The Diocese of St. Cloud is hosting a three-day event as part of its “Becoming Eucharist” series, featuring Steve Angrisano, an internationally recognized Catholic composer, keynote presenter and music missionary.
Angrisano has shared his unique blend of humor, story and song at 10 World Youth Days and three National Catholic Youth Conferences. While rooted in humility and faithfulness, his daily work is dedicated to presenting parish missions, leading groups to the Holy Land and 25 years of composing music for Oregon Catholic Press.
“Steve Angrisano will make you laugh and cry in the same story,” said Christine Pinto, diocesan associate director for Faith Formation and one of the planners of the series. “He is a great speaker who reaches young and old alike and it is an honor to have him in our diocese. Take advantage of this affordable opportunity to meet an international speaker and be reenergized in your faith.”
The series begins Saturday, Oct. 28, with “Vessels of Hope” for young adults. The day, from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Newman Center, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, encourages young adults to engage in stories of accompaniment and witness and celebrate their God-given giftedness. Participants will explore their unique place in the Church during these challenging times and to recognize the need for their leadership in building a better Church, said Kent Schmitz, diocesan associate director for Youth and Young Adults.
“Steve will bring great music and interactive fun to his keynote and workshop sessions, small group discussions, prayer and networking with other young adults,” Schmitz said.
The day includes Mass. Children are welcome to attend — there will be special programming for those ages 4-10. The fee is $20 before Oct. 19 and $30 afterwards. Register at stcdio.org/2023-young-adult-day. The registration deadline is Oct. 26.
“Chosen Vessels” is the high school youth day, from 11:30 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29, at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria. Angrisano will lead youth through celebrating their faith, Mass with Bishop Patrick Neary, prayer, interactive and recreational games, silent disco and food.
The fee is $40 before Oct. 20 and $50 afterwards. Youth may register at stcdio.org/2023-youth-day or contact the youth leaders at their parishes. The registration deadline is at noon Oct. 26.
The final day, titled “Vessels of Faith,” is a diocesan-wide retreat, on Monday, Oct. 30. It will be from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Mary Help of Christians Church in St. Augusta.
“Participants will gather with other faith-filled disciples for prayer, learning, networking, laughter and celebrating our faith,” Schmitz said. “This day offers an opportunity for all ages to renew their love of the Eucharist and reflect on being the Body of Christ in the world.”
Morning hospitality begins at 9 a.m. Cost is $15, which includes lunch. To register or for more information, visit stcdio.org/2023-retreat-day. The registration deadline is at noon Oct. 23.