Special to The Message
On Dec. 6, the Diocese of Evansville is excited to welcome everyone to Encounter Hope / Encuentro de Esperanza, two diocesan-wide gatherings dedicated to building Christ-centered families and set as a capstone of our diocesan observance of the Jubilee Year of Hope. With one gathering in English and one in Spanish, the events will focus on building strong, Christ-centered families whose members reflect the Gospel message and strive to live as missionary disciples in the world.
The December events will bring together parents, grandparents, priests, religious, young adults, single and dating individuals, and all who share in the mission of forming and supporting the Domestic Church.
Encounter Hope, the English-language gathering, will begin with Mass celebrated by Bishop Joseph M. Siegel at 8 a.m. CST at St. Benedict Cathedral in Evansville, followed by a procession honoring the Holy Family to Reitz Memorial High School Auditorium. Distinguished speakers include best-selling author, radio host and popular speaker, Mark Hart. Joining Mark are best-selling authors and well-known speakers Bobby and Jackie Angel. Focusing on marriage and family life, Bobby and Jackie are regular video contributors on Ascension Presents. Father Alex Zenthoefer will inspire each of us to tightly embrace God’s plan for our family, and Father Tyler Tenbarge will serve as the emcee of the event.
Encuentro de Esperanza, the Spanish-language gathering, will begin at 8 a.m. CST with fellowship in St. Benedict School, followed by an 11 a.m. Mass celebrated by Bishop Joseph M. Siegel at St. Benedict Cathedral in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Tony Melendez, a world-renowned singer, author and inspirational speaker, will be the featured presenter at the Spanish-language gathering. Born without arms, Tony has been a beacon of hope to millions around the world.
To conclude this grace-filled day, both gatherings will join together in Eucharistic adoration and the recitation of the Holy Rosary, led by Tony Melendez, giving thanks for the gifts of our families and for the many graces received during this Jubilee Year of Hope.
On the evening before the event, all are invited to a Bilingual Holy Hour at 6 p.m. CST Dec. 5, led by Tony Melendez.
For more information and to register, visit the Diocese of Evansville’s website at evdio.org.