Volume 43, Issue 14 www.gulfpinecatholic.com April 10, 2026 Gulf Pine Catholic Official Newspaper of the Diocese of Biloxi Younger Catholics increasingly Hispanic; over half of Gen-Z adults stay Catholic BY GINA CHRISTIAN OSV News (OSV News) -- Younger Catholic adults in the U.S. are more likely to be Hispanic or Latino, while just over half of Gen-Z individuals raised Catholic are likely to retain that identity in adulthood. Those and other insights on the nation’s adult Catholics were shared by researcher Mark Gray in a March 23 analysis posted to Nineteen Sixty-four, the blog of the Center for Applied Research in theApostolate at Georgetown University. “We heard a lot in 2025 about a possible religious revival and about Catholics outnumbering Protestants in this younger demographic. What’s in the numbers?” wrote Gray, director of CARA Catholic Polls, research associate professor at Georgetown, and editor of the blog. To find out, CARA drew on data from the Comparative Election Survey (CES) in 2023 and the General Social Survey (GSS), a nationally representative survey of adults in the U.S. conducted since 1972. CARA researchers used Pew Research Center’s generational year definitions, which classify Gen-Z as those born between 1997 and 2012, Millennials as between 1981-1996, Generation X as between 19651980, and Baby Boomers as between 1946-1964. The Silent Generation was born between 1928 and 1945. Baby Boomers represent one third (33%, or 17.2 million) of the nation’s adult Catholics, with Gen-X (13.1 million) and Millennials (12.7 million) each representing a quarter. The Silent Generation counts 2.8 million, or 5% of U.S. adult Catholics. Gray noted in his post that researchers could only “see” Gen-Z adults (age 18 and up), not younger members, in the survey data, but presently they comprise 13% (7.1 million) of adult Catholics. “It’s with these youngest Catholics that there seems to be the greatest interest in data,” he said. He noted the data available now shows that 2023 CES data showing Millennial and Gen-Z Catholics appearing to “match or eclipse” their Protestant counterparts was “more than likely” a fluctuation in the survey’s margin of error. The CES data before and after 2023 doesn’t align with that finding, and the GSS also did not show “any similar jump in Catholic affiliation” in those generations either. “Surveys are always blurry images rather than picture portraits,” he explained in his post. For older generations, “Catholics trail Protestants in all observations” of CES and GSS data since 1972, he said. Still, Gray told OSV News, “there is a narrowing” between Catholics and Protestants in the younger age cohorts. “Protestants have really seen their affiliation rates decline over time, much more than Catholics,” Gray said, speaking by phone with OSV News. “In fact, Catholics have remained relatively stable, between 20% and 25%.” CARA found that in 2024, 36% of adult Catholics attended Mass at least once a month, 65% prayed at least once a week, and 76% said their religion is “somewhat” or “very” important to them. Gen-Z adult Catholics were more likely to attend Mass at least once a month (39%) than Gen-X (30%) and Baby Boomer (35%) Catholics. At the same time, Gray wrote, “GenZ were less likely than older Catholics to pray at least weekly and to say that their religion is ‘somewhat’ or ‘very’ important to them.” Data indicates those in Gen-Z who are raised Catholic are less likely than other age cohorts to retain that identity in adulthood. Gray observed that since 2021 -- when Gen-Z numbers became “visible in large enough numbers in the GSS” to be statistically significant -- their retention rates in the Catholic faith have “fallen each year to 52% in 2024.” In other words, “only about half of Gen-Z who are raised as Catholic remain Catholic as adults,” he said. However, Gray told OSV News he “would expect that number to rise” over time, since many young adults raised Catholic often distance themselves from their childhood faith before eventually returning to it. SEE CARA GEN Z DATA, PAGE 8 Young Catholic adults are pictured in a file photo praying over Bishop Anthony B. Taylor of Little Rock, Ark., during an evening encounter between young adults and their bishops at the Fifth National Encuentro in Grapevine, Texas. Younger Catholic adults in the U.S. are more likely to be Hispanic or Latino, while just over half of Gen-Z individuals raised Catholic are likely to retain that identity in adulthood, according to a March 23 data analysis by Mark Gray of the Center forApplied Research in the Apostolate. OSV News photo/James Ramos, Texas Catholic Herald
