Associates Connie Gerber, and David and Susan Surprenant
At St. Viator Church in Chicago, three Viatorian associates together made their definitive commitments as Viatorian associates: Associate Connie Gerber, Associate David Surprenant, and Associate Susan Surprenant.
Associates in the US initially commit for two years and then can renew their commitments first for three years and then for another five years. After ten years as associates, lay Viatorians may request to commit to the community definitively. Connie, of Las Vegas, comes from educational leadership while David and Susan, of Manteno, IL, are farmers, yet they now share this definitive bond in common. Ken and Michelle Barrie of St. Anne, IL, also up for definitive commitments were unable to attend in person.
First year Associates Jackie Dupon, Betty Faraci, Gema and Jose Rangel, Susana Tellez, Enrique Valdovinos and Ivy Vera
At the same Mass, a group of adults from Chicago joined the Viatorian Community with their initial commitments of two years, following a two-year formation and discernment program as pre-associates: Jackie Dupon, Betty Faraci, Gema Rangel, Jose Rangel, Susana Tellez, Enrique Valdovinos and Ivy Vera. John Dussman was unable to attend.
Associate Tim Schwarz offers the gospel reflection
Fr. Thomas von Behren, CSV, Provincial, was the main presider at the Mass at the venerable St. Viator Parish, founded by Viatorians more than 125 years ago. Associate Tim Schwarz offered a reflection, while parishioners provided music, both in English and Spanish, as well as a dinner and entertainment.
“What a wonderful celebration of our cultures, of our faith and of the Viatorian Community,” Fr. Tom said. “Thank you for making this important commitment to the Viatorian Community.”