What is TME-News?

TME-News is a bi-weekly e-newsletter from the Diocese designed to quickly share the latest events and happenings. It'll arrive in your inbox every other Wednesday. This e-newsletter complements The Mississippi Episcopalian magazine, which will continue to be published online monthly, focusing on in-depth features and inspiring faith stories.If you have ideas for inspirational faith stories from our Diocese to share with our Diocesan family, please email msepiscopalian@dioms.org. 

• Subscribe: If you've received this e-newsletter as a forward or seen it on Facebook and would like to subscribe, click HERE.

• Share your news - if you have an upcoming event at your church, ministry, or school that you'd like to share with the Diocesan family, click HERE or on the purple button bar below.

Events are listed chronologically and categorized as follows:

• FELLOWSHIP: Social activities
• FORMATION: Events related to our faith journey (individual or communal)
• ARTS: Arts-related events
• YOUTH: Youth events
• COMMUNITY: Events for and/or by the community
• EDUCATIONAL: Learning events

NOTE: We have many exciting events! You may need to click "view entire message" or [Message clipped] View entire message at the bottom of this email to see them all.

Diocesan Youth Events

YOUTH

Calling all youth! Get ready for an incredible Fall 2025 filled with faith, community, and fun with Diocesan Youth Events!

Happening #99 at St. Peter's-by-the-Sea, Gulfport:

• November 21-23: Happening #99 - FULL

For more information on other upcoming youth events, and how to get involved, please visit diomsyouth.org.

Puffs!

COMMUNITY



Friday, November 14, 2025, 7:00 PM

Saturday, November 15, 2025, 2:00 PM

Sunday, November 16, 2025, 2:00 PM

St Paul's, Picayune

1421 Goodyear Blvd

Picayune, MS 39466

Join Picayune on Stage and St Paul's in a night at a certain school of male and female magic! Puffs will be performed at our parish hall theater on November 14 at 7:00 PM and on November 15-16 at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $20 for adults, and $15 for children 12 and under. We look forward to seeing you there!

Pre-Advent Retreat

with Mary Foster Parmer

FORMATION



Saturday, November 15, 2025

9:30 AM - 2:00 PM

St. Philip's, Jackson

5400 Old Canton Road

Jackson, MS 39211

Thinking about Advent?

Check out this article, Start Preparing Now to Welcome Guests for Advent and Christmas, and then reserve your spot today for our Diocesan Pre-Advent Retreat with Mary Foster Parmer, founder of Invite Welcome Connect, on Saturday, November 15 at St. Philip's, Jackson.

"Follow Every Rainbow"

A Concert by Aly Ireland

COMMUNITY



Saturday, November 15, 2025

7:00 - 8:00 PM

St. John's, Ocean Springs

705 Rayburn

Ocean Springs, MS 39564



Aly Ireland, soprano, accompanied by Dr. Jonathon Mitchell at St. John's Episcopal Church in Ocean Springs. The proceeds will benefit Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence. Donations at the door.

57th Blandy Lecture & Alumni Convocation at Seminary of the Southwest honors Andy Andrews

COMMUNITY



Wednesday, November 19, 2025

11:45 AM - The Holy Eucharist and presentation of the Hal Brook Perry Award

Via Livestream



The Alumni Association of Seminary of the Southwest has selected the Rev. Andy Andrews as the 2025 recipient of the Hal Brook Perry Award, to be presented during the Blandy Lecture and Alumni Convocation this year. Andy graduated with a Master of Divinity in 1996.

This award is named in memory of a beloved colleague and former assistant dean, registrar, and instructor in church history, Hal Brook Perry. The award honors graduates who exemplify exceptional ministry to parishes, dioceses, and communities both near and far. Andy’s faithful and creative work as Missioner for Beloved Community in the Diocese of Mississippi stands as a powerful witness to that legacy.

Andy’s ministry has embodied the deep commitments to reconciliation, healing, and justice that are at the heart of the Gospel and at the heart of Southwest’s mission. Through his leadership, Andy has strengthened the fabric of parish life, inspired diocesan initiatives, and extended the church’s reach into communities in need of hope and transformation. His service reflects not only his own gifts and dedication but also the very spirit of formation that Hal Brook Perry so passionately nurtured here.

