In our last issue of Bread Broken & Shared, we shared with you the planning for our General Chapter which was held earlier this year in Mundelein, Illinois. In this issue, we are happy to share with you some of the results of this enthusiastic gathering of our religious from all around the globe! In the centerfold (pages 8 and 9), you can meet many of the religious who attended the gathering. Also, we have included an inspiring homily given by Father Mark Francis, CSV on the Feast of Corpus Christi with all of the Capitulars in attendance.
The number of our lay associates continues to grow around the country. In this issue, we highlight a new group of associates in San Antonio, Texas. See how YOU can become an associate – contact us! We also celebrate the religious commitment of two of our religious in Cleveland, Ohio, Deacon Joseph Bourgeois SSS and Brother Eugene Blee SSS. Their dedication to the charism of the Congregation is exemplary. Father Ernest, our ecumenist, continues to keep the theme of Christian Unity before us. His article in this issue highlights the dialogue between Methodists and the Roman Catholic Church. Check out his online musings here: Ecumenical Corner Blog.
We welcome Doctor Carol Kelley, a new staff person who will coordinate care for our aging religious. She is a welcome addition to our Province’s family. Our Director of Mission Advancement, Mr. Scott Gongos, shares what is happening with Saint Ann’s Shrine and the development efforts of the Congregation. Click here for more information on our Legacy Society.
Father Provincial was privileged to travel to the Philippine Islands for the 60th anniversary of the presence of our SSS Congregation there. He shares a little of that experience in this issue. Father Anthony Marshall SSS continues to keep the topic of Vocations before us, sharing the words of Pope Francis. We also encourage you to pray DAILY for vocations to the priesthood and religious life, especially in the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament.
We hope that you find the time to read this entire issue and learn more about the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament and its ministry and mission – in this way, you can walk with us in the footsteps of our holy Founder, Saint Peter Julian Eymard.
Whatever gift you are able to make, know it is most appreciated! Please include any special prayer intentions you would like us to remember here. These intentions are prayed for by all the priests and brothers each day. It’s our simple way of saying “THANKS” to you who have been so good to us!
We remember in a special way all of those who were affected the recent hurricanes Harvey and Irma!