| Blessed John XXIII Pastoral Center Celebrates 25 Years of Service |
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By Joan McAteer
CHARLESTON—Faithful gathered at Blessed John XXIII Pastoral Center Jan. 17 to celebrate the center’s 25th anniversary.
Following a welcoming and scripture reading, Rev. Mr. Gary Lane, director of the center, read a letter written Jan. 16, 1985, by Bishop Joseph H. Hodges addressing the dedication of the center: “This indeed is a special day for me and the diocese. For me, it represents the completion of a significant part of the vision I have for the diocese and responds to the ongoing needs of the people and gives expression to the commitment of enabling all to live out their baptismal call to ministry and service.”
Msgr. P. Edward Sadie, V.F., rector of the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Charleston, recounted his friendship with Bishop Hodges, their many searches for suitable property for a pastoral center and how the site was finally realized.
“We have much for which to give thanks to God and to all those who serve on the staff here,” Msgr. Sadie said, “especially our deacon, Gary Lane, who directs and leads us in so many different ways, making this place one of hospitality and ministry to God’s people.”
Msgr. Frederick P. Annie, V.G., recalled Bishop Hodges’ service to the diocese over a period of 23 years and the building of four pastoral centers in the diocese. In closing, he expressed his thanks to Bishop Hodges and to Bishop Emeritus Bernard W. Schmitt and Bishop Michael J. Bransfield for keeping the center going.
On display were a number of newspaper articles and photos of the center under construction.
Rev. Dennis D. Sparks, executive director of the West Virginia Council of Churches, spoke of the great welcoming the organization has received from the center over the years.
“Since the opening of this center,” he said, “the council of churches has been graciously welcomed. We have had many training sessions, annual meetings and voluntary associations active in disaster areas as well as training for help for military families. All the churches of the council have utilized the facility.”
“The greatest blessing to me,” Deacon Lane said, “is seeing so many of God’s loving people come together here. The interaction of people coming together is truly the building up of the Body of Christ.”
During the past year, 13,500 people have used the center.
“I believe this is a tribute to Bishop Hodges’ vision,” Deacon Lane said. “Mission accomplished.” |