Who was Father Mark Beard? Know about the pastor at Amite’s St. Helena Catholic Church who passed away in car accident

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Father Mark Beard, a beloved pastor at St. Helena Catholic Church in Amite, Louisiana. The news of his passing was shared by Bishop Michael G. Duca on the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge's Facebook page. In the wake of this devastating loss, the Bishop requested prayers for Father Mark, his family, friends, and the parishioners who are grieving the loss of their cherished pastor. According to law enforcement reports, a fatal car accident occurred on Interstate 55, north of the state lines between Louisiana and Mississippi, at approximately 1.30 pm. Tragically, the accident resulted in the death of a Catholic priest. According to the initial reports from Mississippi Highway Patrol, Father Mark was traveling south on Interstate 55 when his car veered off the highway, hitting a median and then a culvert. Tragically, the car overturned in the accident, and Father Mark Beard lost his life at the scene. Sources close to Father Mark revealed that he owned a property in Mississippi and frequently visited it. A Rosary ceremony in honor of Father Mark was conducted at St. Helena Catholic Church on the evening of August 2.

Father Mark Beard hailed from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He completed his education at Baton Rouge's Catholic High School and later pursued his college studies at Louisiana State University (LSU). According to statements from his friends, Mark felt called to become a priest while on vacation. They shared that Father Mark's philanthropic work as a pastor in Amite was remarkable, and he was known for his genuine care for the souls of others. His friends spoke highly of him, describing him as an incredible person with a deep sense of compassion. In a 2010 interview with Medjugorje Miracles,