A faith-building event

John Hunt says the 2010 Legatus Summit in Naples was one for the record books . . .

John J. Hunt

The 2011 Legatus Summit in Naples captivated a record number of Legates and chaplains in early February. The enjoyment of each new Summit seems to wash over the memories of previous Summits and the graces that flowed from each.

As you read in last month’s magazine, we hosted inspiring speakers like Justice Clarence Thomas, Archbishop José Gómez, Lou Holtz, Pulitzer Prize winning author David McCullough and many others. They encouraged attendees to continue living counter-culturally, and they inspired each and every Legate as they returned to their homes and businesses.

The event’s theme, Communicating the Word, was both timely and prescient as our Church and country find themselves under attack both from within and without. These are challenging times, the times for which Legatus was founded almost 25 years ago by Tom Monaghan under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The tasks ahead require patient perseverance, a willingness to engage the dark forces of evil and death, and a simple trust in a loving and merciful God.

Aside from the inspiring speakers, we experienced beautiful liturgies by Archbishop Gómez, Bishop Frank Dewane (Diocese of Venice, Fla.) and Bishop Sam Jacobs, Legatus’ international chaplain. Concelebrants included a healthy sprinkling of chapter chaplains and guest priests. As always, these men were a source of encouragement and comfort to go forth and heal a troubled culture.

The host Chicago Chapter initiated a Eucharistic adoration plan that enhanced members’ grace-filled time together and remained with them upon their return to their chapters. Nearly 500 Legates and friends experienced this life-changing time together. However, I can’t help but be reminded that attendees made up only 13% of all Legates. The annual Summit is only one aspect of The Legatus Experience, but by any measure is a highlight that should be experienced by all.

The next opportunity to enjoy such an event occurs when we convene for Legatus’ 25th Anniversary Summit, Feb. 2-4, 2012, at the Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort in gorgeous Naples, Fla. Mark your calendar and join your fellow Legates for the experience of a faith-filled lifetime.

John Hunt is Legatus’ executive director. He and his wife Kathie are members of Legatus’ Chicago Chapter.