2 Gulf Pine Catholic • April 10, 2026 Diocese of Biloxi Bulletin Board Letter to the Bishop From Sean L. Callahan, President & CEO Catholic Relief Services Dear Most Reverend Kihneman, Thank you and the people of the Diocese of Biloxi for your recent generous donation of $5,765.46 to Catholic Relief Services on March 12 for our DRF-ORB Donations (102130). I am humbled by your generosity and inspired by your compassion. Your kindness is the very embodiment of Jesus’ teachings to care for our most needy brothers and sisters and is recognized by the Lord. As Scripture reminds us, Whoever cares for the poor lends to the Lord, who will pay back the sum in full. Proverbs 19:17 Thank you for living your faith and answering the prayers of so many. We are blessed to have you as part of the CRS family. On behalf of the people you help by your care, please accept my heartfelt appreciation. I wish you much joy and many blessings. Peace and Light, Sean L. Callahan President & CEO DIOCESAN EVENTS 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. Foster Parent Support Group: Catholic Charities of South Misssissippi is holding a Foster Parent Support Group series Mon., April 13-May 4, 6 p.m., located at 1450 North St., Gulfport. This series entitled Stronger Together is a four-part series covering understanding trauma and attachment, supporting challenging behaviors, preventing burnout and building a support system, and a Self Care Social. Babysitting is available. Registration is required by April 6 or go to www.gulfpinecatholic-org Calendar and using the QR code. 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. 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. Holy Infant of Good Health Feast Day & Festival: Join St. Ann Church, Clermont Harbor, April 22-26, for 3 days of prayer to the Holy Infant of Good Health, each evening beginning at 6 p.m. On Sun., April 26, for the Holy Infant’s Feast Day Celebration, 12:45 p.m. At the festival, food, music, and a pinata are available. For more info, call 228-332-3622. 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 • April 10, 2026 3 Bishop Kihneman’s Schedule Gulf Pine Catholic (ISSN No. 0746-3804) April 10, 2026 Volume 43, Issue 14 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 APRIL24 — News copy and photos: Due APRIL 14, 4 p.m. Advertising: Completed Ad and/or copy due APRIL 14, 10 a.m. April 11 Confirmation, St Joseph the Worker Parish, Moss Point, 4 p.m. April 12 Confirmation, Holy Family Parish, Pass Christian, 5 p.m. April 13 Priests’ Retreat, Our Lady of -16 Hope Retreat Center, Osyka, MS April 18 Equestrian Order of the Holy -20 Sepulchre Annual Meeting, Montgomery, AL April 22 Confirmation, Sacred Heart Parish, Hattiesburg, 6 p.m. April 23 Presbyteral Council, Pastoral Center, Biloxi, 10:30 a.m. April 23 Confirmation, St. Elizabeth Seton Parish, Oceans Springs, 6 p.m. April 24 Knights of Columbus -26 Convention, Natchez, MS April 26 Mass, Holy Infant of Good Health, St. Ann Parish, Clermont Harbor, 2 p.m. BY BISHOP LOUIS F. KIHNEMAN III Bishop of the Diocese of Biloxi As we continue to celebrate the joy of the Resurrection, the Church also leads us into the grace of Divine Mercy Sunday, reminding us in a special way of the boundless mercy flowing from the heart of the risen Christ. We come together to celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord, and in the end, that is what everything is about: Jesus rising from the dead. But we begin at the cross. We begin with Jesus giving His life for us, saying in the deepest way possible that death has no more power over us (cf. Romans 6:9). Think about that: death has no more power over us. Jesus declares His love in the most complete way -- by laying down His life -- and in doing so, He opens for us the way to the Resurrection. The Paschal candle, placed prominently in our churches, is a powerful sign of this mystery. Marked with the wounds of Christ and the year of our salvation, it proclaims that the light of Christ is alive among us. That light is not distant. Through Baptism, each of us carries it within. Each of us shares in the promise of the Resurrection. No matter what is happening in our Bishop Kihneman “Peace Be With You”: From the Cross to the Resurrection lives, this is what it is all about: Jesus Christ risen from the dead. This is our gift. This is our blessing. In the Gospel of St. John, we hear one of the Resurrection accounts (John 20:1929). Jesus appears to His disciples who are lost and filled with fear. They are unprepared, uncertain, and without hope. Yet when He comes to them, He does not startle them or condemn them. Instead, He says, “Peace be with you” (John 20:19). This is not simply a greeting. It is the peace of heaven -- the peace of the risen Christ. It is the same Jesus, rich in mercy, who comes to us today. He meets us in the sacraments. He meets us in our lives. He is present, loving us, and inviting us into a deeper relationship with God. The disciples, who had lost hope, are renewed in that encounter. Their hearts, once broken, are restored. Their faith is rekindled. They are given new life as His disciples. Then Jesus breathes on them and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22). That same Spirit is given to us. In a particular way, it is given in the Sacrament of Confirmation, where we are sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit. This is not symbolic. It is real. It is the very breath of Christ entering into our lives. And yet, even among the disciples, there is doubt. Thomas is not present at first, and he refuses to believe. He says plainly, “Unless I see… I will not believe” (John 20:25). We understand that. There are moments in life when we do not know what God is doing. There are times of confusion, suffering, and uncertainty. In those moments, faith becomes a choice. It is as if God is asking us: Will you love me even now? Will you trust me even here? When Jesus appears again, He goes directly to Thomas. He meets him in his doubt and invites him to believe: “Put your finger here… do not be unbelieving, but believe” (John 20:27). In the same way, Christ comes to each of us. No matter what is happening in our lives, He invites us into a relationship of love. He calls us to open our hearts and receive Him. The response of Thomas becomes our own: “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). This is the moment of faith. This is the call given to every one of us. SEE BISHOP’S COLUMN, PAGE 13
