Newt to address Legatus Summit

Former Speaker of the House to discuss his conversion and his John Paul II film . . .

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich will discuss his conversion to Catholicism and share his new film about Pope John Paul II at the Legatus Summit, Feb. 4-6 in Dana Point, Calif. Since leaving politics in 1999, Gingrich, who entered the Church last March, has worked as a political analyst, author, consultant and filmmaker.

Legates will get a first look at Gingrich Productions’ latest effort, Nine Days That Changed the World, which focuses on John Paul’s historic nine-day visit to Poland in 1979. It was the Holy Father’s first visit to his homeland since his election to the papacy. Most historians agree that the visit struck the first blow leading to the fall of Communism in Eastern Europe.

Gingrich and his wife Callista lead a stellar lineup of Summit speakers, who will all help members better live the Legatus mission. Also taking the stage are Chicago’s Cardinal Francis George; New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan; Emmy-award winning actress Patricia Heaton (Everybody Loves Raymond); entrepreneur Frank Hanna III, author of What Your Money Means; Thomas Donohue, president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce; and Father Robert Spitzer, SJ, chairman of the Magis Institute and Spitzer Center.

A medical panel, moderated by Ascension Health president Tony Tersigni of Legatus’ St. Louis Chapter, will discuss medical conscience concerns. A host of breakout sessions will focus on other topical issues.

Culture war

With the New Year right around the corner, Catholic leaders will continue to face great challenges to their faith. That’s why recharging one’s spiritual batteries at the Summit is the perfect way to ring in 2010, says Summit chair Kathleen Eaton.

Catholic values are under attack at every turn, so laypeople, priests and the hierarchy need to band together like never before to bring Christ to a nation hungry for the truth, says Eaton, a member of Legatus’ Orange Coast Chapter.

“I’ve been speaking to a number of Legatus chapters about the Summit, and people are really excited,” she said. “It’s been a rough year on a number of fronts, and they really need this shot in the arm. They want to come together to pray and learn more about what the Church is saying on different issues.”

The conference theme “Challenging the Culture” is designed to do just that — to bring more of Christ to the world.

“We need to support life from the womb to the tomb,” Eaton explained. “We need to study our faith and stand up for what we believe in. Isn’t that what Legatus is all about? Legatus challenges us to understand the faith, to share it and to stand up for issues that matter.”

Dan and Helen Lestage of Legatus’ Jacksonville Chapter have already registered. This will be the couple’s fourth summit.

“Summits are more than what you’d get from a retreat,” Dan Lestage explained. “They’re not only spiritually enriching, but you’re intellectually engaged in the topical issues of the day with people who understand the contentious issues facing the Church.”

Jim and Mary Ledwith of the San Diego Chapter say they wouldn’t miss the Summit for the world — and not just because they’re only a short drive from the event.

“The speakers and programs are incredibly good and challenging,” said Jim Ledwith, who has attended three previous summits. “It’s very rewarding to have the camaraderie with other members and Masses said by cardinals and other amazing clergy.”

Historic location

The Summit will be held at the stunning St. Regis Resort at Monarch Beach — less than a day’s drive for nearly a thousand Legatus members in Las Vegas, Phoenix and up and down the California coast. The five-star resort is right on the Pacific Ocean, 60 miles north of San Diego.

The Summit will also feature Mass at the historic Mission Basilica of San Juan Capistrano, said Laura Sacha, Legatus conference director. “There’s so much history surrounding the old mission,” she said. “Cardinal George’s Mass there will unforgettable.”

Phoenix Legates Alan and Paula Sears say they’re looking forward to the liturgies, speakers and the opportunity to grow as a married couple.

“The summits are a time of complete refreshment for the soul,” Alan Sears said. “It’s a time that we renew fellowship with great friends, and we draw closer as a couple in Christ, celebrating with people who have common concerns, common questions and common problems. It’s a shelter from the storm.”

Patrick Novecosky is Legatus Magazine’s editor. This article appears in the December 2009-January 2010 issue of Legatus Magazine.

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Three ways to register:

Call: (866) LEGATUS (534-2887)
E-mail: [email protected]
Online: legatus.org