From the 21st of May through the 27th, all the Redemptorist students in North America along with those in formation ministry and those in vocation ministry met at Notre Dame Retreat Centre, near Rochester, New York.
We gathered in the morning for a two-hour workshop. Our presenter was Fr. Dennis Billy C.Ss.R. He guided us through the life and times of St. Alphonsus. He illustrated through Alphonsus’ own writings, Alphonsus’ genius for pastoral ministry, his stature as one of the greatest spiritual writers and mentors, his guidelines for us to become great preachers, and confessors, and his inspiration for us to live a community life which reflects Jesus as Saviour and Redeemer.
Each afternoon and evening was filled with social time to build fraternity among the students, while many of those in formation and vocation ministries held meetings. On Saturday at the closing Mass, we were delighted to see Fr. Stephen Rehrauer and Fr. Jerry Knapp along with some who are in formation ministry, receive the renewal of vows of some of the Redemptorist students.
Fr. David Purcell, C.Ss.R.
