As part of the Jubilee celebrations, Bishop Gregory Parkes invites everyone in the five counties of the Diocese of Saint Petersburg to actively practice mercy throughout the year by living out the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. These works are brought to life through acts of kindness and compassion — within our families, workplaces, schools, neighborhoods, parishes, and communities.

This is more than just charity — it is an invitation to participate in the hope that God has already given us. Every act of mercy becomes an expression of Christ’s love, a beacon of His compassion, and a reminder that we are called to be instruments of His grace in the world.

Everyone is challenged to renew their understanding of the Works of Mercy and, together, complete one million acts of mercy by December 15, 2025. Imagine the transformation that would unfold if 1,000,000 acts of mercy were shared with others — give your heart to God by giving your hands to our brothers and sisters in need.

We spoke with Jennifer Walker, a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church, in St. Petersburg, about her perspective on taking up this meaningful challenge.

How do you feel about being part of a challenge that aims to complete 1,000,000 acts of mercy, and what does that number represent to you personally?

The number 1,000,000 seems impossible and unattainable. However, when many work together, many small deeds add up quickly. I love the idea that the many small acts of mercy we perform can add up to have such a large impact. With God, everything is possible.

What inspired you to take part in this challenge?

Now is the perfect time to participate in this hope-filled journey. Every person has something to offer in their parish and in the community.

We have been blessed to meet so many amazing people at our parish, especially, our pastor, Father Emery Longanga. He has created a warm and welcoming environment for individuals and families to grow in their faith. Our church motto is “Every Member a Minister.” This inspires us to share our faith, and the love and joy we have experienced through the Church, with those in our community.

In what ways do you believe your participation can have a lasting impact?

I am excited to share the message of hope during this Jubilee Year and will be helping with the parish’s Faith Formation program. I hope it has a lasting impact on the children in our parish and inspires active members for years to come. I also hope we can identify parish members in need and reach them through church activities.

How do you see this challenge influencing the community?

This has been a particularly difficult year for our community with the devastation from the hurricanes. Personally, it has been a tough year for our family, as we received difficult news about a loved one's health. Through this, I have found strength and comfort in my faith. I want to use my faith to help others find hope in this Jubilee Year, so they will feel love and support from members of the Church, knowing they are not alone.

We hope this initiative leads to more individuals and families joining the Church and becoming active participants in spreading the Gospel.

How do you feel this experience will deepen your own faith, and what are you hoping to learn or gain from it?

I am hoping to learn from others and deepen my faith. I also hope to meet others in our church community who are inspired by Jesus’ message of love.