More info - https://ssw.edu/event/57th-blandy-lecture-alumni-convocation/

Wednesdays with Invite Welcome Connect Webinar Series

EDUCATIONAL



Wednesday, November 19, 2025

1:00 PM, central

Online via Zoom

The Invite Welcome Connect Small Congregations Webinar Series continues Nov. 19 with a session on Walking the Way of Love Together. The Webinar will show how Invite Welcome Connect's guiding principles, tested practices, and real-life stories help small congregations create meaningful pathways for newcomers to become fully engaged members of the household of faith.

Meet Your Presenters

Canon Jenni Faires—Canon for Evangelism and Church Vitality, Diocese of Southwestern Virginia

Jenni is the primary staff resource for congregational growth and vitality. As part of her work, Jenni leads vestry retreats, consults with church leaderships, and tracks trends in the larger church.

Mary MacGregor—Invite Welcome Connect On Demand Instructor; Former Lay Staff, Diocese of Texas

Mary is a nationally respected trainer and consultant for congregational vitality. She served for nearly 20 years in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas as Canon for Congregational Vitality. She has trained leaders across more than 40 dioceses in ministry assessment, vestry life, visioning, and new church initiatives.

St. Columb's Bizarre Bazaar

COMMUNITY



Wednesday, November 19, 2025

4:00 - 7:00 PM

St. Columb's, Ridgeland

550 Sunnybrook Rd

Ridgeland, MS 39157

Start your Christmas shopping early by attending the St. Columb's Bizarre Bazaar. This annual event features different vendors with items available for purchase. Join us on Wednesday, November 19, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM.

Turkey Dinner

FELLOWSHIP

Thursday, November 20, 2025

10:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Holy Trinity, Vicksburg

900 South Street

Vicksburg, MS 39180

Join us for Holy Trinity's annual Turkey Dinner! Thursday, November 20th from 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM. Tickets are $15, you can dine in or drive thru!

Harvest Dinner

COMMUNITY

Thursday, November 20, 2025

3:00 - 7:00 PM

Christ Church, Bay St. Louis

912 S. Beach Blvd

Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520

Christ Church will present its 74th annual Harvest Dinner on Thursday, November 20, 2025. In keeping with Thanksgiving and Harvest time, the feast includes mouthwatering turkey with gravy, glazed ham, dressing, sweet potato and spinach casseroles, our famous cranberry relish, dinner roll, and dessert. Most are made from scratch using age-old traditional recipes. Take-outs or dine-ins are available from 3:00 - 7:00 PM (or until sold out).

This is an excellent community event to share with family, friends, and neighbors. Proceeds from the dinner benefit mission and activities supported by the Episcopal Church, including the Alliance for Health (a prescription assistance program for patients in need in Hancock County) and Backpack Buddies (providing nutritious, non-perishable food to children to ensure they get enough food on weekends).

Tickets are $15 and may be purchased in advance from the Church office, a parishioner, or at the door during the event.

Tacos and Trivia

FELLOWSHIP

Thursday, November 20, 2025

6:00 PM

St. Philip's, Jackson

5400 Old Canton Road

Jackson, MS 39211

Join us for Tacos and Trivia, where we pair great food and fun with friendly competition. This month's Tacos and Trivia will on Thursday, November 20th at 6:00 PM in our Parish Hall. Cost is $8/per person or $20/per family. Feel free to bring a side to share if you wish!

Iona Collaborative's

Community Conversations

EDUCATIONAL

Thursday, November 20, 2025

6:30 - 7:30 PM

Online via Zoom

The November Topic is Sabbath as a Tool for Weary Souls. We often expect individual people to rest. If you've ever tried to actually practice Sabbath you know how counter cultural it feels. But what about the church practicing Sabbath as a community? In this conversation for small-church clergy and lay leaders, we’ll explore how Sabbath can be more than a personal practice. What would it look like for the whole organism to rest—to step back from constant doing and rediscover the grace of being? Join us as we imagine together what it means for a tired church to find renewal.

These aren't just webinars. They are monthly online gatherings designed for leaders like you to connect with others who truly understand the unique joys and struggles of leading a small church. Think of it as a virtual coffee hour, where you can find encouragement, share what's on your heart, and be nourished for the journey ahead.

Each hour-long session is a dedicated time for spiritual reflection, a short, insightful presentation, and intimate breakout conversations with fellow leaders from across the country. Guided by experienced spiritual directors, these small group discussions are a chance to hear how other churches are navigating similar challenges and to leave with fresh insights and renewed hope.

