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Consistent with the title “Step Up,” the message of the day was one of how to be our best self as a man by developing a relationship with the man who can provide the best possible example: Jesus Christ himself. It’s only by developing a relationship with Jesus that we can realize the potential we have as a man. The keynote speakers, including Father Larry Richards, Dr. Joseph Dutkowsky and Chris Padgett, all provided motivational talks about the importance of doing so, as well as practical advice for achieving this high ideal. These include admitting our faults and seeking to fix the damage we have caused, serving others by putting their needs before our own and sacrificing for others.

Underscoring the importance and relevance of this topic was the tremendous amount of effort that went into the event, both by the organizers as well as the many volunteers. Adding to the day was the wonderful location, the Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs. This historical and holy ground is the site of the first known location of an individual giving up their life for the purpose of bringing to others Jesus, who had never known of Jesus. Given the message of becoming the best man we can be through knowing and following the example of Jesus, what better location for the message to resonate than the first place on our soil where one was willing to give their life so that others would know Jesus. It’s truly a special location that is a “hidden gem” of our area!

Interactions throughout the day reminded me that there are other men struggling against the same challenges to being the men God has called us to be. And it’s only by being that man that I can make the biggest difference in making the world a better place. This event brought many men together in one place, and a true benefit of so many men gathering for an event is the support it provides. The shared stories and support that come from the knowledge that there are others of all ages struggling just like me emboldens me to “step up.” Being an authentic man allows us to “step up” to be the person that our families, our communities and our world need us to be. Not only am I inspired to take action, but I am also encouraged that there are other men just like me.

To all the Catholic men reading this seeking the tools needed to grow in holiness in their everyday lives, DO NOT miss next year’s event. A special thanks to Thomas Cronin and his gifted team for making this event possible. Strong men, it’s time to Step Up!

— Harry E. Bassett IV, St. Mary’s, Ballston Spa, and Adam Olmstead, St. Mary’s, Waterford (Holy Spirit inspired)

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