A large group photo of church members gathered inside a church with stained glass windows, wearing blue shirts and a priest in green vestments.

Photo/Courtesy of Kelly Brody

On Sunday, 20 September, Bishop Louis F. Kihneman, III, celebrated the annual Ozanam Mass at The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Cathedral, Biloxi.

The Ozanam Mass is a longstanding Diocesan traditional, honoring Blessed Frederic Ozanam, the founder of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Members of the Diocesan conferences convened at the Cathedral to celebrate St. Vincent de Paul and all of the various works performed by individual conferences.

During his homily, Bishop Kihneman reiterated Isiah’s call to humility (Is 55:6-9) and its importance when performing works for others.

At the conclusion of Mass, Bishop Kihneman recognized Kenneth Powell, St. Michael, Biloxi, with the Jubilarian Award for his 38-years of dedicated service to St. Vincent de Paul. Additionally, Susan Taylor, Our Lady of Fatima, Biloxi, was recognized for serving as Council President for the past six years.

Following Mass, Vincentians were invited to break bread at the Sacred Heart Center. Bishop Kihneman, along with Susan Taylor and the entire assembly, took part in the swearing in of new Biloxi Council President, Ann Leslie, with St. Elizabeth Seton, Ocean Springs.

For Taylor, the moment was bittersweet. “I have learned through the years that God may call us to serve in ways we least expect, yet He always provides us with the guidance, the grace, and the support that we need to go forward with His plan,” remarked Taylor. “My six years serving as Council president were filled with opportunities and occasions to witness God’s grace and presence in our St Vincent de Paul members, in our neighbors in need, and in those who support our ministry through their generosity of time, talent, and donations.”

For Taylor, serving with St. Vincent de Paul has been an incredible journey for her faith and she encourages everyone to consider how they may volunteer their time or talents with their local conference.