Gulf Pine Catholic

20 Gulf Pine Catholic • September 27, 2024 Nativity supports First Responders Nativity BVM Catholic Elementary School and Nativity BVM Cathedral recently honored some true local celebrities by hosting their annual First Responders’ Mass and Annual Blue Mass. On Thursday, August 29, Nativity School hosted its First Responders’ Mass with cele- brant Father Godfrey Andoh. In attendance were representatives from the Biloxi Police Department and the Biloxi Fire Department. At the end of Mass, Principal Traci Kessler presented the Biloxi Police Department with a $100 donation to the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Mississippi and the Biloxi Fire Department with a $100 dona- tion to the Biloxi Firefighters Relief Fund. Nativity School began this tradition following Hurricane Katrina as a way to thank those individu- als who worked so hard to keep our school and students safe. This has become one of the school’s favorite traditions. On Sunday, September 1, Nativity Cathedral held its Annual Blue Mass, with local police officers, firefighters and city officials in atten- dance. They received a special blessing from celebrant, Most Reverend Bishop Louis Kihneman, III, and many participated in parts of the Mass. Joshua Conway with the D’Iberville Fire Department and Nativity School dad is humbled by the First Responders’ and Blue Masses. “My motivation as a first responder is an example of how we should all fol- low Christ, through sacrifice for others,” remarked Conway. “The Mass is a beautiful way to be recognized for what we do.” Conway’s sons, Jordan and Gary, attend Nativity School. Gary, age 9, said, “We honor those who risk their lives every day to keep us safe. We are lucky to have them do these things for us.” Nativity Pre-K 4 students pose with first responders. Bishop Louis F. Kihneman III poses with attendees of the annual Blue Mass at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Cathedral in Biloxi. At front left is Deacon John Jennings, a retired Biloxi firefighter, and at right is Deacon Jerry Dubuisson. Photo/Juliana Skelton