Advent beginnings

A new Pentecost Springtime awaits as we emerge from the dark days of winter By Bishop Mark Beckman Every Advent is the dawn of a new liturgical year. As the days grow shorter, Christians have for centuries lit candles in preparation for the coming feast of Christmas. The Advent wreath …

‘Pilgrims of hope’

Jubilee Year is an opportunity to be present, prayerful, and purposeful to those in need By Bishop Mark Beckman The great Jubilee Year of 2025 begins this Christmas Eve when Pope Francis opens the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, an event that ordinarily takes place every 25 …

Looking, listening, and learning

‘Bishop of the Mountains’ discovering the spirit of the Lord is active in East Tennessee By Bishop Mark Beckman Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, what a joy it is to be your shepherd here in the Diocese of Knoxville! From the first moment I arrived as bishop-elect in early …