4 Gulf Pine Catholic • April 10, 2026 POR EL OBISPO LOUIS F. KIHNEMAN III Obispo de Biloxi Mientras continuamos celebrando la alegría de la Resurrección, la Iglesia también nos guía hacia la gracia del Domingo de la Divina Misericordia, recordándonos de manera especial la misericordia infinita que brota del corazón de Cristo resucitado. Nos reunimos para celebrar la Resurrección del Señor y, al final, de eso se trata todo: de Jesús que resucita de entre los muertos. Pero comenzamos en la cruz. Comenzamos con Jesús entregando su vida por nosotros, diciendo de la manera más profunda posible que la muerte ya no tiene poder sobre nosotros (cf. Romanos 6:9). Piensa en eso: la muerte ya no tiene poder sobre nosotros. Jesús declara su amor de la manera más completa -- entregando su vida -- y, al hacerlo, nos abre el camino hacia la Resurrección. El cirio pascual, colocado de manera destacada en nuestras iglesias, es un signo poderoso de este misterio. Marcado con las heridas de Cristo y el año de nuestra salvación, proclama que la luz de Cristo está viva entre nosotros. Esa luz no está distante. A través del Bautismo, cada uno de nosotros la lleva dentro. Cada uno de nosotros participa en la promesa de la Resurrección. No importa lo que esté sucediendo en nuestras vidas, de esto se trata todo: Jesucristo resucitado de entre los muertos. Este es nuestro don. Esta es nuestra bendición. En el Evangelio de san Juan, escuchamos uno de los relatos de la Resurrección (Juan 20:19-29). Jesús se aparece a sus discípulos, que están perdidos y llenos de miedo. No están preparados, están inseguros y sin esperanza. Sin embargo, cuando Él viene a ellos, no los sobresalta ni los condena. En cambio, les dice: «La paz esté con ustedes» (Juan 20:19). Esto no es simplemente un saludo. Es la paz del cielo: la paz de Cristo resucitado. Es el mismo Jesús, rico en misericordia, quien viene a nosotros hoy. Nos encuentra en los sacramentos. Nos encuentra en nuestras vidas. Está presente, nos ama y nos invita a una relación más profunda con Dios. Los discípulos, que habían perdido la esperanza, Obispo Kihneman son renovados en ese encuentro. Sus corazones, antes quebrantados, son restaurados. Su fe se reaviva. Se les da una vida nueva como sus discípulos. Entonces Jesús sopla sobre ellos y dice: «Reciban el Espíritu Santo» (Juan 20:22). Ese mismo Espíritu nos es dado a nosotros. De manera particular, se nos da en el sacramento de la Confirmación, donde somos sellados con el don del Espíritu Santo. Esto no es simbólico. Es real. Es el mismo aliento de Cristo que entra en nuestras vidas. Y, sin embargo, incluso entre los discípulos, hay duda. Tomás no está presente al principio y se niega a creer. Dice claramente: «Si no veo… no creeré» (Juan 20:25). Lo entendemos. Hay momentos en la vida en los que no sabemos lo que Dios está haciendo. Hay tiempos de confusión, sufrimiento e incertidumbre. En esos momentos, la fe se convierte en una decisión. Es como si Dios nos preguntara: ¿Me amarás incluso ahora? ¿Confiarás en mí incluso aquí? Cuando Jesús aparece de nuevo, va directamente a Tomás. Lo encuentra en su duda y lo invita a creer: «Trae tu dedo aquí… no seas incrédulo, sino creyente» (Juan 20:27). De la misma manera, Cristo viene a cada uno de nosotros. No importa lo que esté pasando en nuestras vidas, nos invita a una relación de amor. Nos llama a abrir nuestros corazones y a recibirlo. La respuesta de Tomás se convierte en la nuestra: «¡Señor mío y Dios mío!» (Juan 20:28). Este es el momento de la fe. Este es el llamado que se nos hace a cada uno de nosotros. Por medio del don del Espíritu Santo, somos fortalecidos para vivir esa fe. La Iglesia nombra claramente estos dones: sabiduría, entendimiento, conocimiento, fortaleza, consejo, piedad y temor del Señor (Isaías 11:2-3). En un mundo que a menudo dice «no creas», la sabiduría de Dios es esencial. Nos ayuda a ver el mundo como Dios lo creó y a comprender su verdad. El entendimiento y el conocimiento profundizan nuestra conciencia de la presencia de Dios, especialmente en los momentos difíciles. La fortaleza nos da la fuerza para permanecer como testigos de Cristo. La piedad nos arraiga en la oración, en la Palabra de Dios (Hechos 2:42) y en la Eucaristía, donde encontramos el Cuerpo y la Sangre de Jesucristo. El temor del Señor nos recuerda que somos criaturas, amadas a la existencia por Dios cada día. En los momentos de profundo dolor, Dios da consuelo. En los momentos de debilidad, Él da fuerza. En cada momento, permanece con nosotros. Somos un pueblo de fe, un pueblo de la Resurrección, un pueblo que lleva la luz de Cristo al mundo. Y así, se nos invita -- a cada uno de nosotros -- a responder. A estar ante el misterio de la cruz y del sepulcro vacío y a profesar con nuestras vidas y nuestros corazones: Señor mío y Dios mío. “La paz esté con ustedes”: De la Cruz a la Resurrección DEADLINE NOTICE News deadline for the April 24 issue is 4 p.m., Tues, April 14; ads are due by 10 a.m., Tues., April 14. Email news items & photos to tdickson@biloxidiocese.org. Please include a daytime phone number on all submissions. Questions? Call 228-702-2109 or 228-702-2127.
