Photograph by Ken Barbret (photographer from St. Philip Benizi Parish)

Mildred, age 91, represented the founding parishioners in the Ceremony of Blessing at the end of the Liturgy, as the parish hall was renamed, “Founders Hall.”

The Parish Community of St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church (Jonesboro, Georgia) has been celebrating a series of events in 2015 to commemorate their 50th Anniversary. Over 1000 parishioners packed the church – standing room only – for the Golden Jubilee Liturgy on Saturday, September 12th. The Most Reverend Wilton D. Gregory, S.L.D., Metropolitan Archbishop of Atlanta, planned on being the main celebrant and homilist but gridlocked traffic held him at bay. Our Lady of the Angels Minister Provincial, The Very Reverend Fr. James McCurry, OFM Conv. stepped in to preside and the Jubilee Festival Chorus filled the church with song. The Golden Jubilee Celebration Liturgy was followed by a delicious meal served to over a thousand people under a big tent in the San Damiano Lot, prepared entirely by parishioners. Archbishop Gregory made a surprise visit the following morning to apologize to the friars and parishioners for his absence the night before. The community of friars serving from the St. Philip Benizi Friary include pastor and friary guardian Fr. John Koziol, OFM Conv., Fr. Paul Miskiewicz, OFM Conv., Fr. Santo Cricchio, OFM Conv., Fr. Piotr Tymko, OFM Conv. and br. Colton Rodgers. They were joined by the many Deacons in active ministry and even more clergy who had served there in the past, as well as fellow friars, Fr. Nick Wolfa, OFM Conv., Fr. Russell Governale, OFM Conv., Fr. Abelardo Huanca, OFM Conv. and Fr. James for the festivities. The theme of the Jubilee, which continues with more events in the upcoming months, is: “Walking United as Faithful Disciples of Jesus Christ.” The next event will be held September 26-27, 2015, as the parish showcases their 50TH ANNIVERSARY ART EXHIBIT. As part of the continued Golden Jubilee Celebration, artists from St. Philip Benizi Parish will showcase their masterpieces of paintings, drawings, photographs, woodworking, and sculptures in the Founders Hall throughout that weekend. More than 30 artists will be represented, exhibiting over 100 pieces of original artwork, some of which will be available for purchase. A Wine & Cheese Reception will be held after the 5:00 p.m. Saturday Mass. If you will be in the Jonesboro area, stop in for a visit with this vibrant parish community and view these artists’ special gifts of time, talent, and treasure!