CATHEDRAL MARY OUR QUEEN PARISH & SCHOOL 2013 YEARBOOK

CATHEDRAL SPEAKER SERIES
Panel Presentation and Discussion
“Living the Catholic Faith in a Secular World”
Our Cathedral Speaker Series kicked off on
Saturday, October 6 th in the Parish Center, with a
dynamic panel presentation and discussion on the
topic of “Living the Catholic Faith in a Secular
World.” Panelists included Fr. Joseph Breighner,
lecturer, retreat master and columnist for the
Catholic Review; James J. Buckley, Professor of
Theology at Loyola University
Maryland; and Mary Ellen
Russell, Executive Director of the
Maryland Catholic Conference.
Msgr. Jarboe opened the
event with prayer. Each panelist
gave a 30-minute presentation
with Dr. John Hosler serving as
moderator. A lively question and
answer session followed, and
legislative activist Mary Ellen
Russell provided handouts about
voting in the upcoming election.
The morning was a great success,
as noted by comments from those
in attendance: “Loved entire program.
Inspirational and informative.”
“Panelists and moderator did a
wonderful job of addressing questions
and challenging perspectives with the
overriding message of asking us to be for
things (not against) and do it with love.”
“Well informed speakers.” Thanks to
the Education Commission and the Adult Faith
Formation Team (AFFT) for planning such a
timely and informative presentation!
“To be a Catholic is to be Counter Cultural”
Fifty-four parishioners gathered on the
morning of Saturday, November 3 rd to enjoy the
second offering in the Cathedral Speaker Series,
“To be a Catholic is to be Counter Cultural,”
presented by Rev. Jerry Francik, Pastor of St.
Mark Catholic Church in Fallston, MD. Jojo Inola
opened the program with an ice-breaker activity,
and Fr. Pete Literal led all assembled in an
opening prayer. Then Fr. Francik gave his seminar
followed by a question and answer session. His
presentation was very much enjoyed by all present.
Feedback included: “Very clear explanation of complex
issues…” “Clear articulation on how we can hold our
faithful ground in tough issues like marriage equality…”
“Fr. Jerry did an excellent job! Best Catholic speaker I have
heard in a while.” “Fr. Jerry’s candor
[was appreciated] on the most
controversial and sensitive topics, all the
while maintaining Catholic perspective
and compassion.” “Fr. Jerry is brilliant
and presents with clarity, love, and
understanding!” Thanks to Anne
Merwin and the AFFT for
arranging for this inspirational
speaker!
“I am Spiritual,
but not Religious”
The final presentation in
the Cathedral Speaker Series
occurred on Saturday morning,
March 3 rd . Fifty-six intrigued
parishioners assembled to hear
Rev. Joseph Barr, Pastor of
Immaculate Conception in
Towson and former Associate
Pastor here at the Cathedral,
present the topic “I am Spiritual,
but not Religious.” Fr. Barr spoke about New
Age Spirituality, a topic of interest to the entire
parish community, and especially young adults. He
provided an overview of New Age and described
many of the New Age practices and philosophies,
which were new to many in attendance. Some
attendees commented: “The extent of New Age
surprises me. It’s beginning to feel like we Catholics are
strangers in a new landscape.” “Interesting overview of
topic…” “Very insightful and interesting. Father Barr is
so relaxed and funny!”
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Cathedral of Mary Our Queen | 2013 Yearbook