Dinner, entertainment and Diocesan friendship

On Wednesday, June 12th  ten of us enjoyed a fine dinner, friendship and shared faith at the RBC Convention Centre in London. The occasion was Bishop Fabbro’s fund raising evening, with the proceeds going to the work of the vocations personnel in the Diocese of London. Bishop Fabbro gave an inspiring opening talk inviting all to take up the motto that we strive to become “a mission-oriented Church that forms disciples of Jesus”.  He had repeated this motto in multiple languages at the Mass of Chrism, so his approach on Wednesday encouraged the audience to take the words up as  a light-hearted mantra, all the while holding deep significance for living our daily lives. Recognizing that the church needs the gifts and skills of women, the Bishop praised the Ursuline Sisters for their founding of Brescia University College one hundred years ago. He also acknowledged the work of Mrs. Mary Cahalan  for her twenty three years as part-time faculty at St. Peter’s Seminary. Along with greeting old friends, and sharing memorable stories, the evening ended with a performance by Juno nominee for Breakthrough Artist of the Year and Pop Album of the Year: Emm Gryner. Emma has strong ties to Southwestern Ontario, as a Sarnia native. Her band members represented St. Thomas, Stratford, and St. Mary’s town – a real mix of local talent. Knowing we will have to wait until next spring to hear who the guest performers will be always creates a sense of anticipation. So until next June!