Located in the heart of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi serves as a spiritual home for residents and a welcoming stop for visitors. Whether you are looking for Mass times, seeking assistance through local outreach programs, or exploring educational opportunities for your children, this parish offers a variety of resources to meet your needs. In this guide, we will provide the essential information regarding the church’s schedule, location, and community services to help you plan your visit or get involved with the parish community.
Location and Contact Information
Our Lady of Fatima is situated in a convenient location for those living in or traveling through the Biloxi area. The main church building and parish office are located on Pass Road, a major thoroughfare that makes the campus easily accessible from various parts of the city. For those using GPS or mapping services, the primary address is 2090 Pass Road, Biloxi, MS 39531. This central location is near residential neighborhoods and local businesses, making it a focal point for the local Catholic community.
If you need to reach the parish staff for specific inquiries, such as scheduling a baptism, inquiring about wedding requirements, or requesting a Mass intention, the parish office is the best point of contact. You can reach the office by phone at (228) 388-3887. The staff can provide the most current information regarding office hours, which typically follow standard business patterns but may vary during liturgical holidays or summer months.
Mass and Sacramental Schedule
The core of life at Our Lady of Fatima is the celebration of the Eucharist. The parish offers multiple Mass times throughout the week to accommodate the diverse schedules of its parishioners. While schedules are subject to change for holy days of obligation and special feast days, the following is a standard representation of the weekly services:
- Weekend Vigil: Saturday at 4:00 PM
- Sunday Masses: 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, and 6:00 PM
- Weekday Masses: Monday through Friday at 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM; Saturday at 8:30 AM
In addition to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, the parish provides regular opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession). Confessions are typically heard on Saturdays before the Vigil Mass, usually starting at 3:00 PM, or by appointment with one of the priests. For those who wish to spend time in quiet prayer, the parish often hosts periods of Eucharistic Adoration. It is recommended to check the weekly parish bulletin for the most up-to-date times for these devotions.
Our Lady of Fatima Elementary School
One of the most significant ministries of the parish is Our Lady of Fatima Elementary School. This educational institution provides a faith-based environment for students from Pre-K through 6th grade. The school focuses on academic excellence while integrating Catholic values and teachings into the daily curriculum. Families in Biloxi choose this school for its small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and the strong sense of community that extends from the classroom to the church pews.
The school is located on the same campus as the church, facilitating a close relationship between the students and the parish clergy. Students participate in weekly school Masses and various service projects throughout the year. If you are interested in enrollment, tuition rates, or scheduling a tour of the facilities, you can contact the school office directly or visit the parish office for a referral.
Community Outreach and St. Vincent de Paul
Our Lady of Fatima is well-known in Biloxi for its commitment to serving those in need. The parish hosts a very active chapter of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, which provides emergency assistance to individuals and families facing financial hardship. This assistance can include help with utility bills, food, and other essential needs. The St. Vincent de Paul office is often located in a separate building on or near the parish grounds, such as the facility on Jim Money Road, to better serve the public.
The parish also engages in various other charitable activities, including:
- Food Drives: Regular collections to stock local food pantries.
- Bereavement Ministry: Providing support and comfort to those who have lost loved ones.
- Homebound Ministry: Bringing the Eucharist and companionship to those unable to attend Mass in person.
- Seasonal Giving: Special programs during Christmas and Thanksgiving to provide meals and gifts to local families.
Getting Involved in Parish Life
For those looking to deepen their faith and connect with others, Our Lady of Fatima offers numerous ministries and organizations. These groups provide opportunities for spiritual growth, social interaction, and service. Newcomers are always encouraged to join and contribute their talents to the community.
Liturgical Ministries
If you have a desire to serve during the Mass, there are several roles available. The parish is always looking for volunteers to serve as lectors, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, ushers, and altar servers. Training is provided for all these roles, ensuring that volunteers feel confident and prepared to assist in the liturgy.
Music Ministry
The music program at the parish enhances the worship experience through a variety of styles. Whether you are a singer or a musician, the choir welcomes new members who wish to use their musical gifts to praise God. Rehearsals are typically held during the week, and the choir performs at various Sunday Masses and special events.
Faith Formation and RCIA
For adults who are interested in becoming Catholic or for those who need to complete their Sacraments of Initiation, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the primary pathway. These sessions provide a comprehensive overview of Catholic teachings and traditions in a supportive group environment. Additionally, the parish offers religious education classes (CCD) for children who do not attend the parish school, ensuring they receive proper preparation for First Communion and Confirmation.
Planning Your Visit
If you are visiting Our Lady of Fatima for the first time, you will find a welcoming and reverent atmosphere. The church architecture reflects a traditional style that is common in the Gulf Coast region, providing a peaceful setting for prayer. There is ample parking available on the parish grounds, with designated spots for those with disabilities. Most visitors find that arriving 10 to 15 minutes before Mass begins allows enough time to find seating and prepare for worship.
While there is no strict dress code, parishioners generally dress in a way that is respectful of the sacred nature of the Mass. Whether you are a lifelong Catholic or someone exploring the faith for the first time, the community at Our Lady of Fatima is ready to welcome you. For the most current news, including event photos, holiday schedules, and parish announcements, the weekly bulletin remains the most reliable source of information. You can usually find copies of the bulletin at the entrances of the church or at the parish office.
Conclusion
Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi is more than just a building; it is a vibrant community dedicated to worship, education, and service. By offering regular Mass times, a highly-regarded elementary school, and robust outreach programs like St. Vincent de Paul, the parish addresses both the spiritual and practical needs of the Biloxi area. If you are looking for a place to pray, learn, or serve, this parish provides a wealth of opportunities to get involved. We encourage you to visit the parish office or attend a weekend Mass to experience the community for yourself and discover how you can become a part of this enduring legacy of faith in Mississippi.