An avid cyclist, Bishop was thrilled to receive a new bike compliments of our school community.
Saturday, March 22, was a gloriously sunny day at CTK. All those present felt the anticipation of celebrating two Confirmation ceremonies with our newly appointed Bishop, Joseph A Williams, and excitement for our Candidates as they progress in their spiritual journey. Before the ceremonies, Bishop Williams took the time to greet each of the parents and candidates; this addition to the day brought a feeling of care and attention to all.
Bishop Williams shared about his upbringing in Stillwater, MN, his experience being one in a family of nine children, and part of his spiritual journey that includes obtaining a degree in biology. At that time, Bishop planned on attending medical school, marrying, and having ten children. As he continued, we learned that after completing his four-year degree, he studied philosophy and pre-theology at the Franciscan University of Steubenville. While praying in the Church one day, a fellow student quietly said that he had the gift of preaching and enjoys relaying that he is a doctor of souls, not medicine! Bishop attributes this diversion to the work of the Holy Spirit.
The day was a resounding success, a testament to the collective efforts of many. Dolores Mozzillo, our Director of Religious Education, is deeply grateful for the individuals who generously shared their talents to bring the Holy Spirit to our 100+ Candidates and three Adults in our OCIA program. Their contributions were invaluable and significantly impacted the day. In particular, she wishes to express her heartfelt thanks to the Religious Education team of Cathie Lombardi and Nicole Bryson; the CKRS team of Anne Hartman, Kaye Herman, Kathleen Dunn, and Kaitlyn Creel; all of the Catechetical team including Peter D’Antonio, Julie Oatway, Valerie McGuigan, and Trudy Cranston; the CTK Liturgy and Music team of Abigail Walsh, Bob Tulini, Susanna Steigerwald and Theresa-Rose Woodward; volunteers, Kristin Master and Stephanie Adelman; the parents and sponsors of the Candidates and our Pastor, Father Jon Thomas.
Furthermore, Dolores deeply appreciates the Bishop’s day-long presence and the thoughtful gesture of distributing a book by Matthew Kelly, ‘I Heard God Laugh,’ to the parents. This engaging book invites the reader to consider the care of their souls. Bishop remarked that fifty percent of children baptized in 2011 would not be confirmed and again acknowledged the accomplishment and dedication of the parents who fulfilled the promises made on their child’s baptism day. The book serves as a tangible reminder that Confirmation is a continuation of, not an end to, our spiritual journey.