Priests meet on Renew 2000

"Renew 2000" is their theme as approximately 200 priests of the Albany Diocese gather this week at the Friar Tuck Inn in Catskill for their fifth annual Priests' Convocation.

In contrast to previous gatherings, which have been either academically oriented or geared toward the administrative concerns of priests, the format of the Nov. 5-7 convocation is a retreat.

According to Rev. Thomas Powers, chair of the event and director of the diocesan Office of Initial and Ongoing Formation, the change in the convocation's topic from year to year reflects the needs of diocesan priests. Past convocations have focused on preaching, the pastoral planning process and upcoming changes in priestly ministry.

Changing needs

"Early on, there was a need for administrative questions. Last year, there was a felt need for some preaching," explained Father Powers, pastor of St. John the Baptist Church in Valatie.

This year, diocesan officials felt the need for priests to explore the spiritual and theological background of Renew 2000, set to begin in the Albany Diocese in fall 1998.

Although the convocation also gives the priests a chance for fellowship with their peers, Father Powers added, it has never before been within the context of a retreat.

Renew in focus

Another change in the convocation is its leadership. This year's event is being handled entirely by Renew International, Renew 2000's New Jersey-based parent organization. Aside from Bishop Howard J. Hubbard's closing remarks, Renew International is providing all the guest speakers for the morning, afternoon and evening workshops.

Talks on a typical five- or six-day Renew retreat include "The Love and Compassion of God," "Relationships: The Heart of Spirituality" and "A Priest as a Servant-Leader," Father Powers told The Evangelist, but the program has been condensed to fit the time allotted for the convocation.

Unfortunately, that means the loss of free time for participants; but Father Powers pointed out that several other opportunities are available for fellowship among priests of the Diocese throughout the year, from a "Priests' Appreciation Day" in August to days of recollection during Lent and Advent.

Communion services are being offered in many parishes of the Diocese as the priests attend the convocation; retired and religious order priests are also helping with parish duties.

(11-06-97) [[In-content Ad]]