment open: St. Patrick Catholic High School is now accepting new student applications & re-enrollment for current families! Apply now to secure your spot for the upcoming school year at St. Patrick before space fills up! Visit stpatrickhighschool.net/apply to apply today. Summer Camps: Register today for St. Patrick Catholic High School’s Summer Camps. Led, organized, & delivered by their award-winning faculty, coaches, & staff, the summer camps continue their mission even outside of the traditional academic year. For more info, go to secure.qgiv.com/ for/spsummercamps/event/spsummercamps2026/.
Gulf Pine Catholic • March 13, 2026 3 Gulf Pine Catholic (ISSN No. 0746-3804) March 13, 2026 Volume 43, Issue 12 The GULF PINE CATHOLIC, published every other week, is an official publication of the Catholic Diocese of Biloxi. Editorial offices are located at 1790 Popps Ferry Road, Biloxi, MS 39532. Periodical postage paid at Gulfport, MS. —POSTMASTER— Send address changes to: The GULF PINE CATHOLIC 1790 Popps Ferry Road Biloxi, MS 39532 —PUBLISHER— Most Rev. Louis F. Kihneman —EDITOR— Terry Dickson —PRODUCTION/ ADVERTISING — Shirley McCusker —BILLING — Shirley McCusker —CIRCULATION— Robin Peeler —OFFICEHOURS— 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday —PHONE NUMBERS— Editor: 228-702-2126 Production/Advertising: 228-702-2109 Billing: 228-702-2109 Circulation: 228-702-2100 —EMAIL— News: tdickson@biloxidiocese.org Production / Advertising: smccusker@biloxidiocese.org Billing: smccusker@biloxidiocese.org Circulation: rpeeler@biloxidiocese.org —OFFICEAND MAILINGADDRESS — 1790 Popps Ferry Road Biloxi, MS 39532 —WEBSITE— www.gulfpinecatholic.com —SUBSCRIPTIONS — Subscription rate is $18 per year. When changing address, renewing or inquiring about a subscription, customer should include a recent address label with old address and new address. Allow three weeks for changes of address. —DEADLINES for MARCH 27— News copy and photos: Due MARCH 17, 4 p.m. Advertising: Completed Ad and/or copy due MARCH 17, 10 a.m. March 13 Diocese of Biloxi Youth -15 Conference, MS Coast Coliseum & Convention Center, Biloxi March 14 Mass for Father Mike Somers’s 40th Anniversary of Ordination to Priesthood, St. John the Evangelist Parish, Gulfport, 4 p.m. March 17 Foundation Meeting, Pastoral Center, Biloxi, 3 p.m. March 18 Confirmation, St. Fabian Parish, Hattiesburg, 6 p.m. March 19 St. Joseph Altar Blessing & Lunch, Nativity BVM Cathedral, Biloxi, 11:30 a.m. March 19 Confirmation, St. Joseph Parish, Gulfport, 6 p.m. March 21 Mass & Rite of Lector/ Reader for Deacon Candidates, Kelley Retreat Center at St. Augustine, Bay St. Louis, 5 p.m. March 22 Mass & Lunch, Sacred Heart Parish, Pascagoula, 10:30 a.m. March 24 Mass, Region V Youth Directors Conference, Sacred Heart Retreat Center, Dedeaux, 9 a.m. March 25 Confirmation, St. Matthew the Apostle Parish, White Cypress, 6 p.m. March 26 Finance Council Meeting, Pastoral Center, Biloxi, 2 p.m. March 28 Confirmation, Sacred Heart Parish -- Hispanic Community, Hattiesburg, 10 a.m. March 29 Palm Sunday Mass, Nativity BVM Cathedral, Biloxi, 11 a.m. March 31 Chrism Mass, Nativity BVM Cathedral, Biloxi, 10:30 a.m. BY BISHOP LOUIS F. KIHNEMAN III Bishop of the Diocese of Biloxi “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” -- Galatians 3:27 Jesus asks us to follow His word, and as we do, we open ourselves to the love of the Father and invite the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. As we continue our journey through this holy season of Lent, it is good to recall the moment we first “put on” Jesus -- at our baptism. At baptism, we made a profession of faith or our parents made a profession of faith on our behalf, and the Easter water, the water of the Resurrection, was poured over us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit (cf. Matthew 28:19). That was our first encounter with Jesus Christ -- an encounter with the gift of God’s grace poured into our lives. St. Paul tells us that through baptism, we “put on Christ” (cf. Romans 13:14). The white garment given at baptism symbolizes being cleansed from original sin and “shows that the newly baptized have put on Christ and have risen with Him” (CCC 1243), and are placed on the path toward God and heaven. As we journey through Lent, we would be wise to take seriously St. Paul’s words about what it means to put on Christ. Each time we renew our baptismal promises or receive the Sacraments, we are, in a sense, clothing ourselves once again with that white garment -- embracing our identity as God’s beloved children. The white garment, like the vestments worn by bishops, priests, and deacons, is a visible reminder that we are called to open ourselves to grace, to be a people filled with the virtues of heaven. St. Paul calls us to embrace peace, patience, kindness, compassion, and gentleness -- and to put on love above all these virtues (cf. Colossians 3:12–14). This is the life we are invited to live each day -- in our families, at work, at school, in our parishes, and wherever God