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Diocesan Conference Shares the Challenge of the Eucharist

September 06, 2000

Gaylord -- The ninth annual Gaylord Diocesan Conference will be held Saturday, October 7 at the new Diocesan Pastoral Center in Gaylord. In keeping with the Jubilee Year 2000 theme set for by Pope John Paul II, this year's conference will focus on "The Challenge of the Eucharist" as presented by Rev. Eugene LaVerdiere, SSS. The Eucharist is nothing less than a living compendium of the gospel in deed and word. In receiving the Eucharist one is specially united more closely with Christ and with all the faithful as one body. We are nourished and strengthened not only inwardly, but Eucharist also strengthens our charity. We are called to respond in a more Christ-like manner to those in need. Through three sessions Fr. LaVerdiere will share the Gospel of Luke as participants explore the challenge of being "At the Table with Jesus the Prophet; Jesus the Christ; and Jesus the Lord." In "Dining in the Kingdom," Fr. LaVerdiere writes: "In a series of ten meals with Jesus the Prophet, Jesus the Christ and Jesus the Lord, Luke set out the demands of eucharist. These demands may appear overwhelming but no more so than the gospel presentations of the ideal Christian life. Impossible as it may seem, that ideal must never be lowered. It is a beacon beckoning all of us toward the humanly impossible and the Kingdom of God." Fr. LaVerdiere holds a doctorate in New Testament and Early Christian Literature, is Senior Editor of "Emmanuel" magazine and lectures nationally and internationally. He also serves as an adjunct professor New Testament in Chicago and has authored several books and audio tapes. Cost to attend the conference is $30.00 which includes lunch and materials. Registration materials are available in parish offices or individuals may call the Diocesan Pastoral Center at (517) 732-5147. Deadline to register is September 15.