Extension magazine - Spring 2024

38 INSPIRE
Feature Story
Extension | Spring 2024 39
The “Saints” from the Diocese of Jackson, Mississippi, were the tournament’s underdog story.
semis, paving the way for an
all-Tennessee final between the
Extension-supported Dioceses
of Nashville and Knoxville. The
“Éxodo F.C.” from Nashville took
home the win, 2-1, giving them
the Copa Católica title.
What was most impressive
about the tournament was the
incredible sportsmanship on
display. Even after Nashville and
Knoxville had played each other
in a highly competitive championship
finish, decided in the
final minutes, both teams and
their supporters were cheering
each other on equally as they
received their first- and second-place
trophies.
It was the culmination of a
weekend that sharpened leadership
skills, fostered teamwork and
created lasting relationships and
memories. Anyone that attended
this ministry retreat will tell you
it was special because they were
drawn closer to God, and had a
spiritual encounter through soccer,
the game they love.
Pope St. John Paul II is, no
doubt, proud of these players. But
even more so, he is proud of the
faith and energy that they bring to
the Church.
IGNITE Making a difference
PRIEST AND U.S. GENERAL 42 | DONOR PROFILE 44 | CONNECT 46
“And he began to send them out two by two…” – Mark 6:7
Donors in the Two by Two Giving Society—
leaders who give at least one $1,000
gift each year—walk in companionship
and solidarity with poor Catholic faith
communities. This esteemed group helps
Catholic Extension Society recognize and
support the hidden heroes lifting up the
Church on the margins of society.
Contact Kate Grogan, Development Coordinator, at 312-795-6046
or kgrogan@catholicextension.org for more information.
catholicextension.org/twobytwo
Students from
the campus
ministry at the
University of
Montana, which
is supported
by Catholic
Extension
Society, climb
a mountain and
pray as part of
a retreat. See
a letter from a
student, page 46.