Gulf Pine Catholic • April 10, 2026 5 Compassionate Service 228-374-5650 Bradfordokeefe.com Thank you Jesus, Mary, St. Joseph, St. Jude, & St. Anthony, for prayers answered. CS Thank you St. Jude, Blessed Mother, and Sacred Heart of Jesus. JO Thank you to St. Jude and our Blessed Mother, for prayers answered. JCH MERCY LIVED: Today’s first reading provides a blueprint for the ideal parish church where leaders and parishioners work in harmony to grow in faith and minister to the wider community. Members of this first-century, post-Pentecost community were devoted and zealous about their communal life, the apostles’ teachings, celebrating the Eucharist, and an intensely focused prayer life. Additionally, they put their faith and worship into action by sharing their possessions with those in need. Acts of mercy and compassion, done in the name of Jesus, are pleasing to God. “The Lord added to their number every day” (Acts 2:47). MERCY SAINTS: For those wondering what it takes to attain heaven and eternal life, the Church provides a simple answer: Be a saint! A saint is usually an ordinary person who responds to God’s call and lives a life filled with love and personal sacrifice. Someone who has experienced suffering to some degree but remains faithful to God, is remembered for their holiness, and puts others before themselves. At our reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Church requires that we choose the name of a saint we will model our lives after. Two mercy saints are Pope Sy. John Paul II, known as the mercy pope, and Sy. Mother Teresa of Calcutta. DIVINE MERCY/ EASTER JOY: Today’s Gospel exemplifies the highest acts of mercy, followed by incredible joy. John vividly describes the scene. Imagine Jesus’ disciples, still grieving about His brutal punishment and death on the cross, and wondering what their lives would be like without Him, yet fearing for their own safety from the same people who murdered their Lord. Fear keeps them locked in a room, listening for any activity that may be coming their way. One of them, Thomas, was so distressed that he couldn’t bear to be there with his friends; where he went, we do not know. Suddenly, without a sound, Jesus miraculously appeared before His ten apostles and spoke these comforting words, “Peace be with you.” As a further act of mercy, He showed them the visible signs of His nail-scarred hands and lance-pierced side. John writes, “The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.” (John 20:20b). In this joyful yet tense moment, the next move comes from Jesus. Would He revile His apostles for their cowardly act of abandonment at His darkest hour of need? Would He single out Peter for denying Him three times? Would He express disappointment in their behavior and issue a stern warning that they are now on probation until they earn His trust again? Was the apostolic mission compromised, so that more faithful apostles must be chosen? Apparently, words of condemnation did not cross Jesus’ mind. Instead, He spoke of comfort, peace, forgiveness, and confidence, evidenced by confirming their commission. Jesus breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven, and whose sins you retain are retained.” Divine Mercy was freely given as Jesus established the great Sacrament of mercy, the Sacrament of Reconciliation. One week later, mercy, which was so freely given to the ten, was personally extended to Thomas. Thomas responded, “My Lord and my God!” You and I need God’s Divine Mercy and the joy that comes with it; now and always. The Sacrament of Reconciliation provides that. THROUGH IT ALL: Andre Crouch wrote a song titled “Through It All.” The lyrics are: “I thank God for the mountains, and I thank Him for the valleys, and I thank Him for the storms He has brought me through. For if I never had a problem, I’d never know that God could solve them, I’d never know what faith in His word could do. That’s the reason I say that through it all, through it all, I have learned to trust in Jesus.” Have the trials that you have encountered made your joy complete and strengthened your faith and trust in Jesus? CLOSING COMMENTS: As Disciples of Christ, we can habitually practice the virtues of love and mercy by simplifying our lives, being content with basic personal needs, and dedicating more of our time to helping others. Pray for people, but don’t just promise to pray and walk away. Pray with them on the spot, specifically asking for the Lord’s intervention into their lives -- for healing, forgiveness, or whatever their need. Focus your thoughts and actions more on forgiveness than on fault, on mercy rather than criticism, on love and compassion instead of finger-pointing or gossip, on doing more than your share rather than a minimal effort, and on offering hope, joy, and encouragement rather than negativity, gloom, and a pessimistic outlook. Like Jesus’ disciples, we are imperfect, yet we pray to become what the Lord wants us to be. Deacon Ralph Torrelli is retired and lives in Tennessee. Visit his website: www.homilypearls. com. 1st Reading: Acts of the Apostles 2:42-47 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24 2nd Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9 Gospel: John 20:19-31 Second Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday) Mercy sanctified Deacon Torrelli Sunday Scripture Commentaries