places us. We are to be living signs of Christ’s love to the world. We are also invited to sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs -- lifting our hearts in praise to God, entering deeply Bishop Kihneman “Put on Christ”: Living the Grace of Baptism through Lent into prayer, and celebrating the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass (cf. Colossians 3:16). In doing so, we open ourselves again to the love of Jesus present in His Body and Blood in the Holy Eucharist. It is Jesus in Holy Communion who strengthens us to live out these virtues, to practice these graces, and to bring His presence into the world -- to our families, workplaces, schools, and parishes. During this Lenten season and beyond, let us pray for the grace to truly put on Christ -- to receive Him into our hearts and souls so fully that we may bear Him to the world in all we do. And let us hold in prayer all those preparing to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil. “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17 SEE BISHOP’S SPANISH COLUMN, PAGE 4 Bishop Kihneman’s Schedule
4 Gulf Pine Catholic • March 13, 2026 POR EL OBISPO LOUIS F. KIHNEMAN III Obispo de Biloxi “Porque todos los que habéis sido bautizados en Cristo, de Cristo estáis revestidos.” -- Gálatas 3,27 Jesús nos pide que sigamos su palabra y, al hacerlo, nos abrimos al amor del Padre e invitamos al Espíritu Santo a habitar en nosotros. Mientras continuamos nuestro camino a través de este tiempo santo de Cuaresma, es bueno recordar el momento en que por primera vez nos “revestimos” de Jesús: en nuestro bautismo. En el bautismo, hicimos una profesión de fe -- o nuestros padres la hicieron en nuestro nombre -- y el agua pascual, el agua de la Resurrección, fue derramada sobre nosotros en el nombre del Padre, y del Hijo, y del Espíritu Santo (cf. Mateo 28,19). Ese fue nuestro primer encuentro con Jesucristo: un encuentro con el don de la gracia de Dios derramada en nuestras vidas. San Pablo nos dice que, por medio del bautismo, nos “revestimos de Cristo” (cf. Romanos 13,14). La vestidura blanca que se entrega en el bautismo simboliza la purificación del pecado original y “manifiesta que el recién bautizado se ha revestido de Cristo y ha resucitado con Él” (CIC 1243), y que ha sido puesto en el camino hacia Dios y hacia el cielo. Al recorrer la Cuaresma, haríamos bien en tomar en serio las palabras de San Pablo sobre lo que significa revestirse de Cristo. Cada vez que renovamos nuestras promesas bautismales o recibimos los Sacramentos, en cierto sentido nos vestimos nuevaObispo Kihneman mente con esa túnica blanca, abrazando nuestra identidad como hijos amados de Dios. La vestidura blanca, al igual que las vestiduras que usan obispos, sacerdotes y diáconos, es un recordatorio visible de que estamos llamados a abrirnos a la gracia, a ser un pueblo lleno de las virtudes del cielo. San Pablo nos exhorta a vivir la paz, la paciencia, la bondad, la compasión y la mansedumbre, y a revestirnos, por encima de todo, del amor (cf. Colosenses 3,12– 14). Esta es la vida que estamos invitados a vivir cada día: en nuestras familias, en el trabajo, en la escuela, en nuestras parroquias y dondequiera que Dios nos coloque. Estamos llamados a ser signos vivos del amor de Cristo para el mundo. También estamos invitados a cantar salmos, himnos y cánticos espirituales, elevando nuestros corazones en alabanza a Dios, entrando profundamente en la oración y celebrando el Santo Sacrificio de la Misa (cf. Colosenses 3,16). Al hacerlo, nos abrimos nuevamente al amor de Jesús presente en su Cuerpo y Sangre en la Sagrada Eucaristía. Es Jesús en la Sagrada Comunión quien nos fortalece para vivir estas virtudes, practicar estas gracias y llevar su presencia al mundo: a nuestras familias, lugares de trabajo, escuelas y parroquias. Durante este tiempo de Cuaresma y más allá, pidamos la gracia de revestirnos verdaderamente de Cristo, de recibirlo en nuestros corazones y almas tan plenamente que podamos llevarlo al mundo en todo lo que hagamos. Y mantengamos en nuestra oración a todos aquellos que se preparan para recibir los Sacramentos de Iniciación en la Vigilia Pascual. “Y todo lo que hagáis, de palabra o de obra, hacedlo todo en el nombre del Señor Jesús, dando gracias a Dios Padre por medio de él.” -- Colosenses 3,17 “Revestíos de Cristo”: Vivir la gracia del Bautismo durante la Cuaresma Holy Rosary Hosts annual “Soup for the Soul” outreach serving over 100 neighbors HATTIESBURG -- Holy Rosary Catholic Church welcomed more than 100 individuals and families this past Saturday for its annual “Soup for the Soul” community outreach, serving residents of the Katie-John-Dabbs Neighborhood Association. The yearly event brings parishioners together to share food, fellowship, and vital health resources with neighbors in the surrounding community. A dedicated team of volunteer medical professionals, led by Dr. Italo Subbarao, DO, MBA, provided free general health screenings, including blood sugar and blood pressure checks, along with consultations