Gulf Pine Catholic • May 8, 2026 9 Robin Peeler retires after 17 years of dedicated service For over 17 years, Robin Peeler has been more than just a receptionist and database coordinator at the Diocese of Biloxi’s Chancery offices; she has been the heart and soul of our diocesan family. Tens of thousands of callers and visitors have been greeted by her warm smile and friendly voice, setting the tone for their interactions with the bishop and our church. Now, as she announces her retirement, we reflect on her extraordinary career and the significant impact she has made on our community. Robin’s journey with the Diocese began over a decade and a half ago, where she quickly became the face of the front desk. Her dedication and attention to detail ensured that every interaction was handled with care and respect. Her role was not just limited to welcoming visitors; she was a pivotal part of the office, managing complex tasks with ease and efficiency. Her stewardship of the diocesan database has been instrumental in maintaining the smooth operation of our communications and administrative functions. Dave Wyrwich, Director of Mission Advancement, fondly reflects on his experience working with Robin Peeler, stating, “When I joined the Diocese nine years ago, Robin was one of the first people I met, and from that moment, she became an indispensable part of our team. Her outstanding ability to manage the ‘front office,’ coupled with her dedication to the Catholic Sharing Appeal and her meticulous maintenance of the diocesan database, has been invaluable. Robin’s efforts have not only supported me and my colleagues at the chancery but have also significantly benefited our parishes, schools, and parishioners throughout South Mississippi.” Bishop Kihneman remarked, “Robin’s dedication and exceptional service have been such an example of discipleship in her work at the Chancery. Her welcoming demeanor, meticulous work, and enduring patience have touched countless lives over her extensive career. She will be deeply missed, and I wish her a very long and happy retirement with her family.” Throughout her career, Robin has been known for her unwavering commitment and kindness. Her presence at the front office was not just about performing tasks but making everyone feel welcome and heard. This unique ability to connect with people has left a lasting impression on those she has worked with and those she has served. As Robin steps into retirement, she leaves behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and dedication. Her plans include spending more quality time with her husband, Mark, her sons, and their families, and especially her eight-month-old grandson, Max. While she will be greatly missed by all of us who have had the pleasure to work alongside her, we wish Robin a joyful and fulfilling retirement, filled with love and laughter. Robin Peeler’s contributions to the Diocese of Biloxi will be cherished and remembered fondly. Her spirit and dedication embody the very essence of our mission, and her impact will continue to resonate within our community for years to come. Bishop Louis F. Kihneman III recognizes Robin Peeler, a longtime employee of the Diocese of Biloxi, during an April 16 retirement ceremony at the Diocese of Biloxi’s Pastoral Center. Papal trip put spotlight on local injustices, joy of Christian faith, pope says BY CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Leo XIV wanted his journey to Africa to highlight the serious injustices continuing there and propose a message of peace to a world marred by conflict and violations of international law. “At the same time, the apostolic journey gave people in Africa a chance to make their voices heard and to express the joy of being God’s people,” he said. Pope Leo used his first general audience after his April 13-23 trip to Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea. Addressing thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square April 29, Pope Leo said in English that his time there “was meant to offer the world a message of peace at a moment marked by conflicts and frequent violations of international law. “Along with the call for peace, I also denounced the grave injustices that exist in those countries that are so rich in natural resources, urging the international community to overcome neo-colonial attitudes and engage in authentic collaboration,” he said. Whenever a pope visits a country, it is a chance for the people to have their voices be heard and for Catholics to “express the joy of being God’s people and the hope for a better future, of dignity for each and every one,” he said. “I am happy to have given them this opportunity, and at the same time I thank the Lord for what they have given me, an inestimable treasure for my heart and my ministry.”
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