On Thursday, May 14, the Greater Cincinnati Area gathered at Xavier University for its annual Day of Recollection, welcoming more than 50 guests for a day of prayer, reflection, and fellowship as the campus prepared for commencement weekend.

The day began with Mass for the Feast of St. Matthias, celebrated by Fr. Paul Lickteig, S.J., before Area Hospitaller Kathryn Dierckes, DM welcomed attendees and introduced a dynamic lineup of speakers. Local poet and author Marian Leibold opened the morning with reflective poetry exploring life’s journey, the burdens we carry, and the invitation to welcome the Holy Spirit more deeply into our lives.

Acclaimed Neurosurgeon Dr. John Tew, KM of the University of Cincinnati, with Bill Burleigh, KM facilitating, then led a moving conversation on healing and redemptive suffering, as Dr. Tew shared insights from both his years of ministry as a surgeon and his own personal journey toward healing. Closing out the morning, Sr. Anne Catherine, O.P., Vicaress General of the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia, offered a powerful reflection on Mary’s presence in our lives, reminding attendees that she walks with us through every season and often meets us in unexpected ways.

The day concluded with lunch and continued fellowship, giving participants the opportunity to deepen connections and continue the spirit of reflection together.

Photo Credit: Christopher Kelley, KM