6 Gulf Pine Catholic • April 10, 2026 I meet them at every waking moment, at every crossroads in life, at every situation imaginable; even in my slumber hours. I have no choice. Some are welcome; some are surprises; some at puzzling, some are questioning; some are soul-searching; some are faith testing; some are grateful and supporting; some are painful and hurting; some are invisible and some are assuring. But, no matter what, I have no choice but to face them. The face of a newborn is a face that reminds me of the miracle of life; the face that reminds me of the gift of hope; the face that reminds me that God still believes is humanity and shows it; the face that exudes faith, hope and trust; a face that portrays innocence and trust in humanity yet to be discovered; a face whose true potential and giftedness is yet to be discovered. The face of a child beginning their first day at school; a face that feels so grown up with their school bag filled with lunch and curiosity; a face that is filled with timidity as they embrace a new slice of life; a face that wonders if friends can be made easily and kept; a face that wonders if it will be accepted and appreciated rather than bullied and ostracized; a face that is ready to drink in and be overwhelmed at times by the new knowledge and feel so little in the midst of such mass of knowledge. The face of a graduate; a face that is often a contradiction between confidence and fear; a face that is past ready to loosen the apron strings of home for greater freedom; a face that is ready to continue to earn the trust that is laid at their feet; a face that still wrestles with questions such as “Did I make the right decisions?” “Will I be happy in my chosen area of study?” “Is this the right fit for me?”; a face that, no matter what, will be dogged by more questioning than assuring answers. The face of a newly engaged; a face that, in one way, feels happy about the decision, while, at the same time, second guessing it; a face that is ready to build a dream but realizes that it could be shattered by one moment of mistrust that could last a lifetime; a face that realizes that “happy ever after” is storybook tales without faith, hope and trust in the promises made and continually sealed by their living out daily for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer; in sickness, and in health. The face of an older person; a face that continues to live through the daily grinds of life with robust trust and undaunted faith; a face that, like the face of Janus, is both looking back on the past and still hoping for more growth filled and on-the-job daily experiences that will both continue to challenge one’s prowess and resolve and question the ability to embrace each moment as growth filling and maturing. The face of a person who just heard the death sentence from their doctor; a face filled with shock and unbelief; the face that ask, “Why me, why now? I have so much to live for and so little to die for;” a face filled with raw, searching questions and lack of consoling answers; a face that wants to try to bargain with promises they wonder if delivery of such promises may even matter; a face with “how long?” with the only answer is that it is not yours to decide; a face that lives the torture of each passing moment with the desire to be grateful for a live well lived so far. The face of a war-torn victim trying to make sense and survive in a war that they did not begin, want or control; the face that listens day and night to the harrowing sounds of weapons sent from afar and yet may kill them; the face that decries destructive, human savagery and inhumanity; a face that wonders about the futility of death and destruction, perpetrated on humanity by an ego-driven and yet, supposedly redeemed fellow human being; a face that is filled with pain, anger, resentment and loss of hope. The face of a refugee; a face that is uprooted from family and friends; from stability and familiar places; a face that is often thrust into another hostile environment where the stranger is not wanted and reminded to take their problems elsewhere; a face doomed to be a wandering spirit without acceptance, toleration or roots to any stability; a face that carries the cross of rejection even as they cry out for acceptance and trust, for a chance to begin again and to contribute to a possible new homeland. Still, amid these myriad of faces, there is a glimmer of hope; there is the ever present indominable human spirit at work. Amid their furrowed and wrinkled faces, there is a deeper desire to have faith, hope and love that no one can destroy. There is the indelible reminder that after every Good Friday comes an Easter Sunday. Let’s face it! Father Michael Tracey is retired and lives in Ireland. He can be contacted by email at mjtracey72@ yahoo.com. His website is www.michaeltracey.net. Let’s face it! Across the Pond Father Tracey On June 7, 1997, Pope St. John Paul II visited the Shrine of Divine Mercy in Krakow, Poland. There, he stated, “Those who sincerely say, ‘Jesus, I trust in You’ will find comfort in all their anxieties and fears. There is nothing that man needs more than Divine Mercy -- that love which is benevolent, which is compassionate, which raises man above his weakness to the infinite heights of the holiness of God.” As we move through these early days of the Easter Season, united in joy over the miracle of the Resurrection, it is fitting that our Second Sunday of Easter should be Divine Mercy Sunday because Divine Mercy is the great fruit of Christ’s sacrifice. John Paul II elevated this devotion because he had such a keen understanding of the spirituality of St. Faustina Kowalska, who died in Krakow in 1938, the very same year that he, as then 18-year-old Karol Wojtyla, moved to that city with his father. Karol’s mother had died of a heart attack when he was just eight years old, and his sister died before he was even born. His older brother Edmund succumbed to scarlet fever when Karol was just 12 years old. Edmund was a physician who contracted scarlet fever after treating those suffering from the illness. Karol’s father died of a heart attack just three years after they moved to Krakow. Later, as pope, he recalled that time in his life, saying, “At twenty, I had already lost all the people I loved.” Acquaintance with loss prepared young Karol for the specter of war looming in Europe. But Karol was also acquainted with hope, and he was prepared to respond to the tragedy of World War II with bold action. He defied the Nazis by entering the clandestine underground seminary, even while he fulfilled their mandatory labor requirement by working in a quarry. It was during this time that he learned of Faustina’s writings, which led to his devotion to Divine Mercy. It was a devotion that planted a seed of hope inspiring him to continue to defy the Nazis by protecting many Jewish people. That devotion also later inspired him to become a brave voice in Poland’s struggle for religious freedom behind the Iron Curtain of Russian communism. When he