for other medical concerns. Dr. Subbarao and his team of future physicians have partnered with Holy Rosary for several years, faithfully supporting the parish’s outreach efforts. Representatives from National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) were also present to speak with attendees who may be experiencing mental health challenges or seeking additional support and resources. In addition to medical and mental health services, Holy Rosary parishioners prepared and served homemade soups and assembled grab bags to ensure every guest was fed and cared for. All food was generously donated and prepared by members of the parish and supporters of the event. “Soup for the Soul” reflects Holy Rosary’s ongoing commitment to serve with compassion and love. Despite being a small parish, the community’s impact continues to be felt throughout the neighborhood it calls home. For more information about Holy Rosary and its outreach ministries, please contact the parish office.
Gulf Pine Catholic • March 13, 2026 5 Compassionate Service 228-374-5650 Bradfordokeefe.com Opening Remark: Story I grew up in Brooklyn, New York. After Mary and I got married there, we moved to Pennsylvania. We frequently drove to Brooklyn on weekends to be with our parents, siblings, relatives, and friends. As our family grew, the trips to Brooklyn continued with us and our two children. Although the drive took just two and a half hours, one hour was spent in slow, heavy traffic in the Holland Tunnel, going from New York City to Brooklyn. Inevitably, more than once during the trip, our children would ask, “Are we there yet?” What a great question to ponder during the Lenten season and beyond. Because Lent, followed by Holy Week and the Easter Season, offers many opportunities to grow closer to our Lord and strengthen our faith, we must continually ask, “Are we there yet?” God Sees the Heart: In today’s first reading, the prophet, Samuel, learns that he is not “there” yet. Sent by God to Jesse of Bethlehem to anoint one of Jesse’s eight sons as king of Israel, Samuel was ready to run ahead of the Lord and anoint the wrong son. God stopped him in mid-thought and taught Samuel, and us, some valuable lessons. 1. Avoid making hasty judgments without God’s guidance. 2. God’s plans for us are far better than ours. “I know well the plans I have for you” (Jeremiah 29: 11). 3. Trust God, who knows and sees the entire picture, including the future, while we see only a small part. 4. God knows our thoughts and wants to perfect them to align with His will. He does this through the Scriptures, Church teaching, and the wisdom of those who love us and truly care about our spiritual well-being. 5. If you feel that your faith life is not growing as it should and the fruit of your efforts to draw closer to Jesus could be improved, give the Lord full sway over your plans, thoughts, words, and actions. Healing Blindness: Today’s Gospel features a neophyte progressively drawing closer to Jesus while “religious leaders” built walls of separation. Jesus’ initial encounter with the man born blind is a beautiful example of God’s expansive love, generous mercy, and unlimited miracle-working power. Without being asked, Jesus initiated contact with the blind man, prescribed the solution to his problem, and required his cooperation in the miracle-working process -- “Go wash in the pool of Siloam” (John 9: 7). The grueling interrogation of the formerly blind man by the Pharisees sought to prove Jesus as a transgressor of the Law, because He healed on the Sabbath. But their devious plot backfired. The man’s faith was strengthened, and Jesus’ accusers were exposed as blind because they tried to destroy the miracle-working power of God. Anyone who ignores or goes against the will and work of God sets themselves up for failure. Let’s observe the faith progression of the previously blind man. When asked who healed him, he replied, “The man called Jesus.” As the questioning intensified, he identified Jesus as “a prophet,” and later, he worshipped Jesus and called Him “Lord.” Has your faith progressed to the point that Jesus is more than a social reformer, a wise person, a compassionate charismatic leader, and a prophet? He is all that and God incarnate, Lord, Savior, Redeemer, Healer, and Master. Do you strive to do His will, whatever the cost? Wisdom of the Church: Bishop Robert Barron wrote, “Over the years, I have noticed that the holiest people in our tradition are those most aware of their sinfulness. Whether it is Paul, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Teresa of Avila, Thérèse of Lisieux, or Mother Teresa, the saints are convinced of their inadequacy. When Isaiah encounters the Lord, he says, “I am a man of unclean lips!” Peter, in the presence of the Messiah, says, “Lord, leave me, for I am a sinful man.” G.K. Chesterton said, “A saint is someone who knows he’s a sinner.” Are we there yet? Reflection: Reflect on what needs to happen to advance your faith progression to the next level. 1. Who or what guides your thoughts? 