Crossing the Equator

Fr. Dave's mission to the "boat people" was not alone. Dcn Duane Thome accompanied him in his ministry and seemed to have a good time. Here he is with Neptune at a ceremony as they crossed the equator on their trip.

2015 Clergy Retreat

Once a year the clergy from St. Columbkille Parish gather over a weekend for a retreat. It also gives a chance for the priests and deacons from St. Columbkille to spend time together.

This year the retreat was based on the book Falling Upward by Fr. Richard Rohr.

It was largely about the paradigm shift that often takes place in the lives of people as they realize that what they once thought was important isn't anymore. It was pointed out that when clergy have had the privilege of walking through the process of dying, their values change.

The retreat was led by Deacon Duane Thome. Incidentally, it was realized that Dcn Thome was ordained before Fr. Vogel was born.

Once of the traditions of the group, which has been meeting at the Benedictine Retreat House in Schuyler since 1998, is a four mile walk around the section.

One of the great things about the retreat is the slow pace which allows everyone time to think and pray ...

 ... or sneak off to check email.

It was a very good retreat. 

Masses at Religious Formation

Today was the last day of our Summer Religious Formation Classes. Every day began in the church as the students gathered for Mass. After Mass, the students would head to the classrooms to continue their formation in faith.

A Quick Two Weeks

 For the last time this summer, Religious Formation students gathered in the courtyard to prepare for classes.

 The summer session ended with a 

Prayer  Service led by Deacon Thome.

Then it was time for Ice Cream and 

look back on a quick two weeks.

Clergy Retreat

Last weekend our clergy was off on retreat together. Deacon Thome led the retreat as it was a chance for them to grow in their faith and as a community. It's a good thing to take some to time to pray and reflect.

Soup & Stations

On Monday and Wednesday we celebrated Soup and Stations.

 

First families gathered in the Social

Level and had soup together.

 

After eating, they gathered in the church

to pray Stations of the Cross.

Children walked along from Station to

Station as they participated in the prayers.

Stations of the Cross is also celebrated

every Friday of Lent in the church.

Celebrating 30 Years of Ordination

A Dinner Saturday was a celebration for some permanent deacons who have achieved milestones in their diaconate service.

Among those honored were Deacon Duane Thome & his wife Judy.

Interestingly, Duane finished his formation 31 years ago, but too young (according to Canon Law) to be ordained yet. Thirty years ago he was still too young, but Archbishop Sheen gave him a dispensation and ordained him.

Congratulations Deacon Thome!