became pope, John Paul II spoke of the importance of Divine Mercy to his pontificate, saying, “Right from the beginning of my ministry in St. Peter’s See in Rome, I considered this message my special task. Providence has assigned it to me in the present situation of man, the Church and the world. It could be said that precisely this situation assigned that message to me as my task before God.” St. Faustina’s profound mystical experiences led her to reveal the vital importance of God’s mercy, which inspired young Karol Wojtyla, who carried his first-hand knowledge of the power of mercy into a pontificate that amplified the message of Divine Mercy. That message is a continuum tracing directly to Christ and His Resurrection. It falls to us now to pick up the mantle. Each one of us, in our own time, is called to follow in the footsteps of saints like Faustina and John Paul II and all those who have raised up the message announcing that God’s mercy is triumphant and extends to the farthest reaches of creation and the deepest recesses of each soul. 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. Mercy raises man above his weakness Light One Candle Fr. Dougherty
Gulf Pine Catholic • April 10, 2026 7 228-539-9800 www.RiemannFamily.com Gulfport Pass Christian West Jackson County Biloxi Long Beach Hancock County “Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you -- guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.” 2 Timothy 1:14 There is a sacredness found within the traditions of a family that’s difficult to define. It contains a foundation strong enough to hold both divinity and darkness without breaking. It’s learning to see the people who witness our beginnings, stand beside us in our storms, and keep our legacy alive long after we are gone. These are the people who learn our earliest fears and share our first joys. They see our vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and imperfections long before we learn how to hide them. “Let us consider how we may guide one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another -- and even more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25 Family is where we first learn the importance of forgiveness and gratitude in personal growth, along with the factor of time in healing wounds. It’s about recognizing that love is more than an exchanging of words. It’s being expected to show up over and over, through the holidays, celebrations, and seasons of change. When everything in life feels uncertain, a family’s bond allows grace to shine through the darkest of times. “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20 It is where milestones are remembered, how strength is found during grief, and when wisdom takes form in lives. It is the love in meals that take hours to prepare, the laughter heard at every gathering, and the lessons passed from parent to child. Family is where faith is born in the hearts of those who loved, endured, and believed enough to plant seeds in their lifetime with an understanding that they may not live to see the fruits of their labor. This is where we find the sacredness and wisdom of grandparents that live on long after they are gone. And it’s where we find hope to keep pushing on, even when the world tells us to give up. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 It’s important to remember those in our family that keep tradition alive. They don’t carry the family legacy for glory, but instead because they heard the call. And they said yes, without hesitation or second thoughts. In the upcoming weeks, I challenge you to set aside time to honor those who paved the road for your family. Find ways to give thanks in an intentional way to those who are given the grace to maintain the path in each generation, and for doing it without asking for anything in return. Thank you to all those who are the heartbeat at each family. You not only keep the hope and love alive in your family, but also in the world. Ashley Bonney is a member of Most Holy Trinity Parish, Pass Christian. Family Tradition Bonney Guest Columnist During the end of Lent, many look forward to the beautiful celebration of the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. But, brothers and sisters, Easter Sunday is not an ending, but a beginning and for our families, based on prayer, fasting, alms giving and penance, it should provide for us a NEW NORMAL for our spiritual lives. Easter is a significant family holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ through faith-based traditions, festive meals and bonding activities. ALL families should attend church services, read the Resurrection story, (e.g. from Luke 24), and maybe create Resurrection rolls (a roll with an empty center to represent the empty tomb.) This is also a great time to celebrate relationships and create lasting memories with extended family. The new normal we should experience at Easter centers around what it is we did to prepare to celebrate the day. What did you do during the forty days before Easter, that made your life worthy of the sacrifice Jesus made for you? Our new normal should center around the example we set for our families by walking away from the things that put us at odds with God. I remember a time when I first got diagnosed with hypertension. I was in my late 20’s. So I went to my doctor, and he prescribed me anti-hypertensive medicine. After I took the medicine. I felt AWFUL. So, I called the doctor and told him the medicine wasn’t working. He asked me to come in, and I did, and he looked at the medicine and smiled at me and said, “There is nothing wrong with the medicine, the problem you have is that you have felt bad for so long, you felt that your bad condition was how you were supposed to feel. Your NEW NORMAL is how you feel now, which is best for you! And so, it is with sin. In our lives, we get used to a certain type of sin, and we convince ourselves that it’s ok, until we go to reconciliation, and get the awakening necessary to get away from our sinful state, to reach our spiritual NEW NORMAL, so that we not only can be good for ourselves, but out families. And that is what the Lenten preparation is all about. For our families, Easter is celebrated for 50 days leading us to Pentecost. Easter is not just a historical event, but a present reality that allows for new life, with the energy of the resurrection empowering Christians to overcome sin. For our families, Easter is the central feast of Christianity, celebrating Jesus Christ’s resurrection, which destroyed the power of death and sin. The resurrection is a real physical event, not merely a spiritual concept, confirmed by the empty tomb. Deacon Justin Mitchell is the Director of Marriage and Family Life for the Diocese of Biloxi. Marriage & Family Life Mitchell Easter, a New Normal