2. Who or what influences your words? 3. Who or what motivates your actions? 4. Should you speak with a spiritual adviser? Action Response: In Luke 6:27-42, Jesus speaks of God-like qualities His disciples should cultivate. Write the names of people you know next to each of the following spiritual attributes and apply the action to that person sometime during Lent and the Easter season. “Be merciful to” (names), “love your enemies” (names), “do good to those who hate you” (names), “bless those who curse you” (names), “pray for those who mistreat you” (names), “stop judging” (names), “stop condemning” (names), “forgive” (names). Deacon Ralph Torrelli is retired and lives in Tennessee. Visit his website: www.homilypearls. com. 1st Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a Responsorial Psalm: 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6 2nd Reading: Ephesians 5:8-14 Gospel: John 9:1-41 Fourth Sunday of Lent Are we there yet? Deacon Torrelli Sunday Scripture Commentaries Pray for an increase of vocations to the priesthood, to the diaconate, and to the religious life, especially in the Diocese of Biloxi
6 Gulf Pine Catholic • March 13, 2026 Many of us who have been married for a long time, or even some of our newlyweds, understand the difference between the “Honeymoon phase” in our marriages to the rough and tumble circumstances of our day-to-day living. We all understand fasting, almsgiving, penance and prayer. But, with all the diversity in marriage, most of us remain married. The reason we remain married is because, in marriage our lives experience what I call a NEW normal. This is important in my mind because strong marriages represent the blueprint for what real marriage looks like. And Lent gives the opportunity to rededicate ourselves to our marital spirituality. Many think that fasting, almsgiving, penance and prayer during Lent is a struggle. But it is more of an opportunity if we look at the ultimate benefit and outcome. For example, at the ripe old age of 29, I was diagnosed with chronic hypertension. I was thin, healthy, in great shape, but I still had hypertension. So, I went to my internal medicine physician and he prescribed me medicine to treat it. The medicine made me feel TERRIBLE! So I went back to my physician and complained about the medicine. He was patient and smiled, then asked, “Did your pressure go down?” I said yes. Then he explained to me that, my pressure was so bad, that the way I was feeling on the medicine was the way I was supposed to feel. He said this is your NEW normal. So, this Lent, think about our marriages. Through fasting, almsgiving, penance and prayer, are we leaving a life of sin and moving into a NEW normal? Are we sacrificing enough to make our spouses the center of our lives or have we grown comfortable being seduced by the perils of the secular world. Scripture tells us in the times of trial, that, through fasting, almsgiving, fasting and penance, as married couples, we have a great responsibility to our spiritual community. In 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2 it states, “Brothers and sisters: We are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake He made Him to be sin who did not know sin, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Working together, then, we appeal to you and not to receive the grace of God in vain. For He says: “In an acceptable time I heard you, and on the day of salvation I helped you.” Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” During this Lent, let your preparation be the catalyst for a new normal in your marriage. And as your marriage becomes even stronger, not only will you be rewarded, but also the community you belong to. This Lent, give the gift of Love to others by living out your enhanced marital experience. May God Bless you and keep you! Deacon Justin Mitchell is the Director of Marriage and Family Life for the Diocese of Biloxi. Marriage & Family Life Mitchell Married couples during Lent: The NEW normal Are you looking forward to eating some Zeppole di San Giuseppe this week? It’s the Southern Italian pastry made of fried dough and custard that is a fixture of Saint Joseph’s Day, which we celebrate every March 19. The Zeppole tradition stems from a legend that claims Saint Joseph sold sweets to earn a living after he fled to Egypt with Jesus and Mary. Other traditions also abound surrounding the celebration of this feast day, especially in Italy, where it serves as their nation’s Father’s Day. One particular Sicilian legend recounts a drought in the Middle Ages that came to an end after prayers for the intercession of Saint Joseph brought rain. Those rains gave life to the fava bean, an important crop that helped relieve the famine sweeping Sicily. Gatherings were held to honor Saint Joseph’s intercession and give thanks to God, establishing traditions now celebrated yearly. And the fava bean, featured in those first celebrations, remains a component of devotional altars assembled for the feast in our day. Also tracing to