photo by Jim Dippold
It’s an annual rite of summer for Viatorians, the Provincial Assembly.
That’s when Viatorian associates, brothers and priests come from around the country and as far away as Belize, for a three-day gathering filled with prayer, reflection, discussion and Mass. This year’s gathering took place during the last week in June.
“It’s a time to renew friendships and celebrate time in community,” said Fr. Thomas von Behren, recently elected to his third term as provincial, “as well as join together in Eucharist.”
This year, Viatorians focused on social justice and the community’s renewed commitment to ways of carrying it out. Fr. William O’Neill, SJ, opened the retreat, by exploring the church’s commitment to social justice, from its Biblical roots to present day Catholic social teachings.
Members then discussed specific action measures they could take to work toward justice and peace. They ranged from accompanying recently released immigrants from detention, to working with the poor in Pembroke Township, IL; to working in various projects at the parish level.
To reinforce their commitment to social justice, the community welcomed Br. Michael Gosch, CSV as coordinator of a new office: Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation. The new office is part of a renewed push by the Viatorians and the Conference of Major Superiors of Men to more fully advocate for those “accounted of little importance.”