Our parish will take up a collection this week to assist hurricane victims in Jamaica, where recent storms have caused severe damage and loss.
Funds collected will help provide emergency aid, shelter, and essential supplies through trusted Catholic relief efforts in the region.
If you wish to make a personal contribution beyond the collection, please mark your donation “Jamaica Relief” and place it in the offertory or deliver it to the parish office.
Thank you for your generosity and prayers for all those affected by this disaster.
To Give online go to https://olgal.org/special-collections
Getting to Know: Kai Lopez, Principal of St. Benedict Catholic School
St. Benedict Catholic School in Elberta has a new leader at the helm this year — Principal Kai Lopez, a familiar face to Baldwin County. Having spent a decade growing up in Elberta and later teaching and coaching in Catholic schools across the Archdiocese, Kai brings both heart and hometown spirit to his new role.
A former teacher and multi-sport coach at St. Michael Catholic High School, Kai felt a true call from God when offered the opportunity to lead St. Benedict’s. He describes the school as a close-knit community where “everyone knows each other and can assist each other.”
Guided by the school’s century-old Benedictine motto, Ora et Labora (“Pray and Work”), Kai emphasizes a daily focus on faith and service — even incorporating his favorite word, JOY, as a reminder to put “Jesus, Others, and You” in that order.
With support from former principal Dr. Kathy McCool and a dedicated faculty, Kai looks forward to the school’s bright future, including plans to expand in the growing Foley area.
Our Lady of the Gulf is proud to support St. Benedict’s and all area Catholic schools as they continue the mission of forming students in faith, scholarship, and service.
Join Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church this fall for a new class on Bishop Robert Barron's book, "What Christians Believe."
This year marks the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, where the Nicene Creed was created. This 12-week course, led by Father David Carucci, is a great opportunity to explore the foundations of the faith. All are welcome, whether you're new to the Church or a lifelong Catholic.
Sessions are offered on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM and Thursday mornings at 10:00 AM, starting September 17.
To learn more or to register, visit olgal.org/what-christians-believe.
Our Lady of the Gulf will host its “Get On Board” Ministry Fair on August 9–10, 2025, after all weekend Masses in the Parish Hall. The event invites parishioners to explore ministry opportunities, meet leaders, and discover ways to get involved in parish life. Attendees will receive a nautical-themed “boarding pass” to collect stamps at each table and be entered into a raffle. Ministries range from liturgical and spiritual roles to hands-on service. Everyone is welcome—no experience required, just a willing heart.
Come aboard—your seat is waiting!
Meet Jeanne Smith — retired Air Force veteran, former physical therapist, and now a dedicated volunteer at the Mary’s Shelter Thrift Store in Elberta.
Jeanne and her husband, Kenny, became parishioners at Our Lady of the Gulf 4½ years ago after discerning their move through Adoration and Reconciliation.
Today, Jeanne gives her time to serve mothers and children in need — helping customers, sorting donations, and sharing Christ’s love through simple acts of mercy.
“The mission of Mary’s Shelter is amazing… and it feels good to help someone going through hard times.”
You can find Jeanne at the store most Tuesdays from 2–6 PM. Want to join her? Contact Nikki Blakemore at (251) 979-1877 or [email protected].
#GettingToKnowYou #MidweekMercy #MarysShelter #CatholicService #FaithInAction #olgal #gulfshoresal #ourladyofthegulfal
We’re pleased to welcome Joe Quattrocchi (pronounced kwah-TROH-chee) as Our Lady of the Gulf’s new Director of Parish Advancement. Joe comes to us from St. Mark the Evangelist in Florida with experience in digital media, public speaking, and community engagement. He will lead efforts to live-stream Masses, enhance outreach, and support our parish mission. Please join us in welcoming Joe to the OLG family!
First Friday Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will begin on Friday, May 7th, following the 8 AM Morning Mass and continue until 4:00 PM. Anyone can come before the Lord at any time but to ensure that the Blessed Sacrament is never left unattended, please sign up for the earliest open slot for which you are available and make sure there is at least one person signed up for each hour. Sign up sheet will be in the church vestibule