this Sicilian legend is the practice of designating a table of food for donation to the poor on Saint Joseph’s Day, grounded in the people’s experience of being without food, a memory that leads to a commitment to generosity towards those struggling with hunger and poverty. This provides such a beautiful connection to Saint Joseph because the Holy Family certainly experienced their share of hardship and doing without in this world. These traditions surrounding the Feast of Saint Joseph draw us deeper into the Gospel and the story of Joseph caring for Mary and Jesus, even to the point of having the humility to seek and accept help in times of need. These traditions also draw us into the teachings of Christ, who said of those who feed the hungry, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” In other regions of Italy, bonfires are lit on the eve of Saint Joseph’s Day, starting the celebration early in a way that evokes a sense of wonder befitting the figure of Saint Joseph. The man chosen by God to care for Mary and Jesus must have commanded tremendous admiration from them, and the bonfires honor him appropriately. Those bonfires also inspire the awe we should have for Saint Joseph as a model of fatherhood. That awe is based somewhat on the mysterious nature of Joseph, because we don’t hear a lot about him in scripture. We get glimpses of his heroism in his obedience to God, sacrificial nature, and love for Mary and Jesus. And this is so much how children experience awe in relation to any good father. They see a man who relates to them in their world, but our fathers are always more complex than the countless functions they provide in service to family. Getting to know them fully is a journey of discovery over a lifetime. Saint Joseph provides a perfect lens through which to understand fatherhood because he checks all the boxes for what a loving and loyal husband and father should be in the glimpses we get of him. But he also opens our minds to fatherhood as mystery. In this way, our celebration of Saint Joseph on his feast day should awaken us to the mystery of our own fathers, and other fathers we know, so that we can support them in their great journey to care for their families. Fr. Ed Dougherty, M.M., serves on The Christophers’ Board of Directors. For a free copy of the Christopher News Note, GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP, write: The Christophers, 5 Hanover Square, New York, NY 10004; or e-mail: mail@christophers.org. The Traditions of St. Joseph’s Day Light One Candle Fr. Dougherty
Gulf Pine Catholic • March 13, 2026 7 I was travelling withmy twenty-six year old niece to do some gardening at her aunt’s house. As we travelled along, discussing many topics, she asked me, “Can I ask you a big favor?” It was about her high school friend, David. “Would you mind saying a special prayer for him?” I assured her that I would. Following his high school graduation, David decided to move to the London area to pursue a theater degree with the hope of becoming an actor. A few years later, his world began to crumble slowly. He was diagnosed as having a brain tumor that indicated it was cancer. Following months of treatment, the prognosis didn’t seem to warrant any optimism. During his visits home, my niece would visit him and try to encourage and support him. Now as we travelled along, my niece said, “David’s cancer has spread to his spine. There is no hope. All treatments have stopped.. His parents want him to come home. The doctors indicate that there is nothing more they can do and that surgery is not an option. He wants to come home to die.” As our journey continued in the car, we wrestled with her question. It wasn’t a time for pious platitudes or pat answers about God’s will. Rather, it was an opportunity to probe more deeply one of the great mysteries of life and its many layers of “whys.” I shared with her some of the wisdom I had gleaned from my own years of ministry through my interaction with parishioners through their losses and achievements, through their joys and sorrows. It wasn’t a time for pat answers or assuring words that she would get through his immanent death. It was more an opportunity to plant some seeds, assuring her that no words of mine will take away her future fears and pertinent pain. David did come home to be with his family. In the weeks that followed, the cancer spread rapidly as he lay in the hospital bed becoming totally paralyzed. He died on February12. It all seems so cruel. Here was David, in the prime of his life and his dream of being involved in the theater and becoming an actor shattered. It all seemed so cruel. Love and loss are the two sides of life’s coins. They are both imbedded into our DNA. The more we love involves embracing the greatest danger of the inevitability of loss. Theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer said that “Nothing can fill the gap when we are away from those we love, and it would be wrong to try and find anything, since leaving the gap unfulfilled preserves the bond between