Mark your calendars for our upcoming gatherings:

• November 20, 2025
• February 5, 2026
• March 12, 2026
• April 16, 2026

All conversations take place on Zoom from 6:30 - 7:30 PM CT.

Whether you're a pastor, a diocesan staff member, or simply someone who believes in the power of small churches, you are welcome here. Renew your hope, find your people, and get ready for the road ahead. Ready to join the conversation? We can't wait to see you there!

Jackson Area Young Adults

Stewpot Volunteer Day

FELLOWSHIP

Saturday, November 22, 2025

9:00 -11:00 AM - volunteering at Stewpot

11:00 AM - Group Lunch, location TBD

For our November JEYA gathering, we will meet at Stewpot to volunteer together in the food pantry. We will assist with sorting and shelving food donations in their pantry along with other special projects as needed.

After we finish volunteering, we'll head to a local spot to grab some lunch together (food costs will be covered).

Thanksgiving Day Eucharist

FORMATION

Thursday, November 27, 2025

10:30 AM

Chapel of the Cross, Madison

674 Mannsdale Road

Madison, MS 39110

Celebrate Thanksgiving with us at the Chapel of the Cross! Join us for a Thanksgiving Day Eucharist on November 27th at 10:30 AM. Bring along any wine you plan to serve for your Thanksgiving meal to be blessed during the service.

Celebration of New Ministry

of the Rev. Marie Smith

FORMATION

Sunday, November 30, 2025

10:30 AM

St. Philip's, Jackson

5400 Old Canton Road

Jackson, MS 39211

Please join us on Sunday, November 30th at our 10:30 AM service to celebrate the new ministry of our Associate Rector, the Rev. Marie Smith. Reception immediately following, and nursery provided.

Advent Choral Compline

at St. James'

FORMATION

Sunday, November 30, 2025

6:00 - 7:00 PM

St. James', Jackson

3921 Oak Ridge Drive

Jackson, MS 39216

Begin Advent with a contemplative candlelit service of sung Compline, featuring works by Palestrina, Burchard, and Holst.

Safety Planning

at Small Churches

EDUCATIONAL

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

2:00 PM

Online via Zoom

All small church leaders are invited to join the Small Church Collaborative monthly meeting! On Dec. 2, the Rev. Tom Fanning will be talking with us about safety planning, that is, preparing for a variety of emergency situations.

Baby & Me 1,2,3

EDUCATIONAL



Saturday, December 6, 2025

First Saturday of every month

9:30 AM

St. Thomas, Diamondhead

5303 Diamondhead Circle

Diamondhead, MS 39525

St. Thomas, along with Excel x 5, is hosting a "Baby & Me" program on the first Saturday of every month from 9:30 - 10:30 AM in the Parish Hall. This event is free to attend and open to all caregivers and babies 0-2 years old.

The next event is Saturday, December 6. Join us for music, movement, information on developmental milestones, and more!

A Festival of Advent Lessons and Carols

FORMATION

Sunday, December 7, 2025

11:00 AM

St. Mark's, Jackson

903 Dr. Robert Smith, Sr. Parkway

Jackson, MS 39203

All are welcome to join us for a time of prayer and reflection as we prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Christ Episcopal Church

Children’s Christmas Tea

FELLOWSHIP

Sunday, December 7, 2025

2:00 - 4:00 PM

Christ Church, Bay St. Louis

912 S. Beach Blvd

Bay St. Louis, MS 39520

Make a difference this Christmas! Join us for a charming Children's Christmas Tea on Sunday, December 7th, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at Christ Episcopal Church. Not only will your children enjoy a festive afternoon, but your attendance will directly support the Christ Episcopal Church Building Fund.

Tickets are $25 per child and $20 per parent. Secure your spot by texting Mandy Mills at 601-590-2791.

Festival of St. Nicholas

FELLOWSHIP

Sunday, December 7, 2025

5:00 PM

St. Peter's by-the-Lake, Brandon

1954 Spillway Road

Brandon, MS 39047

Join us at 5:00 PM in the church to learn the story of Saint Nicholas and perhaps catch a glimpse of the jolly old elf himself. Remember that little ones will need to leave their shoes in the narthex in case he leaves goodies for them. Afterwards, join us in the parish hall for more fun decorating cookies and arts and crafts. Dinner will be provided for everyone. Please invite your friends and neighbors.

