What is a Mission?

Is it a retreat? Is it to raise money? Does it have to do with our mission statement? 

A parish mission is a special event in the life of a parish that may only come along every ten years or so. It's not quite a conference, or a party, or a retreat, but it has elements of all three. It is a coming together of the entire St. Anthony community for three days of renewal, reclamation, and rejoicing during events that will help us to reforge our community after COVID, with Christ at the center, and reignite our relationship with Him. 

We will be led on this journey by our Mission Speaker: nationally renowned teacher, theologian, speaker, and radio host, Leonard J. DeLorenzo. Throughout the three days, there will be time dedicated to receiving the sacraments, prayer, reflection, worship, and, of course, revelry! 

A Gift to the St. Anthony Community

The Mission is not to raise money for the parish, rather, it is a gift to our parishioners and families. The Mission is an opportunity for all of us to grow closer to God and to each other. Although it is not a retreat, we are hosting three days of events on St. Anthony’s campus, which include Mission talks, reflections, socials, and prayer opportunities led by a mission speaker.

Who is invited? 

Everyone. We hope that every single person in the parish and school will be able to participate in the Mission. It will be a wonderful time of prayer, fellowship, and renewal.

What will the Mission be about? 

Our mission theme comes from 1Peter 2:9: You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

The events will focus on renewing our spirits in the Lord, rejoicing in His love, and reclaming our community in his image as one of vibrant discipleship after the long darkness of COVID. 

Each day's theme will be based on the three Next Generation Parish priorities of Welcoming, Formation, and Outreach that emerged out of the 2019 survey data. Our hope is that the entire community adopts these priorities as our own in order to help St. Anthony flourish long into the future. 

Must we attend all 3 mornings and evenings?

No, certainly there will be some conflicts, especially during the daytime. All, however, are encouraged to plan ahead so that they can attend as much as possible–especially the Evening Missions.

Homework will be light this week for students, the ICCL will be informed, and childcare will be available for littles! We will also have rides for those who need them.