us. It is nonsense to say God fills the gap. He does not fill it but keeps it empty so that communion with another may be kept alive even at the cost of pain” I often wondered about the marriage vows. They indicate “for better for worse; for richer, for poorer in sickness and in health.” Why do the first two vows begin with the positive and end with the negative, while the third and last begins with the negative and ends with the positive? Is it an indication of the two strange bedfellows that embrace the bedrooms of life and life itself? It reminds me that a sense of sadness pervades all of life and of the heart. Even the happiest times in life are tinged with sadness. Yet, there is no such thing as a vacuum in life or in the heart. Even our elementary study of science reminds us that nature abhors a vacuum. Yet, when the time is ripe, something begins to percolate, within the “gap,” within the “vacuum” that begins to open the door to seeing the death of that person, the loss of that friendship or the disappointment emanating from a series of “has-been” losses that can lead to new discoveries and perspectives from the pain of loss. In the meantime, as my niece walked with David through his final days, she will begin to realize the implications of compassion, to “suffer with” him; realizing that the vacuum created by his death cannot be filled with pious platitudes or flippantly proclaiming that his death is God’s will. All I can do is to be there for her, to listen to her anger and her questions, her “whys” and her “how comes,” and provide a shoulder that she can lean on or cry on when needed. In the last analysis, my thoughts are drawn to the lyrics of Leonard Cohen’s “Anthem.” The birds they sang At the break of day Start again I heard them say Don’t dwell on what has passed away Or what is yet to be Ring the bells that still can ring Forget your perfect offering There is a crack, a crack in everything That’s how the light gets in Father Michael Tracey is retired and lives in Ireland. He can be contacted by email at mtracey1@ bellsouth.net. His website is www.michaeltracey.net David’s departure Father Tracey VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Bethel Free Health Clinic in Biloxi is in immediate need of volunteers to assist with data entry and records management. On-thejob training is available. Clinic days and hours are Tues./Thurs., 8 -11 a.m. For more information or to volunteer, please call (228) 594-3640 or email bethelkatclinic@gmail.com. Across the Pond Evening of Intercessory Prayer Mark your calendars and please join us in praying the Rosary and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament on Monday, March 23, at 6:30 p.m. in the St. Alphonsus Church in Ocean Springs. Last month we talked about generational healing family trees and some behavioral patterns we may have possibly inherited. Please remember to bring/return both your family tree forms this month!! We will focus now on the power of our tongues. many of the curses in our family tree have come through the words that we say about ourselves or the words that others have pronounced over our lives. We all carry a responsibility in the words we choose, there is importance in using them to uplift and inspire, from the power to heal to the power to harm, the Bible is filled with wisdom about the impact of our speech. Our words can snare or trap us and form a barrier that prevents God’s blessings from entering into our lives. The Rosary is one of the most powerful weapons God gives to mankind. Let us pray and ask our Blessed Mother to intercede for us and our families. She is our greatest intercessor! Please mark your calendars and join us in prayer!!
8 Gulf Pine Catholic • March 13, 2026
Gulf Pine Catholic • March 13, 2026 9 228-539-9800 www.RiemannFamily.com Gulfport Pass Christian West Jackson County Biloxi Long Beach Hancock County Getting to Know the Servants in the Diocese of Biloxi who answered God’s Call to a Religious Vocation BY MONICAWALTON BILOXI -- Whatever road one takes in life, all vocations and jobs require some sort of sacrifice. God loves us and desires all to be in communion with Him, whatever we do. When we do His will and respond to His call, we will find peace and satisfaction in our work. However, it often takes diligent prayer and discernment to uncover His true plan for our lives. Katherine Lingenfelder and Chris Collins both seriously considered marriage and family life. Could they give that up and still be happy? Would their life feel complete, satisfied, and gratified without a spouse and children? While the majority of the world screams a resounding ‘No’ to those questions, Katherine and Chris have grown to discover that for them, the answer is a wholehearted ‘Yes’. Both have come to realize the beauty of offering the Lord the gift of their chastity. They are currently in formation for very different vocations, but each gives great witness to finding strength in the cross of sacrifice when following God’s call. “In my discernment, I seriously considered the