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Dear Lisa Helene,
I invite you to join me, as a member of the United States Catholic Mission Association, at our 2024 Conference, The Mission of the Eucharist: Gather. Unite. Send. Anticipating the conference, I cannot help but be filled with a sense of joy at the opportunity to gather with fellow faith leaders as we further cultivate our missionary calling, seeking hope in each other’s initiatives, with the Eucharist as the foundation for our mission’s purpose.
Reflecting on the first USCMA conference I attended in 2022, only months after completing my educational studies at St. Norbert College, I can wholeheartedly say I was seen by the faith leaders that attended. We all gathered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and for me, this was my first true encounter with many of you. Through our conversations and shared experiences, I felt united in the sense of community that was fostered by attending the conference. As the conference came to a close, we were all sent our own ways to continue our duties as faith leaders and our service as missionaries. Although we were sent, we remain united through our faith and the unique encounters we nourished at the conference.
Stemming from a Eucharistic foundation, we learn to serve others like Christ serves us, giving of ourselves and receiving the gift of others in the present moment. I am hopeful that you share in my excitement of this year’s conference, as I find there is nothing greater than being in each other’s presence with an open heart to what God has in store.
With the blessing of being joined by Robert Ellsberg, Diane Huggins, and Fr. Abdon Rwandekwe, SJ, we will have an opportunity to engage with three impactful faith leaders who each bring a unique story to the table. I can say with certainty that our three guest speakers will provide an atmosphere in which we can learn, contribute, and be sent with momentum back to our mission communities. I look forward to gathering with you all once again.
Many Blessings,
Lucca Kenyon
USCMA Conference Planning Committee Member
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