Bishop Gregory Parkes is the spiritual leader of the Diocese of St. Petersburg that is comprised of approximately 480,000 Catholics, more than 303,000 whom are registered and includes 74 parishes, 5 missions, 46 schools and early childhood centers, two universities, and a variety of social service, health care, housing and pastoral ministries located within the five counties of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus. Mass is celebrated in 12 languages. His role is to govern, teach and promote in every way the holiness of the Christian faithful. Bishop Parkes believes that serving for God’s glory is the guiding principle of his ministry, which is why he chose, “To your name give the glory” from Psalm 115, Verse 1 as his pastoral motto.His ministry takes him throughout the community for pastoral visits, blessings and dedications, gatherings, sacramental celebrations and many other liturgical events. He also seeks to connect with people online and on-the-air through regular updates on social media (@BishopParkes), YouTube (@DioceseofStPete), via podcasts and Spirit FM 90.5. To learn more, visit BishopParkes.org.
Bishop Gregory Parkes & Spirit FM 90.5
Bishop Parkes shares his recent trip to visit seminarians of the diocese. He also talks about the new pastoral plan for the Diocese of St. Petersburg called, "A Call to Conversion."
Bishop Parkes reminds the faithful to not become overwhelmed with rote prayers or colorful prayers, but to listen to what God is saying to you in the quiet of your heart.
Bishop Parkes encourages the faithful who struggle in prayer to look to the Catholic Church's rich treasury of prayers and devotions.
At the start of the new year, we remember the role of Mary in salvation history.
Bishop Parkes prays for God's blessings on a new year.
Bishop Parkes reminds us of the 800th anniversary of the creation of the Nativity scene and its importance to the faithful.
Bishop Parkes reminds us what the season of Advent is really for.
The Advent season is upon us and Bishop Parkes encourages the faithful to prepare their "house" for Jesus.
A handful of dioceses in Florida and the Southeast have filed a cause for sainthood for the Martyrs of Florida. Bishop Parkes began the case when he was Bishop of Pensacola-Tallahassee and has continued the case for over 10 years. He talks about the cause for the saints and the process for moving forward.
Bishop Parkes thanks the faithful for their support of the works of the diocese, and especially those who go a step further in their commitment and generosity by inviting them to be part of the Mater Dei Society.
Bishop Parkes shares his plans for the Thanksgiving Holiday and what he will be thanking God for this Thanksgiving.
Bishop Parkes recently awarded faithful from local parishes the St Jude Medal for outstanding ministry and stewardship in their community.
Bishop Parkes recently attended the 25th anniversary celebration dinner for the Catholic Jewish Center at Saint Leo University. He reflects on the evening in light of the Israeli Palestinian conflict.
The Memorial of St. Leo The Great, Doctor of the Church, is November 9th. Bishop Parkes explains what a Doctor of the Church is and who may be considered next for being named "Doctor."
Bishop Parkes shares his visits to diocesan schools and educating the children about the life of Blessed Carlo Acutis.
Bishop Parkes talks about the proper interment of ashes and the Church's views on scattering and keeping ashes.
The Church has recognized that young adults over 18 seem to drift away from the church and worship. Bishop Parkes talks about the efforts in the Diocese of St. Petersburg to reach out to the young adults to minister to them.
Bishop Parkes shares his thoughts on the gathering of bishops and officials for the Synod on Synodality taking place in Rome this October.
Bishop Parkes talks about the impact of Respect Life Month as it relates to capital punishment in the state of Florida.
Father Jim Johnson is awarded the Father Luis de Cancer Award by his brother priests. Bishop Parkes talks about the significance of the award and the life of service and faith Father Johnson has led.
Bishop Parkes shares his experience of celebration with the various Hispanic cultures of our diocese and the gifts they bring.
Bishop Parkes talks about the shocking attack on Israel and the prayers for peace.
The Diocese of St Peterburg will welcome 8 permanent deacons to serve the church. Bishop Parkes talks about the role of the deacon and invites all to come to the ordination on October 14, 2023 at the Cathedral of St. Jude.
Bishop Parkes reflects on what a steward of God's gifts is called to do.
The right to life for babies in the womb is as strong as ever. Bishop Parkes talks about the importance of prayer, fasting, and taking an active role in discussing this issue with state legislators.
Bishop Parkes reflects on the recent Eucharistic Encounter event in Tampa and the impact it has had on attendees.
Bishop Parkes talks about the new Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Hillsborough County. He talks about the faith aspects for proper burials and respect for the body.
Bishop Parkes is happy to announce the publication of a new magazine for the Diocese of St. Petersburg called Gulf Coast Catholic.
As our nation celebrates Labor Day, Bishop Parkes reminds us to be appreciative for our work and remember those who are in need of a meaningful job. He prays for those who need work and for fair labor.
College students are moving on campus and classes are starting. Bishop Parkes talks about balancing college life and faith and how the Church is present to students if they look.
As Spirit FM's fall radio fundraiser approaches, Bishop Parkes encourages the faithful to support the diocesan radio station that does positive work in the community.
Recently the Holy Father named 21 new cardinals to the Church. Bishop Parkes reflects on the impact these men will have on the church for a future generation.
Bishop Parkes invites the faithful to encounter Christ in a deeper way by attending the diocesan Eucharistic Encounter event in Tampa on September 16,2023
Cardinal Peter Okpaleke of Nigeria visited the Diocese of St Petersburg recently and Bishop Parkes shares why he visited and some of his history.
July 26 is the Memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne. Bishop Parkes reflects on their importance and that of Mary's role in salvation history.
Recently Pope Francis named 21 men as Cardinals of the Church. Bishop Parkes explains what a cardinal is and their role in the Church.
Bishop Parkes shares about the decline of certain religious orders but the hope for growing leadership at the Vatican level.
Bishop Parkes talks about the importance of having women as leaders in various offices of the local church and beyond.
The Vicar for Religious of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Sister Marlene Widenborner, retired recently after six decades of service to the Church. Bishop Parkes reflects on this remarkable woman of faith.
July 3rd is the Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle. Bishop Parkes reflects on Thomas and his role in the gospel and how his doubt helps us to overcome our own shortcomings.
Bishop Parkes talks about the good works that come forth from the Good Samaritan Project and the fruits of Catholic summer camps.
Bishop Parkes talks about the importance of Religious Freedom Week, June 22-29, 2023.
Bishop Parkes has informed pastors that at their discretion, they can reinstitute the distribution of the Precious Blood of Christ at the Eucharist. Bishop offers some guidelines and considerations.
Bishop Parkes reflects on the one year anniversary of his leg amputation, its necessity, and the blessings that have come from it.
Bishop Parkes shares his confirmation travels and reminds us that its never too late to come into the Church.
Bishop Parkes offers simple tips and encouragement to be a missionary disciple for Christ and His Church.
Bishop Parkes reminds the faithful of this Birthday of the Church and its importance in our faith tradition.
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