beautiful vocation of marriage,” said Katherine. “I dated and could have gotten married.” Katherine had also long desired to have children, but God offered her a unique version of being a bride and mother as a Consecrated Virgin. “Jesus, the Bridegroom, has chosen me to become His Bride,” Katherine explained. “And I am not losing the ability to become a mother. Rather, my heart is expanding as a spiritual mother, beyond what I could ever understand.” Though it is not required by Canon Law, Bishop Kihneman witnessed Katherine’s temporary private vow of chastity. He will consecrate her through the Rite of Consecration later this year. “One of my prayers was that my parents would live long enough to see me make my vows,” said Katherine. “Thankfully, both of my parents were able to witness my temporary vow because my mom passed away five5 months later.” As explained on the Diocese of Biloxi Vocations website, biloxivocations.org, “Consecrated Virgins embody the image of the heavenly Bride and the life that is to come. Consecrated to God by her diocesan bishop, a consecrated virgin is mystically betrothed to Christ and dedicated to the service of the Church in her diocese.” The official title of this vocation is Consecrated Virgins Living in the World. They live and work in mainstream professions alongside other conventional workers. Katherine just so happens to work for the Church, but that is not a requirement or the standard. She currently works for the Diocese of Biloxi as the A d m i n i s t r a t i v e Assistant in the Catholic Schools Office. This summer, she will transition to the Vocations Office as an Administrative Assistant. “Once consecrated, we are no longer laity or dedicated singles, and we are not religious sisters,” Katherine clarified. “Consecrated Virgins work in regular jobs, but they also spend dedicated time with Jesus, their Bridegroom. Like clergy and religious, they are required to pray the Divine Office, joining others throughout the world every morning and evening.” She also enjoys reading, writing, watching movies, cooking, road trips, and spending time with family and friends. Katherine admits her vocation is counter-cultural and not very well known. “This has been a learning process for everyone,” she admits. “Including Bishop Kinheman, Father Braxton, our Vocation Director, the formation team, the assessment team, and me!” As Katherine grew and learned more in her formation, she could see how God had been forming her for this Vocation. One of her favorite Scriptures is Song of Songs 3:4, “I have found the one, Him whom my soul loves.” Chris was born and raised in Gulfport. Like many young boys, he dreamed of being a professional athlete someday. “I played just about every sport growing up, but soccer and baseball were my favorites,” he said. “I honestly did not consider any other careers in high school…until my junior year.” That’s when a priest Chris had never before met began visiting his theology class. “One day, he jokingly suggested that I was going to be a priest,” Chris recalls. “Although he wasn’t being serious because he didn’t really know me, it planted a seed within me. “I was at a point in my life when I was looking for a deeper purpose,” Chris explained. “I grew up Catholic and was an altar server at St. James Church, but I had never truly taken my faith seriously until high school. I had no desire to study anything in particular after high school, and I felt the priesthood might give me that sense of purpose I was looking for.” At first, he doubted and tried to push away the thought of being a priest, but it wouldn’t let go of him. “The thought kept coming back to mind,” Chris said. “And it filled me with a feeling of consolation. The more I thought about it, and the closer I grew to God, the more the desire grew within me, to the point that I could no longer deny it.” Now in his Third Configuration of Formation at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans, Chris said his biggest challenge so far has been coming to understand and accept the vow of celibacy. “There were a couple of years in seminary when I really struggled with the idea of sacrificing marriage,” he said. “I really wasn’t sure whether or not I wanted to give it up. But the Lord has since given me the peace and confidence to know that this is what He is calling me to.” SEE VOCATION INSPIRATIONS, PAGE 17 Katehrine Lingenfelder ~ Hearing and Answering the Call Chris Collins Every Vocation calls for some sacrifice