8 Gulf Pine Catholic • April 10, 2026 THANKSGIVING NOVENA TO ST. JUDE O Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St. Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen. Say three Our Fathers, Hail Marys and Glorias. Publication must be promised. This Novena has never been known to fail. I have had my request granted. Publication promised. LCL By comparison, between 2014 and 2024, higher retention rates of the Catholic faith were seen in Baby Boomers (68% to 62%), Generation X (70% to 60%) and Millennials (64% to 53%) even as those cohorts saw overall declines during that decade. Adult conversions to the Catholic faith after the age of 16 remain in the range of 2% to 3% of the share of U.S. adults across all age cohorts, said Gray. Conversions among Gen-Z adults in the U.S. increased from 0.4% in 2021 and 0.3% in 2022. In 2024, that share rose to 2.9%, consistent with other generations in recent years. “A 2.9% convert percentage in 2024 is not an outlier from other generations in recent years and brings Gen-Z in line with prevailing patterns,” Gray wrote. Gray said the low rates in 2021 and 2022 may have been due to two factors. First, as a younger generation, the Gen-Z cohort has had “less time” to “make a religious switch,” he said. Secondly, he said, the period “overlaps with the COVID-19 pandemic,” when potential converts may have been unable to enroll in OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults) classes. He also pointed out that “significant change” could be seen across generations in “racial and ethnic diversity.” Data shows that 40% of Gen-Z Catholics self-identify as Hispanic or Latino, compared to 18% among their Baby Boomer counterparts, he wrote. Less than half of Gen-Z (47%) and Millennial (46%) Catholic adults identify themselves as white and non-Hispanic, Gray noted. He added that “the number of Catholics who self-identify as something other than Hispanic or non-Hispanic white is also larger among Millennials and Gen-Z than older Catholics.” Gray told OSV News that statistical evidence of an overall rise in Catholics is not yet available. “It could be true. We hope it’s true; we hope that there’s this big influx of new Catholics,” he said. “We won’t know until next year.” Gina Christian is a multimedia reporter for OSV News. Follow her on X @GinaJesseReina. Cara Gen Z Data From page 1 Pope Leo XIV names Australian archbishop prefect of Dicastery for Legislative Texts BY COURTNEY MARES OSV News VATICAN CITY (OSV News) -- Pope Leo XIV has named Australian Archbishop Anthony Randazzo as prefect of the Dicastery for Legislative Texts, the Vatican body responsible for interpreting the Catholic Church’s canon law. The pope’s latest appointment on March 25 fills a post in the Roman Curia that had been vacant since September. Archbishop Randazzo succeeds Arch-bishop Filippo Iannone, whom Pope Leo named prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in September. Archbishop Randazzo, 59, is the bishop of Broken Bay in Australia and the president of the Federation of Catholic Bishops’ Conferences of Oceania. In conjunction with the appointment, the pope granted him the personal title of archbishop. The Dicastery for Legislative Texts, formerly known as the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts, serves as the Roman Curia’s authority on the interpretation of existing canon law. It works closely with the Church’s tribunals, but does not hold independent law-making authority. A native of Australia, Archbishop Randazzo was ordained a priest in Brisbane in 1991 and later pursued studies in canon law at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. He brings direct curial experience to the role, having worked for five years in the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith beginning in 2004, a role that would have provided him with experience in the Vatican’s disciplinary section handling abuse cases. Pope Francis appointed him as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Sydney in 2016 before he was later named bishop of Broken Bay in 2019. Australia’s ambassador to the Holy See, Keith Pitt, welcomed the appointment, calling it “a proud moment for Australia and the Pacific as we remain hopeful for a Papal visit to our region in 2028.” Archbishop Randazzo will remain in Broken Bay for three months as apostolic administrator before relocating to Rome to assume his new duties. In a statement on social media, he said he was “deeply grateful to Pope Leo for the trust he has placed in me.” Courtney Mares is Vatican editor for OSV News. Follow her on X @catholicourtney. Bishop Anthony Randazzo of Broken Bay, Australia, speaks during a news conference at the Vatican Oct. 4, 2024. Pope Leo XIV named the prelate prefect of the Dicastery for Legislative Texts on March 25 and in conjunction with the appointment also granted him the personal title of archbishop. CNS photo/Justin McLellan
