Viewers react positively to televised messages

"Disciples, Together in Faith," the 90-minute retreat broadcast April 10-12, drew these responses:

* Carol Talbot, a parishioner of Our Lady of Victory in Troy: "I thought the TV retreat was great, especially the part about talking to Jesus as a person. The Bishop also said we should share and show our faith in everyday life. I have a prayer card on the refrigerator and the Bible out on the table. I don't think I would have done that ten years ago. A lot of [the Bishop's] ideas have come up in the prayer group that I belong to. He said we should look at the Church as our extended family. That's happening at Our Lady of Victory; it's our second family."

* Bill Mahar, a parishioner of St. John the Evangelist Church in Rensselaer: "I thought it was great. The first night of the program was, coincidentally, our Renew small faith group meeting. We had planned to listen to the Bishop as part of our meeting, but it was a unique experience to be with those with whom we share our innermost thoughts about God and spiritual feelings, and to have our spiritual father right there in the living room. I was impressed with his gentle manner; he came across very well. I liked the steps that he gave for discipleship; and he presented the concepts of what we all should be as Catholics, our relationships, willingness and flexibility with the decisions of the Church. You could see the sincerity of the lay participants; it was coming from their heart."

* Paige Spawn, a student at The College of Saint Rose in Albany: "I thought the shows were really interesting. The Cathedral was the perfect location for the Bishop's speech. I liked how the video dissolved to show how people within our community are disciples of Christ. These stories helped me see how other people respond to the call of God, from playing music to helping out in soup kitchens. It is important for us to set aside time and reflect on our discipleship. I particularly liked the end when the Bishop said 'Bless you.' That does not happen too often on television! I thought these videos raised a lot of important things to think and reflect upon."

* Phyllis Lawrence, from St. Michael the Archangel Church in South Glens Falls: "I thought it was great. Our Renew group decided we'd start [our session] early to have it over with by the time the Bishop came on. Everyone was invited to stay at my home to watch it, and they did. There was no talking during it; everyone was very interested. It's great that he made it clear that we're all praying in one way or another. You don't have to say a prayer; you do your own thing. I enjoyed all three nights."

* Cindy Butler, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Albany: "It was really good. My son goes to St. Thomas' [School in Delmar], and they were required to watch it. I thought it was too high-level for him -- he's eight years old -- but I'm a single parent, and a lot of the things the Bishop said about being accepted really hit home for me. I really enjoyed watching the people -- the real-life situations -- to see how [faith] played out in their lives. I enjoyed seeing our Cathedral; my son liked that."

* Ken Murray, St. John the Baptist, Chestertown (who watched with his Renew 2000 group): "The people here really enjoyed it. We think the Bishop is great. I've seen him at many Confirmations. I love the Bishop, because every time, he's always made the kids feel really comfortable. [Watching the show,] we got the impression that he was talking right to us. A lot of the things he said were things we've been talking about in our Renew groups: being a disciple, carrying your cross. I think what he said was very helpful. He also said that the Church needs to be inviting and open; that's another thing we've talked about in our Renew groups. We're with him!"

* Ruth Talbot, a parishioner of St. Francis de Sales in Troy: "I enjoyed it very much. The way he spoke was very personal. I like talking to God, and I know my [deceased] husband can hear my prayers, too. I thought the [video parables] were very interesting. I especially enjoyed the music."

(Contributing to this article were Kate Blain, assistant editor; Paul Quirini, staff writer; and Maureen McGuinness.)

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