10 Gulf Pine Catholic • March 13, 2026 Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary 870 Howard Ave., Biloxi Chrism Mass: Tues., March 31, 10:30 a.m. Holy Thursday: Mass of Lord’s Supper 6 p.m., Washing of Feet Good Friday: Stations of Cross 2 p.m.; Veneration of Cross 3 p.m. Holy Saturday: 8 p.m. Easter Sunday: 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 5:30 p.m. 2026 Deanery Divine Mercy Prayer: 3 p.m. Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos Parish 356 Lameuse St., Biloxi Palm Sunday: Vigil 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 a.m., Spanish 11 a.m. Holy Thursday: English 5 p.m.; Spanish 7:30 p.m.; “Last Supper” Reenactment 8 p.m. Good Friday: Live Stations, Spanish Noon-2 p.m.; Stations of Cross, English 3 p.m.; Veneration of Cross / Communion, English 4 p.m.; Veneration of Cross, Spanish 7 p.m. Holy Saturday: 4 p.m.; English 6 p.m.; Spanish 8:30 p.m. Easter Sunday: English 8:30 a.m.; Spanish 11 a.m. Our Lady of Fatima Parish 2090 Pass Rd., Biloxi Palm Sunday: Vigil 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 6 p.m. Holy Thursday: 7 p.m. Good Friday: 3 p.m., 7 p.m.; Holy Saturday: 7 p.m. Easter Sunday: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., Parish Hall 10:15 a.m. 11:30 a.m., 6 p.m. Our Mother of Sorrows Parish 803 Division St., Biloxi Palm Sunday: Vigil 5:30 p.m.; 10:30 a.m. Holy Thursday: 6 p.m. Good Friday: Stations of Cross 3 p.m.; Veneration of Cross 3:30 p.m. Holy Saturday: 7 p.m. Easter Sunday: 10:30 a.m. St. Mary Parish 8343 Woolmarket Rd., Biloxi Holy Thursday: 6 p.m. Good Friday: Liturgy of Word 9 a.m. followed by light breakfast; Stations of Cross 12 p.m. followed by soup lunch; Passion of Lord, Veneration of Cross, Holy Communion, 3 p.m. followed by fish dinner Holy Saturday: 7:30 p.m. Easter Sunday: 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m.; Easter egg hunt 9:30 a.m. St. Michael Parish 177 First St., Biloxi Palm Sunday: Vigil: 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. Holy Thursday: 6 p.m. Good Friday: Stations 12 noon; Liturgy 3 p.m. Easter Vigil: Begin at fire pit 7:30 p.m. followed by Easter Vigil Mass in church Easter Sunday: 10 a.m. followed by Children’s Easter egg hunt Vietnamese Martyrs Parish 171 Oak St., Biloxi Palm Sunday: Vigil: 5 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m., 11 a.m. Holy Thursday: 5:30 p.m. Good Friday: Divine Mercy Chaplet (Divine Mercy Novena -- Day 1) 2 p.m.; Live Stations of Cross outside church & kissing cross 3 p.m.; Meditation Stations of Cross & burial of Jesus 7 p.m. Easter Vigil: Open tomb of Jesus 12 noon; Divine Mercy Chaplet (Divine Mercy Novena -- Day 2) 9 a.m. Easter Sunday: Procession of Risen Christ 8:30 a.m.; Mass 9 a.m., 11 a.m.; Divine Mercy Chaplet (Divine Mercy Novena -- Day 3) 2 p.m. St. Peter Parish 4135 Hwy. 42, Bassfield Palm Sunday: Vigil 4 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. Holy Thursday: 7 p.m. Good Friday: Stations of Cross 3 p.m.; 7 p.m. Holy Saturday: 7 p.m. Easter Sunday: 10 a.m. Our Lady of the Gulf Parish 228 South Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis Palm Sunday: Vigil 5 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., Latin 12:30 p.m., 5 p.m. Holy Thursday: 7 p.m. Good Friday: Stations 3 p.m.; Good Friday Service 7 p.m. Holy Saturday: 8 p.m. Easter Sunday: 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., Latin 12:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. St. Rose de Lima Parish 301 South Necaise Ave., Bay St. Louis Penance Service: Mon., March 23, 6 p.m. Palm Sunday: English 7 a.m., 9 a.m.; Spanish 12 noon Holy Thursday: Mass of Lord’s Supper, Washing of the Apostles’ feet 6 p.m.; Adoration until 10 p.m. Good Friday: Stations of the Cross (Live) 3 p.m. followed by Good Friday Service Easter Vigil: 7:30 p.m. Easter Sunday: English 7 a.m., 9 a.m.; Spanish 12 noon Holy Trinity Parish 1429 North Park Ave., Columbia Palm Sunday: Vigil 4 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. Holy Thursday: 5:30 p.m. Good Friday: 4:30 p.m. Holy Saturday: 7:30 p.m., St. Paul Church Easter Sunday: 11 a.m. Sacred Heart Parish 10446 LeMoyne Blvd., D’Iberville Palm Sunday: Vigil 4 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m. Holy Thursday: 6 p.m. Good Friday: Stations of Cross 3 p.m.; Service 6 p.m. Holy Saturday: 8 p.m. Easter Sunday: Marian Grotto (weather permitting) 7 a.m., 9 a.m. St. Mary Parish 809 De la Poine Dr., Gautier Palm Sunday: Vigil 5 p.m.; Sunday Procession from rectory 9:30 a.m. Holy Thursday: 7 p.m. Good Friday: Stations of Cross 3 p.m., Veneration of Cross 3:30 p.m. Holy Saturday: 7 p.m. Easter Sunday: 9:30 a.m. St. James Parish 366 Cowan Rd., Gulfport Palm Sunday: 4 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 5:30 p.m. Holy Thursday: Mass of Lord’s Supper 7 p.m. followed by Gethsemane Watch in Church until 12 a.m. (Midnight) Good Friday: Live Stations of Cross (Presented by Saint J Youth) 3 p.m. in the Center Gymnasium; Celebrations of Lord’s Passion 4:30 p.m. in Church Easter Vigil: 7:16 p.m. Easter Sunday: 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 5:30 p.m. St. John the Evangelist Parish 2414 17th St., Gulfport Lenten Reflection: 6 p.m. with Father Mike Somers, SVD Wednesday Tenebrae: 7 p.m. Holy Thursday: Washing of Feet 7 p.m. blilingual Good Friday: Passion & Veneration 3 p.m.; Live Stations of Cross 5 p.m. Holy Saturday: 7:30 p.m. (no 4 p.m. Mass) Easter Sunday: English 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 5 p.m.; Spanish 2 p.m. Holy Week Schedules
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MzEwNTM=