They weren’t there for basketball
The University of Dayton arena is usually filled for Flyers games, and I have certain family members who hold season tickets and never miss a game. The place fills with sports fans and players and rocks with spirit.
There was a different Spirit there recently when 4,000 participants attended a rosary service for peace.
If participants’ comments are any indication, the second year of the Family Rosary Rally at the University of Dayton Arena with Father Dave Brinkmoeller, Dayton dean and St. Helen pastor, Oct. 8 was everything and more that organizers had hoped it would be.
This was “a very spiritual worthy event,” said one. “Father Dave’s homily was terrific,” said many. “The entire rally was so inspirational,” said others, adding, “This was a beautiful tribute to Mary.”
“I cannot believe it could be better than last year, but it was,” said Carolyn Barthel.
The opening procession with those who recently received their first Communion, Knights, Foresters, Father Brinkmoeller and the statue drew special praise, as did the combined adult and children’s choir and the recitation of the Glorious Mysteries by more than 50 children, many outfitted in native dress,” representing numerous cultures.
“The different languages were really impressive,” said Dr. E. Haas of Cleveland.
By the time of the closing procession, “There were very few dry eyes in the crowd,” Joe Beyerle and Bob O’Connor, organizers, echoed.
This is in a Bible Belt region densely populated by fundamental Christians with precious few Catholic parishes and events like this. If you know of others, or locations of the new movements or youth ministries or Adoration Chapels….let me know. Either share it in the comments below, or send me an email (click on the ‘contact me’ over on the right).