Contemplation Spirituality 101:

An Intro to Contemplative Pray

FORMATION

Sunday, December 14, 2025

Sunday, December 21, 2025

2:00 - 4:00 PM

St. Philip's, Jackson

5400 Old Canton Road

Jackson, MS 39211

Have you wanted to learn about Contemplative Spirituality and didn't know where to start? Have you thought that Contemplative Spirituality means only sitting around?

This Advent, join The Revs. Les Hegwood and Marie Smith as they lead a two-week exploration of Contemplative Spirituality in all its various forms. We'll be covering practices you may automatically think about as a part of Contemplative Spirituality, and some you may have never thought of as such!

We'll meet in the Parish Hall on Sunday, December 14th and Sunday, December 21st from 2:00 - 4:00 PM. Bring yourselves and an open mind! For planning purposes, please register via the provided link.

For more information, contact the Rev. Les Hegwood at les@stphilipsjackson.com or the Rev. Marie Smith at stphilipsjackson.com

#allarewelcome

Rededication of Christ Church

in Church Hill, MS

FORMATION

Saturday, December 20, 2025

11:00 AM

Christ Church, Church Hill

57 Church Hill Rd

Natchez, MS 39120

We welcome one and all to celebrate the rededication of the Mother Church of Mississippi.  

Winter Solstice

at Camp Bratton-Green

YOUTH

December 27, 2025 - January 1, 2026

Camp Bratton-Green

1530 Way Road

Canton, MS 39046

Winter Solstice is a mid-winter camping experience for 9 - 12 graders at Camp Bratton-Green. WS is a bit different in that it is more low-key and provides significant time for conversation about God, teen-age life and other topics of interest. All are welcome! Scholarships are available. Registration and applications for staff can be found at www.graycenter.org/camp.bratton.green.

"Before the Streetlights Come On" Book Study

EDUCATIONAL

Every Tuesday in January

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

12:00 noon - 1:00 PM

Online via Zoom

Join us for a meaningful book study of "Before the Streetlights Come On" by Heather McTeer Toney! This powerful book explores why Black people and other minorities are disproportionately affected by the climate crisis. This Discussion will be facilitated by the Rev. Joe Porter.

This is a critical conversation for Creation Care. Don't miss out!

For questions and to register, please email racy.stebbins@gmail.com

The first three people to register will receive a copy of the book!

YAC Retreat

FELLOWSHIP

Friday, February 27 - Sunday, March 1, 2026

Gray Center + Camp Bratton-Green

1530 Way Road

Canton, MS 39046

Mark your calendars for the Young Adult Committee (YAC) Retreat from Friday, February 27, to Sunday, March 1, 2026. This is your perfect chance to hit the reset button, connect with community, and enjoy a weekend focused on renewal. W

Stay tuned! We'll be sharing more info soon. Get ready to join us!

Christmas Clergy Supply Needs

Friends,

If you are a clergy member available to supply at a church this Christmas — or are looking for a priest or deacon to lead worship — please let me know.

Blessings,

Gary+

Gratitude Resources for Thanksgiving: Materials for Individuals, Families, and Congregations from UTO

EDUCATIONAL

The month of November brings gratitude to the top of our minds in the United States, and UTO has resources to help deepen your experience of gratitude as a part of your Thanksgiving celebration. We have resources for families, children, and congregations, including materials to help learn the history of the holiday. Thank you for inviting UTO to be a part of your holiday celebration, and we hope you will share your experience with us on social media.

Download and print free gratitude resources focused on Thanksgiving, including conversation dice, place cards, prayers, crafts, a Thanksgiving Day liturgy and faith formation resources for congregations, and a guide to the history of Thanksgiving.

Daily Office with the Marble School

FORMATION

Daily, ongoing

Online via Zoom



The Daily Office is an excellent spiritual discipline.

The A. C. Marble School prays Morning Prayer, Noonday Prayer, Evening Prayer, and Compline every day. You can join others in prayer from your home or office. You can join on your computer, smart phone, or tablet.

Once a week? Once a day? So many options!

For more information on Chapel at the Marble School: https://acmarble.dioms.org/chapel.html

Daily Evening Prayer

with St. Patrick's, Long Beach

FORMATION

Weekdays, ongoing

6:00 - 6:30 PM

Online via Zoom with Phone-in Option



Join Us for Daily Evening Prayer. Take a few minutes to pause and reflect with us during Evening Prayer (Rite II). St. Patrick's Episcopal Church in Long Beach, MS, hosts this service online via Zoom every weekday from 6:00 to 6:30 PM.



