Convocation of Catholic Leaders

The Diocesan Pastoral Council met with Bishop Donald Kettler Nov. 4 at St. Mary of Mount Carmel in Long Prairie where he welcomed new members.

Last July’s Convocation of Catholic Leaders proved to be such a hit among participants that local dioceses were encouraged during the U.S. bishops’ fall general assembly to build on the momentum that emerged to answer Pope Francis’ call to evangelize.

Helping people forge a deeper relationship with our Lord is the key to addressing a whole host of problems that beset the church and society.

On the heels of a four-day gathering of 3,100 people at the Convocation of Catholic Leaders, in Orlando, Florida, Bishop Donald Kettler is convening a follow-up discussion with the 10 delegates from the Diocese of St. Cloud who joined him at the unprecedented event in early July.

Archbishop Gomez, vice president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, points to American society as a prime example of where the need to minister on the margins is vital, especially because families are breaking down and communities are experiencing instability.

Catholic leaders attending the opening Mass of the “Convocation of Catholic Leaders: The Joy of The Gospel in America” were urged to reflect joy — a sign of God’s presence — and not exclusively focus on the world’s problems.

St. Cloud Bishop Donald Kettler has selected a team of 10 delegates from the diocese to join him at the Convocation of Catholic Leaders July 1-4 in Orlando, Florida.