The Diocese of Knoxville’s two high schools, Notre Dame in Chattanooga and Knoxville Catholic High School, bid congratulations and farewell to the class of 2025 last month, with commencement ceremonies held in Blaine Stadium at KCHS on May 16 and at the Chattanooga Convention Center on May 17. During the …
Summer’s rest
Imagine when life was simpler and being together was divine By Bishop Mark Beckman Imagine a time when life was uncluttered and we rested with the Lord awhile. In our busy, fast-paced world, we all need a chance to find some genuine rest at times. Even Jesus recognized this fundamental …
10th anniversary of Laudato Si’ prompts global events
Programs to honor encyclical are planned at parishes around the Diocese of Knoxville By The East Tennessee Catholic “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1) Catholics around the world are marking the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ groundbreaking …
Plaque at St. Mary-Gatlinburg honors Father Brando’s bequest to Legacy Clinic
St. Mary Parish in Gatlinburg placed a plaque in honor of former pastor Father Joe Brando in its family life center to recognize the late priest’s bequest of funds to the St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic, whose mobile medical van now visits St. Mary monthly. “We certainly appreciate Father Brando’s leadership …
Micah Scheetz named new head coach of KCHS girls basketball program
Knoxville Catholic High School announced May 8 that Micah Scheetz will be the new head coach of the Lady Irish basketball team, a program with two state championships to its name. A decorated former player, Ms. Scheetz brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the game. Most …
Mark C. Pillon
The world bids farewell to Mark Charles Pillon of Knoxville, who passed away on April 19 at the age of 64. Mr. Pillon leaves behind memories cherished by the community. He was predeceased by his parents, Jacque Charles Pillon and Constance May Hulgan; and his siblings, Guy Pillon, Renee Wood, …
Calvin Lane
Calvin Dexter Lane of Sevierville passed away on May 1 at the age of 88. Mr. Lane was remembered at a memorial Mass celebrated by Father John Arthur Orr and concelebrated by Father John O’Neill at Holy Ghost Church in Knoxville on May 7. Mr. Lane was born on Oct. …
Pope Leo XIV is a popular pick in Chicago
Windy City native sees town abuzz as new favorite son begins papacy By Deacon Patrick Murphy-Racey My heart is full as well as my belly as I find myself in my boyhood home trying to imagine how Pope Leo XIV grew up just a stone’s throw from my Chicago neighborhood. …
Pro-Life Day on the Hill experiences a youth movement
By The East Tennessee Catholic The 2025 legislative session has ended in Nashville, but not before key legislation of impact and interest to the Catholic Church in Tennessee was addressed. A significant development was passage of the Education Freedom Act, which Gov. Bill Lee signed into law on Feb. 12. …
The connection between Eucharist and penance
‘A love for the Eucharist leads to a growing appreciation of the sacrament of reconciliation’ By Father Randy Stice All the sacraments,” said the Second Vatican Council, “are bound up with the Eucharist and are directed towards it. For in the most blessed Eucharist is contained the entire spiritual wealth …
A dog and a daughter for a seat in the room
And trusting the Holy Spirit will touch the men who are called to be there By George Valadie On occasion you’ve heard someone toss out the question, “If you could share a meal with anyone, past or present, with whom would you choose to dine?” Sometimes this query is posed …