Joining is Simple. On Your Computer or Mobile Device: Just click this link to enter the meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89493661876?pwd=Vnz0pFdMjHCxjqtxLsp8vnCc80rzgR.1

Alternatively, you can manually enter

• Meeting ID: 894 9366 1876
• Passcode: 379056

Joining by Phone: No internet connection is needed to join.

• Dial (312) 626-6799 (long-distance charges may apply).
• Enter the Meeting ID (894 9366 1876) and press #.
• Press # again when prompted for a personal ID.
• Enter the Passcode (379056) and press #.

Want the Daily Readings?

If you'd like to get the readings sent directly to your inbox, just email Jason Trumble at sacristanstpatrickslongbeach@gmail.com to be added to the list.

2026 UTO Grant Application:

Justice and Bridging Divides

EDUCATIONAL

The United Thank Offering (UTO) is accepting applications for its 2026 grants. This year's focus, Justice and Bridging Divides, is inspired by the scripture from Amos 5:24, "But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream," and C.S. Lewis’s reflection on transcending our individual selves to understand and connect with others.

The UTO Board seeks applications that go beyond simple dialogue and inspire action undertaken together by those who are different.

Project Requirements

We will fund projects that build bridges and work toward a more just world. Your application must demonstrate the following:

• Collaboration: How two previously disconnected groups will work together on the project.
• Local Impact: How the project will create meaningful change within a local community.
• Focus on Process: We recognize that success may not be measured by specific outcomes, but by the learning and growth that happens through the collective work and process.

The UTO acknowledges the deep, ongoing harm experienced by marginalized people and the resulting divisions in our world. We seek to fund projects that address this trauma and build bridges in the pursuit of a more just world.

Application Details

• Materials Available: The updated application materials for 2026 will be available starting June 1, 2025.
• Submission Deadline: The application is typically due to the diocesan office on the first Friday in January 2026 by 5:00 p.m. The diocese can submit one grant from its office and one from a companion diocese.
• Grant Writing Resources: For more information on grants and to access webinars on grant writing, visit the official UTO websites: http://www.unitedthankoffering.com and http://www.episcopalchurch.org/uto.

UTO Collections

EDUCATIONAL

Practice gratitude and change the world with your gift to the United Thank Offering (UTO)!

The UTO is a powerful, women-led initiative that has been funding ministries for over a century. Every coin and bill donated is a tangible prayer of thanks, and your contributions make a real difference. In the spirit of gratitude, all collections are due by November 20, 2025, just in time for Thanksgiving.

To give please mail your check (made out to UTO) to our coordinator, Brenda Hawkins, at the address below.

Brenda Hawkins, UTO Coordinator

ECW Diocese of Mississippi

330 Lakewood Rd.

Vicksburg, MS 39180

For information on how to apply for a UTO grant, visit www.unitedthankoffering.org.

Thank you for your generosity!

Episcopal Recovery Program

COMMUNITY



Check out the website dedicated to supporting addiction recovery within our community. This includes an ever-growing directory of meetings held at churches throughout the diocese and recovery resources. Visit the site today and discover the resources available to help those within our diocese. Let's work together to foster healing and hope.

Update Your Congregation's Contact for Children/Youth Formation

YOUTH

It's that time of year again! Please let me know if there have been any changes in who the best person is to receive information about children and/or youth formation in your congregation. Please use this link to let Whitney know if there are any changes. If not, the same contacts as last year will be used.

Creation Care News

Are you ready to dig deep and sow some seeds of change? We invite you to sign up for our diocesan Creation Care Task Force Monthly newsletter, where we share news, ideas, and inspiration from the Diocese of Mississippi and beyond! 

Every month, you'll receive a delightful bouquet of tips and resources to help you nurture our beautiful planet and bring about the Kingdom of God on Earth right here, right now!  

Ministry Opportunities at Allin House

The Diocese of Mississippi is seeking to fill two positions of ministry in the Diocesan office: Executive Assistant to the Bishop and Diocesan Program Administrator. Click on the titles for detailed job descriptions, or contact Canon Gary Meade more information or to recommend a person for either position. 

Applicants are asked to send a letter of interest accompanied by a resume and list of references by email Canon Gary Meade or mailed to his attention at: The Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi, P.O. Box 23107, Jackson, MS 39225-3107.