Traveling to Hilton Head, Beaufort, Bluffton and St. Helena Island from May 6–8, Bishop Fabre begins his pastoral visit to the Beaufort Deanery. He will encounter a living reminder that God is actively at work across the Diocese of Charleston in our classrooms, communities and in quiet acts of service that often go unseen.
May 6
Hilton Head Island: St. Francis School
What began in 1996 with just two grade levels has become the thriving pre-K through eighth grade community we know today. Yet the deeper witness isn’t in size, but in unity, with students, parish and school life woven together. Faith is not an addition here; it is the foundation.
May 7
Beaufort: St. Peter School
A pastor’s vision continues to bear fruit. It started with a small group of families trusting in Catholic education and has grown into a vibrant school community committed to forming the whole child. Their mission to “teach as Jesus did” is visible in academic rigor and genuine care for each student.
St. Helena Island: St. Francis Center
Here, the Gospel is lived through direct service: feeding the hungry, repairing homes and accompanying those in need. Rooted in years of faithful presence, this ministry of the Sisters of Sts. Cyril and Methodius reflects a Church that walks with people decade after decade.
May 8
Bluffton: St. Gregory the Great School
SGGCS has grown into a thriving pre-K through sixth grade community from its beginning in 2006 with just two grade levels. In 2019, it became the first non-private Catholic school in South Carolina to earn STEM Certification. The school opened Hearts & Hands Preschool in 2024, welcoming children ages 3 and older into a nurturing, faith-filled home.
Ridgeland: John Paul II School
What started in 2013 with 57 students has become one of the lowcountry’s most celebrated schools, including earning AP Platinum honors (top 6% in the U.S. and Canada) and Project Lead the Way Distinguished status (top 1%). A new Innovation Center is on the horizon to ensure the school community is built for generations to come into this growing area.
REFLECTION
Across the previous Pastoral Visits, a beautiful truth has emerged: faithful ministry is alive and bearing good fruit throughout South Carolina. For those who may feel isolated or weary, these trips hopefully offer reassurance of the living Church present here.
In every parish, school and outreach effort, we see the same determination of the faithful, ongoing work of good people that reflects the strength and unity of the Church. Seeds planted years ago are growing. Needs are being met. Lives are being changed. The work may not always be visible, but it is deeply meaningful and Catholics are thriving.
This is the shared mission of our diocese — to form disciples, serve with compassion and remain faithful where God has planted us!