On Saturday, February 19th, the Connecticut – Eastern Area hosted a Penitential Workshop with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at St. Mark Church (St. Pio Parish) in Westbrook. This special event was led by local Area chaplain, Rev. Thomas Kelly, ChM. Fr. Kelly brought his new icon of Our Lady of Philermo, pictured above, and blessed wallet cards with her image and the Daily Prayer of the Order.

This workshop was based on the book, Shepherds and Fishermen: Spiritual Exercises for Bishops, Priests, and Religious, written by Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa, OFM Cap, which is used for clergy exercises in the Archdiocese of Hartford. 

In particular, the members shared thoughts fittingly on each of the Beatitudes, referenced from The Third Day section on the Examination of Conscience. All participants received the Sacrament of Reconciliation and personal Absolution.

Members also offered intentions for the Feast of the World Day of the Sick and for Frà Nicola Tegoni, who took his Solemn Vows as Knight of Justice that afternoon at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, where local member Joseph Lacasse, KM, represented the Area.