SALESIANS PARTICIPATE IN ANNUAL RELIGIOUS BROTHERS CONFERENCE

by Bro. Bernie Dubé, SDB

(Potomac, Md. – July 30) – Bros. Jerry Meegan, Tom Sweeney, and Bernie Dube participated in this year’s annual Religious Brothers Conference at the Bolger Conference Center in Potomac, Md., July 20-23.

The 55 participants had a most enjoyable weekend, facilitated not only by their fellowship and various sessions but also by the cafeteria’s excellent food.

The conference opened on Friday evening, July 20. On Saturday morning, Bro. John Mark Falkenhain, OSB, from St. Meinrad Archabbey was the keynote speaker, addressing the topic “The Zealous Brother.” He said that zeal is heat; passion is patience; suffering is radical love.

Bro. John Mark mentioned that the religious vocation is to a life of zeal. The charism of consecrated life is attached to the charism of the brother’s order or congregation. The vows are like a tripod upholding conversion of life. Young people are attracted to religious life by the community’s charism, community life, prayer, and a clear Catholic identity. Ministry is not a drawing card. After each session with Bro. John, attendees had to answer questions and share them with in groups.

Bros. Jerry, Tom, and Bernie visited the Salesian community of Don Bosco Cristo Rey in Silver Spring, Md., and had lovely afternoon that included the Sunday Vigil Mass celebrated by Fr. Dennis Hartigan, along with Bro. Bill Hanna. Fr. Dennis and Bro. Bill showed the visitors the new Salesian residence in College Park, Md., which will be renovated and serve as a much bigger residence for the high school community. Afterwards everyone went out for a fine supper, where they were joined by Fr. Mike Mendl, who had been out for confessions. (Fr. Dieunel Victor was at Gospel Roads in New Rochelle, and Fr. Mike Conway was on vacation.)

Next year’s Religious Brothers Conference will be held at the OMI Center in San Antonio, Texas.