Building momentum and surging

Founder Tom Monaghan writes that Legatus is poised for enormous growth in 2014 . . .

Thomas Monaghan

June 4 was a historic day for Legatus. It was historic because it was the first time we have ever had two charterings on the same night. Hopefully, it will not be the last time!

I’m writing this article upon my return from the Lafayette-Acadiana Chapter’s chartering. While I was there, Legatus’ executive director John Hunt was at the South Bend-Elkhart Chapter chartering. I was with the South Bend Chapter at their first meeting in February, and they were clearly off to the races at that time. As it turns out, the Lafayette Chapter also had their first meeting that same week. So in four months, both of these chapters went from their respective initial meetings to chartering.

In addition, the Lafayette chartering was historic because it was the largest chartering in Legatus history! (Click here for related story.) They had 53 CEO members at the chartering, which is more than any other chapter before.

In addition to congratulating the entire chapter on this accomplishment, I would like to recognize and thank Joe Melançon and the Baton Rouge Chapter for all of their support in helping to make this possible — plus the fine work of Lafayette’s founding president, Craig Henry.

This is very exciting for me and Legatus — not only because of the natural enthusiasm one has over a chartering, but also because I believe it’s a sign that Legatus as an organization is building momentum.

In late June, we held our Board of Governors meeting and one of the many things we talked about is what we are calling Operation Surge. This is a concerted effort for us to grow the Legatus membership so that we continue to fulfill our mission of studying, living and spreading the faith. As other CEOs and their spouses join Legatus, they are strengthened and fortified in their faith through the programs, friendships and, of course, the Sacraments! In turn, I firmly believe that our members are empowered to be better Catholics and ambassadors to all they come in contact with.

Please continue to pray for Legatus and keep reaching out to your fellow CEOs, because current members are always Legatus’ best ambassadors!

TOM MONAGHAN is Legatus’ founder and chairman. He is a member of Legatus’ Naples Chapter.