Diocese of Jackson
The Diocese of Jackson (Latin: Dioecesis Jacksoniensis), a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the northern and central 65 counties of Mississippi in the United States. Established as the Diocese of Natchez on July 28, 1837, by Pope Gregory XVI, with the see transferred to Jackson and the name changed in 1977, it is led by Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz since 2014. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Mobile, it serves a missionary Catholic community (approximately 1.9% of the regional population) across the largest territorial diocese east of the Mississippi River.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of Jackson
| Diocese: Diocese of Jackson | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Mobile |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Mobile |
| Country: | United States |
| Region: | Mississippi |
| Bishop: | Joseph R. Kopacz |
| Website: | https://jacksondiocese.org/ |
| Newspaper: | http://www.mississippicatholic.com/ |
| Catholic %: | 1.9% |
| Elementary Schools: | approx. 10-12 (part of 18 total schools) |
| High Schools: | approx. 4-6 (part of 18 total schools) |
| Priests: | 81 |
| Existence: | 1837– |
| Predecessor Dioceses: | Diocese of Natchez |
| Rating: | 3.4 |
| Chancery Address: | 237 E. Amite St. Jackson, MS 39201 |
Establishment
The Diocese of Jackson traces its origins to the Diocese of Natchez, established on July 28, 1837, by Pope Gregory XVI. The see was transferred to Jackson and the name changed on March 1, 1977.
History
Catholic presence in Mississippi dates to Spanish explorations in the 16th century. The diocese was erected to serve the scattered faithful in the region. It has grown through missionary efforts and now covers two-thirds of the state.
Geography
The diocese covers 65 counties in northern and central Mississippi, spanning approximately 37,657 square miles (97,495 km²). It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Mobile.
Mother Church
The Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson serves as the mother church.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Most Reverend Joseph R. Kopacz has served as the 11th Bishop of Jackson since his installation on February 6, 2014.
Past Bishops
A full chronological list is available on the official diocesan website and Catholic-Hierarchy.org.
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The Diocese of Jackson maintains a balanced orientation (rating 3.4). It upholds standard Latin Rite liturgical practices while emphasizing missionary evangelization and pastoral care in a predominantly Protestant region.
Statistics
The diocese covers 37,657 square miles and serves approximately 45,000 registered Catholics across 72–89 parishes and missions with around 81 priests.
Religious Communities
Various religious orders serve in education, healthcare, and parish ministries throughout the diocese.
Parishes
| Diocese of Jackson |
|---|
|
No results |
| This map created from a Cargo query () |
The Diocese of Jackson serves the faithful through approximately 72 parishes and additional missions across its vast territory.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The diocese supports 18 Catholic schools and learning centers, nurturing faith and academic excellence.
Community Outreach
Catholic Charities and other ministries provide essential services to the people of Mississippi.
Notable Events or Figures
The diocese continues the legacy of early missionaries and is home to the cause of Servant of God Sr. Mary Thea Bowman.
Associated Saints
No saints yet.
Fun Facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of Jackson:
- Did you know? Established in 1837 as the Diocese of Natchez, it is one of the oldest dioceses in the United States and the 13th erected in the young nation!
- Surprise! The Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson serves as the mother church, with deep historical roots in the capital city.
- Fun fact: Covering 65 counties and nearly 38,000 square miles, it is the largest diocese by area east of the Mississippi River.
- Here's something cool: The diocese maintains 18 Catholic schools, helping form the next generation of faithful leaders in Mississippi.
- Wow moment: Catholicism arrived with 16th-century explorers, giving the region a rich missionary heritage.
- Little-known gem: It is home to vibrant parishes and missions serving a growing Catholic community in the Deep South.
- Fun twist: Despite being in a region with a small Catholic population, the diocese radiates a strong missionary spirit.
These highlights reflect the rich heritage and living faith of the diocese. Today, the Catholic community continues to witness to the Gospel through worship, education, and service across Mississippi. Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle or a local parish soon to experience this legacy firsthand!
Dynamic Content
Associated Saints
No saints yet.
Diocesan photos
No results No results