Gulf Pine Catholic • April 10, 2026 9 Getting to Know the Servants in the Diocese of Biloxi who answered God’s Call to a Religious Vocation ~ Hearing and Answering the Call BY MONICAWALTON BILOXI -- Born into most unusual circumstances, Father John Maxwell Quaye literally came into this world as his mother, Gifty, was standing at the altar worshiping in a Pentecostal Church inWinneba, a town in the Central Region of South Ghana, Africa. Gifty and her newborn son were then taken to the hospital and his birth was officially recorded. “I was born in the midst of praises!” he said. The eldest of six children, Father Max shared the weight of looking after the younger children and caring for the household. Sadly, his father was an alcoholic, so Father Max also looked after his mom and defended her when necessary. She was a trader of fish and he helped with her business whenever he could. After Father Max was ordained, his mother freed herself from the toxic marriage by separation. The greatest gift Father Max received from his parents was the gift of Faith. His experience of the Catholic Faith came from his father, who, despite having been raised in a traditional African religion of Nature, converted to Christianity. “My dad is the only Christian convert in his family,” said Father Max. “I thank God that He used my dad to make me Catholic.” He describes his dad, a pharmacist by profession, as a “book Catholic” who checks the boxes faithfully. His mother, who is virtually illiterate, taught him how to live Faith. “She taught me to know Jesus and the Word of God as a person,” he added. The African church services, including the Catholic Mass, are very open to spontaneous song and praise. “Like Queen Esther in the Bible, I witnessed my mother praying prostrate with her whole body in front of her altar,” said Father Max. “She would roll on the floor singing and speaking in tongues. I didn’t know what it was, but I felt God’s presence. She allowed me to be with her, and I prayed in tongues, too. So, by hindsight, I now know I received baptism of the Holy Spirit at a young age.” He remains open to the Holy Spirit and has spent his 20 years of priesthood traveling and evangelizing throughout Africa, Latin America, and now Mississippi. “I’m here to serve,” said Father Max. “I want to do the best I can to help people know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. I want them to live in the Kingdom of Light and experience the unfathomable joy of the Kingdom of God.” He said that the biggest difference he has found in America compared to other countries where he has served is that here we have a whole generation that doesn’t know God personally, but it’s not their fault. Father Max wishes that his presence and ministry in the United States will call these generations back to God. He has preached at St. Patrick School and a Confirmation Retreat, and says the message is starting to bear fruit. “I challenge the young people, telling them ‘Own Your Faith!’” he said. “I tell them that since they drive themselves to school and all over the place, they can drive to morning Mass. Now we see them during the week at 6:20 morning Mass at Our Lady of Fatima!” Father Max first wanted to be a priest when he was about four years old. “There was a priest who served as a hospital chaplain and would go around to the houses and sprinkle holy water on everyone. I wanted to do that!” he laughs. “Later, I forgot about that, and I wanted to be a medical doctor.” As a young adult, he was a member of a parish that had a very boring parish priest. “We, all the people, were talking about how awful his preaching was,” said Father Max. “People would actually fall asleep during Mass!” They were asking each other what could be done to resolve this problem. During the Consecration, Father Max received the answer from God. “He said, ‘You are the answer!’When we see a problem or challenge in the Faith, we need to let God use us to be the answer. He wants to use us to make the Church and our world better.” In 1994, Father Max was baptized in the Holy Spirit again through the current chancellor of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences and Social Sciences, His Eminence Peter Cardinal Turkson of Rome. “It was after my secondary school (equivalent to American high school),” he said. “He was a great influence on me. Cardinal Turkson invited us to a three-week summer school camp. The mornings were filled with lectures, and the afternoon focused on Life in the Spirit courses. “During those weeks, my calling to the priesthood was again ignited, and I decided I wanted to be a priest to help him.” So Father Max went on to study in three different seminaries for each level of his formation: preparatory, spirituality/philosophy, and theology. On November 12, 2005, he was ordained for the Diocese of Cape Coast. Traveling around Africa, Father Max’s ministry in music and Word was all about evangelization and the joy of God’s Kingdom. He continued his ministry in Brazil for nine years, always on the lookout for more platforms and places to spread evangelization. One day, Father Max was scrolling on Facebook and by happenstance, he came across his friend from seminary, Father Godfrey Andoh, who was three years ahead of him. They had lost contact after Father Godfrey moved to the United States to serve the Diocese of Biloxi. “He was one of the major priests who gave me the encouragement, opportunities, and the platform to unleash my talents in the seminary and during my early years in the ministry,” recalls Father Max. “When he popped up on Facebook, I sent him a message.” It took three months to receive a reply. Father Godfrey admitted that he hadn’t looked at Facebook for two years. So it seemed to be providential. The two old friends exchanged contact information and rekindled their friendship. Eventually, Father Godfrey, who serves as Vicar of Priests and Rector for the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Biloxi, told Father Max, “I think my bishop is looking for someone like you.” Bishop Louis Kihneman had previously traveled to Brazil to learn about ministering to people who are struggling with addictions. That led to the formation of the Farm of Hope, which is in the process of being readied and opened. It will be a place where individuals can work to overcome their addictions through a journey of faith and healing. Father Max’s bishop granted permission for him to serve in the Diocese of Biloxi. “Right now, I’m mainly working to learn more about the culture here,” said Father Max, who serves as Parochial Vicar for Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Biloxi. “Last year, the church was half-full for Stations during Lent. This year, I desire to see a filled church!” SEE VOCATIONS INSPIRATIONS, PAGE 14 Father Maxwell In the Spirit of Evangelization
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